Mind Body Connection
You have probably heard countless times that taking care of your health should be your top priority. When thinking about the advantages of eating healthy and exercising regularly, however, you might put too much emphasis on the physical benefits such as better physique, improved cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. While there’s nothing wrong with this, it pays to remember that thereís another immediate benefit of maintaining your health: increased productivity.
The Link Between Mental Firepower And Physical Regimen
Over the past decade, scientists have gathered plenty of compelling evidence that show the link between the mental firepower and physical regimen of a person. This can have significant implications at work which, ironically, is often used as an excuse to skip working out. Regular exercise provides several cognitive benefits including the following:
- Faster learning
- Sharper memory
- Enhanced concentration
- Improved creativity
- Sustained mental stamina
- Lower stress
In one study by Leeds Metropolitan University, more than 200 employees from different companies were asked to self-report their work performance every day. The researchers then examined the efficiency of all the participants, comparing their productivity on days when they engaged in exercise to days when they did not.
During their workout days, the employees reported being able to manage their time better and having a smoother interaction with co-workers. They also said that they felt more satisfied after finishing the dayís work, going home happier than normal.
Committing To A Healthier Lifestyle
The most common excuse why people do not exercise and prepare healthy meals is lack of time. While this can be a totally valid reason, it also indicates that people do not consider health and fitness a priority. Itís important to stop treating exercise and healthy eating as a luxury. Instead of thinking that exercise takes time away from work, consider the benefits it brings in terms of boosting your productivity, thus making your work hours more fruitful than ever.
There are plenty of physical activities to choose from. It is recommended to identify one that you genuinely like. This way, exercising wouldnít feel like a chore. Play sports, enroll in dance classes, or go trekking. Health and fitness experts also suggest investing on equipment to boost your performance. This also increases your level of commitment. Finally, try working with a group. Team sports are perfect for this. It makes you commit as your absence would mean the other members of the group would suffer.
Increase The Value Of Your Work Hours
Regardless of the kind of physical activity you choose and the nutrition plan you go for, keep in mind that you are not sacrificing work. In fact, you are taking the necessary steps to increase the value of the work hours you put in your job every day.
