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HEALTHY LIVING
BY SANDI SCHWARTZ
your game WITH GREEN EXERCISE
LOOKING FOR A WAY TO STAY HEALTHY AND FEEL MORE RELAXED?
Try green exercise — any activity in which we interact with nature while moving our bod- ies and breaking a sweat. Experts have found a clear link between exercise and stress reduction and nature and stress reduction. Studies show that engaging in fitness activities in and around green spaces positively affects our mood and helps reduce stress and anxiety. So when you combine exercise and nature, you get a double dose of wellness. GREEN EXERCISE BOOSTS OUR WELL- BEING IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS: Reduces Stress Hormones. Green exercise reduces the level of stress hormones in our body, such as adrenaline and cortisol, helping us feel happier and calmer. Produces Endorphins. When we exercise, our body releases feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins. These brain chemicals act as natural painkillers, making us feel better and less stressed. Minimizes Fatigue. Exercise improves blood flow and our body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. These changes in our brain reduce fatigue and improve alertness. Encourages Mindfulness. Both exercise and nature provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a mindful moment. When immersed in nature, we can easily get lost in the moment and experience a happiness boost.
FIND YOUR FAVORITE GREEN EXERCISE
PICKLEBALL As the fastest-growing sport in America, this activity, a cross between tennis and ping-pong, is another excellent green exercise option when played outdoors. PADDLEBOARDING Paddleboarding, which involves standing or kneeling on a floating board while using a paddle to glide across the water, offers the perfect blend of outdoor relaxation, fun, and physical exercise. You can appreciate the natural surroundings while engaging your muscles to maintain balance. BIKING Head out for a ride in your neighborhood or through a local park. You’ll get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air and natural scenery.
When you think of green exercise, you probably picture intense outdoorsy activities like hiking and climbing mountains. However, green exercise can be as simple as walking or cycling in your neighborhood or nearby park.
HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO HELP GET YOU STARTED:
HIKING Walking and hiking, whether around your neighborhood, at a nearby park, or along the beach, can help you enjoy some healthy exercise while taking in the beauty of nature.
SWIMMING
Swimming is a versatile
and low-impact activity. Spending time in the water has a tremen- dous soothing effect. Experts have not- ed that swimming produces the same relaxation response as yoga, increasing calming chemicals and allowing us to enter a meditative state.
The options are endless to engage in some green exercise that will help you feel healthier and calmer and inspire you as you bask in the great outdoors.
41 ROMAN JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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