Reality: work, kids, housework, sleep, repeat. This is the North American lifestyle for many. How do any of us have time to fit in exercise? We all know exercise make us feel good and after persistence and patience, make us look good too. But, did you know it can also relieve stress? In fact it can. But how can you fit exercise into your already so-full day? The answer: whole body vibration.
Whole body vibration was used in the 1960’s to combat muscle atrophy in Russian cosmonauts and astronauts. Since then, this machine has been used widely in sports and rehabilitation. Simplistically, whole body vibration is a machine only a slightly bit larger than a human weight scale. No more than 3 feet by 3 feet, this machine moves from side to side, up and down. Standing on this machine, the human body combats this movement, incorporating all muscles to keep stable whilst this machine is moving. This machine, on average, can create 30 involuntary muscle contractions per second. These muscle contractions are “fast twitch” motions, meaning the muscles act at lightning speed, exerting more force, in order to keep the body stable. That being said, this machine has been said to have the same amount of positive impact on the body in 10 minutes as a normal workout would have in 1-hour.
This machine has been used in chiropractic offices, rehab centres and in sports locker rooms. This machine is safe for anyone to use. Its ability to fit into a corner of a room in a house even makes it attractive to the normal consumer to bring it home. The idea that you are just standing on a vibrating platform means that even those with limited movement can get in a work out that they otherwise could not do with conventional work out routines. There are no excuses with this machine.
Since the human body gets a work out in just 10 minutes on this machine, it comes close to being the most time-effective work out. This machine is perfect to use first thing in the morning to get your blood pumping. This machine is perfect to use on your 30-minute lunch break. This machine is perfect to use at 5:30 in the evening just before dinner. It is so easy to fit in 10 minutes on this machine; all you have to do is make a point of it.
So, how does this machine relieve stress? Simple. As with all forms of exercise, there are many benefits.
· Increases the production of endorphins
Physical activity of any kind, whether it is standing on the whole body vibration machine, raking the leaves for 20 minutes or running a marathon, the brain produces feed-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. Also known as “the runner’s high”, this feel-good exertion is good enough to relieve any stress.
· Moving meditation
All too often we focus too much on the negative. While taking a nature hike, a walk around the block, or a game of tennis, the mind shifts to the “now” and you start to focus on your body’s movement along with the positivity, energy and optimism of being active. Let your stress just melt away.
· Mood lifting
When you incorporate exercise as a regular activity, it increases your self confidence, self esteem and self worth just to name a few. Those feel-good endorphins have a tendency to stick around. Regular exercise also improves sleep patterns and decreases insomnia.
· Walk before you run
If you are just starting a workout routine or are getting back into it, do not set high goals right off the bat. Setting achievable goals will lower the amount of stress you have for your workout.
· Love what you do
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to what they like to do for exercise. Some love running and some hate running. Some love tennis while others hate tennis. Find out what you love to do. When you love something, it does not become a chore to do and you will not stress out over thinking about it.
· Make a date
Life is hectic and crazy, hence why we are a stressed nation. If you make working out/exercising a priority, trying to fit it in will not become stressful. Remember, there is no wrong in taking time for you.
· Make it a lifestyle
We all have been to the point of discontent and disheartenment. Remember, setting achievable goals will make your workout more enjoyable. When you notice a plateau, change it up a bit; increase the time spent doing one activity by 5 reps or by 5 minutes, increase the weight by 1 pound. This will keep your body guessing and you will continue to see results.
By incorporating exercise into your routine, just like you would brushing your teeth and showering, it becomes a part of who you are. It becomes a priority and it shows the world, and yourself, that you love you.