I favor the interpretation that people who have greater metabolic levels and hence more like to feel compelled to get up and move are more likely to exhibit joie de vivre*.
I have recently taken steps to increase my health and it working. I can no longer sit still for hours and am much happier.
* Joy in living, but the translation is weak,
some things are easier expressed in French than English.
1
I would rather die sooner than exercise.
I suspect a lot of people feel the same.
2
As a long time daily dog walker, nothing beats having a dog as your motivation and trainer as they are relentless in making you get outside and moving.
8
It did make me happier as I was pretty miserable sitting all day. But warning: once you get up and move while working - there is NO going back. Like an good thing, it is better for you. I feel better, I feel happier. again the confines of sitting in a chair for to long wasn't doing my body or health any favors.
3
I believe it. After sitting at a desk job for years I felt down and out. Hitting the gym helped but getting a Treadmill desk www.Unsit.com helped even more. I'm walking over 15,000 steps per day, over 5 miles, no sweat, literally. I've stopped drinking coffee or pick-me-up drinks in the afternoon. My energy and mood is up and even all day.
3
There are thousands of dogs waiting for a home after these recent hurricanes, and if you want to get some unconditional loving and a reason to get up and move, a dog will be your motivation!! They're grateful, and so is your mind and body. Enjoy life - we only get one chance!
9
Unless I missed it, what I didn't see considered in the study was...of those who were sitting or laying still at the time, what exactly were they doing?....Eating?...staring at their smartphone?...computer?....TV?...or (gasp) actually reading a book or physical newspaper?
In other words, I wonder to what degree sitting still does not contribute as much to mood, and to what degree is it that particular thing you may be doing/thinking/observing, while sitting still? I'd posit that people's moods are better when they are sitting still observing nature, or simply contemplating life, or reading a book, versus those who are sitting still staring at a mindless reality TV show, or staring at a computer.
Sidenote: I consider it very very bad that many people have TVs in their bedrooms, for it seems to lend itself to the people becoming 'bed potatoes', complete with very bad posture (slouching), aches/pains, stiffness and perhaps even muscle atrophy if they spend enough time watching TV in bed.
In other words, I wonder to what degree sitting still does not contribute as much to mood, and to what degree is it that particular thing you may be doing/thinking/observing, while sitting still? I'd posit that people's moods are better when they are sitting still observing nature, or simply contemplating life, or reading a book, versus those who are sitting still staring at a mindless reality TV show, or staring at a computer.
Sidenote: I consider it very very bad that many people have TVs in their bedrooms, for it seems to lend itself to the people becoming 'bed potatoes', complete with very bad posture (slouching), aches/pains, stiffness and perhaps even muscle atrophy if they spend enough time watching TV in bed.
4
Yoga one 90 session a week
Pilates 2 one hour sessions a week
spinning at gym 2-3 one hour session a week
Walking the dog...three-4 times a day....around the hood.
Without the above it's 40 mgs of citalopram (celexa), 1 mg klonopin for sleep, and half of a quarter mg of seroquel. So....pretty obvious.
Pilates 2 one hour sessions a week
spinning at gym 2-3 one hour session a week
Walking the dog...three-4 times a day....around the hood.
Without the above it's 40 mgs of citalopram (celexa), 1 mg klonopin for sleep, and half of a quarter mg of seroquel. So....pretty obvious.
6
I'm a Psychologist. Exercise is the first variable I look at when someone presents with Anxiety or Depression. people who exercise always feel better and yes, while medication often helps, it should be combined with some type of aerobic movement.
12
Happiest when outdoors, can get into a S.A.D. slump during a three-day blow, icy rain, snow accumulations over 6" and gray days that seem to go on forever. However, dressed appropriately, even a 400 ft. trip to the compost pile lifts my spirits--and is good for the complexion!
5
A lot of people carry their phones when they run, pace walk or cycle. The use an app like Map My Ride to track their activity. I see more of this, not less.
I don't believe you can accurately measure someones mood with cell phone data. The negative moods are probably people who feel like they are being told they are not active enough. But I guess thats kind of in the title, it MAY make you happier
My job required me to be in tip-top shape, so I began working out over 40 years ago and it has become a way of life, so these studies do not surprise me at all.
