MOVING OUR BODIES: THE IMPORTANCE OF REINTRODUCING MOVEMENT INTO OUR LIVES
Through time our instinctual drive to move our bodies has decreased dramatically, and has subsequently created a laundry list of new discomforts and ailments. This decrease in our drive to move, and our actual movement, has come with the rise of new technologies and professions that do not require much physical movement. The creation of cars that deter us from walking to our destinations, the rise of professions that confine us to a chair and computer screen for hours, and the lack of education surrounding our bodies and their design for movement have lead to a steep decline in the amount of movement that we create in our daily lives. Movement is not always defined as a rigorous hour-long workout, though it can be, but is more often displayed through simple acts such as walks or yoga. Dedicating small portions of your day, everyday, will, improve your health both physically and mentally.
The human body is a marvel to witness in action. Its amazing ability to maintain homeostasis (link), and the coordination needed to move our arms, fingers, legs and so much more is an achievement in itself. However, our bodies were designed for more than the sedentary lives that most of us lead. Without movement, our bodies reap the consequences:
Weakening of the circulatory system
Joint and bone fragility
Decrease in balance
Increased risk of chronic disease
Loss of flexibility and mobility
Our bodies are comprised of complex and interconnected systems that rely on one another to function properly and efficiently. When one system becomes weakened, due to a lack of physical movement, the rest will soon follow suit. As Ido Portal, of the Movement Culture, states:
“The body will become better at whatever you do, or don’t do. You don’t move? The body will make you better at NOT moving. If you move, your body will allow [for] more movement”.
The benefits of moving our bodies have been explored and proven by numerous studies and are expressed through:
Improved cardiovascular function/reduced risk of heart disease
Mental boost- decreased stress/reduced anxiety
Builds bone density
Increase energy levels
Reduce risk of chronic disease
Improved quality of sleep
Assists in weight loss
As your daily movement is increased, the benefits you will witness in return will multiply inevitably. Implementing more movement into your life does not necessarily involve a gym or personal trainer, though it can, and may have humble beginnings such as walks or yoga. Movement, of any form, for at least 30 minutes to an hour will improve your overall health and mental wellness. Movement can/may include: walking the dog, yoga classes, climbing a few sets of stairs, jogging, running, swimming, hiking, riding a bike instead of driving, doing squats/lunges on commercial breaks, joining a gym, parkour, or even dance. Through moving your body, you are allowing for increased blood flow throughout your entire body and are in turn releasing endorphins; which boost your mood and may potentially lead to increased productivity. Breaking the pattern of sedentary living and creating time in your daily life to move your body, is important for both physical and mental longevity. Discover what movement works best for you in your life, and commit to it. Get out and move!