Sweat It Out

It’s often the case that we try to eliminate stress in the pursuit of a simple life. We practice mindfulness and make lifestyle changes to make life more relaxing. 

But while you want to reduce your emotional stress, physical stress can actually be a good thing.

When we stress ourselves physically, through activities like going for a run, a hot yoga session, lifting weights, or just doing house work, we are actually making our body stronger.  

Physical stress activates important functions in our body. It improves our immune system, regulates our hormones, and encourages growth of muscles.

It’s important to work up a good sweat. 

But our modern life does make it harder to stay physically active. There is a two pronged attack:

1. Our leisure time is being increasingly taken over by consumption. We spend more time sitting on our electronic devices and watching entertainment, leaving less time for physical pursuits.
2. The world has advanced to where increasing convenience is everywhere. Many people are becoming accustomed to hiring out physical labor services, or purchasing products/tools that reduce the need for physical activity. 

And I will be one of the first people to tell you that increasing our quality of life through technology and an advanced economy is a good thing! But it’s also important that we don’t neglect our natural need for activity. 

A simple life requires that both our emotional and physical health be considered. The body and mind must work together.

So instead of trying to avoid physical stress, actively look for ways that you can use your body. Take up physical challenges, do the work, and sweat it out. 

—

This post is Day 7 of 21 Days of Simple.