~by Susan McGuire~
Physical activity, exercise, working out. Whatever you choose to call it, is yet another key aspect of self-nourishment. Increasingly, studies are showing just how critical exercise is for our physical, mental and emotional health.
Our bodies were designed for a life filled with activity. So it stands to reason that when you live a sedentary lifestyle, and you don’t use your body to its full potential, your health will diminish and you’ll be cheating yourself of opportunities.
Living a life filled with physical activity doesn’t have to take alot of your time. In fact, simply moving more frequently throughout each day is beneficial. It’s also less stressful to the body than staying sedentary all day followed by, or preceded by, a high-intensity workout routine. So this is a good place to start nourishing yourself with activity.
Self-Nourishment Lesson #4: Stay Physically Active
“Functional Activities”
You probably engage in more activity than you realize. Most of us do these on a daily basis without even thinking about it. Some examples are:
- Going up and down the stairs
- Chasing toddlers & carrying babies
- Gardening
- Grocery or mall shopping
- Housework
“Fun Activities”
Participate in fun activities with your family. Why not play with your kids?
- Organized sports (e.g. Soccer, football, softball)
- Play-wrestling
- Playing “tag” or “hide & seek”
- Shooting baskets
- Yard games such as Badminton, Croquet or Volley Ball
There are 4 basic types of physical activity that everyone should be doing on a regular basis.
- Stretching Movements (e.g. Basic stretching, Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong)
- Strengthening Movements (e.g. Short bursts, Ballistic, Plyometrics)
- Sustained Movements (e.g. Walking, Running, Aerobics, Cycling, Swimming)
- Balance enhancing activities (e.g. Stand on one foot, Stand on a trampoline with just one leg on the surface, Stand on a balance board)
These 4 basic movements are important for everyone, but how much and how long you do each of these should be determined by your current level of fitness and health.
Remember Newton’s First Law of Motion? “An object [or person] at rest stays at rest, and an object in motion stays in motion.”
There’s no single activity or routine that suits everybody. You should enjoy whatever activity you choose, at a time that works best for you. Use this as an opportunity to spend more time with your family or friends. Make activity a priority and schedule it on your calendar.
There are so many benefits to keeping active. Stay active for your health, for your kids, for your spouse, for your sanity… and most of all… for you!
Meet the Author: Susan McGuire
Susan McGuire
As a Holistic Health Coach and Lifestyle Guide, Susan takes a practical, comprehensive and personalized approach as she supports and empowers her clients to achieve their health and lifestyle goals. Coach Susan meets her clients where they are, and works with them to find the right combination of positive lifestyle and behavioral changes that they can implement with lasting results.
If you’re ready, willing and motivated to take charge of your health and transform your life, then consider talking with Coach Susan.
To take the next step towards achieving your health goals, schedule your complimentary Breakthrough Session with Coach Susan:
• Website: www.McGHealthCoach.com/contact-susan-mcguire
• Email: McG.HealthCoach@gmail.com
