Physical activity : a remedy for anxiety

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Extract from the article: Anxiety is characterized by a persistent feeling of insecurity, a permanent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. It can take the form of panic disorder, generalized anxiety, phobias... It leads to ruminations accompanied by...

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Anxiety is characterized by a persistent feeling of insecurity, a permanent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. It can take the form of panic disorder, generalized anxiety, or phobias. It leads to ruminations accompanied by physical and psychological symptoms. Regular physical activity can significantly reduce anxiety. These are the findings of a study conducted by a Swedish team from the University of Gothenburg and published in the “Journal of Affective Disorders” in November 2021.

At the age of 40, Nicole, a former radio host and mother of two, jogs every Saturday on the soccer pitch at Avédji high school (Lomé). In addition to the pleasure she derives from this activity, Nicole describes its positive psychological impact : "It's an activity that allows me to clear my head. I can stop thinking about my worries and concerns. I feel a sense of well-being and relief in my head and in my body".

How do you explain these therapeutic effects?

"The socializing aspect of sport could be a factor. But positive effects have also been shown when practicing physical activity alone. We also know that it improves self-esteem. It has even been described that when you do sport, you increase your breathing and ventilation, and this reduces the risk of panic disorder. The mechanisms of action of physical activity on anxiety are much debated. The development of a feeling of competence, and meeting other people, encourages social contact, which ultimately plays an anxiolytic role", explains Dr. Jean-Marc Sène, sports physician (France).

In addition, "endomorphin levels reduce pain and induce a euphoric state. The synthesis of serotonin, a brain molecule that fights anxiety and depression. Body temperature, which also improves mood disorders," emphasizes Dr. Jean-Marc Sène.

In practice, endurance exercise (such as walking, cycling or swimming) is preferable to weight training, fast running, basketball, soccer, or sports requiring flexibility. Moderate to intense practice of these exercises has a very positive effect.

Elom AKAKPO