Exercise and Good Sleep Are the Keys to Reducing Stress and Enhancing Happiness

Want to lower your stress levels? According to a study conducted on Wednesday, daily physical activity and adequate sleep can boost happiness and reduce stress. Researchers from Harvard (US) and Oxford (UK) universities examined happiness and well-being predictions using data from smartwatches and smartphones to inform global public policies and product development.

A pilot study conducted in collaboration with smartwatch provider Garmin included data from over 10,000 global participants. Other key findings revealed that emotional stability varies with age, with older adults exhibiting more stability and younger adults displaying greater variability.

Self-Monitoring of Emotions and Social Activities Increase Happiness

Participants found value in self-monitoring their emotions throughout the day. The study showed that respondents were happiest when engaging in cultural and social activities, eating, or spending time with friends and family.

Multiple previous studies have indicated that exercise helps in better stress management. This is primarily because exercise regulates stress hormones and releases endorphins, which enhance mood and provide pain relief, leading to a sense of well-being.

Exercise Improves Sleep Quality and Enhances Mental Resilience

Regular exercise is also known to improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted by stress. This, in turn, helps in reducing stress further. Exercise boosts self-esteem and enhances mood, fostering a sense of control and resilience in handling stress.

Stress is a major health concern as it can lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. It also exacerbates non-communicable diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and even cancer.

Other health conditions linked to stress include gastrointestinal problems such as stomach pain and irritable bowel syndrome, a weakened immune system, and skin disorders. Stress can also affect the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Work-Related Stress Impacts Global Productivity

Work-related stress, depression, or anxiety lead to global productivity loss, with approximately 170 million workdays lost every year due to stress-related illnesses.