Move your body to feel better physically and mentally.
Whether you have a traditional 9-5 job or your work allows for more flexibility, the chances are you spend hours sitting in front of the computer or performing tasks in the same position, which could, in the long run, take a toll on your body or mind.
The most straightforward first step is to take frequent breaks. Move away from the working station and stretch your legs and arms. These low-effort activities at the office will drive blood circulation and help you clear your mind.
That’s a good start. If you stay consistent, you will likely experience improvements in your productivity and energy levels, motivating you to incorporate physical activity into your everyday life.
Here’s what you can experience if you do so:
Although being physically active may cause your body to feel tired, it also helps reduce stress hormone levels, making you more relaxed at the end of the day. Also, people who exercise regularly have less trouble falling asleep at night, which indicates that physical activity is a valuable tool in fighting insomnia.
Physical activity can positively affect your mood, especially if you exercise outdoors. Spending time in the fresh air surrounded by nature allows you to focus and enjoy the moment.
When you move away from everyday obligations and allow yourself to engage in an activity you love, your energy levels increase, fueling you to approach day-to-day tasks with ease, or at least from a different perspective and with a more positive outlook.
No exercise will eliminate stress, but it will help you manage it and better cope with stressful situations. Regular exercise increases serotonin and endorphin levels, so-called feel-good hormones, and decreases cortisol, known as the stress hormone.
Preferences differ when it comes to physical activities. Some people enjoy working out solo, while others find group programs motivating, helping them stay consistent.
Organizing a sports day with family or friends is a great way to spend quality time with people you love while improving your physical and mental health.
Regular physical activity will help you build muscle and lose weight, undoubtedly enhancing your self-image. However, being physically active is not only about physical appearance but about feeling good about yourself, inside and out.
Anyone who starts exercising has a goal. As time passes, workout sessions become longer and more intense and demanding. When you reach a goal, your sense of achievement and self-worth grows. Physical activity proves that hard work and devotion pay off.
Here’s how to build a foundation for a healthy relationship with physical activity.
If you have never worked out or have not exercised for a considerable period, it may be challenging to start over. It is vital to remember that every step matters. Start small and whatever activity you choose, stay hydrated, warm up prior, and cool down after the routine. Go for a walk or a swim, sign up for yoga or dance classes.
Don’t be harsh on yourself, expecting your body to act like a professional athlete or someone spending hours in a gym each day. If that’s your goal, go for it, but that doesn’t happen overnight, so take it one day at a time.
First, nothing is perfect. You will enjoy working out some days, and some days, you will hate it. But what’s important is to always put yourself first and follow your body and mind’s signals.
When we say create the best possible condition, we mean to choose an activity you like, set clear expectations, and choose a time and place you feel most comfortable. It doesn’t matter if everyone is at the gym. If you feel more comfortable exercising at home, that’s legit.
Our final piece of advice is not to compare yourself with others. If you are unsure what your fitness goal is, let it be to feel good and have fun.
