Oftentimes people with PTSD fear the bodily reactions associated with exercise such as increased heart rate and shortness of breath. This can lead people to avoid engaging in exercise activities since they don’t want to feel that similar feeling that created the PTSD from the start – a physical threat.
In essence the body remembers the feeling of the “physical threat” that increases bodily arousal which may ignite flashbacks or physical memories that take them back to that feeling of trauma or pain. As a result, they may even avoid exercise altogether. They may find more comfort in eating and overindulging in another pleasureful guilt that is toxic to their mind and body.
But what if I told you the benefits of exercise outweigh the fear? What if the benefits eased the triggers of grief and trauma? Studies show that this may be the case. Here are just a few ways exercise can ease PTSD.
Exercise Helps Promote a Well Balanced Body & Mind
The benefits of regular exercise are well documented. Whether you have PTSD or not, it’s never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle!
A consistent workout routine can contribute towards many positive physical health outcomes such as improved cardiovascular function and weight control which is especially important if your mental health needs some attention as well. When faced with PTSD symptoms the right exercises (dependent on personal needs and preferences) has the ability to calm and release tension caused by trauma in the mind and the body.
Eases Stress
In addition there are many advantages in terms of stress reduction and exercise. High pressure situations caused by life’s mishaps and events can take a toll on the body and mind when neglected. This makes working out an essential part when dealing with any type of trauma or stress.
Not only does exercise help manage symptoms related to stress such as depression and anxiety, but regular workouts have also been shown to reduce blood pressure levels in people with hypertension or prehypertension.
Distracts from Negative Thought Patterns and Emotions.
The more you move, the better your mood. Exercise has been shown time and again as a great way to decrease stress hormones like cortisol while also increasing endorphins—your body’s “feel-good” chemicals that boost overall mood and help elevate any negative thoughts and emotions that stem from PTSD symptoms.
This ultimately distracts from negative thought patterns as your mind is centered around something positive – your health! Inevitably boosting confidence, self worth and creating more room for positive emotions and wellbeing.
Social support.
Exercise can also be a good outlet for moral support. Whether it’s group training or coaching social support is a much needed resource especially if you’re suffering from PTSD.
Finding an activity that will give social support in the form of companionship will help you navigate all that comes with PTSD – fear, confusion, anxiety and depression. Exercise classes, hiring a coach or being involved with an online community are great ways to get this type of moral support. Even if it’s someone just encouraging you to stick with your workout plan is much better than opting to do it alone.
While many people believe that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) only affects the emotional health of those who have experienced a traumatic event, it’s actually been shown to affect one’s physical well being too. If this is you then take control by controlling what you can, your physical wellbeing with a consistent workout routine. This is the precursor to a healthier and happier mind. The ultimate coping mechanism for PTSD.
