Time, the constant health barrier

We live in a society where life runs at 100 miles an hour. The digital era has brought with it many great things, but has it robbed us of the most precious commodity of all? Time. 

“I don't have time” could be one of the most overused phrases in today’s modern world. You will most often hear this used in relation to exercise where, lets face it, there is an excuse for everything! 

• By the time I’ve finished work I’m too tired
• I need to get back to the family
• My workload is overwhelming
• I don’t have time before work in the morning

Trust me, I’ve heard every one in the book

But my answer is simple; Do you not brush your teeth because you don’t have time?

This is not to say that the above excuses are not justified in any way, as I would sound like a hypocrite. I too, like others, have a LIFE that gets in the way! However, I do understand the enormous benefits I get out of exercise and what it does for my own personal wellbeing and sanity. I also know what happens to me and those around me when I don’t. In a nutshell, I’m not the best version of me!

People in general are feeling less empowered when experiencing that they are time poor. This is resulting in unnecessary stress, which in some cases will have disastrous affects on their health and a knock-on effect on those around them and the community.

It all comes down to choice at the end of the day. I think it is well known and documented what the benefits of exercise are on the body and the mind. People don’t choose not to exercise because they don’t think it’s good for them. They don’t exercise because they CHOOSE to do something else.

Its not about people not having time to exercise, its about what they choose to spend their time on….

So what is the answer to the dilemma of not having time?

You need to invest in time to get more time, and I don't mean money! Commercially we are all geared to making more money, investing in things that will bring us great dividends so we can buy more of things we like. However, my appeal to you is that you need to apply this idea/philosophy to your health too. Invest in your wellbeing!

Your body is the bank…

Your body is the bank, your savings is your health. We continue to borrow from our health on a day-to-day basis to accommodate our lifestyle and in some cases you have gains, but the majority of the time it's a breakeven or loss. When the funds run low, we get credit on our health (mortgage), and when this runs low, we borrow on top of that mortgage (medication and other treatments). This continues to serve its course until we are bankrupt (chronic disease such as diabetes, cholesterol, cardiovascular disease etc). In some lucky cases we get a lifeline, but drastic changes are required which result in our life's changing as we once knew it. Many of the things we took for granted may need to be sacrificed to repay our health debt.

Make a plan

As they say, “if you fail to plan, then start planning to fail”. Let’s plan to make time. Invest some time to gain more time. Plan your meals in advance to be able to make healthier choices. Plan your days and evenings to make time for a type of exercise you enjoy. 

You are what you eat

Make sure to keep a well-rounded diet. Balance, variety and moderation are three key words to adhere to. Choose foods that are high in fibre, low in fat and include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Pack some snacks for work – an apple or perhaps a handful of almonds helps to avoid that pick-me-up afternoon chocolate bar. If you think you might prefer some assistance with making choices, please get in touch.

Get active!

Whilst exercising the body releases endorphins and serotonin improving your mood and energy levels significantly throughout the day. According to the WHO, exercising 4 times a week for 45 minutes reduces the risk of heart disease by as much as 20%. Exercise also helps to combat free radials that tackle issues such as cancer. So what are you waiting for?

Whilst time is of essence and you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer thought of fitting exercise into your already full schedule, there are ways of doing this. Plan ahead and don’t over-do it! Keep it fun, easily accessible and treat it as part of your job. Mark it in your calendar and if possible, join a group to make a cancellation harder.

Get support

Ask your Human Resources team to explore the introduction of a wellness program in your organisation, or convince some of your colleagues to join you in creating a culture in the organisation that supports movement and wellbeing. Ask for support if you think you need it.

It is much easier to find time to exercise directly before or after work, rather than going home and getting caught up in life.

The true dividends that you will get from life are the ones that reward you for free. Start putting some time aside to build on life changing habits, look after your health and keeping moving.

Remember, it’s all about a lifestyle!

Keep moving...

If your looking for some ideas or support on keeping active please visit our website https://ignite.ae/

Disclaimer: Please note the article does not create a doctor/patient relationship. The information provided is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All the text is informational and for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site. Any advice or information provided on the site is provided on an “as-is” basis. No warranties either expressed or implied, are made on the information provided.