FIVE ACTIVITIES WITH UNEXPECTED HEALTH BENEFITS

We all know that exercise, eating well and taking your vitamins can improve your health. But did you know that these more unusual activities do? Here are 5 ways to improve your health besides good old-fashioned diet and exercise.

Knitting and crocheting
Get out the wool and knitting needles! The repetitive nature of this activity with your hands sends signals to your body which immediately relax you and make you feel grounded. It is the same as with any other repetitive activity with your hands or body, such as colouring.

Going outdoors
Feeling stressed? Clear your mind with a stroll outside. Research indicates that Vitamin D from sunlight elevates your levels of serotonin, which makes you feel good. In addition to this, taking in your surroundings takes your focus away from your worries. Research has also shown that spending time in nature has been associated with decreased levels of mental illness such as depression and anxiety, increasing concentration and even faster healing. So go outside and spend some time in nature!

Playing with pets
Yes, that’s right. Your furry friend is keeping you healthier. Caring for a pet has been shown to decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduce feelings of loneliness and more! So go and spend some time with your little fur ball, and if you don’t have one, make friends with the cute cat down your street.

Meditation
Anyone can do it! You don’t have to dedicate your life to being a yogi. You can simply put aside a few minute of your day to close your eyes, relax and focus on breathing. Meditation has been linked with numerous health benefits such as improved digestion, reducing stress, and even reducing physical pain.

Dancing
Whether you’re going to a party or you’re at home blasting music, singing terribly and getting your boogie on, hitting the dance floor is a great way to improve your health. Studies have shown that it can help you lose weight, reduce stress, increase memory, improve heart health and more!  Who knew!

So when you go home from work tonight, will you be getting out the knitting needles, adventuring outdoors, hanging out with your furry friend, meditating or getting your boogie on?

References:

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20765943,00.html#best-get-out-of-your-head-0

http://news.health.com/2016/03/22/8-activities-with-serious-health-perks-that-arent-exercise/?xid=socialflow_facebook_health

http://source.southuniversity.edu/spending-time-in-nature-for-your-health-how-outdoor-activities-improve-wellbeing-102984.aspx

http://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/health-benefits-of-dance.aspx#06

Written by Monique Sparks