(public domain image from www.pixabay.com)
Ayurvedic practitioner Wayne Celeban concisely but completely summarizes the power health benefits of daily exercise -
Not only does exercise help release beneficial feel-good hormones such as Endorphins, it also aids in regulating healthy levels of Norepinephrine, Serotonin and Dopamine. These chemical compounds are produced in the body and essential for healthy mood. Regular exercise has also been shown to be effective in reducing the harmful pro-inflammatory effects of stress hormones like Cortisol. Exercise also improves blood flow to the digestive organs that helps facilitate the healthy circulation of nutrients, oxygen and proper elimination of waste products. Recent studies also suggest that regular exercise may also play a role in increasing a variety of beneficial gut bacteria essential for the proper maintenance of the digestive, immune and nervous system. 20-30 minutes exercise a day is adequate. Try to incorporate a variety of weight-bearing, cardiovascular and stretching activities. Most importantly find an activity that you enjoy that is both fun and challenging.
(source: Australian Yoga Life Magazine)