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The Importance of Daily Movement


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The most common thing we hear is that ‘you need to exercise more’. Sure, that may be true, but what about your everyday movement? Do you spend most of the day sitting, moving from one chair to another? When people want to increase their activity level their mind more often goes to going to the gym or doing an intense workout. Very seldom do we think of changing small things in our day around so we are moving more. It is not about making more time but changing the time that we already use.


Our bodies are made for movement. Our bodies thrive when we move them.


Here are but a few physical and mental benefits:


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  • Helps manage stress

  • Helps reduce tension in our body

  • Counters symptoms of anxiety and depression

  • Improves blood flow

  • Prevents and manages high blood pressure

  • Weight loss and maintenance - the more you move the more calories you are expending

  • Improves sleep

  • Pain reduction

  • Results in more energy - increases your endurance so you can do more in the day without feeling tired

  • Increases function of joints

  • Sharper thinking and memory - due to increased delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain


How to incorporate more movement in your day:


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  • Use a standing desk when you can

  • Set a timer throughout the day to get up and move

  • Take a walk over your lunch

  • Walk during phone calls

  • Take the stairs

  • Park far away in parking lots

  • Walk on a treadmill while watching tv

  • Go for a walk in the morning/evening

  • Listen to an audiobook while doing chores

  • Do a short workout at home

  • Do some yoga/stretches

  • Take a workout class

  • Take a swim


There are benefits to both formal, programmed exercise and non-formal activities. A sweet spot where the most benefits are seen for exercise is 30 minutes for some and anywhere from 30-59 minutes for others.


Incorporating more physical activity in your day and life does not have to be mountain to climb. They can be rolling hills that you take in stride.







 
 
 

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