Saturday, February 10, 2007

Wear Out or Rust Out

Our bodies are absolutely incredible. They rival things like computers and jet planes yet we take them for granted. We know or expect that when we wake up everyday that it going to be there for us. Most of the time it is ready and willing to do whatever we want it to do. It is designed to move. Yes, movement is the only way to keep the body healthy. It is an absolute fact that we will rust out faster than we will wear out.

When we wake up feeling stiff and groggy, it is a signal to get out and do something. For some reason, our brain says sit down on the couch. That is a bad idea. We need to get moving. Movement gets the blood flowing. It gets the synovial fluid (lubricant for the joints) flowing. It activates the lymph system. These are the things that fight to keep our bodies healthy. We must not let the lure of the couch win. This is most important as we get older. We just can't let up. Get out and exercise. It is the absolute best way to enjoy those golden years.

Let's make some comparisons. We will begin with the benefits of exercise:
1. Weight loss
2. Healthier skin
3. Reduces blood sugar
4. Reduces blood pressure
5. Increases organ function
6. Strengthens the heart
7. Strengthens muscles
8. Improves self image
I am sure there are more but they won't come to me now. Feel free to add in the comments section.
Now let's look at the benefits of sitting on the couch. Hmmm, there aren't any. Let's look at what can happen.
1. Get fat
2. Blood pressure rises
3. Blood sugar rises
4. Joints stiffen
5. Decreased organ function
6. Arteries clog
7. Loss of muscle tissue
8. Self image declines

Get the picture? Now I'm not saying that if you exercise that none of the bad things can happen to you. I am saying that it greatly reduces the chances of premature aging and increases the chances that you will enjoy life to it's fullest.

Don't sell the furniture. Use it as a reward for a life well lived.
Summary: Stretch, exercise, eat right. Enjoy life. Wow, that sounds pretty simple huh?
We make a choice everyday. We are either living or dying. Think about it.

1 comment:

Jude said...

This motivated me to go run yesterday.