Fit Enough to Function?

Having experienced a global pandemic, health has been the topic on everybody’s lips over the last 18 months. But why is it so important to keep fit and well and how can it improve our day to day life, including our work life?

Lifts Mood

Partaking in regular exercise releases chemicals within the body which are known as endorphins. These positive endorphins are known to lift mood and create a more positive state of mind. Ever wondered why you felt so exhilarated after a work out? According to Web MD “endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine”. A 10 minute HIIT session or a walk in the fresh air are great uses of time during our working breaks. Positivity breeds productivity! The better our mood, the better results will be achieved at the end of our working day.

Manages Stress

Experiencing levels of stress during work can lead to mistakes being made and lower productivity levels. If you feel yourself becoming stressed or anxious at work, take a break and breathe. Regular meditation or yoga can help your overall mental health by allowing yourself to be present in the moment. Ways to improve our mental wellbeing are as important as working on our physical health. However, physical exercise is a fantastic way of improving our overall mental state as when we work out we push our bodies into experiencing “fight or flight mode”. The body imitates stress whilst helping us mentally manage our way through those effects. After a good work out you will also slowly release any stress and tensions created throughout the day, allowing your mind to become more clear and focused.

Keeps You Well

Keeping fit really is the secret sauce to keeping well. It is also an essential factor in protecting our cardiovascular health and keeping other organs such as your lungs and brain working efficiently. Regular exercise helps boost your immune system, keeping seasonal infections at bay and ultimately protecting our bodies. According to Health.com “exercise increases blood and lymph flow as your muscles contract, it also increases the circulation of immune cells, making them roam the body at a higher rate and at higher numbers”. A more efficient immune system can equate to less time off sick!

The Takeaway…

Focusing on ways to improve our mental health are just as important as improving our physical health. The mind and body work hand in hand to create a balanced, positive mental state. Choosing forms of physical and mental exercises you enjoy and that are realistic to work into your current schedule are essential in maintaining overall general health.