Self-care starts with moving your body! Go for a walk, take a dance cardio class, or hit an outdoor workout. Before doing so, though, you might be wondering why your energy has waned and the extra achiness in your body has taken hold. If you’re having trouble fitting regular movement into your daily routine, here are three signs to consider. Remember, lack of movement could ultimately impact your physical health and mental well-being. If addressed, however, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier lifestyle.
You are experiencing digestive issues.
Digestion is a welcome side effect of regular exercise. In fact, all it takes is a 30-minute run or brisk walk to not only increase your appetite for dinner but help you digest it afterward. This is because aerobic exercise quickens your breathing and heart rate, which in turn improves the contraction of your intestinal muscles. As a result, your digested food passes more quickly through your intestines and out of your body. Moving in whatever method will help with digestion.
Your sleep quality is suffering.
If you’re having trouble nodding off or staying asleep at night, you may need to move a bit more during the day. Studies support the notion that exercise improves sleep quality and quantity, regardless of the time of day you work out. Other research finds that exercise improves sleep for people with insomnia and may significantly elevate mood. If you’ve been spending a lot of nights tossing and turning, or never seem to achieve truly restful sleep, try spending more time exercising.
You’ve never been more stressed.
Are you stressed out right now? According to scientific research, the answer is probably yes. Americans are some of the most stressed-out people in the world. But, simply walking, running, or strengthening your body for 20 to 30 minutes three to four times a week is enough to significantly decrease your anxiety. You owe it to yourself to reduce your stress whenever possible – so, get out there and start moving and help better your mental health!
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