Getting more active (even just a little!) can help make you a better mother, partner and more. Here are five reasons, but once you get moving I bet you will find many more. Read on to find out a little activity can help make you a better mother, partner and more.
Mental health
Even if you don’t love exercise, you probably feel better after you’re active. That’s because sustained activity releases feel good hormones called endorphins, the brains “feel good” neurotransmitters. These little guys are nature’s way of saying, “keep up the good work champ!” Exercise has been shown to be as effective as medication in reducing the symptoms of moderate depression and is even more effective at knocking out everyday grumpiness.
Stress Reduction
Being a working mom is stressful and your “to-do’s” seem to be never ending. How to fit exercise into an already hectic schedule? Stop, take a deep breath and realize that if you felt more relaxed and focused that list might seem less daunting and more manageable. The Mayo clinic describes exercise as “moving mediation” which has the ability to quiet the mind, distract us from our daily worries and refresh the brain in wonderful ways.
Family values
As a concerned parent you have no doubt heard about the dramatic increases in childhood obesity in American children in recent years. Most kids could benefit from more and varied activity. One longitudinal study of children showed that getting good grades in physical education classes and experience with a wide range of sports was linked with remaining active in middle-age. To help build lifelong healthy habits for your kids, get active with them and make time for your own exercise. Your kiddos are more likely to give their all in P.E. and other activities when they see you doing the same. And when your children see you making physical activity a priority, they will learn to do the same.
Injury prevention
Lifting kids, playing tag, lugging groceries and strollers, piloting a mini-van all over town, all of these activities require strong and supple muscles. You are no good to your kids or yourself if you are hobbled by back pain or pulled muscles. Investing some time in strength training can prevent you from being benched with an injury in the game of “Life.”
You, only better
Imagine feeling more relaxed, confident, strong and balanced. Doesn’t that sound like the description of a really great mother? One study of Australian mothers found that mothers who carved out time for their own physical activity considered themselves to be better wives and mothers. These power moms also valued role modeling healthy values for their kids and sharing parenting responsibilities with their partners. So if you want to start taking better care of your kids, begin with taking better care of yourself.
