Daily Exercise and Quality Sleep Essential for Enhancing Happiness and Reducing Stress: Research
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Synopsis
A study reveals that engaging in daily physical activity and ensuring quality sleep can significantly boost happiness and lower stress levels. Conducted by Harvard and Oxford researchers, the findings emphasize the importance of exercise and emotional well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Daily physical activity enhances mood.
- Adequate sleep is crucial for stress reduction.
- Emotional stability varies with age.
- Engagement in social activities increases happiness.
- Stress management is vital for overall health.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Looking to lower your stress levels? Engaging in daily physical activity and ensuring sufficient sleep can enhance happiness and reduce stress, as revealed in a recent study published on Wednesday.
Researchers from Harvard University (US) and Oxford University (UK) investigated the factors influencing happiness and well-being by analyzing data from smartwatches and smartphones to guide global public policies and product innovations.
This pilot study, conducted in partnership with Garmin, included data from over 10,000 participants worldwide.
Additional findings indicated that emotional stability is influenced by age, with older individuals displaying greater stability and younger ones exhibiting more variability.
The research also highlighted high retention rates, implying that participants valued monitoring their emotions throughout the day. Respondents reported the highest levels of happiness when engaged in cultural and social activities, dining, or spending quality time with friends and family.
Previous research has consistently shown that exercise is effective in managing stress.
This is largely due to exercise's role in regulating stress hormones and releasing endorphins, which enhance mood and alleviate pain, contributing to an overall sense of well-being.
Moreover, regular physical activity is known to enhance sleep quality, which can often be disrupted by stress, thereby further aiding in stress reduction.
Exercise also boosts self-esteem and elevates mood, fostering a greater sense of control and resilience when facing stress.
Stress represents a significant health challenge. It can trigger mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, stress can exacerbate chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cancer.
Other health issues linked to stress include gastrointestinal disorders like stomach pain and irritable bowel syndrome, a weakened immune system, and skin problems. Stress can also disrupt menstrual cycles and affect fertility.
Globally, approximately 17 million working days are lost each year due to health issues stemming from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety.
