How Your Kids Are Keeping You Healthy
By Genevieve Cunningham
Kids. A lot of people look at kids -- runny noses, covered in dirt, and completely irresponsible -- and think that they must surely be dragging down our health. And when your kids come home from school with the latest stomach bug (and share it with everyone!), you know this must be true. But while it's true that we catch various germs and health issue from our children, it's also true that they may be enhancing our health as well. If you have kids in your life, take a look at these ways in which your kids may actually be keeping you healthier every day.
They Expose You to Germs
This probably sounds like a bad thing. More germs means more illness, right? Not necessarily. We actually have to be exposed to germs in order to build immunity. Kids bring germs into our homes, we get sick the first time, but then our bodies learn how to fight it off. And since we already have a lifetime of building these immunities on our own, these germs are bonus germs. Will we still get sick? Absolutely. But we may also build stronger immune systems for everyone in the family.
They Keep You Moving
Kids move nonstop. They get out of the bed full of energy and go to bed full of energy. They go, go, go until they collapse. And while this can certainly be exhausting, it also keeps us active. The more active that we are on a regular basis, the more calories we burn and the healthier we're going to be overall. Just try to direct your kids' energy into positive avenues, and everyone in the family may benefit from the movement.
They Provide Mental Stimulation
Kids are mentally exhausting -- but not always in a bad way. Kids will definitely try your nerves, but they'll also make you laugh, make you think, and make you problem solve. They're full of love and compassion and empathy. They're mentally draining, but the next minute, they're mentally empowering. Kids can really keep you feeling strong mentally, so give your undivided attention from time to time to experience this benefit.
Kids can certainly cause health problems from time to time -- hello stress and weight gain. But kids can also bring some good healthy vibes into your life. If you have kids, look for these awesome positives. Appreciate the good health kids might be bringing into your life, and it might make you feel better about the struggles they might bring as well.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Riverdale, Utah.