The More We Move the Better Life Works
By Sandy Schroeder
If you sit a lot at home and at work, you may intend to exercise more, but never quite make it. At the end of the day, when you should head to the gym for a workout, you may find yourself collapsing on the couch instead. In the morning, when you could squeeze in a brief walk, it's all too easy to just linger over coffee instead.
We all know putting exercise first keeps us fit and helps us live longer, but we should also recognize the strong emotional boost that it delivers.
Whenever I head out for a walk with a head full of problems, I usually come back with new ideas and a smile. Somehow, just putting one foot in front of the other helps me get down to the details of the problem and work my way through. You may get the same benefits from a yoga, tai chi, or spin class.
Find Out What Exercise Can Do
Want to test this theory? See what 30 minutes a day of walking, running, or jogging can do for your mood. According to fitness experts, the benefits show up quickly in a stronger sense of purpose, a better connection with those around you, and a greater awareness of your blessings.
According to Newsmax.com, health psychologists who focus on the mind/body connection say that staying active benefits the brain in several unique ways.
Suddenly you are laughing more - When you walk every morning and take time to work out later, you may find yourself relaxing and appreciating humor more. When you let go of tension, life can look a lot brighter. I find myself seeing the humor in little things, and reaching out to trade jokes with friends.
Exercising as a group builds trust - When I join my yoga group on Fridays, I am amazed at how much simpler and easier everything seems. Before and after the class, we exchange news about our family, projects and plans. Frequently these discussions provide the boost that we all need to do our best. Often members will come up with new ideas that help others solve their problems, or just feel better about their situation. Try a yoga, dance or indoor cycling class and see what it does for you. Experts say the group connection reduces anxiety and creates contentment.
Exercise creates calmness - Experts say regular walks, runs or jogs can reduce the "fight, flight or fright" response in the brain, as it relaxes the nervous system. All of that tension that makes you feel like snapping may just seep away. The more you move the more confident you may feel as positive feelings win out.
Everything looks better - You may feel better about you when you try a new dance class, or expand your workouts. Moving tones muscles, improves circulation, and lifts the spirits. It may even become addictive as you contrast how you feel with or without it.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Loveland, Colo.