GET MOVING
Human bodies are designed and evolved to move. Historically, daily activities included much more movement as we were driven by survival. Today, our lives have become ever increasingly sedentary as we live a life of convenience. We no longer need to go out and hunt or harvest food, a delivery driver brings it right to our door. Ignoring the needs and design of our bodies is impacting us on a physical and psychological level. We have transitioned away from a day filled with small and consistent movement to requiring ourselves to put in hours at the gym, which while it can be beneficial it is also not the natural preference of our body and does not undo an otherwise sedentary lifestyle
MOVEMENT
Movement is the opposite of a sedentary life. Movement is a broad spectrum beginning with rest all the way to professional and endurance athletics. All daily activities can become mindful movement by bringing awareness to them. The goal is to be moving throughout the day in a mindful way - a body in motion stays in motion.
EXERCISE
Exercise is not equal to movement, exercise is a TYPE of movement. It is more structured and more formal, aimed at maintaining or improving physical fitness. Note that it is important to be mindful of overtraining or overexerting as this can have negative side effects.
BENEFITS:
Balances NEUROTRANSMITTERS - balanced mood, improved memory and cognition, balanced circadian rhythm, balanced hunger controls
Increases ENDORPHINS - improved mood and increased happiness
Balances HORMONES - reduce overall inflammation and stress
Reduces INFLAMMATION - improves blood flow, regulates blood sugar, reduces oxidative stress
Improves BONE, JOINT & MUSCLE health - increase bone density, improve joint flexibility and stiffness, strengthen muscles which better support bones
Increases LYMPH movement - supports immunity, detoxification and inflammation
Improves CARDIOVASCULAR health - strengthens heart, improves circulation, lowers blood pressure
Improves SELF WORTH - become empowered by taking care of your body
EXAMPLES:
Find enjoyment in movement, play like a child
Walk more - walk instead of drive, park farther away, take the stairs, etc.
Find a hobby that incorporates movement, ideally outdoors (kayaking, golf, fishing, etc.)
Change how you view chores - vacuuming, sweeping, etc. are all a chance to move your body - make it more enjoyable by turning on some music
Walk around whenever on the phone, either get outside for a walk or just pace around the house
Find a form of exercise that you find joy in - yoga, weight lifting, running, etc.
References:
Nutritional Therapy Association. (2020). Sleep, Stress, Movement. Nutritional Therapy Association.