Healthy You Week Four

Use it or lose it! I’m sure most of us have heard this statement made at least once in our lives. It’s been used to reference various things from items we possess to the more intangible gifts such as talent or intelligence. There is, in fact, truth to this statement. And this week it applies to our physical health.

Exercise. The physical benefits are well known including weight management, increased protection against health conditions and diseases, energy boosts, and better sleep. Did you know there are mental health benefits as well? Studies show that regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. Exercise is as effective a treatment for mild depression as a prescription anti-depressant, only without the side effects! Extended periods of physical activity activate changes in the brain like neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It also releases endorphins, the chemical in your brain that helps boosts your mood and make you feel good. This release of endorphins is what helps improve anxiety and decrease stress, also. Finally, exercise serves as a distraction from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression.

While exercise can help distract from negative thoughts, on the other hand, it serves as one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve concentration, motivation, and memory. Physical activity immediately increases the amount of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin released by the brain, all of which affect focus and attention. At this point, I think the benefits of exercise are clear, but just in case you needed the cherry on top, here are a few more. Exercise stimulates the growth of new brain cells and helps prevent age-related decline, improves self-esteem, develops stronger resilience in the face of mental or emotional challenges and can even be fun! Exercise shouldn’t be seen as a chore, but rather a time to relax and unwind independently or connect with family or friends in a fun social setting. Whether you choose to make your exercise time ‘me time’ or time with friends, it’s an important investment in your physical and mental health. If we fail to make this investment, we not only lose out on all its aforementioned benefits, but risk the onset of preventable health conditions, too. Part one of your challenge this week: Use it or lose it! You can rack up some serious points from here on out since every 15 minutes of exercise you complete is worth 25 points! If you’re a beginner, start simple. Challenge yourself, but don’t overdo it. A brisk walk around the park or neighborhood, a bike ride, or a swim work well if you prefer the outdoors scene. Walking in place to your favorite song or t.v. show or a good workout with the treadmill, elliptical, stationary cycle, or rowing machine will work inside.

As many benefits as we have discussed for physical health, the bible tells us that spiritual health is of the greatest importance. “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” I Timothy 4:8 The second part of your challenge this week is to memorize a scripture of your choosing. Try to make it a verse (or verses) meaningful to you and where you are in your spiritual journey right now. For inspiration or ideas, refer back to your goals set in week one.

#HealthyYouChallenge #health #healthy