5 enjoyable things that boost your health
Fed up of fitness classes? Sick of salads? Healthy living doesn’t have to be hard work! While we don’t advise you cut out exercise and healthy eating entirely, for those moments when you just don’t feel like being healthy, try these fun alternatives instead.
Fun diet and fitness alternative 1: Laughter
If you’re having a day off from exercise, the good news is you could still get the same health benefits as you would from a workout simply through having a laugh. Research studies led by Dr Lee Berk of Loma University have found that repetitious sessions of “mirthful laughter” have similar effects on the body as moderate exercise; improving your mood, lowering blood pressure, reducing bad cholesterol and enhancing the immune system.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have also found that regular laughter may be as good for your heart as exercise. Their research suggests that 15 minutes of laughter a day helps blood vessels to function better and has similar health benefits to a workout. Consequently, while exercise is essential for good health, swapping the odd gym session for a comedy club or funny movie may not be as bad a swap as you think. Continue reading 5 fun diet and fitness alternatives