We were made to move, to sweat, to work out muscles. And there is that pesky mind-body connection.
I know that if I am traveling and I don't at least maintain a baseline level of exercise or stretching out each day, my body gets depressed. Let's hear it for those endorphins!
We were made to move, to sweat, to work out muscles. And there is that pesky mind-body connection.
I know that if I am traveling and I don't at least maintain a baseline level of exercise or stretching out each day, my body gets depressed. Let's hear it for those endorphins!
8
That's a good way of putting it - bodies are meant to move and I think they can get depressed, as does the mind. If I don't exercise for a day or two I feel sluggish, bloated and worthless.
4
Indeed. I'd heard or read somewhere recently, about how different our lives are compared to just a few generations ago, and how much less time we spend out of doors.
Young children no longer play out on the streets. They are indoors with some type of electronic device.
And looking further back, a century or more ago, we walked or bicycled instead of driving everywhere. We farmed. We fetched water. We washed clothes by the water. We hung clothes out to dry in the fresh air. We hunted. We fished. We went for walks in the park instead of hunkering down in a coffeeshop surfing the internet. We went to the butcher, the baker, the farmer's market on a daily basis. Etc.
Young children no longer play out on the streets. They are indoors with some type of electronic device.
And looking further back, a century or more ago, we walked or bicycled instead of driving everywhere. We farmed. We fetched water. We washed clothes by the water. We hung clothes out to dry in the fresh air. We hunted. We fished. We went for walks in the park instead of hunkering down in a coffeeshop surfing the internet. We went to the butcher, the baker, the farmer's market on a daily basis. Etc.
2
I know this. I do this. But it is always good to have it reinforced. Thanks NYTimes...I'm off to putter about.
5
Move a muscle, change a mood.
4
I think it's true, people who move are generally happier than people who don't. But what about the people who spend precious hours commuting from affordable housing towns to the City, where they work long hours to scrap a living? The American culture of "working hard", which per se could be a moral thing, loses all its morality when nothing is done to protect who doesn't have a big income. I admire Scandinavian countries where people don't live to work but work to live. And to move
4
Dog! Happy dog in photo would make anyone want to walk.
4
Walk to a protest near you
7
It is important to note that this study excluded people with disabilities, especially those with movement limitations. It fwould be great if they extended these types of studies to people with disabilities. I know that apps have only just been developed for wheelchair users and are not available on all platforms. It is important to document how wheelchair users, and others, benefit from exercise, even if they are sitting the whole day!
5
Can I assume that "moving" did not include riding NJ Transit?
13
I think I saw a study somewhere that indicated urban public transportation users were in better shape than rural motorists. They guessed it was the walking to and from stops.
1
@shiboleth
And taking the stairs in the subways.
1
Well, duh. My grandmother could have told us all of this.
9
My grandmother could have told you 90% of what the NYT WELL section
publishes. But this kind of grandmother, born in 1883 and living on a PA farm, has disappeared from our culture. A colossal loss.
publishes. But this kind of grandmother, born in 1883 and living on a PA farm, has disappeared from our culture. A colossal loss.
4
You rest, you rust.
23
Mankind as a species moved (worked) constantly. This sitting down business is more a product of modern times.
4
I ride a gorgeous bike that the local grocer calls my limo. It has a hand made french patisserie style wooden slatted basket with a lid and leather trim on the front. I had beautiful honey colored "leopard" wood fenders made by a true artisan. I switched out my black tires for cream colored, added a Brooks saddle from England and a spherical back saddle bag both in cognac colored leather.
Every time I get on this bike I feel good. All my groceries fit in the basket.
Having this wonderful, decked out form of transport makes me want to ride as often as possible. I do not use my car on weekends. I bike to run errands.
The hills I have to climb force my heart to pump vigorously.
While riding I listen to Gershwin's Rhapsody In Blue. It is perfectly synced to get me up the toughest hill and ends precisely at the moment I reach the center of town. Fresh air, great music, and exercise. What could be better!
Every time I get on this bike I feel good. All my groceries fit in the basket.
