Technical innovations over the past few decades have brought us modern conveniences which in many ways have enriched our lives.  It is no longer necessary to leave the couch for any reason. These “advances” in modern society enable the majority of us to to avoid physical/visual contact with others, reduce mental stimulation and most of all atrophy in the muscles and organs.

Sedentary Lifestyle (the medical term for couch potato), is one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. Besides claiming the lives of 30% of elderly men and nearly double that of elderly women, it’s attributed to a long list of other ailments including;

• Anxiety
• Cardiovascular disease
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Colon cancer
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Lipid disorders
• Kidney stones

I’ll bet you know at least 5 people who are currently on medications for one or more of the disorders listed above.

The Reactive Approach to these system failures would be to first diagnose the problem. Then seek the proper medication and/or surgery to correct the problem.  Hate to burst your bubble but truthfully, you’ll never be the same again! Often, organ, bone and muscle damage resulting from a sedentary existence is irreversible depending on factors such as your age or severity of atrophy.   Chances are that additional medications will be needed to counteract the side effects of the original prescription.

The Safest Path (and least invasive) would be to incorporate moderate exercise and diet into your daily life.  There are a variety of resources and products to aid in this passive approach to fitness such as toning shoes, chin up bars or even placing a dumb bell near the couch or bed. Most adults require a minimum of 30 minutes moderate exercise per day. It is also necessary, if medically appropriate that you accelerate your heart rate for at least 20 minutes. Out of the 1440 minutes in a day you should be able to spare 30 of them to insure a happier life in the years ahead.

If you’re not into going to a gym or cluttering up your space with big fancy equipment, consider mowing the lawn or walking to do an errand you’d have otherwise taken transportation to do. These subtle enhancements will have great impact on you over time. Cycling and swimming are all encompassing workouts. Most of the body’s muscle groups are used simultaneously – compared to other exercises that target specific areas.  The physical benefits are obvious but the other benefits include the release of endorphins which block pain and enable you to experience a sense euphoria during the workout and feel better balanced emotionally afterwards.

Taking a class is another alternative. Yoga, Tai Chi, Chi Gong, Nui Gong, kick boxing etc. are methods of staying strong and keeping those pipes clear. Creating relationships/friendships with actual humans is also an asset to your longevity.

If you’re not an “exercise person” don’t try to be. It’s not about buying equipment or a new sweat suit. It’s about staying conscious enough to keep yourself functioning as best as possible. This awareness will promote an attitude which will have sustainable rewards. 

Be well.