The Positive Impact Of Exercise On Work/Life Balance

In a recent survey, it was estimated that around 63% of the adult population in the UK is overweight - that's approximately two thirds of everyone you meet. Additionally, one in three men and half of women are not physically active enough to be in good health.

Often, with the everyday stresses of trying to juggle work, family life and everything else in between, the last thing that many want to do at the end of the day is start exercising or cooking a healthy meal. Being physically inactive is a way of life for many and I know how difficult it is to stay motivated and actually do something when feeling exhausted. However, much of the exhaustion can be attributed to the exercise that you don't have.

Before embarking on a lifestyle change such as an exercise routine, it may be wise to consult with a health professional as they can advise you on both your current levels of physical fitness and also tailored advice on how to begin to incorporate exercise into your life.

Maintaining a healthy work/life balance really is essential for overall wellbeing and incorporating exercise into your life can have a profound impact. Regular exercise has been scientifically proven, over and over again, to increase your energy levels and improve your cognitive functioning. Physical activity produces certain hormones that naturally elevate mood and make you more positive. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine are released, triggered by physical exercise. So, by investing in yourself with exercise, it can combat the fatigue and lethargy that so often dominates,and it can give you renewed focus and motivation to enhance your productivity at work.

Work related stress is a very common challenge that many suffer from and it can affect your ability to function at your optimum levels at work. Exercise serves as a powerful tool to combat stress and promote wellbeing. It can help you unwind, relieve tension and give you a much needed break from work related pressure especially if you incorporate it into your working schedule e.g. break times.

Exercise improves your physical health as well as your mental health. Regular activity helps to maintain a healthy weight,  improve cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength and flexibility as well as increasing stamina. Furthermore, exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, some cancers and diabetes and ensures you are in good enough health to handle work responsibilities more effectively.

Integrating exercise into your daily working routine serves as valuable ‘me time’ and allows you to detach yourself from work related pressures to focus on your personal needs. It can help prevent the dreaded burnout and acts as a clear message to colleagues that you have established boundaries within the structure of your day with the priority being your overall  health.

Exercise does require commitment, resilience and time management. However, you will soon discover that your new found self discipline extends into allowing you to manage your time far more effectively, ensuring dedicated periods for work, personal life and exercise which goes a long way towards maintaining a well rounded and balanced lifestyle.