Having this wonderful, decked out form of transport makes me want to ride as often as possible. I do not use my car on weekends. I bike to run errands.
The hills I have to climb force my heart to pump vigorously.
While riding I listen to Gershwin's Rhapsody In Blue. It is perfectly synced to get me up the toughest hill and ends precisely at the moment I reach the center of town. Fresh air, great music, and exercise. What could be better!
35
This comment made me smile. And goodness knows, we need all the smiles we can get these days. What a lovely and cheerful person.
5
Excellent. But be careful about listening to music, especially with headphones of any kind. The music is distracting and you could miss potential hazards. Your ears are a necessary safety sense when exercising. Please do not dismiss their efficacy.
4
What a genius way to motivate oneself to go for a bike ride each day. I have often thought of getting my own bicycle, which I'd then love to outfit by channeling my inner 'little girl' (with colorful 'straws' on the spokes of my wheels, dangling glittery strings from my handlebars, and a cute basket). But alas, between worrying about bike theft in NYC, plus the problem of storage space in my NYC apartment, well....I'm not sure my buying a bike is ever going to become a reality. ;-(
1
Always nice to be up and about accomplishing things - like gardening, cooking, doing chores or running errands (on foot).
6
I agree with what this article states considering I am one to go to the gym or take a walk in the woods just alleviate my mind from the outside world. I strongly believe if people chose to get out more, they could potentially become happier. In my experience, I know when the weather is bad and I'm stuck inside it changes my mood and I become gloomy. I believe that being active and happiness are related. Listening to music and being active is great pleasure. Whether that means working out at the gym with a friend, running a few miles early in the morning, or simply taking a walk with your dog, either way it can increase your mood significantly.
12
good god, we needed another study for this? what w waste of money and time. nyt-i thought you were better than this trivial drival, again.
3
This is relevant in this harrowing time. Do you think our miserable trump or his syncophant bannon gets any steps in? Just look at their scowls. Same with his supporters-- mostly fat, fleshy, immobile. And deeply unhappy by their own admission just because rules changed. Maybe if they walked s bit they would get some smiles going and we'd all be better off
18
Next study on health of bored critics?!
4
Don't exercise if you don't want to. Smoke. Eat whatever you want. Indulge. Sit forever.
But whatever you do, please don't criticize people who want to take care of themselves. They won't listen to you anyway, and resent having to pay your medical bills through higher taxes.
But whatever you do, please don't criticize people who want to take care of themselves. They won't listen to you anyway, and resent having to pay your medical bills through higher taxes.
9
Hear hear. I cringe when people act as if taking care of your health is some kind of affront to them.
God forbid that this app could be made available to people for free, now that the study is done, without any data be collected for research or sale, and some good might accrue to humanity. It's disheartening, but not at all surprising, that something that might marginally improve people's quality of life is withdrawn, even when there is no cost associated with providing it. "If I can't make a buck off it, you can't have it." The American ethos and look what it's brought us to as a country.
7
But you have no idea why how or what was supporting the app. And there are tons and tons out there for free that anyone can use. I find the Move app particular helpful. But there is also one built into the iphone.
4
American ethos? Did your read the article? The study was done in England.
Studies on improving health by doing what we are supposed to be doing instead of doing nothing is ironic. Are we so involved in stuff rather than our own lives, so we have to do studies on making us healthy because we don't know any better? Sad.
Many have forgotten we are in our bodies that need more to maintain us, we follow regimented maintenance schedules for our motor driven vehicles than for our heart driven vehicles. Then when we break, we run to the maintenance people, "help me, I'm broken", maybe because we forgot we have bodies that need more than we give them, such as moving the way were designed, by physical motion.
So, you can read more studies of groups that you probably belong to, humans, casually absorb the results of the studies, think about it, then look for other studies on what you already know.
Get motivated, stop studying, use that body, or it will eventually weaken and break.
Physical motion, exercise, move, lift before it's too late. The motivation is out there, I found something with the word "Mover" in the name, ironically it's also what I call myself, "Me".
