8 shocking signs that indicate that you really need to move more

We have a question for you — how often do you get up from your workstation? If you’re wondering what to say, then let’s tell you that you need to move more. That’s because if you don’t, you might face several physical and mental health issues, which are only going to make your situation worse. 

Here’s another thing we want to know from you. Have you seen a sudden change in your health, especially post-lockdown? If the answer to this is a big YES, then missy it’s your body’s way of poking you to make sure you start moving a little more. 

Why is movement important?

Moving our bodies every day is vital not just for our physical strength but also our mental health, and to achieve healthy skin. From the joints to the brain, moving every day improves every part of our bodies. It enhances blood circulation, encourages the flow of lymph fluids, boosts energy, improves your mood and regulates elimination and digestion. 

“During the pandemic, most of us have been working from home. We don’t realise the number of hours we spend in front of our screens. That’s why moving our bodies is especially important to reduce stress levels and maintain our health,” explains Dr Srikanth H.S, Senior Naturopath, Jindal Naturecure Institute, Bengaluru. 

Eight signs that show you aren’t moving enough

1. High blood pressure

An inactive lifestyle can lead to high blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause heart attacks, heart failure, aortic aneurysms, kidney disease and stroke. 

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2. Poor sleep

Inadequate exercise or movement of the body can often lead to insufficient sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause obesity, depression, impairment in immunity and lower sex drive. 

3. Back pain

Lack of movement or exercise is often the culprit behind back pain. If left unattended, extended periods of back pain can lead to spinal degeneration and injury.

4. Always feeling hungry

For those who feel hungry all the time, it is essential you engage in physical activities every day. Otherwise, the body produces too much ghrelin that makes one feel hungry all the time. If not controlled, it can lead to severe complications in the future.

5. Stiff joints

Stiffening of the joints, especially the knees and neck, happens due to lack of body movement. Stiff joints can cause gout, osteoarthritis and septic arthritis.

6. Heart disease

Regular physical activity helps reduce several cardiovascular risk factors, including obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus.

7. Lack of focus

Not engaging in exercise or daily movement can cause a lack of focus. Alertness and attention reduces eventually, and that’s not a good sign.

8. Obesity

Obesity is one of the leading causes of an inactive lifestyle. The consequences of obesity can be high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and gallbladder disease. 

“Moving every 30 minutes can help to keep some of the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle at bay. All you need to do is set your phone alarm and get up every 30 minutes to move around. The people who are sedentary all day are at a high risk of getting lifestyle diseases,” recommends Dr Srikanth.

So, whenever you get a phone call, get up from your seat and take a walk. Yes, that counts as movement too!