Physical Activity
Physical activity gives us energy and increases the production of endorphins, which make us feel good. It also helps calm our brain and body when stressful things happen in our life.
It can be hard to find time in our busy lives to be physically active, but even walking around the block, taking the stairs, and stretching at your home or workplace can help.
Check out the Stress Buster strategies, and see which ones might work best for you and the people you care about.
Resources for Everyone
Want tips and tools to help you get more active? The following articles, videos, and audio tools can help.
Resources for Professionals
Looking for resources to patients and clients increase their physical activity? See Professional Resources within the Stress Busters for Community-Based Organizations toolkit.
General Tools and Resources
- Physical Activity stressbuster video (California Virtual Training Academy Resources)
- Fitness Program: 5 Steps to Get Started (Mayo Health Clinic)
- Use the UCLA Bruin Paws website for step-by-step planning to get you more active.
- Sign up for UCLA’s MoveMail to get daily emails sent at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. that provide instructional videos and movement breaks you can do anywhere
- How to Exercise with Limited Mobility (HelpGuide.org)
- 7 Wheelchair Workouts to Try, Plus What You Need to Know about Exercising in a Wheelchair (Women’s Health)
- How Older Adults Can Get Started with Exercise (NIH National Institute on Aging)
- Trauma- and Violence-Informed Physical Activity Video
- Stress Health: Exercise (Center for Youth Wellness)
Physical Activity on a Budget
- YouTube is a great source for free workouts
- Check out Kaiser Permanente’s fitness deals
- Most YMCAs provide financial assistance for membership. Check with your local YMCA for more information.
Check out our Experiencing Nature resources for ways to be active outdoors.
Download the complete set of Stress Busters handouts. English and Spanish included.
