On the first day of my certification as a yoga teacher in 1999, an older woman walked into the classroom, pulled herself a chair and sat in front of us. She stated her name and age, I don’t recall her name, but she was 91 years old. As she gripped her right leg and pulled it behind her neck, she said: “I will never stop doing yoga, so when I grow old, nobody has to tie my shoes or wipe my ass”. Since then I’ve lived by those words.
When we think about exercise, we immediately associate it with weight loss and growing older. When we are young, unless we are athletes, exercise is not perceived as a necessity, our bodies are mobile and free of pain. As we grow older, different ailments start appearing, undoubtedly caused by the lack of movement and poor cardio condition.
The benefits of exercise are innumerable, they range from physical to mental, the most common we read about being that it reduces the risk of heart disease, helps break down fat cells thus promoting healthy weight, improves sleep and increases endurance and flexibility. There are many other reasons other than weight loss to initiate a consistent fitness regime, reasons that benefit us all. Here are three simple but heavy reasons to get our bodies moving.
1. Move to stay happy
Maintaining a fitness routine, or even fast walking daily for ½ hr reduces the risks of depression. Regular exercise clears cortisol, which is the stress hormone, therefore reducing anxiety and stress. Studies determine that 60-70% of depression symptoms can be reduced through physical activity. Follow up studies also indicate that the antidepressant effects of exercise last longer than those of medication. So walk, run or jump for your happiness!
2. Exercise to boost your brain
Several studies found the correlation between creativity and physical activity. Those studies found that exercise improves converging and diverging thinking (both types of thinking found in the creative process). Subjects who live an active lifestyle have shown increased activity in the areas of the brain associated with creativity, imagination and problem solving. Be productive, be active, be clear!
3. Stay physically active to avoid temptation
Addictions to cigarettes, sugar, alcohol and even heroin, can be aided by keeping a consistent fitness routine. The endorphin rush released during exercise works on the same pathway neurologically as do other addictive substances, therefore reducing the risk of falling into negative vices. The principal function of endorphin being to inhibit the transmission of pain signals and produce a feeling of euphoria. So get addicted to feeling strong!
There are plenty of reasons to move our bodies daily and to stay active and live a healthier lifestyle. On the other hand, I cannot find one reason not to do it, so if you decide that is time to make some healthy upgrades to your lifestyle, we can help!
Being active is just one part of the equation, it is also important to know your current health status. At Pravan Clinic, a personalized concierge medical practice, they offer a holistic and preventive approach to optimize your health and empower you to be the best version of yourself. Their array of wellness services are also a great way towards a healthier lifestyle.
To start moving with a purpose, visit us at Casa Yoga. We are a great place where you will find fitness for the body and mind. We offer Reformer Pilates, Yoga, Booty Barre, Sculpt, Pre-natal Yoga and other amenities. You can also contact me, Marta Picaporte for consultations and fitness expertise. Healthy Body + Healthy Mind = Happy Heart.
For more information on Pravan Clinic you can contact
Ámbar López, Membership Director, at (787) 414-1119.