Some simple steps to
Health and Happiness in your lunch hour
Whether you are
considering a walking meeting or simply striding out at lunchtime, the benefits
of a change of scenery and stretching your legs are profound on your overall
wellbeing:
Health Benefits:
To touch on a few of the physiological aspects, a walk, some gentle exercise mixed
with a few gulps of fresh air, will not only strengthen your heart but will
reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact it reduces your overall
chance of disease. For the weight conscious it clearly burns a few calories and
tones muscles whilst surreptitiously stimulating a vitamin D fix which works on
your immune system and bone health.
"Exercise is the best preventive drug we have, and everybody needs
to take that medicine." Jordan Metzl, a sports-medicine physician at
New York City's Hospital
Happiness Factor:
Increased oxygen flow adds to your energy levels. Happy chemicals otherwise
known as dopamine are released on exercising– a neurotransmitter in the brain
that is responsible for feelings of pleasure and happiness. Exercise and walking is one of the best ways
to increase your brains dopamine production. In fact
research shows that a brisk walk is as effective as antidepressants, it
enhances our overall positive mental health.
“With regular exercise, the body seeks to continue
staying active,” Dr. Tsai, professor of
neurosciences at the Medical University of South Carolina
A Tip: Have a go at being present. Taking
a walk gives you the perfect opportunity to escape the distractions and
interruptions of the office hum-drum and refocus. Whilst walking take notice of
your surroundings and be curious. Notice your breathing and how you feel in
your body. By taking notice and simply being aware of what is around you enables
you to escape from past niggles and future “what-if’s” – it brings you into the
present.
A few of the endless benefits of being present:
- The stillness and focus achieved when you are present helps you feel calm and less stressed
- For the over-thinkers and ruminators, this will give you a break
- This may sound strange but with less over analyzing comes a sense of appreciation
So what’s stopping you? Here’s your chance to recharge - the
choice is yours. For our Northern
Hemisphere readers approaching Winter, there is no such thing as bad weather,
only unsuitable clothing. For our fair weather readers, go get ‘em!
Written by: Leigh McKay
TW: @workwisely
