Health has always been a hot topic and despite what we know about how to improve our health, our country is sicker than ever.  The United States is plagued with a plethora of conditions such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). 

Science tells us that we increase our likelihood of becoming susceptible to these diseases when we smoke tobacco, drink excess alcohol, make poor nutrition choices, and are physically inactive (CDC, 2022).  This unhealthy state is felt not just by us, but also by our children.  This is why, at an early age, we must begin to create an environment for health-promoting behaviors, such as proper nutrition and physical activity. 

We as a society must start encouraging physical activity in our youth.  Leading by example here parents is a great way to start (not being snarky either).  The benefits of being physically active are long and impressive and not limited to just looking better as other benefits include better mood and mindset, improved sleep, improved cognitive abilities, and more (The Johns Hopkins University, 2022).

There is a revolving door of overwhelming scientific data revealing how physical activity improves our brain health and the ability to think (cognitive function) (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion [ODPHP], 2022).  When we are thinking clearer we can handle or process our tasks better.  Being able to handle tasks more efficiently because of an improved mental state offers our youth the opportunity to accelerate academically as well (The Johns Hopkins University, 2022).  Who doesn’t feel better when they think clearer and perform their best?  Performing and functioning better reduces stress while also removing any negative associated mental effects. 

When we engage in physical activity our brain almost lights up by releasing the feel-good hormones we call endorphins (The Johns Hopkins University, 2022).  When these endorphins are released, our stress is reduced, aiding in improved mental clarity, and for many, less anxiety (The Johns Hopkins University, 2022).  Reducing negative mental health effects in anyone’s life is awesome, but knowing we have a chance to help our children is even more uplifting!

It is so encouraging to know we all have a viable and free option to become healthier.  All we need to do is simply get moving and bring our kids along with us.  Several studies have shown that as little as 60 minutes a day for 3 days a week is enough to make notable positive changes (Zhu, Heagele, & Healy, 2019).  Additionally, aside from the obvious physical benefits, exercise also improves our children’s sleep and their ability to flourish (Faulkner, Weatherson, Patte, Qian, & Leatherdale, 2020).  Sleep and flourishment are of course in addition to the mental and emotional benefits of increased confidence and self-esteem, plus studies show reductions in both anxiety and depression when children have this consistent level of weekly physical activity (Dale, Vanderloo, Moore, & Faulkner, 2019).

There truly is no need to look any further here, as the evidence is clear and encouraging.  Knowing we have a way to make health improvements than can impact the whole family, not just our children is a bonus!  Take walks as a family, go to the park down the road, check out that hiking trail you have always wondered about – just go and have fun with it. 

Just think of how our children’s lives will improve when we show them how to eat better, be active, and prioritize health.  It just feels good to think of the benefits that can be made to our children’s lives, a world where they may not have to worry about cancer, diabetes, or heart disease for example.  We can make this happen, all we need to do is become more health-conscious and lead our children by our example.  Do you remember when we were young and had the mindset that anything is possible?  This is the mindset that shows us that in fact, our future is bright, because life is what we choose it to be.

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References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, January). Chronic diseases in America. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/chronic-diseases.htm

Dale, L.P., Vanderloo, L., Moore, S., & Faulkner, G. (2019, March). Physical activity and depression, anxiety, and self-esteem in children and youth: An umbrella systematic review. Mental Health and Physical Activity, 16, 66-79. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2018.12.001

Faulkner, G., Weatherson, K., Patte, K., Qian, W., & Leatherdale, S.T. (2020, October). Are one-year changes in adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines associated with flourishing amount Canadian youth? Preventive Medicine, 139, Article 106179 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106179

Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (2022, January 28). Physical activity is good for the mind and body. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/news/202112/physical-activity-good-mind-and-body

The Johns Hopkins University. (2022). The truth behind ‘runner’s high’ and other mental benefits of running. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-truth-behind-runners-high-and-other-mental-benefits-of-running#:~:text=As%20you%20hit%20your%20stride,euphoric%20state%20following%20intense%20exercise.

Zhu, X., Haegele, J.A. & Healy, S. (2019, March). Movement and mental health: Behavioral correlates of anxiety and depression among children 6-17 years old in the U.S. Mental Health and Physical Activity, 16, 60-65. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2019.04.002