Many have forgotten we are in our bodies that need more to maintain us, we follow regimented maintenance schedules for our motor driven vehicles than for our heart driven vehicles. Then when we break, we run to the maintenance people, "help me, I'm broken", maybe because we forgot we have bodies that need more than we give them, such as moving the way were designed, by physical motion.
So, you can read more studies of groups that you probably belong to, humans, casually absorb the results of the studies, think about it, then look for other studies on what you already know.
Get motivated, stop studying, use that body, or it will eventually weaken and break.
Physical motion, exercise, move, lift before it's too late. The motivation is out there, I found something with the word "Mover" in the name, ironically it's also what I call myself, "Me".
4
Drop and give me twenty, Little Mary Sunshine!
14
Ho hum. Another NY Times report of a single study, followed by the predictable reminders that one can't logically infer causation from an association.
14
Then ignore the implications. Others are learning.
6
This is not an in depth exploration. It took me all of a couple of minutes to read the article so I don't feel too invested; but I'm glad (cheerful, you might say) that I read it. Your attitude to a 15-month research project on human behavior and mental health is a bit of a buzzkill. Maybe you're due for a walk? :)
37
Sounds like you would like to defend not moving around. Sad.
5
When dealing with living systems, people should not be so concerned with establishing causation. People are not a chemical reaction. Living systems operate more on a feed- back system. You do a little moving and it makes you feel a bit better so you move a bit more and you feel a bit better, and so on and so on. Or the reverse. Living systems work with feedback moving the organism in a upward or downward spiral. This feedback system is so powerful it can alter the body and even the brain.
8
all true and more....recovery can exceed past fitness, body, mind and spirit.
1
I am 71, three years retired and a gym rat. I go to my gym six days a week. I was shocked to discover my enhanced definition and strength as a result of the weights. My stretching is a relaxation exercise in and of itself as is my tai chi. Finally to prevent boredom to the point of tears on the treadmill and stationary bike, I read books on my large android. I don't use ear pieces other than a hearing aid in one ear as only listening or listening while watching television I believe are obstacles to both my long term hearing and cognition. The gym has given me a structured focus for my retirement while enhancing my energy, sleep and mood. Retirement has been a second childhood for me as I pursue my true loves: God, family and learning.
53
"Finally to prevent boredom to the point of tears on the treadmill and stationary bike...'
Listening to music and exercising is a great pleasure.
Listening to music and exercising is a great pleasure.
9
Holy smoke, curiouser, if you live in sunny California, what the heck are you doing inside on a bike or running?
15
Yes, indeed! I hear this boredom refrain about the machines so many times that it's beginning to bore me, lol. I'd like to have one of these folks on a TM next to me just to see what they're doing that I'm not or vice-versa. I ran today on one and had the time of my life!
1
I think the Times should have an anti-exercise journalist as a counterpoint to all Gretchen Reynolds's pro-exercise articles. As she points out, there are lots of us.
10
They would, but the anti-exercise folks don't live long enough and are too grumpy...
32
Yes indeed. Readers would like to hear the alternative facts.
28
Yes, the anti-exercise guy is waiting in the wings with the pro-smoking guy.
8
Agree 100 percent -- I regularly bike in Burlington -- people always seem to be smiling and enjoying themselves, as I do. I also ice skate and play hockey -- same observation; the ice rinks are filled with smiling, happy people. Yes, exercise/workouts appear to have a positive impact on participants, especially me.
7
Absolutely! I'm a passionate Nordic walker, usually 3-4 times a week. When 'life' or the weather interferes and I haven't walked in several days, Mr. Grumpy returns; conversely, when I leave the house after a 'layoff', my legs seem to behave as a puppy would, seeing its master grab the leash -- just can't wait to get to the Bikeway
6
I have always found that having a dog and more importantly being loyal to the dog is one of the best ways to ensure a feeling of contentment. Not only do we benefit greatly but the dog becomes a loyal companion as well.
It doesn't take much effort to establish a routine where you spend a half hour or so a couple of times a day to ensure that our mental and physical health is accommodated for, instead of ending up on some crazy meds which cannot possibly replace the benefits of spending time with your best friend.
