Put down the Doritos and back away from the plasma screen. The Super Bowl may have been your break from job searching, but now it’s time to get up and get moving. Being active can help you lower stress. Athletes understand the benefits to mind and body from regular work outs. We saw last weekend –when you’re the underdog, (way to go, Saints!) you can’t let a little stress bother you if you expect to accomplish your goals. Working out and eating right are essential to maintaining a positive outlook. And it’s going to take a lot of positive thinking to sustain your mood while you search.
Job searching can be a time of new possibilities and opportunity. Or, it can be downright depressing! Studies suggest that lower serotonin levels in the brain (the neurotransmitters that promote well being) are associated with depression, loss of sleep, stimulating food cravings and a number of other not-so-good changes in body functioning. With exercise, your body releases “feel good” chemicals that can boost your energy.
Did you know?
- It takes about 25 minutes of brisk walking (3 MPH for a person weighing 150 lbs.) to burn 100 calories.
- It takes about 2000 steps to equal one mile (for the average person with a 2.5 yard stride).
Want to find out how much you’re burning with your favorite activity? Check out this calorie converter.
You don’t have to run or join a gym to get healthy. Start small. Walking works. So does stair climbing. If it’s cold where you live, go to the mall. Too much snow? Go cross country skiing. Walk with a buddy or a group to help ward off boredom or loneliness and to keep your goals on track.
Other health-related sites:
The American Heart Association
