888-765-5400Feel Better! – The Benefits of Physical Activity
We all know exercise is an important part of feeling well, but you may be surprised at how much regular physical activity can improve not only your health, but also your mood and overall effectiveness. One of the nice things about exercise is that it is available to everyone, regardless of your age, gender or even ability. There are many different kinds of physical activities for all different kinds of people. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are at least 7 clear benefits to regular physical activity. Check these out and we think you will agree that routine exercise is one of the best choices you can make for your daily life.
Benefit No. 1: Exercise Controls Weight
Weight is really a fairly simple formula of calories in and calories out. Exercise helps prevent excess weight gain and allows for weight loss because physical activity burns calories. More intensive activities, such as running or swimming burn more calories, while less intensive activities such as walking burn less. Nevertheless, all activity helps! Even small adjustments in your routine, such as taking the stairs instead of an elevator, can make a big difference and you don’t have to set aside hours of your day. A twenty minute brisk walk daily can have a big impact on weight control and there are many exercise routines you can do right in your own home.
Benefit No. 2: Exercise Combats Health Conditions and Diseases
Exercise increases blow flow, which in turn reduces your risk for cardiovascular diseases. Physical activity boosts HDL or “good” cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides, which can help prevent heart disease and high blood pressure. Studies have shown that maintaining a regular exercise routine can help prevent or manage a wide variety of health related problems, including certain types of cancer, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and even depression. If you want to live longer, exercise is perhaps the most important thing you can do.
Benefit No. 3: Exercise Improves Mood
We all have mood swings, which is a natural part of being human, but did you know that a gym workout or a nice long walk can actually help improve you mood? Physical exercise stimulates not only your body, but also your brain, releasing chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. When you exercise regularly, you may also feel more confident in your appearance, which can boost self esteem and an overall sense of well-being.
Benefit No. 4: Exercise Boosts Energy
If you find yourself feeling exhausted or unable to complete daily chores or responsibilities energetically, you may need more physical activity. Improving muscle strength and boosting endurance, exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. When your body works better, you have more energy to meet the demands of daily life.
Benefit No. 5: Exercise Promotes Better Sleep
It may seem counter-intuitive, but if you are struggling to either fall asleep or stay asleep, regular exercise can help. Because your body will be more tired, you may find you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper than you ever have before. Although you want to avoid exercising too close to bedtime as this can actually increase your energy level, a routine of physical activity can improve your sleep immeasurably.
Benefit No. 6: Exercise Puts the Spark Back in Your Sex Life
This is straight from the Mayo Clinic, so it must be true. Regular physical activity can leave you feeling energized and looking better, both of which may have a positive effect on your sex life. According to the experts, exercise “can lead to enhanced arousal for women and men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than are men who don’t exercise.”
Benefit No. 7: Exercise Can Be Fun
There are many ways to make exercise fun. A hike through the woods or rowing a boat across a lake are great ways to enjoy the outdoors and engage in joyful experiences. Use exercise to connect with family or friends in a social setting by playing a game of volleyball, going paddle boarding or skiing down the slopes. Joining a soccer team or participating in a water aerobics class are great ways to meet new people and increase your circle of friends, while improving your health. As the Nike slogan says, “Just Do It!” and if you find you don’t enjoy what you are doing, try something new. You are sure to find an activity that suits your lifestyle.
Bottom line is: Exercise is vital for health and mental well-being and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a proud supporter of preventive health care! As a general rule of thumb, aim for about 30 minutes of physical activity a day. If you have specific weight loss goals in mind, you may have to exercise more, but always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regime.
For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents. Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.