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We often think of physical activity as a repetitive routine at the gym or a strict schedule of running and lifting weights. But the truth is, physical activity is more than just exercise; movement is woven into every corner of human life, and its benefits stretch far beyond the obvious. Physical activity is not about subtracting comfort, it’s about balancing energy, vitality, and well-being in ways that fit into everyday living. Indeed, physical activity is more than just exercise; it is a fundamental part of our daily lives.
One of The Best Medicine for the Mind Is Movement
Did you know that every step you take isn’t just strengthening your body but also reshaping your brain? Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, chemicals often called the “happy hormones.” This is why a brisk walk after a stressful meeting, a dance in your living room, or even stretching in your chair can dramatically change your mood. Remember, physical activity is more than just exercise; it’s also crucial for mental health.
Research published in The Lancet Psychiatry (2018) showed that people who engaged in regular physical activity reported 43% fewer days of poor mental health compared to those who were inactive. Even non-traditional forms of movement like gardening or housework were linked to better mental well-being. The message here is clear: physical activity doesn’t only burn calories, it also burns stress, anxiety, and depression.
Building Social Connections Through Movement
Physical activity is not always a solo journey; it’s often a bridge to stronger social ties. Whether it’s a community aerobics class, weekend football with friends, or group cycling, shared movement creates bonds. A study from the Journal of Health Psychology found that people who exercise in groups report higher levels of motivation and lower stress levels than those who exercise alone.
In Ghana and across many cultures, social forms of physical activity like dance (azonto, kpalongo, agbadza) do more than keep the body moving, they build joy, laughter, and belonging. When physical activity becomes a social event, it stops feeling like a chore and becomes a rhythm of life. It’s not just about sweating together, it’s about connecting, supporting, and thriving as a community.
Movement as an Investment in Longevity
Here’s something inspiring: physical activity works like a long-term savings account for your health. Just as money invested today grows with interest, consistent movement today pays off with more years of life and better quality of living tomorrow. A long-term Harvard study tracking over 100,000 participants found that those who engaged in just 21 minutes of daily walking lived years longer than those who remained sedentary. Clearly, physical activity is more than just exercise; it extends life.
This benefit isn’t only about lifespan but also about health span, the years you live free from disability or chronic disease. From maintaining balance and bone density in older adults to preventing joint stiffness and preserving independence, physical activity ensures that the extra years you gain are healthy, not just long.
Take-Home Message
Physical activity is more than gym routines or burning calories. It is medicine for the mind, a tool for building social bonds, and an investment in long-lasting health. Every movement counts, whether it’s laughter-filled dancing with friends, an evening walk with family, or a quiet morning stretch. It’s not about punishing yourself but about celebrating what your body and mind can achieve when you give them the gift of movement.
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Baah Sekyere Agyekum
Myhealthcop physical activity expert
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