The Importance of Physical Activity

It's essential to keep moving, even though we love to sit in front of the TV or get lost in a good book. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying these activities, sitting for endless hours can harm our health. Physical activity is vital for our well-being and longevity. Regular exercise offers numerous benefits, such as improving heart health, reducing blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol levels. Most importantly, it helps reduce the risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease and alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Despite these benefits, we often find excuses not to move, like saying we don't have time or that we're too tired. This is a big mistake. We need to treat exercise as essential medicine for our overall health and well-being. You don’t need a complicated routine to get started—try going for a walk on the sidewalk in front of your house or in a park. If the weather is too hot, walk in the evening around your neighborhood, or even walk in place in your living room. YouTube offers many indoor walking workouts to follow, so choose one you like. Activities like yoga and Tai Chi can also help prevent falls and bring peace to your mind.

The most important thing is not to make your exercise routine complicated. You don’t need to go to a gym or buy special workout clothes. Sometimes, I exercise in my pajamas! Many community centers offer exercise programs, often for a low fee, which allows you to socialize and meet new people, helping to prevent social isolation and loneliness. Numerous studies suggest that staying active is key to preventing cognitive decline. Our lifestyle choices greatly impact our physical and mental health, and it’s never too late to start moving for a better life.