Swimming : A De-Stressing Exercise

Stress can develop as a result of our hectic schedules, job responsibilities and family obligations. If you don't do anything to calm the stress, the stress can potentially cause health concerns. One of the best ways to calm down is to participate in physical activity, such as swimming. Swimming not only calms you down to relieve stress, it also improves your overall fitness level.
Basics
In order for swimming to calm you down, you must be comfortable in the water. If the thought of swimming increases your stress level, it won't be possible for swimming to calm you down. Focus on learning proper swimming technique and improving your overall comfort level in and around the water. In time, it will become easier to control your breathing and heart rate so swimming can calm you down.
Breathing
Breathing is a common method for calming you down, and it is also essential for swimming. Don't hold your breath while swimming as this can potentially increase your stress level, preventing you from calming down. This also causes your heart rate and breathing rate to increase. Focus on rhythmic breathing patterns where you exhale with your face in the water and inhale quickly when you turn your head to the side.
Endorphins
Swimming helps to release endorphins -- neurotransmitter chemicals that promote relaxation. As you are swimming, your body is releasing the endorphins that produce a euphoric feeling that is commonly described as a "runner's high." The endorphins also reduce blood pressure while relieving pain and improving your overall sleep patterns.
Focus
After a long, stressful day at work, swimming can channel your focus to calm you down. The focus in the pool helps to clear the mind by concentrating on the task at hand. As a result, you release the stress and strains from the day, which calms your mind. After calming down with a swim, your concentration and focus are improved for the rest of the day.