As a parent, it can be difficult to encourage exercise and physical activity when your child is tied to the latest video game or app. But it’s important to recognize that physical activity is essential for both physical and mental health in children. From reducing the risk of chronic disease in adulthood to improving brain development, carving out time for movement is worth every second. Let’s take a look at why life is motion and why moving every day matters so much.

The Physical Benefits of Movement
When it comes to the physical benefits of movement, there are many. Exercise helps keep your heart strong by increasing blood flow throughout the body, which also keeps other organs healthy. And as we all know, regular movement helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity. Additionally, studies have shown that exercise can help prevent cardiovascular disease as well as reduce depression symptoms.

The Mental Benefits of Movement
Not only does movement contribute positively to our physical health, but our mental health too! When children engage in physical activity, their brains produce endorphins—the feel-good hormones—which help improve moods and reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, being sedentary during childhood has been linked with slower brain development; this means that if your child isn’t getting enough exercise, they won’t develop “movement skills” such as agility or hand/eye coordination as quickly as those who do move on a regular basis.

Creating Time for Movement
Encouraging your child to engage in physical activity can be tricky depending on their age and interests; however, there are plenty of ways you can make moving fun! Depending on your family’s lifestyle and budget, you could look into sports teams or kids yoga classes (or virtual versions) so they have something new to look forward to each week. You could also start a family walking routine where you all go exploring together after dinner each night! Or if you have access to a backyard or park nearby, playing games like tag or hide-and-seek are always great options too! Whatever activities you choose should be tailored specifically toward what your child likes doing best so they don’t get bored easily and will continue wanting to move their body each day!

Life is motion—it’s true now more than ever before! Moving every day is essential for both physical health and mental wellness in children; from reducing the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood to improving brain development capacity through the acquisition of “movement skills,” encouraging daily activity is key for longterm health benefits down the line. With some creative thinking about how you can incorporate movement into your family’s lifestyle—and by choosing activities that match up with your child’s interests—you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy!

For questions please contact Holten Wellness Center at 937.435.8480