What's Your Priority?

We live in the 21st century, the era of Artificial Intelligence, smart phones, instant messaging at work in dystopian-esque workspaces. Social media grabs your attention with ads, clips, and sound bites in your free time and just about every minute of your existence that isn’t dedicated to a prior commitment. I would go so far as to argue that the early 2000s are now a part of a distant time in technology, though probably not quite as much as the advent of the internet was for those coming out of the 20th century. Never has there been a time where people have as many excuses as possible to not make time to get cardiovascular exercise as there is today; ironically, never has there been a time when people have needed cardiovascular exercise more than as there is today.  So how do we do it?

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Summary

• Prioritizing Time
• Top 5 Reasons Cardiovascular Exercise is Essential for Your Health
• Finding the Time

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Prioritizing Time

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According to the Self-Attention Network Theory of prioritization developed in 2016, people prioritize themselves relative to others and their needs. Humans prioritize what seems most important and what provides the most instant gratification or reward. Depending on your job you’ve heard of going for the low hanging fruit or for the low lift-high reward objectives first and foremost. Exercise for many to see the rewards and outcomes becomes a high lift-high reward proposition. Today we’re seeing more than ever a shift towards favoring exercise in a positive light with people living older and wanting to be independent longer which does help, but how do we combat the prioritization of the high stress job that pays money and allows us to do fun things against exercise. This becomes more difficult once we place growing families into the equation. How do we make the prioritization then? See the value; it is more than abs and eating what you want; it’s about the quality of your life if not for those around you then for yourself, the top priority.

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Top 5 Reasons Cardiovascular Exercise is Essential for Your Health

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1. Enhanced Brain Health and Dementia Prevention

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Cardiovascular exercise isn't just about heart health; it significantly benefits the brain too. Regular aerobic activity increases blood flow to the brain, supplying essential nutrients and oxygen. This increased circulation can lead to the growth of new blood vessels and even new brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus – the area associated with memory. These changes are instrumental in combating the onset and progression of dementia, making cardiovascular exercise a vital tool in maintaining cognitive function as we age.

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2. Improved Metabolic Markers

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Engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise can lead to significant improvements in various metabolic markers. These include better regulation of blood sugar levels, improved cholesterol profiles, and enhanced insulin sensitivity. By improving these key markers, aerobic exercise helps in reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and other related health conditions. This doesn't just mean a healthier body; it translates to a better quality of life.

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3. Decrease in Depression Symptoms

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The mental health benefits of cardiovascular exercise are as significant as the physical ones. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as 'feel-good' hormones, which can lead to an improved mood and a sense of well-being. Studies have consistently shown that regular aerobic exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on depression, making it an effective complementary treatment for mental health issues.

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4. Enhanced Bone Health

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While often overlooked, cardiovascular exercise can play a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones. Weight-bearing activities, such as running or brisk walking, can help in building and maintaining bone density. This is particularly important as we age, helping to prevent the onset of osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures. Stronger bones mean not only a stronger body but also greater independence in later life.

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5. Holistic Improvement in Sleep and Energy Levels

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A frequently unnoticed benefit of regular cardiovascular exercise is its positive impact on sleep quality and energy levels. People who engage in aerobic activities often report better sleep patterns, including faster sleep onset and deeper sleep. Moreover, rather than depleting energy, regular exercise can actually increase energy levels over time, combating feelings of fatigue and enabling you to be more active and alert during your day-to-day life.

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Finding the Time

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The key lies in recognizing exercise not as an expendable luxury, but as a fundamental component of our well-being, as vital as eating or sleeping. Start small; carve out pockets of time for a brisk walk or a quick jog. Remember, it's not about finding time, it's about making time. Each step taken is an investment in your health, a commitment to yourself.  We have covered goal setting before in a prior article. As we navigate this fast-paced, technology-driven world, let's prioritize our health, not for fleeting gratification, but for long-lasting, holistic well-being. The time for action is now, and the only moment we truly own is the present. Let's use it wisely, let's move towards a healthier, happier you.

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