These simple exercises can help women live longer

Engaging in physical activity is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in women’s health. Regular exercise brings many benefits like better heart health, improved mood, stronger bones, and lower risks of diseases like diabetes and certain cancers. Many women might feel intimidated by the idea of starting to exercise, thinking they need a gym or special gear. However, simple exercises that can be done at home or outdoors are just as effective in promoting overall health and longevity. Here are some easy-to-follow suggestions:

Brisk Walking: Walking is one of the easiest and most beneficial exercises. Doing brisk walks daily can boost heart health, strengthen bones, and lift your spirits. Aim for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. You can fit walking into your day by taking short strolls during work breaks, walking to nearby places instead of driving, or enjoying nature walks with friends or family.

Various Yoga Poses: Yoga offers many perks for women’s physical and mental well-being. It enhances flexibility, muscle strength, and balance. Regular yoga practice can ease menstrual discomfort, balance hormones, and support reproductive health. It also reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Yoga boosts self-confidence, improves body awareness, and fosters a positive body image. It enhances sleep quality and energy levels, making women feel more refreshed and energized overall.

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): Surya Namaskar is a sequence of yoga poses with numerous health benefits. It enhances flexibility, tones muscles, and boosts heart health. Regular practice can increase energy levels, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity. It stimulates the reproductive organs, aiding in regulating menstrual cycles and easing menopausal symptoms. Surya Namaskar also aids in weight loss, strengthens the spine, and improves posture, which is especially helpful for women experiencing back pain.

Swimming and Dancing: Apart from walking, including other cardio activities in your routine supports heart health and overall fitness. Cycling, swimming, dancing, and aerobics raise your heart rate, improve circulation, and boost lung capacity. Choose activities you enjoy and that fit your lifestyle. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercises, spread out over several days. Mix things up to keep your workouts fun and effective while reaping cardiovascular benefits.

In conclusion, adding these simple exercises to your routine can significantly improve your health and well-being. So, lace up those shoes or roll out your yoga mat, and start moving towards a healthier and happier you!

_{Repurposed article originally published in E Time}