If the thought of exercise causes you stress, it's time to turn that thought on its head! Being active doesn't just maintain your physical health. Exercise is a great way to cope with stress. It can also be just as effective as medication when it comes to improving your mood. Active, physically-fit folks react to stress better than their less-fit friends.
If a full fitness routine still seems far away, you can still get the benefits by adding a little bit of exercise to each day. 10 minutes of moderate effort here and 10 minutes of moderate effort there: take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to work, do some tension-and-hold movements with your abs while you work at your desk.
To slash the stress from the fitness equation, develop a realistic, fun, and varied fitness program that is uniquely suited to you. Find something you love to do among the many different ways of getting physical activity into your day. Give the age-old tradition of yoga a go. After a good workout or yoga practice, notice if you handle stressful moments with a bit more calm and serenity.
Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.