Movement is Medicine
The power of movement should not be overlooked. What I love about movement is that it can be proactive and reactive. What I love more is that it can be and look so different for absolutely everyone.
Movement allows us to feel our best, become stronger, heal ourselves and express ourselves. This emphasizes the importance of making it a priority. What makes daily movement an easy habit is finding what you love and scheduling it.
This goes beyond your workouts. As mentioned in our sedentary lifestyle article, moving outside of your allotted training time matters. Our bodies and brain crave movement.
Increase your daily movement and non-exercise activity thermogenesis by walking 30 minutes a day, dancing while cooking dinner, playing with your pet or children, etc.
Don’t forget about incorporating all types of movement as long as it’s a type you enjoy.
Add plyometrics, ballistics, isometric/accessory work, stretching, mobility and core stabilization into your week. Including these modalities ensures you are improving your: strength, power, coordination, speed, range of motion and more.
Proactive + Reactive Movement
My favorite “thing” about movement is that it is proactive and reactive. Not only does it help prevent injuries and protect the body, it can heal as well. Getting blood flow to injuries or tweaks is the number one tool.
Blood moves to the injured or inflamed area and moves waste so that it can be removed by the lymphatic system.
Rest and not pushing yourself too far is also just as important. However, light movement can be transformative and is a great way to recover. As always, speak to your doctor(s) about your current state and what’s best for you.
It’s amazing how the body can protect and heal itself. It wants to keep you safe, regulated, and moving and feeling your best. The least you can do is make choices that aid the body’s functions.
Takeaways
Choosing to move daily promotes optimal living – currently and in the future. You’re increasing your longevity, overall health and helping your mental health. Find what you love.
Filling your life with said loves makes it 100x easier to move. Whatever it is; whether it’s kayaking, pickleball, pilates, biking, swimming, dancing, cleaning, yard work, etc. It all counts and it all helps.
Movement. Is. Medicine.