Moving more and staying active has long been a pillar of a healthy lifestyle – not just for the fitness benefits. Here are a few ways that living a less sedentary life can also greatly benefit your overall well-being.
Mood Boosting Benefits
There’s a natural feel-good sensation that comes with activity that can help relieve stress, anxiety, depression and anger. Brisk movement triggers the release of endorphins, often known as “feel-good” hormones, and stimulates the release of other neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation. Regular physical activity also build confidence as we feel better about our body’s ability and appearance and improve our self-esteem.
Strength Opens Doors
Regular activity keeps us more physically fit and able. Our bodies lose strength, stamina and the ability to function properly when we move less. This is especially critical as we age because poor physical fitness quickly leads to reduced physical function in seniors. Simply put, regular physical activity strengthens muscles, allowing us to do more physical activities.
Your Heart Will Love You
Extended time sitting and other sedentary activities can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies show that adults who watch more than two hours of television a day can have a higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
Being more active may help you:
- Lower your blood pressure
- Boost your levels of good cholesterol
- Improve blood flow (circulation)
- Keep your weight under control
Live Longer
Being active not only helps you live longer, it ensures your later years are more enjoyable. Making sure you move more helps delay or prevent chronic illnesses and diseases associated with aging, allowing you to maintain a high quality of life and independence for longer as you age.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly. You can hit this target in just 30 minutes a day, five days a week by knowing every minute of moderate to vigorous activity benefits your overall wellness.
Exceptional Heart Care
Griffin Health offers comprehensive and compassionate heart care, including Griffin Faculty Physicians Cardiology, Heart Rhythm Center, and Cardiac Rehabilitation, to provide our community with the advanced treatment options and empowering education and support that improves quality of life.
For more information about GFP Cardiology and Cardiac Electrophysiology, visit https://gfp.griffinhealth.org. For more information about Cardiac Rehabilitation, visit www.griffinhealth.org/treatments/cardiac-rehabilitation.