Highbar Physical therapy & Health blog
The Power of Movement in Lifestyle Medicine
As summer fades and autumn approaches, September brings a sense of new beginnings and renewed energy. At Highbar Physical Therapy, we're thrilled to introduce our 'September of Move' – a month-long celebration showcasing the remarkable health benefits of exercise. Join us in discovering why physical activity isn't just a seasonal pursuit, but a year-round"medicine" crucial for overall well-being and an essential component of lifestyle medicine.
What is Lifestyle Medicine?
Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based approach to preventing, treating, and even reversing chronic diseases by addressing their root causes. It focuses on six key areas:
1. Nutrition
2. Physical activity
3. Stress management
4. Sleep
5. Relationships
6. Avoiding risky substances
Among these, physical activity stands out as a powerful tool for transforming health.
'September of Move': A Highbar Physical Therapy Event Celebrating Movement for Purpose
Movement empowers people to feel better, move freely, and live fully. This month, we're embarking on a special journey led by our on-site "pirate" who's steering our ship towards better health. Our company-wide team competition is designed to:
- Celebrate the joy of movement through teamwork, friendly competition, and creativity
- Inspire daily movement, incorporating concepts of strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health
- Create lasting healthy habits that motivate participants beyond September
Join us this month and follow Highbar Physical Therapy for inspiration and motivation. Experience the benefits of movement firsthand!
The Purpose of Movement: Why Movement is Medicine
While many exercise for weight loss or muscle gain, the true benefits extend far beyond aesthetics. Here's why exercise is considered medicine:
1. **Disease Prevention**: Regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
2. **Mood Enhancement**: Exercise releases endorphins, combating "autumn blues," seasonal affective disorder, and boosting overall mental health.
3. **Cognitive Function**: Physical activity improves brain health, enhancing memory and focus – crucial for students and professionals.
4. **Stress Reduction**: As fall schedules get busier, exercise acts as a natural stress-buster, lowering cortisol levels.
5. **Improved Sleep**: Regular activity helps regulate sleep patterns, essential for early morning routines.
6. **Increased Energy**: Contrary to popular belief, exercise boosts energy levels, helping you tackle autumn tasks with vigor.
7. **Enhanced Immune Function**: As cold and flu season approaches, moderate exercise strengthens your immune system.
Exercise as Preventive Medicine: A Proactive Approach to Health
One of the most powerful aspects of exercise is its role in prevention. By incorporating regular physical activity into your lifestyle, you're not just treating existing conditions but actively working to prevent future health issues. This proactive approach is at the heart of lifestyle medicine and can significantly improve your long-term health outcomes.
Back-to-School Fitness: Family Health Tips for Fall
As kids return to school, it's the perfect time for families to establish healthy routines. Children learn by example, so when parents prioritize physical activity, kids are more likely to follow suit. Try these family-friendly fitness ideas:
1. Walk or bike to school, even just a couple of days a week.
2. Schedule after-school playground, beach, or park visits before winter arrives.
3. Plan weekend activities like family hikes to enjoy fall colors, apple picking (followed by baking an apple pie!), or participate in local organized walks or runs.
Fall Sports Have Begun: More Than Just Watching theGame
As football, soccer, hockey, and college sports seasons kickoff, transform your viewing experience into an active one:
1. Organize neighborhood touch football or soccer games.
2. Use commercial breaks to complete 10 push-ups, 15 squats, or 20 jumping jacks.
3. Attend a local school, club, or college game. Being outside, with friends, and walking will all support your overall health and well-being.
Let the dedication of athletes inspire your own health journey!
Your Invitation to Move This September
This September, we invite you to join our 'September ofMove' challenge. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a busy parent, a student, or someone who's been meaning to start an exercise routine, there's no better time than now to embrace the power of movement.
At Highbar Physical Therapy, we're committed to helping you harness the power of physical activity to transform your health and embrace the principles of lifestyle medicine. We specialize in creating personalized exercise plans tailored to your specific health needs and fitness level.
Click Here to Schedule an Appointment
Let's work together to make movement your best medicine!We'll empower you to feel better, move freely, and live fully.
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