While the title of this article may sound cliché, it holds a very true meaning. Medicine has advanced significantly in recent decades, allowing us to treat most diseases. However, few people take the time to understand why certain health issues develop in the human body or what changes they can implement to improve their body’s functioning and prevent health problems.
Many simple and affordable habits can transform one’s health and well-being. These include getting quality sleep, maintaining a balanced diet and, most importantly, exercising regularly. The main problem is that most people find it difficult or are unwilling to invest in self-care.
According to recent research by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.8 billion adults worldwide were sedentary or failed to meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022. This accounts for 31% of the global population and these statistics are concerning as they highlight the percentage of individuals at a higher risk of developing inactivity-related illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes, dementia, cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.
Although physical activity is recommended for all age groups, the WHO report indicates that the elderly are the most sedentary. Initial difficulties in completing exercise routines may be discouraging, but this mindset should be changed. This is because the essence of exercise is progression, so the more time someone dedicates to an activity, the more they will improve over time, along with reaping greater health benefits.
The positive effects of exercise can manifest in many ways, including enhanced mobility. Everyday tasks like carrying bags, walking, climbing stairs or even sitting down can often be taken for granted. But ageing combined with a sedentary lifestyle can make them very challenging due to decreased flexibility and muscle strength. The good news is that it’s possible to reverse this situation with a daily dose of exercise.
In addition to aerobic workouts, research emphasises the importance of exercising muscles through weightlifting. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, which followed 150,000 individuals aged 60 to 70, concluded that those who engaged in at least 150 minutes of weekly physical activity lived longer than those who didn’t, with a 47% lower risk of dying from any cause – except cancer.
It’s important to note that weightlifting is not limited to bodybuilding; it includes push-ups and sit-ups using body weight, Pilates and resistance training with elastic bands. To ensure safe physical activity, regular health check-ups are also essential.
Every Tuesday at Universal Church, we hold “Health Day,” a meeting where you can not only learn how to take better care of your body but also receive prayers and essential spiritual advice to learn how to use your faith as a complement to medical advice. Join us at your nearest branch.
Event: Health Day
Date and Time: Tuesdays at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: At your local Universal Church
Disclaimer: The UCKG HelpCentre’s spiritual advice is to be seen as a complement to the scientifically proven treatment you may be receiving. The UCKG HelpCentre does not claim to heal people but believes that God can through the power of faith. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
