“When you exercise, your brain and nervous system produce more endorphins, which are essentially natural antidepressants— neurotransmitters that make you feel good. Even better, any form of exercise can create this effect, so it doesn’t matter whether you lift weights, jog on the treadmill, or play pickup basketball. As long as you break a sweat, you’ll get this high. There are two other ways that exercise help you squash stress. First, according to the Mayo Clinic, focusing on the tasks associated with training or playing a sport will help you forget about your problems and leave you with a greater sense of calm and clarity. Second, working out relaxes you and boosts your chances of a good night’s sleep, which is another key to fighting stress, anxiety, and depression.”
Source: Muscle and Fitness: Mar2019, Vol. 80 Issue 3, p94-100.