Itz Holistically Wholesome

Happy Thursday, and may God continue to bless you with excellent health, strength, and courage during these eventful times. A lot has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, which does not seem to be taking its flight anytime soon. However, despite all the unpleasantness that is going on around us, we must make time to do the things that will promote wellness and longevity. Remaining healthy is the only way that we will be able to survive what feels like a concrete jungle at times. Fitness is an essential part of our lives. Sadly, many of us cannot find time to do so because we are distracted by life’s cares. However, we cannot allow this to continue as it is not in our best interest to do so. Whatever time we can create in our busy schedules, we must do so to get physical exercise done. A strong and healthy body will help us to ward off sickness.

It is vital to know that one does not necessarily have to run several miles per day or spend endless hours in the gym unless one chose to do so. Whether you walk, run, lift weights, or dance, etc., 30 minutes each day for at least three days per week can do wonders for your health.

I enjoy working out; consequently, I make time to do so. I know that not all of us are excited about exercise, and as such, it may be a little more challenging getting it done. However, I implore you to do it anyway; if not for you, then do it for health and happiness.

Six reasons to get exercise:

Good Therapy – I find it most therapeutic going out for a walk and running in the fresh open air. It always helps me to feel relax and stress free especially after a long crazy shift at work. At the end of a workout, I feel like I can take on whatever comes my way. Exercise boosts endorphins and gives us happy feelings.

Builds confidence – Being in good shape allows you to feel confident about yourself. Many of us suffer from low self-esteem because of how we think our bodies look. Regular exercise helps build confidence by improving our body image. Exercise strengthens and tones the body. Eventually, you will start seeing results that can significantly improve your self-esteem and help you feel better about your look. 

Sleep like a baby

If you ever desire long sweet rest, exercise; I tend to sleep like a baby after a good workout. Exercise helps to improve sleep. Moderate-to-vigorous exercise increases sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. I tend to sleep so much better whenever I work out. Physical activity can also help alleviate daytime sleepiness and, for some people, reduce the need for sleep medications.

Proper bowel movement – I have experienced runner’s diarrhea whenever I run. So I can always look forward to a bowel movement right after. “Frequent, loose bowel movements characterize runner’s diarrhea during or immediately after a run. Runner’s diarrhea is most common in long-distance runners.” Movement causes our digestive system to move a little faster than if you are sitting still. I cannot begin to explain how free and light I feel after.

It keeps you young – I am a big kid at heart. I love to play and run around with my kids. However, I never want to be invited to play or just frolic but cannot do so because I am not fit enough. Keeping in excellent physical health is essential because I want to be someone they can be proud of in every way and aspire to care for themselves similarly.

To honor God – God expects us to care for our bodies. The bible refers to our body as the temple of the Lord, and it is within this body that the Holy Spirit dwells. He expects us to keep in good conditions so that He can use us to do His great work. A sick and feeble body cannot do practical work for God. He wants us to be a light of the world, an example to others.