Our bodies have always been designed to move. Our earliest ancestors walked and ran miles upon miles in order to hunt and survive. We’ve been jumping, climbing, swimming, pushing, and pulling our bodies for centuries. However, in the 20th century, we have shifted our relationship with movement in regard to weight loss and our physical aesthetic. We’ve taken the perspective that exercise is only synonymous with calorie burning and achieving our ideal physique. But movement is so much more than burning more calories than we consume. Movement is not only a function but also a mechanism for both transportation and detoxification.
This has led to the health and fitness markets to use these viewpoints as a means to sell equipment and supplements. And has led to increases in eating and other mental disorders surrounding our relationship with our physical selves. Not to mention, more often than not we are doing more harm to our bodies than good. It’s time to start resetting our mindset to let go of the superficial and focus on our actual health.
Working Our Bodies and Brains
When we move our bodies, we aren’t just strengthening our physical bodies. We’re also building neurological synapses. When we use opposite parts of our bodies, like when we walk, we are also stimulating both the right and left sides of our brains. This keeps communication flowing and improves more than just our physical health.
Research is showing that our mental health suffers when our right and left brain communication pathways get jammed. Normally, when we operate day to day, the two sides of our brains are constantly taking turns being dominant. However, in those with disorders like manic depression, “one hemisphere becomes locked into a dominant position in periods of depression while the other hemisphere is locked at times of mania.” And while opposite body movements alone, unfortunately, won’t cure these disorders, they certainly help to keep episodes and overreactions at bay.
Movement and Detoxification
As we said above, movement is just about “moving”. Rather, movement also adds to our natural detoxification process. Has anyone ever told you that sweating is good because you’re getting toxins out? It reigns some truth!
Autophagy is the body’s way of identifying old and unnecessary cells that no longer benefit it. The body chooses these cells to be destroyed by the immune system so that the healthy cells can thrive. There are three ways autophagy occurs in the body: intermittent fasting, ketogenic diet, and exercise. These can all lead to a more oxygenated and energized body. And allows for space for old cells to die and healthy cells to live.
How Much Movement Do We Need?
You may have heard stats and health professionals claim that sitting is the new smoking. And while we don’t have to engage in a Crossfit Workout of the Day every single day, we do need to move our bodies daily. It can be as simple as walking and stretching each day. Other examples include but aren’t limited to:
- Running
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Resistance training
- Circuit training
- Powerlifting
- Dancing
- Plyometrics
- Dry skin brushing
- Rebounding
- Playing intramural sports
*We always recommend talking to your doctor before changing or starting a physical activity routine. From there, a professional in the fitness field can address any specific questions about duration, frequency, and intensity.
Resetting Your Health with Zock Chiropractic
Resetting your relationship with movement is a great way to begin regaining your health. Just making small changes – like walking more and focusing on health over aesthetics – could be what the doctor ordered.
Part of achieving our best physical and emotional health is through chiropractic care and massage therapy. Chiropractic care is focused on allowing our spine and nerves to work to their potential. This results in not only allowing our organs to function but for them to function to their best ability. Dr. Zock would love to discuss your concerns in regard to resetting your health. Her vast knowledge of natural supplementation and body processes make her a great guide in helping you make the best choices for your body. Make an appointment in Cranberry today to schedule an introductory chiropractic treatment session. We can discuss your pains and needs as part of my initial chiropractic workup for you as a new patient to our practice!
* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please contact a medical professional for advice.