It doesn't take much effort to establish a routine where you spend a half hour or so a couple of times a day to ensure that our mental and physical health is accommodated for, instead of ending up on some crazy meds which cannot possibly replace the benefits of spending time with your best friend.
49
AMEN! I have long believed you don't need a gym...all you need is a good dog!
3
My young niece almost 30 years and her husband couple years older, have desk jobs on computers, long long hours in the Silicon Valley sphere of existence. They gifted each other fitbits for Christmas and challenge each other daily to get up and who gets to finish 10,000 steps first. The days they fall short, at the end of their long day, they have a "dance party", turn on dance music loud and dance themselves to exhausted contentment.
48
A body in movement equals a healthier person.
Helps better sleep, reduces external stress and anxiety factors.
Proper water intake, healthy foods, stretching, proper rest.
Seniors can look if Silver Sneakers Program is available at their area gym.
Talking long walks.
Quit smoking. Cut back on alcohol.
There has been many times when I've drag myself into the gym, and when I'm done I feel amazing, energized, happier and I know I had a kicking workout.
I'm turning 50 in a few days and I promised myself 15 months earlier that I will return to my 30 something body; back to a 32 waist, feeling fully energized, and both my Gout & Depression have drastically reduced.
This time around I'm sharing my "Gym Rat Chronicles" transformation with my Facebook & Instagram friends. If I can get 1 person return to a healthier one, then my sharing has provided an added benefit.
Keeping the body & mind moving are an essential part toward a healthier self.
Thank you for a positive article.
Helps better sleep, reduces external stress and anxiety factors.
Proper water intake, healthy foods, stretching, proper rest.
Seniors can look if Silver Sneakers Program is available at their area gym.
Talking long walks.
Quit smoking. Cut back on alcohol.
There has been many times when I've drag myself into the gym, and when I'm done I feel amazing, energized, happier and I know I had a kicking workout.
I'm turning 50 in a few days and I promised myself 15 months earlier that I will return to my 30 something body; back to a 32 waist, feeling fully energized, and both my Gout & Depression have drastically reduced.
This time around I'm sharing my "Gym Rat Chronicles" transformation with my Facebook & Instagram friends. If I can get 1 person return to a healthier one, then my sharing has provided an added benefit.
Keeping the body & mind moving are an essential part toward a healthier self.
Thank you for a positive article.
14
This is absolutely correct. We have had bad weather for the last several days and my dog and I have been essentially housebound. I have noticed my mood becoming increasingly dark and I woke up this am thinking I have got to get some hiking time soon.
7
The sample is large but not random. Sample is self-selected. Article does not say how many people "dropped out" either because they never responded after downloading the app or because they stopped responding.
6
This is a news article. To see the research details go to the research article. It's in PLOS One, so it's open access. http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0160589
2
Mark, thanks for that citation. I read it and the authors are fair and realistic about the study. Perhaps most importantly, they are up front about the statistical significance, or potential lack of same, in the study. (I know enough about this to be dangerous from my Day Job.)
In the end, we are each a sample size of one. I know this article may seem repetitive or "well, duh" to some people. For others, every little bit of encouragement helps.
In the end, we are each a sample size of one. I know this article may seem repetitive or "well, duh" to some people. For others, every little bit of encouragement helps.
2
I doubt that a lot of people who prefer sitting douwnlowded the app that was designed to show they're on the wrong track.
3
Yes! Again mystified that we need studies to explain what is intuitively obvious to the most casual observer, but ok! I think it's important that the walk be in natural surroundings or at least, for city dwellers, some approximation of it. I believe that if we built tree lined paths, safe and accessible to all in any neighborhood (at least in any climate where trees grow), we'd go a long way towards reducing obesity, diabetes and their resultant complications - and also improving psychological health. Barring extreme weather, you should be able to walk at all hours, before, after and in the middle of the workday, even if just for short walks. But such a simple and natural solution is destined to remain a crazy utopian dream in our world, so it's left up to each person to do it on their own.
BTW, it's a pity they didn't use small clip on pedometers such as the one in an iPod nano 6th gen, which Apple sadly stopped making. You take it with you on all walks or runs, that's the point of it. And listen to music or an audiobook when you get tired of the birds or your own thoughts.
