Too Busy to Exercise by Stephanie Nickel

I’ve addressed this issue before, but I need a reminder—and you may as well.

Have you ever been of the mindset “I know I should, but . . .”? That’s where I am.

Are you busy?

“Who isn’t?” you may ask.

There’s your day job, your family, your volunteer responsibilities. The list goes on and on. The thought of adding exercise to your agenda may be too much even to consider.

But did you know . . .

Regular exercise releases endorphins and makes you feel more positive. And a positive outlook goes a long way to facing—and conquering—that To Do list.

Those same hormones will make it easier to deal with the people and situations in your life that you find challenging—and will help us fight the temptation to snap at our spouse and children for no apparent reason.

Physical activity gets your blood pumping. That blood carries much needed oxygen to every part of your body, including your brain. We all need to think clearly to accomplish our daily tasks.

Not only will you think more clearly, but you’ll also be able to work more quickly and more efficiently. Bonus!

Commitment and follow-through in this area can also help you eat better. How? Well, if you’re busy running from one task to the next, you may be tempted to grab fast food at the drive through or pop packaged, processed food in the oven or microwave. And if you spend endless hours in front of your computer, it’s easy to keep less-than-healthy foods handy so you can keep working.

On the other hand, if you stick with a regular exercise schedule, you will be less tempted to gravitate to these “easier” choices. After all, if you’re working hard, you won’t want to negate your efforts at your next meal.

Regular physical activity is connected to the prevention of many illnesses and diseases. Although exercise is not a guarantee that we won’t get sick, it is our responsibility to do what we can. I’ve noticed lately that there are times my diminished lung capacity (I’m asthmatic) is making itself known. I rarely need medication and for the most part, I don’t even notice it, but that doesn’t mean I can afford to neglect my need for cardio exercise.

There are many things that can disrupt one’s sleep, but exercise has been shown to help in this area as well.

 And one last thing . . .

There are those who depend on you. The tasks on your To Do list may, indeed, be important, but so is setting a good example for those who are watching, those who count on you. And if you can do something together—walking, biking, swimming, playing tennis, jumping on the trampoline, whatever—all the better.

As the old saying goes, “All work and no play . . .”

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Regular exercise releases endorphins and makes you feel more positive. (tweet this)

Other articles by Stephanie

6 Reasons People Exercise

You Are Not Too Busy to Exercise

6 reasons fitness is not selfish

Steph Beth Nickel is an author, a freelance editor and writer, a labour doula, and a former personal trainer. She’d love to connect with you on Facebook or Twitter, on her website or blog.