Live Life... :)... Ngurumans Hike
When I wake up feeling lethargic, I know the only way to re-energize, is to get moving. The treadmill is my favorite (but I also dance salsa). Sometimes it's so hard; all I can do is focus on one step at a time, and soon... I'm Alive Again!! It works every time.
The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore regardless of your age, sex or physical ability. Need more convincing to exercise?
Exercise is Fun
Find a physical activity you enjoy, I personally love to dance, hike or golf. Exercise gives you a chance to unwind, enjoy the great outdoors or simply engage in an activity that makes you happy. Whether it's taking an aerobics class at your gym, a power walk in the park, a bike ride, engage family and friends to create a social setting, I guarantee you; it will be well worth it.
Better Sleep, Better Skin
Struggling to fall asleep? Or to stay asleep? Exercise during the day helps you fall asleep at night and improves the quality of your beauty sleep. Avoid exercising too close to bedtime, or you may be too energized to fall asleep. Being active increases the lung capacity meaning you take in more oxygen. It also boosts circulation which in turn delivers the oxygen and nutrients to cells and skin.
Weight Control
To help prevent excess weight gain or maintain weight loss, exercise to burn calories; the more intense the activity, the more calories you burn. Exercise need not take up too much of your time to reap weight-loss benefits. If time is an issue, get active throughout the day in simple ways — take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk the dog, do household chores, have sex. Regular physical activity improves your muscle strength and boosts your endurance.
Combat Health Conditions and Diseases
Exercise keeps your blood flowing smoothly which decreases your risk of cardiovascular diseases. It prevents or manages a wide range of health problems; heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, depression, arthritis and certain types of cancers. Exercise boosts high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides.
"I feel like I'm on Top of the World"...:-) Mt. Longonot
Improves Mood and Self Esteem
Unfortunately, most people choose to sleep, watch TV or eat when they feel down or stressed; piling on the calories. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Do something -- anything -- every day, because exercise only tames stress for a maximum of 24 hours. Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed as well as a raised IQ. You may also feel better about your appearance and yourself boosting your confidence and improving your self-esteem.
Improved Sex Life
Do you feel too tired, insecure, or out of shape to enjoy physical intimacy? Exercise can leave you feeling energized, looking better and confident, which may have a positive effect on your sex life. Regular physical activity can lead to enhanced arousal for women. And men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than those who don't exercise.
*****Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any health concerns.
*Written by: Nana Wanjau