BTW, it's a pity they didn't use small clip on pedometers such as the one in an iPod nano 6th gen, which Apple sadly stopped making. You take it with you on all walks or runs, that's the point of it. And listen to music or an audiobook when you get tired of the birds or your own thoughts.
1
Re: the researchers' assertion that people do not carry their phones or other mobile devices when they run or do other exercise, obviously they've never sprained an ankle or slipped on a nasty patch of black ice. I have to believe this is inaccurate just based on a quick anecdotal eyeball assessment around my gym on any day, and/or during my neighborhood (Montclair, NJ) runs. This morning, the first sunny one in days, EVERYONE exercising outside had earphones tethered to an iPhone or other android, likely listening to music or other media. There were icy patches on the sidewalks that stalled even energetic college students. Considering that falls are the most common reason for E.R. Visits, at ANY age, the most confidently agile as well as trepidatious seniors among us carry a phone. Connecting that precautionary practice with a diminution of happiness could actually discourage people from heading outside for a walk!
2
January 25, 2017
So I will move my fingers across the keyboard and stay on theme to move, and that means in always - so whatever we move - must remind ourselves what a joy it to experience the freedom to live independent and never to underestimate the actions we take all means to the entire daily living independent with our most miraculous machine in the universe - the human body that appreciates its own achievements and then the more intense should one want to tune up - tune in - all actions that become the sum of our daily stamina and delights to cherish and encourage as this wonderful article gives cause and reality.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
So I will move my fingers across the keyboard and stay on theme to move, and that means in always - so whatever we move - must remind ourselves what a joy it to experience the freedom to live independent and never to underestimate the actions we take all means to the entire daily living independent with our most miraculous machine in the universe - the human body that appreciates its own achievements and then the more intense should one want to tune up - tune in - all actions that become the sum of our daily stamina and delights to cherish and encourage as this wonderful article gives cause and reality.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
4
The key issue, unfortunately, is not discussed until the very end. As a sufferer of depression, I can assure you that I move a lot more while up than while in the dumps. in which case, the mood clearly accounts for the movement. Whether the causation goes in the other direction remains an open question.
Because this reverse causation explanation is so obvious, it is surprising and disingenuous for a journalist to report on the correlation, as Reynolds and her headline does, in a way that strongly insinuates that moving will help your mood, while waiting until the very end to point out that this conclusion simply does not follow from the evidence.
Moreover, the researchers either could have had, or did have data by which to test the hypothesis that moving helps moods. With data on moods immediately prior to moving (preferably blinded, so that participants didn't know the aims of the study), as well as afterwards, they could factor out the extent to which a participant's moving was correlated with a positive mood beforehand, and the extent to which moving boosted moods for people who started out low before moving. Because this article only reports on moods after moving, one is lead to wonder about the quality of the research (of the reporter and primary researchers).
Because this reverse causation explanation is so obvious, it is surprising and disingenuous for a journalist to report on the correlation, as Reynolds and her headline does, in a way that strongly insinuates that moving will help your mood, while waiting until the very end to point out that this conclusion simply does not follow from the evidence.
Moreover, the researchers either could have had, or did have data by which to test the hypothesis that moving helps moods. With data on moods immediately prior to moving (preferably blinded, so that participants didn't know the aims of the study), as well as afterwards, they could factor out the extent to which a participant's moving was correlated with a positive mood beforehand, and the extent to which moving boosted moods for people who started out low before moving. Because this article only reports on moods after moving, one is lead to wonder about the quality of the research (of the reporter and primary researchers).
6
Both literally and metaphorically, I guess, no one likes to be “stuck in place.”
2
This all rings true for me -- with one exception: when I'm on the commuter train I'm much happier sitting than standing in the crowded car. Either way I'm moving, but standing is a tiny bit more exercise and an amazing amount more unhappiness!
1
A lousy analogy, since the standing situation is temporary and not by choice.
4
The train is moving, not you. You have the right name!
There's only one problem: When feeling depressed, you don't feel like going for a walk, or engaging in any constructive activity.
