5 Powerful Benefits of Being Active

Staying active and moving your body is critical to your overall health and wellness. Living a sedentary lifestyle contributes to many diseases.

5 Powerful Benefits of Being Active

Let's face it. Most people have great intentions, but their biggest reason for not exercising is a lack of time. We all know the benefits, but it's a struggle finding time in our busy schedules.

It energizes you. Have you ever noticed that when you're tired, just the simple act of getting up and moving around can help you feel more invigorated and ready to take on the next task?
It improves brain function. Being active helps you think more clearly and stay alert. As you move your body, you're working your cells and stimulating your mind.
It helps you lose weight if needed or maintain your ideal weight. Whether you're walking, jogging, or doing strength training, you're burning calories and improving muscle tone.
It slows the aging process. Being active helps you to look and feel younger. The more active a person is, the less likely they are to fall and suffer injuries. This will also enable you to be more independent.
Staying active improves your sleep and overall health. In general, people who exercise regularly tend to practice other healthy habits and get sick less than those who don't exercise.

What's the best kind of exercise? The kind you'll enjoy and do consistently.

Try these simple tips to make physical activity a daily part of your life.

Stretch or move your body while you're cooking or cleaning. Watch my YouTube video of me exercising for 10 minutes while I cooked oatmeal for breakfast.
Set a timer and get up and move around your house or yard for 5-10 minutes a few times a day, especially after each meal. It'll help with digestion and improve your sleep.
Go for a brisk walk. If it's cold, find a place in your community where you can walk, such as a mall, church, gym, or community center. You actually burn more calories when it's cold outside than when it's warm, so grab your jacket and bundle up.
Using small hand weights, do some strength training standing up or sitting while you watch TV. Trampolines and mini steppers are great tools for indoor exercise, too.
Think beyond what looks like exercise, for example, walking upstairs, doing chores, gardening, raking leaves, or pulling up weeds. Deliberately use your arms and legs and tighten your stomach muscles as you move.
Wearing a weighted vest is a great way to build muscle and strengthen your bones and joints. You can wear it while doing simple household chores, so it doesn’t involve any extra time.
After reading reviews and learning more about vibration plates, I took the plunge. In only 10 minutes, I can get the equivalent of 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 30 minutes of yoga, 30 minutes of swimming, 1 hour of jogging, or 1-hour of riding a bike. I usually do squats and work on my arms and balance.

The benefits of regular physical activity can not be overstated. It’s never too late to start.

Simple Health Tips

Choose a regular time to exercise so you can be consistent. Consider asking a friend to join you and hold you accountable. Make physical fitness a priority and get your family and friends involved.

Many people find that early mornings or right after work can easily fit into their schedule. The more consistent you are, the easier it will become a habit. Put it on your calendar, just as you would any important appointment.

Don't forget to celebrate your wins. Reward yourself with a small non-food item for consistently working out 4-5 days a week. After a month, plan an even bigger reward for continuing the streak.

For more ideas, check out my YouTube video, 10 Minute Exercise In The Kitchen.

What are ways that you can stay active regardless of the weather outside? If you're currently not getting enough exercise each day, what can you start doing today?

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers."
3 John 1:2