Keep It Simple Series: Move Your Body… No Matter What
Let’s chat about something super simple yet incredibly impactful—moving your body.
You might think you’re too busy to squeeze in a workout, or maybe you feel it’s just too daunting.
Stick with me here because I’ve got some easy swaps that might just change your mind.
Easy:📱💻🥱🥐📺🚘😴
Hard: 🚶♀️⛰️🏃♂️💪👣🏋️♂️🧘♀️
How about trading 30 minutes of scrolling, driving, or TV watching for some good old-fashioned movement? This isn’t about a heavy-duty session at the gym—just swap out one element of sedentary time for something that gets your body moving.
The trouble is. All the things that feel easy right now, will make your life harder in the long run. Screen time makes you fatigued. Sitting still makes your muscles waste away. Convenience food is generally terrible for us and can lead to obesity.
It's that simple. So, our Keep It Simple Series: Move Your Body… No Matter What.
Why Consider the Swap?
The Simple Swap: Movement Over Medication
It’s easy to fall into passive activities—scrolling through social media, watching TV, or driving for extended periods. However, these habits contribute little to our physical health and much to our sedentary lifestyle. A simple yet effective change involves swapping just 30 minutes of these activities for any form of physical exercise.
This "self-prescription" of movement can significantly impact your energy levels and mood, offering a natural boost often reached for in the medicine cabinet.
The Power of Exercise in Mental Health
The mental health benefits of exercise are well-documented but often under-appreciated. A landmark study published in the British Medical Journal highlights that regular physical activity can be as effective, if not more, than medication in treating depression and anxiety. This is supported by the endorphin release during exercise, which provides a natural mood lift and stress relief.
Another significant study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risk of major depression by 26%. The research suggests that maintaining an exercise schedule can prevent new episodes of depression and anxiety, even for those who are genetically predisposed to these conditions.
Furthermore, the American Journal of Psychiatry outlines that consistent physical activity contributes to lower instances of depression across various age groups, reinforcing the importance of exercise as a preventive measure.
Exercise as a Privilege and Necessity
Viewing physical activity as a privilege rather than a chore can fundamentally change our approach to exercise. It’s a celebration of what our bodies can do, especially when considering the alternative.
For instance, after experiencing a significant birth injury and the demands of a newborn and business responsibilities, finding ways to move—like gentle home workouts—has been crucial not only for physical recovery but also for mental health.
The benefits extend beyond immediate mood enhancement. Regular physical activity is associated with improved longevity and reduced risk of chronic diseases, affirming the long-term value of incorporating exercise into your daily routine.
Personal Journey and Transformation
From personal experience, transitioning from a highly active lifestyle to being more homebound due to childbirth and its challenges has highlighted the adaptability of exercise routines.
Simple activities like gentle stretches, yoga, or light home workouts can substantially uplift one's mood. These activities become more than just physical exercise; they are a source of joy and an essential part of mental and emotional recovery.
Personal Touch: New Mama Edition
Just three weeks postpartum here, and oh boy, it’s been a ride. I went from rocking 25,000 steps a day to barely scraping 5,000, thanks to a tough birth injury. 🫣 Plus, I’m clocking up to four hours a day with a breast pump strapped to me—not to mention juggling a newborn and managing two businesses. 🙃 Talk about having every excuse in the book!
But you know what? Over the years, I’ve developed a real love for moving my body. It’s become such a crucial part of my day—not just for physical health but for feeling good mentally. Even gentle, home workouts in front of the window have become my little oasis. They seriously boost my mood.
Moving your body is such a privilege. It’ll revamp your mood, spruce up your body, and even help you live longer (yes, really!). So, what’s stopping you?
Got dry skin, feeling constipated, or can’t shake off that headache? Before reaching for a quick fix, try getting a bit more water and a few more steps into your day. It might just do the trick.
Rethinking Our Daily Routines
Has this discussion made you reconsider your daily routine? If moving your body could significantly improve your quality of life, isn't it worth finding those 30 minutes?
Exercise should not be viewed merely as a tool for physical fitness but as a fundamental part of maintaining and enhancing mental health. Whether you're a new parent, a busy professional, or someone dealing with physical limitations, there’s always a way to incorporate some form of movement into your day.
Let’s embrace the simplicity and accessibility of exercise and recognise its potential to transform our lives profoundly. By prioritising movement, we can turn up as happier, healthier individuals ready to take on the challenges of everyday life. So, why not start today?
So, are you ready to give it a go?
Trust me, once you start, you’ll see just how much of a game-changer it can be. Let’s get moving and turn up as happier, more vibrant versions of ourselves.
Who’s with me? 🙋♀️
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