The Importance & Benefits of Staying Active
Many people who work an office job are often guilty of being sedentary, spending most of the day seated at a desk. However, being inactive can be detrimental, with side effects such as weight gain and increased risk of health problems. Due to COVID-19, we’re spending more time at home than before, so it’s even more important to keep up with a healthy and active lifestyle. Leading an active lifestyle keeps your body and brain healthy, improving your overall quality of life. Not to mention, those who lead healthier lifestyles tend to benefit from lower insurance premiums. Here are some ways staying active can benefit you.
1. Reduces the Risk of Diseases
Exercise is important because it reduces the risk of health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, arthritis, and other major diseases. Aside from that, staying active also improves cardiovascular health and blood circulation. Conversely, being inactive and sedentary is linked to weight gain and obesity, which leads to many other health issues. To lead a healthier, fuller life, incorporate more physical activity in your day-to-day life such as taking the stairs or getting up to walk around every hour.
2. Increases Energy Levels
Although it may seem counterintuitive, studies have shown that one of the benefits of working out regularly is higher energy levels. This is because physical activity keeps your heart rate up and gets your blood flowing, improving your endurance over time. Regular exercise will help you feel more energised and decrease fatigue.
3. Boosts Brain Health & Memory
Physical activity promotes good circulation by improving the flow of oxygen and blood to your body, including the brain. This helps to stimulate the brain, which then improves brain function and enhances thinking skills. Not only that, but increased blood flow to the brain also stimulates regions of the brain associated with memory, which could improve your memory and cognitive function. Stay active to keep your mind sharp!
4. Improves Mood
The health benefits of exercise aren’t just physical – it also improves your mood and mental well-being. When you exercise, your brain releases “feel-good” chemicals into your body. These chemicals are called endorphins, and they boost your mood, reduce stress, and help you feel more relaxed. This is sometimes called “runner’s high”, where some people experience a feeling of euphoria from the burst of endorphins after exercise. If you’re feeling down, try doing a workout or going for a run to lift your mood.
5. More Restful Sleep
If you have trouble falling asleep at night, it could be due to the lack of physical activity during the day. Moderate to vigorous exercise helps you fall asleep faster and deepens your sleep, which greatly improves your sleep quality. Exercising increases your body temperature, which “wakes” your body up. After exercise, your body temperature declines and this helps facilitate sleepiness by triggering feelings of drowsiness. Try to avoid exercising a few hours before bedtime, as this could stimulate the production of endorphins, making it more difficult to fall asleep.
Keep healthy by keeping active and investing in your health. Find out more about Singlife’s protection products for more information. Get in touch with us today.
