MOVEmber parkrun

Health Beat Wednesdays - 30 October 2024

Welcome to MOVEmber!

A new month is ahead of us, November, also known as MOVEmber, a month focused on Prostate Cancer Awareness. Not everyone can grow a moustache for Movember, but everyone can MOVE a little bit more.

November is MOVEmber, a month dedicated to encouraging everyone to get active and MOVE more. This week's health and fitness tip focuses on the incredible benefits of regular physical activity.

The Healing Power of Movement: How Walking, Jogging, and Running Impact Mental Health

Regular physical activity is crucial for overall health, extending benefits beyond physical wellness to mental health.

Physiological Impact

Physical activity triggers positive physiological responses:

1. Endorphins: "Feel-good" hormones promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

2. Neurotransmitters: Exercise influences serotonin and levels, regulating mood.

3. Cortisol reduction: Regular activity decreases cortisol, mitigating chronic stress.

4. Improved sleep: Exercise regulates sleep patterns, essential for mental health recovery.

Psychological Impact

The psychological benefits are equally impressive:

1. Mood enhancement: Exercise releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing depression symptoms.

2. Anxiety reduction: Physical activity promotes relaxation and distraction.

3. Self-esteem boost: Regular exercise fosters accomplishment and confidence.

4. Social connections: Joining running groups or finding exercise buddies enhances social support.

Therapeutic Impact

Walking, jogging, and running are recognized therapeutic tools:

1. Depression management: Exercise is prescribed as adjunct therapy.

2. Stress management: Physical activity provides a healthy coping mechanism.

3. Anxiety disorders: Exercise reduces symptoms.

4. Emotional regulation: Movement regulates emotions, improving emotional health.

MOVEmber Challenge: 30 Days of Movement

Join the MOVEmber movement and commit to 30 days of physical activity this November!

Daily Challenge: Walk 45 minutes daily, aiming for 5,500 steps per day.

Tips to Stay Motivated:

1. Find a workout buddy.

2. Schedule it.

3. Track progress.

4. Reward yourself.

Getting Started:

1. Start small: Begin with short walks/jogs, increasing intensity/duration.

2. Find a buddy: Exercise with a friend/family member.

3. Schedule it: Make physical activity non-negotiable.

4. Mix it up: Vary routines to avoid boredom.

Conclusion

Walking, jogging, and running offer a powerful triple threat against stress, depression, and emotional distress. Incorporating regular physical activity improves:

- Physiological responses

- Psychological well-being

- Therapeutic benefits

Take the first step today and discover movement's transformative power for mental health.

Stay Connected: www.VCHF.co.za/

Join us for the ONE MILLION Steps Challenge...

Let's stay active and aim for 1,000,000 steps of running, jogging, or walking over the next 6 months from 22 October 2024 till 22 April 2025.

That's about 5,500 steps per day for the next 183 days!