Moving your body improves your overall health and well-being, and the good news is that all movement counts. One type of movement isn't better than another. Walk, run, dance, bike, play - move your way!
Despite what you may have heard, you don’t need to spend hours being active everyday to experience the positive effects. In fact, just being active for at least 30 minutes a day can:
Boost your mood
The brain and the body are linked. When you're active, your body releases endorphins - powerful chemicals that energize you and improve your mood. Moving your body regularly can also decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Improve Your Sleep
Being active for at least 30 minutes a day can help you fall asleep more quickly and sleep better, which will make you feel more rested and rejuvenated.
Reduce Your Stress
Being active can help you to release tension and stress that may build up during the day.
Improve Your Academic Performance
By moving your body and increasing your body temperature, you are increasing blood flow and providing more nutrients to your brain. This improves your focus and brain function.
Do you want to add more movement to your day? Check out these tips!
- Do What You Enjoy
- You are more likely to stay active throughout your life if you enjoy what you're doing. Ask yourself, “What type of activity would I enjoy and look forward to?” Focus on how movement makes you feel and what works best for you.
- Break it Up
- Instead of dedicating a chunk of your day to movement, try adding in smaller, more frequent movement breaks such as: walking, dancing, or walking up and down stairs. Research shows that even 10-minutes of movement can have positive effects on your health and well-being. In fact, taking short movement breaks while studying will help you focus and boost your energy.
- Schedule It
- Schedule time to move your body just like you do with class and work. By scheduling time to be active, you make it part of your routine. You can use a planner, a digital calendar or set reminders on your phone. Do what works best for you!
- Be Social
- It can be more fun to be active with a friend, and if you know someone else is counting on you then you're more likely to show up.
- Do it Anywhere
- Think outside the gym and move your body where you’re most comfortable. Explore areas around Davis like parks or the Greenbelt, or try a YouTube video in your living room. Remember, you can move your body anywhere!
- Chill Out
- Reserve time to spend by yourself and use it as scheduled “me time”. We all need daily time to decompress and rejuvenate. Although this may not seem like a good use of time given all the obligations you have as a student, recovery is just as important as staying active. Even taking 10 minutes to focus on a mindful breathing technique can slow your heart rate, reduce your blood pressure and relieve stress.