Movement: Beyond Just Burning Calories

Movement improves physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life

Too often, we view movement as something we have to do to burn off what we’ve eaten — a sort of punishment or “offset” for calories. But moving your body should be about so much more than that. Movement is a celebration of life and a way to feel better, stronger, and more connected. From dancing in your kitchen to gardening, paddleboarding, playing with your kids, or taking a mindful nature walk, there are countless ways to move beyond a treadmill or a gym. Surprisingly, research even shows that walking can burn more calories per mile than running, thanks to the extra time on your feet and the energy needed to sustain motion.

When we move in ways we enjoy, we’re far more likely to stick with it, and reap powerful benefits for physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.

Physical Health

Regular movement improves cardiovascular health, supports bone density, and helps regulate blood sugar. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, engaging in moderate-intensity activity for at least 150 minutes per week reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. Weight-bearing and resistance activities also strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis.

Mental Health

Movement is a powerful mood booster. Studies show that physical activity stimulates endorphin release, helping to combat symptoms of anxiety and depression. Gentle movement practices like yoga, tai chi, and mindful walking can also activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress levels and supporting a sense of calm.

Cognitive Function

Moving your body supports your brain, too. Research shows that physical activity improves memory, executive function, and may even slow age-related cognitive decline. Movement increases blood flow to the brain, supports neuroplasticity, and promotes the growth of new brain cells.

Quality of Life

Perhaps most importantly, regular movement can simply help you feel more vibrant and capable in your day-to-day life. Activities that build strength, balance, and mobility protect against falls and injuries as we age, supporting independence and confidence.

When we move in ways we enjoy, we’re far more likely to stick with it, and reap powerful benefits for physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. At Elume, we’re here to help you rediscover joyful, mindful, and meaningful movement — wherever it takes you.

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References

Hall, C., Figueroa, A., Fernhall, B., & Kanaley, J. A. (2004). Energy expenditure of walking and running: comparison with prediction equations. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 36(12), 2128–2134. Piercy, K. L., et al. (2018). The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. JAMA, 320(19), 2020–2028. Kohrt, W. M., et al. (2004). American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Physical activity and bone health. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 36(11), 1985–1996. Sharma, A., et al. (2006). Exercise for mental health. Primary Care Companion Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 8(2), 106. Pascoe, M. C., et al. (2017). Mindfulness meditation and the stress response: a meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 95, 156–164. Erickson, K. I., et al. (2011). Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. PNAS, 108(7), 3017–3022. Nelson, M. E., et al. (2007). Physical activity and public health in older adults: recommendation from the ACSM and the AHA. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 39(8), 1435–1445.