The greatest wealth is health. – Virgil
We are constantly told to live an active lifestyle, but why? And what does that look like?
The good news is, living an active lifestyle is not as difficult as it seems! By definition, living an active lifestyle means that you should be actively moving about 30 to 60 minutes per day. This includes walking, jogging, biking, hitting the gym, taking a yoga class, and participating in many other physical activities. The most important aspect of living a healthy lifestyle is getting your body moving, which can sometimes be the most difficult task. Check out our blog post about motivation to help encourage yourself to get moving!
Below, we explain the four main benefits of living an active lifestyle.
1. Health
Activity has largely been attributed to the prevention of many life threatening conditions and diseases. The integration of physical activity into your daily routine can help to prevent high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. In fact, you are two times less likely to get heart disease if you live an active lifestyle. To live with the quality of life you desire, it is important that you participate in physical activity on a daily basis!
2. Mental Health
Physical activity can help to reduce stress and improve your confidence! When you work out, your body releases endorphins which help to facilitate feelings of euphoria and happiness within your body. These chemicals help to reduce feelings of depression and improve your levels of confidence. Working out will also help to sharpen your memory and brain functions. Not only will you be moving around more quickly, but you will be thinking sharply as well!
3. Sleep and Energy
Not only will exercise help get you to sleep, but it will also improve the quality of your sleep. Because exercise helps to alleviate stress levels, your mind will work less as you are trying to fall asleep. Additionally, physical activity tires out your body and muscles which will help as you try to relax your body and fall asleep. Better sleep will give you more energy throughout the day; however, if you work out early in the morning, you will also be helping to wake your muscles up and breath energy into your day!
4. Weight Management
Although weight is not necessarily a measurement of health, living an active lifestyle can help you to lose weight. Whether you are trying to obtain your ideal beach body or increase your overall health, living an active lifestyle is for you! Obesity is tied to many different diseases, joint problems, and health issues. Moving for simply 30 minutes a day could help to relieve your body of extra weight and increase your self confidence!
By living an active lifestyle, you have the ability to change your life for the better. Combined with a healthy diet, an active lifestyle will improve your physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. It’s never too late to start, so begin today by taking a walk or heading to the gym!
