Spring is here, and so is the UC Moves Bloom Challenge activity! You can sign up as an individual, or team up with your friends or colleagues at: https://ucmoves.bloomspringchallenge.com/.
You’ve heard that exercise is good for you. Specifically, exercise has been shown to be beneficial for:
- Chronic conditions: Exercise can prevent and manage health problems such as mood and metabolic disorders.
- Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine – natural chemicals that support mood and help ease anxiety.
- Increased energy: Physical activity boosts oxygen and nutrient delivery to your tissues, improving cardiovascular efficiency and helping you feel more energized throughout the day.
- Brain health: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, supporting memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
- Sleep: Exercise helps you fall asleep faster with better and deeper sleep.
- Healthy weight: Regular physical activity supports weight management. Consistency matters, and activities should match your fitness level. Aim for about 150 minutes of activity each week; this can be broken into manageable chunks, like 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, or shorter sessions spread throughout the week. Before starting high-intensity exercise, check with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you.
| But wait… there’s more! Walk with the Doc: Dr. Toscano, the Lab’s Site Occupational Medical Director on May 13 and May 21 around the Lab. No need to register, just show up at 12:30 PM outside Building 26 (Health Services) and get your steps in! |
Even after the Bloom Challenge ends, it’s important to continue an active lifestyle. Here are some tips to stay motivated:
Additional Resources:
Mayo Clinic (2023). Exercise: 7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
Stanford University (2024). 3 Ways to Get (and Stay) Motivated to Exercise
