Get Happy!... And Smarter!

There was a greater article from the Time Magazine website about the benefits of walking. Nothing new, or surprising, but still completely worth telling people about. Yes, walking will healthier, including: happier, and smarter. The article isn't very long and work the read. Check it out in the link below.

The Single Most Proven Way to Get Smarter and Happier

Coincidently, I was listening to something recently that said walking for 30 minutes, 5 times a week (or 60 minutes for 3 times a week), was 3 times more effective than Zoloft. MedlinePlus has a list of Zoloft (Sertraline) side effects that include hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist), and changes in sex drive or ability. I think I'd definitely choose walking.

I found supporting information on Exercise and Depression, at Harvard Health Publications, Harvard Medical School.

Research shows sedentary behavior is a risk for disability

A little over a month ago, the LA Times posted an article titled, Research shows sedentary behavior is a risk for disability. The article was written by Mary MacVean, and based on the a study published by the Journal of Physical Activity & Health. I believe this article is a true public service announcement, and should be read by everyone. It does a great job outlining the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. And, I might be extrapolating the premise out too far, but I think MacVean does a tremendous job of starting the conversation about sedentary culture, and how our children are being raised, as well as what kind of far reaching implications that might have for the future of healthcare. I think each of us need to be candid with ourselves, our families, and our friends about the implications of having a sedentary lifestyle. This information concerns our young, our old, and everyone in between. Please take a moment to read the full article by following the link above.

Here are a couple stark points from the article:

• A sedentary lifestyle is associated with a variety of poor health outcomes, including increased incidence for diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mortality.
• People who replace even half an hour of sedentary time with 30 minutes of light activity can improve their health, researchers said.
• Even a large daily dose of moderate-vigorous activity may not be sufficient to offset the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle.