School can be the epitome of stress: constant homework, studying and tests. It almost seems like you can never get away or escape the reality of school.

After a considerably long time focusing on homework, you might find yourself having difficulty concentrating. Your mind needs a break to recharge occasionally, therefore it is in your favor to take a break from school work for an hour or so per day.

A beneficial break to take is any form of exercise. When you exercise, your brain produces a natural stress reliever called endorphins, also referred to as “feel-good” chemicals. In need of a break from school that also relieves stress? Here are 3 exercises that are healthy for your body.

Running

Running is one of the most accessible workouts out there. All you have to do is step out of your door and take your first couple steps. Once you’ve started running, your brain will start to release endorphins. Taking 30 minutes out of your day to run can improve your attitude and relieve your stress level.

Running is physically beneficial because it lowers your blood pressure. Lower blood pressure is favorable because it reduces the risk of having strokes or heart disease. High blood pressure puts strain on your arteries and heart, which ultimately leads to heart attacks.

Swimming

If you have joint problems, try checking out a sport like swim. Swimming is a low impact exercise which means there is not a lot of force on your ankles, hips, knees and back. Unlike land sports, the water supports your body making it less likely to get injured.

Don’t confuse low impact with low intensity. While swimming, you still get quite the workout. A good workout equals a healthy body. A healthy body equals a healthy mind.

Yoga   

To keep your mind zen, calm, and focused on your actions, give yoga a try. Zoning out and only fixating your thoughts on your motions will cause all the stress to leave your mind while you practice yoga.

Physical benefits include lower blood pressure and lower heart rate. When you have a lower heart rate, more blood is pumped with each heartbeat.  This ultimately leads to less work for the heart. If you do it right, it is a hard workout with health benefits.