An Active Lifestyle can Reduce Stress, Improve Sleep and Lower Risk of Many Diseases

We all use the excuse that we just don’t have the time to exercise. Setting aside 30 minutes or an hour a day can be difficult, but if you work exercise into your daily routine, you will have no trouble getting the exercise you need. Adopting an active lifestyle that includes 30 to 60 minutes of being active on most days can build strength and flexibility, reduce stress, improve your energy and help you sleep better while reducing your risks of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancers and diabetes.

Take some time to figure out how you can make better choices and insert some active into your busy life.

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Go for a walk during your coffee break or lunch.
• When walking the dog, add 15 minutes on to your walk.
• Walk all or part of the way to work.
• If you take a bus to work, get off a stop or two early and walk the rest of the way.
• Do housework at a fast pace.
• Carry a grocery basket when shopping instead of taking a cart.
• Park at the back of the parking lot.
• Walk to the school or bus stop to pick up the kids.
• Take things upstairs and downstairs when you find them. Do not wait until there are a few items, take them individually.
• Rake leaves or do other types of yard work.

Aside from these small steps to help improve your health, you should consider developing a regular exercise program that works for you. Make a plan to exercise 3 to 4 times a week, find a friend to exercise with, vary your activities, set attainable goals and make it fun.

Any exercise program should begin with first talking to your doctor.

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