The Dangers Of Winter Inactivity
Modern life has significantly impacted the way we do things. Because of all the appliances and devices available to us now, we tend to be more inactive compared to our forebears.
We also have access to luxuries that they did not have, such as restaurant meals and ready-made foods. Previously, all meals would have been cooked from scratch at home.
Life used to be physically busy. Even the simple task of washing your clothes was not so simple 60 years ago. It involved a lot of manual labour to wash, spin and wring your clothes. Now, we simply push a button.
But what does it all mean?
Basically, because we are a lot more sedentary in our everyday lives, we need to consciously fit in time to be active. If we don’t make this time, then we run the risk of contracting illnesses or diseases associated with inactivity. These can range from heart disease to blood pressure issues, or diabetes and obesity. It even increases your risk factor with some forms of cancer, and impacts your mental health with a greater chance of depression and anxiety developing.
So, what can we do about it?
Combatting Inactivity
We all know that we need to remain active to stay healthy. But it can often seem hard to fit a workout into your day. Some people love to hit the gym, and that’s great if gym fitness is your thing. But for many of us, we tend to make excuses not to go to the gym.
The great news is, fitness doesn’t have to involve the gym. It simply needs to involve the things you enjoy. Try some of these ideas to remain active this winter…
– Find a place to walk where the weather no longer becomes a factor – this could be under the covers of your town’s main street, taking a lap around the mall or supermarket, or even pacing up and down the stairs at your place (if you have stairs of course!)
– Grab some hand weights or a swiss ball and do a few exercises or stretches during the ad breaks of your favourite TV show
– Join a social sports team. It doesn’t have to be about winning, just about moving and having some fun with friends
– Swimming at an indoor pool is a great, fun way to get the blood pumping
– Play with the kids. They have a bundle of energy, so trying to keep up with them will definitely keep you active!
– Make active choices throughout the day by parking further from work, taking the stairs, or even trying a standing desk.
Mindset plays a huge role in staying active. Don’t think about it as “exercise”, instead, think of it as an immensely powerful tool for your cardiovascular system. Exercise goes way deeper than keeping you fit. In fact, some of the waste products that muscles produce during physical activity can actively fight off cancer cells.
How Massage Can Help
Massage can help to combat some of the negative impacts of inactivity. Apart from getting your blood flowing, massage is also known to reduce your heart rate, lower blood pressure, increase circulation and your lymph flow. Massage is great for stimulating weak muscles, that are often caused by inactivity.
However, massage should never be a replacement for physical activity.
It should be a complement to your exercise that helps to boost your overall health and wellbeing. Here at Opti Health, we know that massage is only part of the equation. That is why we always recommend posture adjustments and a stretching program as part of our treatment plans.
So, are you ready to boost your activity with an invigorating massage at Opti Health? Then head on over and book your appointment with us today. We currently have a special operating that offers a discounted rate on our morning sessions – those are our appointments from 6.15am up to and including 1pm. Book your spot now.