Keys To Avoid Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical activity has a negative impact on our body both physically and mentally.  The problem is that it is a lifestyle that is on the rise and that affects more and more people. Hence, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is so important, especially if we want to enjoy a high quality of life.

Long working hours and the increasingly important role of technology in our lives are some of the most important reasons for this problem. According to WHO data, at least 60% of the world’s population does not perform the physical activity necessary to maintain an adequate state of health. An alarming fact if we take into account that exercising is vital to our well-being.

Avoid sedentary lifestyle to improve mental health

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the main causes of overweight as well as one of the main risk factors for premature death. But in addition, it also affects the brain, since it causes the deterioration of the cerebral nerve fibers, which can cause cognitive deterioration and memory loss.

In addition, physical activity increases blood flow and glucose metabolism, having a positive impact on the functioning of our brain and causing the body to have energy. Now, if we lead a sedentary lifestyle, the consequences will also be reflected in low levels of motivation, apathy and even sadness.

On the other hand, exercising  increases and favors the proper functioning of our mental capacities. In fact, recent research has shown that sport helps generate new neurons.

As we can see, exercising is key to maintaining good levels of mental health. Now, what can we do to avoid a sedentary lifestyle? Here are some keys to do so.

1- Go up the stairs

The first key that we offer you is that you always try to climb the stairs, instead of using the elevator.  Although it may not seem like a big deal, doing it will ensure a few minutes of physical activity, since you will work the muscles of your legs.

Climbing the stairs strengthens, above all, the quadriceps and the gluteus. Now, if there are many floors that you have to face, you can start to climb progressively.

2- Eat healthier

Providing your body with the fuel it needs provides numerous benefits. To do this, it is appropriate to eat a balanced, varied diet appropriate to your characteristics.

If you only eat unhealthy foods, it will be much more difficult for you to get off the couch. Now, if you eat properly, you will have to use much less willpower to perform any type of activity.

3- Practice sports

One of the most important keys to avoid a sedentary lifestyle is sports practice. You can start by doing physical activity daily for short periods of time. For example, spend 30 minutes doing moderate intensity (aerobic) exercise 5 days a week.

We recommend you start by going for a walk. Later you can opt for activities such as swimming, badminton or tennis. You can even play sports without leaving home or going to dance classes. These activities will provide you with the level of activity that your body needs. Even if you have to start very soft, you will see how little by little you will increase the level.

If you don’t know where to start,  there are thousands of free resources that will teach you the basics so you can start training. Adding this habit to your life, along with eating healthy, can completely change the way you feel.

4- Get up during the announcements

Another tip to avoid being sedentary is that if you watch television,  use commercial breaks to add some physical activity to your routine. Thus, we recommend that you stand up and be moving, either while doing housework such as folding clothes, or simply walking down the hall.

The important thing is that you do not sit for a long time.  Any reason is good for you to get up and move your muscles.

As we can see, adopting a healthy lifestyle does not have to mean going to the gym five days a week. Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is sometimes as simple as making small changes in your daily life. If you follow these keys, in a short time you will see that your level of well-being has improved.