Physical Activity and Exercise

By Chris G Sherlock

Physical activity brings mental well-being, reducing stress, anxiety, sadness, and it even boosts confidence. In other words, it is not just good for your body, but also for your mind. When you exercise, your brain releases hormones; serotonin is the "feel good" hormone that gives us a big boost after getting any exercise.

Some Benefits of Physical Activity

• Better sleep

• It can be social

• Fun activities boost happiness

• Reduce tension and stress

• Helps you to clear your mind and think easier

How Much Should I Exercise?

For most adults, 30 minutes a day, five days a week of moderate exercise is recommended. This is just on the low end, you do not have to limit yourself to this. You also don't have to do it all at once, or spread it between five days. Do what feels right to you, what makes you feel good about yourself.

A moderate pace should make you feel warmer, but not necessarily make you sweat. You should also find that it makes your breathing come faster, but it doesn't leave you out of breath. When walking at a moderate pace, you should still be able to hold a conversation.

Suggestions For Being More Physically Active

At home, try washing your car rather than going through a car wash on the way home. Take your dog for a jog instead of a short walk in the yard. You dog will love you more for it. When it's time to do chores, rush through them while still doing them correctly. Run around with a trash bag and a laundry basket, just be careful not to trip. If you have children at home, or can borrow someone else's kids, play tag, shoot hoops, or dance with them.

At work, take the time to walk during your lunch break. Walking is great for your body, and if you work in an office you really need to get the blood moving in your legs. If you have a close friend at work, ask if he or she would like to walk with you. In our technology filled world, we are more apt to send an email or pick up the phone. Instead, walk to your co-worker's desk to ask questions or deliver information. If you work in a building with an elevator, walk the stairs for at least some of the floors.

During your free time, there are many great opportunities and you are not as restricted to location.

Doing things like walking and running are classed as bodyweight exercises - other bodyweight exercises include but not limited to; jumping, skipping, hopping, twisting and bending.

Obviously some of these exercises wouldn't be very practical in a working environment, however once you have the basics in place you could incorporate these exercises and others in to a home workout program.

If you enjoy social interaction, join a class where you can get to know people. When you go shopping, don't waste time looking for a spot close to the store, walk from further away. If you like water, go to a beach, lake, or pool and have a good time. Swimming is a very good exercise for every person. You could also join a local or work team. Softball and bowling teams are a good way to meet new people or keep in touch with friends as you exercise.

No matter what you decide to do, working some physical activity into your routine or just doing it when you can is very important for your health.

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