Wellness Update

A Message from the Chief Wellness Officer

 

Hello Everyone,

As we get into the swing of the new academic year, it is important to remember the impact that physical activity has on our overall well-being, especially during these unprecedented times. Physical activity not only helps us to keep heart healthy and boost our immune systems, but it is a great stress reliever.

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, we want to engage in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week. This can be broken down into a more manageable 30 minutes five days a week or increments that are best suited for you (e.g., 10 minute recovery activity breaks three times a day). Research shows that being physically active improves quality of life, sleep and overall brain health, while decreasing our chances for a chronic disease to develop over time. Learn more about how to get physically active.

People are often confused about what counts toward those 150 minutes each week. The American College of Sports Medicine states that any duration of physical activity (even 11 minutes a day) can be associated with overall improved health outcomes. In other words, the more times we are able to move from our desks, the more we are improving our health.

Here are three ways you can become more active throughout the day without breaking a sweat:

·     Take the stairs at home or in your workplace

·     10 squats at your desk or in your home office

·     Dance to your favorite music

Remember, some physical activity is better than none at all. You can do it! Take one bite of the bundle of carrots at a time!

Stay well!

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