Exercise Impacts More Than Just Fitness

We often think of exercise as something we do to look a certain way or hit fitness goals, like losing weight or getting stronger. But what if I told you that exercise is actually the secret to a better life, not just a better body? I’m here to share why, beyond its physical benefits, moving your body regularly can improve your mental and emotional health too.

Let’s start with something simple: walking. Remember the last time you took a walk outside? Chances are, after you finished, you felt more energized, your mood lifted, and your mind was clearer. It’s not just in your head—there’s science behind this! Studies show that any form of physical activity, no matter the intensity, can make a positive difference in how we feel. In fact, research from Harvard highlights that just 7,500 steps a day can boost your longevity and reduce your risk of heart disease. Another study found that any amount of physical activity can elevate your mood and energy levels afterward.

With benefits like these, who wouldn’t want to exercise more? I certainly do! That’s why I’ve made movement a bigger part of my daily life. Here’s how I’ve been doing that:

1. Morning Posture Therapy: I start each day with 15-20 minutes of posture exercises. This helps me feel balanced and sets the tone for a healthier, more aligned day.  Check out more on posture therapy with Sue here.
2. Daily Walks with My Dogs: Walking outside every day not only keeps me active, but also reduces stress. Plus, my dogs love it too!
3. Eating for Energy: I’ve also been making sure my meals are packed with veggies and protein, so I have the energy I need for everything else I love doing. Fun fact: many women actually eat less of both than they should, which can affect their energy levels.

Together, these small habits make my life healthier and happier. And that’s really the point—exercise and healthy living aren't just about being fit. They’re about feeling your best and living life to the fullest. This is why I combine health and life coaching in my practice—it’s all interconnected.

What’s Coming Next? Stay Tuned!

If these ideas resonate with you, stay tuned. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing more insights, including:

• How your physical, mental, and emotional health are all deeply connected.
• Practical ways to incorporate mobility exercises into your daily routine.
• Strategies for keeping your body flexible and strong for life.

As always, I’ll provide easy, actionable steps to help you move more and feel your best, without overcomplicating things.

Ultimately, being fit is just the icing on the cake. The real reward is getting to enjoy life to the fullest—feeling great while doing the things you love, and maintaining that joy for years to come. Isn’t that what we all want at the end of the day?

REFERENCES

• www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9902068 
• www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/physical-activity-helps-reduce-depression-symptom
• https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/gps.5969
• www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/far-fewer-than-10000-steps-per-day-can-boost-health