Movement is fundamental, and a necessary aspect of life. When
we move our bodies, we affect everything, from circulation to digestion to
metabolism. Through movement, our bodies regulate hormone activity, detoxify,
and respire. Daily movement promotes chemical changes in the body and fires up
neural pathways, which stimulate the body’s healing capacity and boost immunity
to ward off disease.
When joints move, muscles expand and contract. The systems
in our bodies rely on this movement to function. For example, the lymphatic
system relies on the contraction and expansion of our skeletal muscle, so it
can circulate and pump toxins out of our bodies.
Movement disciplines have been prevalent in eastern
societies for thousands of years, and practices such as yoga and t’ai chi have
gradually permeated into the western world. What was once taught principally
for spiritual customs has evolved into healing instruction and therapy. Movement
is more than just exercise or physical exertion, and though it requires action,
it does not necessarily require strenuous effort.
Stretching is a form of movement which can improve the
body’s defenses by making it more adaptable to stress. Maintaining good posture
is another form of movement. When we are standing or walking, the processes
throughout our bodies are hard at work. And while the musculoskeletal system is
the most observable recipient of healthy posture, the additional benefits of
appropriate posture can impact lung functioning, heart health and even energy
levels.
Society no longer requires excessive movement for everyday
tasks and activities. As a result, our very design is changing. It has become
normal to expect that when we reach a certain age we will experience conditions
such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Even chronic pain has become something to
“expect” as we age, not something we can avoid and prevent.
Our systems were built on movement and motion. We move to
dress ourselves, to eat, and to work. However today’s culture promotes
sedentary lifestyles. Methods of communication including computers, televisions
and cell phones encourage a lack of physical movement. Activities such as cutting grass,
raking leaves and shoveling snow have been replaced with electric lawn
equipment and snow blowers. Our bodies are becoming inert. Consequently, the
health of our bone and tissue declines, circulation becomes sluggish, systems
break down, and overall wellness deteriorates.
So it’s time to move again. Take a walk. Use the stairs. Ride
your bike to work. Ask yourself if change is needed, and if so, get going.
Discover what moves you! Have a comment? Join the conversation!
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