A body in motion stays in motion! When you are active, your heart pumps stronger, your blood flows faster and more oxygen is delivered to your body and your brain. Your muscles and bones will receive the necessary ingredients to grow faster and become stronger. As you exercise, your body will naturally release chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins are hormones produced in your brain that relieve pain, reduce stress and improve mood. All of this adds up to you experiencing a healthier body and a natural boost to your mood and energy. In other words, your body, mind, and spirit will all improve.
Movement begins as a choice. Choose to be active each day and over time it will become a habit. The value of habit is consistency and consistency is fundamental to long-term success.
Begin your activity program slowly and increase the level of intensity regularly. A good place to start is with ten-minutes per day and increasing your time each week until you reach thirty-minutes of activity/movement per day. Walking, jogging, bicycling and swimming are a few of the many activities that are available. Try window shopping, dancing, gardening or playing with your kids. Whether you start with a structured exercise program or begin stepping-up the level of physical activity in your daily routine, additional daily movement will lead to a healthier and happier you. Focus on the concept of movement rather than working out and you can easily incorporate motion into your daily life in a way that best serves you. Consider parking further from your destination or taking the stairs rather than the elevator. These choices will aid in building new habits.
Daily Movement Strategy:
1. Surround yourself with people who are active and inspiring. The right people will give you the encouragement and support you need to be successful.
2. Create a daily activity plan and write it down. Put notes in visible places where you will see them throughout the day. Set alerts on your phone to remind you to move.
3. Choose physical activities you enjoy and that align with your core values to remain interested and maintain your schedule. Incorporate these movements into your daily routine.
4. Reward yourself when your long term and short term goals are achieved. Celebrating your accomplishments is fun and motivating.
5. Choose gratitude. Thank your body for taking you places. Show your appreciation by getting stronger and being active.
Movement plays a key role in your health and wellness. Increased activity controls your weight, boosts the health of your heart and improves the quality of your sleep. People who are active on a daily basis have decreased symptoms of depression, fewer illnesses and a healthier self-esteem. Since being active is a lifestyle choice, everyone has the ability to be healthier. When you are healthier, you are happier and your happiness will impact the world around you in a positive way. Take time, invest energy, and make you and your world better by grabbing your dancing shoes, grabbing your friend and making movement a priority today.
