Living a Healthy Life

Living a healthier life is the most popular resolution made in the beginning of a new year. But a few short months in, the pressures of life, work and family often push health and fitness aside. Health and well being cannot be ignored but they also cannot be looked at with too narrow a focus. There are several components to overall health- physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. All aspects must be cherished and cared for in order to achieve good health.

From a physical standpoint, regular exercise prevents age related decreases in muscle mass and strength; improves flexibility, mobility and balance; prevents heart disease and stroke; lowers blood pressure; prevents diabetes and osteoporosis; and helps people suffering from arthritis be able to perform daily activities with increased ease and comfort. Getting the body moving also just feels good! It releases stress and tension, boosts self-confidence and body image, and gives you more energy to face the day. Experts recommend 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week. Muscle burns more fat even while at rest, so add in two or three days of resistance training to round out your exercise program. Seem like too much of a time commitment? Break your sessions down into digestible 10-15 minute sessions throughout the day and still get the same benefits. Make exercise a part of your life- take the stairs, walk up escalators, walk when you can instead of taking a subway or cab. They may seem like insignificant changes, but making physical activity a regular part of your day insures that it will become a habit and routine.