Parents’ schedules can be busy, which can make it hard to focus on your own health. While taking care of your own health can often fall to the bottom of your to-do list, it is important for parents to stay active because of the many good things it does for your mind and body. 

Fitting any amount of activity into your daily routine can help your body:

• release “happy” hormones in your body, like endorphins and serotonin

• release hormones that help you get better sleep

• ease muscle tension which can also ease body pains that come from stress

• Help make adrenaline which can boost your mood 

• Moving your body helps pump blood to the brain which can help you think more clearly

The best part about staying active is that you can do it from your own home without any equipment. Try these ideas:

• Stretching 

• At-home yoga 

• Play an active game indoors or outdoors

• Cleaning up your home

• Gardening or yard work

• Go for a walk around your neighborhood

Whether you move throughout your day or all at once, the benefits of adding movement into your routine can make your life better.