Exercise Instead Of Drugs: A Win-Win Option
The problems of pain, sleeplessness, stress and anxiety have caused too many people to turn to drugs for relief. But the choice they make in addressing such problems often lead them to more serious situations. In many cases, their use of drugs are more of a habit rather than due to the necessity of treating a particular condition, as when the same are prescribed by a doctor.
Instead of habitually turning to drugs, a person has the healthy option of engaging in regular physical activity. Depending on certain factors, such as the age and vigor of the person, his preferences, the time of day he's available for exercise, the weather, and the opportunity for combining exercise with recreational interests, a person has at his disposal the means to develop his well-being sans the often terrifying effects of some drugs.
Walking is perhaps the best form of exercise. It is adequate in that it brings into play most of the muscles of the body. It is available to all, requires no special equipment, and can be suited to individual tolerance.
Running is also a good form of exercise. As proven in many studies, regular running is good for the heart: it reduces body fat and lowers levels of cholesterol and blood pressure. It can also relax the mind and improve sleep.
Bicycling and swimming are excellent forms of exercise. Besides providing beneficial recreation, they too require use of most of the muscles of the body.
For those with the required means and resources, tennis and golf are perfect forms of exercise, too. The former, of course, is more suitable for youth than for older people as it involves strenuous activity. Golf, on the other hand, offers little physical activity beyond the walking it provides; but there are elements of skill, competition and companionship which add enjoyment and interest.
Those with access to a gymnasium will find the activities in one excellent, especially when weather and climate do not permit engaging in outdoor activity.
Gardening is a beneficial form of exercise. The duration and intensity of the exertion can be varied to meet individual needs. It is a pleasant diversion from one's regular course of activities; it relieves nervous tension as it provides physical activity.
Setting-up exercises, taken at home, also serve well to keep a person healthy. These require no special equipment and can be varied to suit the individual's tolerance. The different forms of exercise for muscle development, such as sit-ups and push-ups, can be performed systematically.
By engaging in such simple exercises and making these a little more strenuous each week, a person can build up his physical fitness to a satisfactory level.