Wednesday, April 1, 2009

The importance of exercise

Exercise is really important, but especially hard in the postpartum period. When you're exhausted from being sleep deprived, it's really hard to head out to the gym or out for a run. A nice walk outside, though, is beneficial.

Exercise provides many benefits. It is a distraction, generally improves your health, helps release stress, and produces endorphins. If you are outside the sunshine and fresh air have added benefits.

Force yourself to get moving. Put baby in a front pack, sling, or in a stroller and head out for a walk. Even a short one will help.

After the birth of my first son, I started Karate. The sensei put us through an awesome workout. It seemed like torture at the time, but after I got home I felt so invigorated. Unfortunately I didn't keep up the the class, and don't often have that good of a workout. I constantly need to remind myself to get out and get moving. Or use my exercise equipment in the basement so it doesn't collect dust.

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