Movement is Medicine

In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in our sedentary lifestyles. We spend hours sitting at desks, scrolling through our phones, and engaging in other activities that don’t require much physical movement. While these habits may be convenient, they can have negative effects on our overall health and wellbeing.

That’s why the phrase ‘movement is medicine’ has become increasingly popular in recent years. And for good reason. Exercise has been shown to have numerous health benefits, from improving mental health to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

So, what can you do to incorporate more movement into your daily routine? Here are a few tips:

• Take a walk during your lunch break. Even a short 10-15 minute walk can make a big difference.

• Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work.

• Find a workout buddy to keep you motivated and accountable.

• Try a new exercise or activity that you’ve been wanting to try, like yoga, Pilates, or rock climbing.

• Make movement a priority by scheduling it into your daily routine like you would any other appointment.

But why is movement so important for our health? Here are just a few reasons:

• Improves mental health: Exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and can even help alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

• Boosts energy levels: Regular physical activity can increase energy levels and reduce fatigue.

• Supports weight loss: Exercise can help with weight loss and maintenance, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

• Reduces risk of chronic diseases: Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

• Improves sleep: Exercise can help improve sleep quality and duration.

So, how can you make movement a priority in your daily life? Here are a few tips:

• Start small: Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase your physical activity over time.

• Find activities you enjoy: Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. Find activities that you enjoy, and that make you feel good.

• Schedule it in: Treat exercise as a non-negotiable part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth or taking a shower.

• Make it social: Exercise with a friend or family member to make it more enjoyable and increase motivation.

• Track your progress: Use a fitness tracker or log to track your progress and stay motivated.

In conclusion, movement is medicine. It’s a powerful tool that can improve our overall health and wellbeing, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By incorporating more movement into our daily routine, we can increase our energy levels, improve our mental health, and support our overall health and wellbeing.