DAILY RITUALS
Let’s start thinking about how we move our bodies, what feels good for us and how those movements can become part of our daily rituals. We want the movement to be significant enough to have an after effect that reminds us of what our muscles are for, but not too painful that we don’t have the ability to back it up again the next day.
Do you love walking in the fresh air? Do you enjoy swimming because it takes pressure off your sore joints? Do you feel good after a yoga or Pilates stretch class? We are all at different abilities and agilities, and this isn’t about comparing yourself to others. Movement is all about meeting you where you are at and improving from there. Even small changes can make a big impact on your health and your future.
BENEFITS
The benefits of daily movement are well researched and supported. By moving, you are strengthening your muscles which improves your stability, balance, and co-ordination. These are motor skills that tend to decline as we age. Movement helps build more durable and denser bone mass too, particularly important with the prevalence of osteoporosis in the ageing population.
The endorphins released during exercise not only help you feel better, but they also help you think better too. Mental sharpness and better concentration both benefit from physical activity. Improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients through movement has been shown to stimulate the growth of new brain cells and the prevention of age-related cognitive decline.
WIEGHT MANAGEMENT
Inactivity or sedentary lifestyle are the main risk factors for weight gain and obesity, so regular exercise that increases your metabolism is best for weight loss and maintenance.
It makes sense that if you are going to start a new habit and get healthier, you would also improve your nutrition and hydration. Both of these healthy habits combined with more movement will add to an improved sense of wellbeing, better mobility, clearer mindset and hopefully a longer life.
Starting your day with movement boosts your cardiovascular health and your energy levels, and by being active during the day, you are more likely to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.
