“If you want to beat stress, you must choose to move,” says Eli Bay, stress expert and founder of The Relaxation Response Institute. “Of course, exercise is good for your mental and physical health, but focused movement—even gentle movement—has been shown to help relieve stress.”

Focused movement combines breathing, mental focus on body position and movement. “When you combine those three elements, your mind/body connection is amplified,” explains Eli. “This type of movement may change the blood and hormonal flow in your body which may, in turn, help to relieve stress and all the harmful things that go with it.”

Eli also says that by participating in focused movement, you can restore the balance and equilibrium in your life that you’re likely searching for.

Watch this video and find out which two exercises Eli recommends for maximum mind/body connectivity and stress relief.

More information

To find more information about focused movement opportunities in your area, search “yoga” and/or “tai chi” in Find Support.

This article may contain information related to nutrition, exercise and fitness and/or general information provided by select health care professionals. This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment or advice provided by a qualified professional. Speak to your healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle or beginning or discontinuing any course of treatment.