exercise, and xanax

Dr.
      could you please tell me if walking a mile every other day is enough exercise im 34 and have mvps. im very exercise intolerant and cant seem to manage more than that. also i have been taking xanax .05 at bedtime for 2 years since my mvp. is it ok to be on it at that low dose for a long time? its the only thing that helps me and im very med sensitive and cant take other meds. can i stay on the xanax for life with no problems? i have tried to stop taking it but go back to it when my symptoms increase. thanks

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

The American Heart Association guidelines call for at least 40 minutes of vigerous exercise (65-85% maximum heart rate) most days of the week.  Xanax is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines which are potentially addicting medications.  You doctor can discuss alternatives with you.