6
That's when you make yourself move. There are times I don't want to swim or walk because I'm depressed. I remind myself of how often I feel better once I do and I go.
22
When I feel depressed, I know that the cure I need is to bike, swim or run...so I do and it makes a world of difference!
13
Sitting is the new smoking.
65
There are people who bounce and bound around all day without a thought in their heads. They're always busy but, never having a contemplative moment, they might also be thoughtless. Are they happy?
There are couch potatoes who probably think they're happy. If they're watching reality-television shows, I don't know what to say about them. Probably they voted for some shallow, thin-skinned twitterer.
In everything, moderation.
There are couch potatoes who probably think they're happy. If they're watching reality-television shows, I don't know what to say about them. Probably they voted for some shallow, thin-skinned twitterer.
In everything, moderation.
7
THIs is exactly you school children should have frequent recess breaks!
21
I used to walk about 6 hours a week and do exercises like tai chi and weight bearing stuff for another 5-6 hours. But now I'm pretty much inert.
How did I accomplish this? I needed medical help to do it. 20 mg simvastatin (a statin drug to control my cholesterol) did the trick. The Nov 15, 2016 issue of JAMA calls the proof of benefit weak or non-existent for healthy people.
So from trekking in the Himalayan foothills of India and Nepal at age 69 to almost housebound at age 70. Statinvictims.com
There are about 30 million Americans on this drug. Our doctors are not required, and for the most part do not, report adverse effects. Thank you Big Pharma.
How did I accomplish this? I needed medical help to do it. 20 mg simvastatin (a statin drug to control my cholesterol) did the trick. The Nov 15, 2016 issue of JAMA calls the proof of benefit weak or non-existent for healthy people.
So from trekking in the Himalayan foothills of India and Nepal at age 69 to almost housebound at age 70. Statinvictims.com
There are about 30 million Americans on this drug. Our doctors are not required, and for the most part do not, report adverse effects. Thank you Big Pharma.
23
I avoided a doctor-recommended statin program by switching from eating whatever felt good to a vegan diet. That got me out of the danger zone for the past two years. This option won't appeal to everyone, or necessarily achieve the desired effects. But this much is for sure: It's worth a try!
15
What "danger zone"?
To repeat: The Nov 15, 2016 issue of JAMA calls the proof of benefit (of a statin) weak or non-existent for primary prevention.
Opinions, of course vary, but how can this be true after decades of tens of millions taking it? And opinions vary, you may observe, often according to whether a pharma company is on the articles' disclosure list.
I was totally healthy. I was given a drug with no proven benefit, and for which doctors are not required to report adverse effects.
I ate really well and exercised (did physical stuff I loved): my doctor said, "Diet and exercise won't take care of it."
What is "it"? Is it LDL level or something? But if you're 65-75 years old, you automatically qualify for a statin: 100% of males of that age, everyone.
Of course this doesn't make sense. AHA/ACC expert panel, however, disagrees. (To cap it off, AHA puts some super-high sodium canned meats on their "Heart Check" list...after being paid to test them.)
You're only out of the danger zone if you stand up to this unscrupulous madness.
To repeat: The Nov 15, 2016 issue of JAMA calls the proof of benefit (of a statin) weak or non-existent for primary prevention.
Opinions, of course vary, but how can this be true after decades of tens of millions taking it? And opinions vary, you may observe, often according to whether a pharma company is on the articles' disclosure list.
I was totally healthy. I was given a drug with no proven benefit, and for which doctors are not required to report adverse effects.
I ate really well and exercised (did physical stuff I loved): my doctor said, "Diet and exercise won't take care of it."
What is "it"? Is it LDL level or something? But if you're 65-75 years old, you automatically qualify for a statin: 100% of males of that age, everyone.
Of course this doesn't make sense. AHA/ACC expert panel, however, disagrees. (To cap it off, AHA puts some super-high sodium canned meats on their "Heart Check" list...after being paid to test them.)
You're only out of the danger zone if you stand up to this unscrupulous madness.
4
What kind of "accomplishment" is it to be proud of harming yourself. Movement has MULTIPLE benefits. The evidence is as certain as the sun rising.
2
I observe this in childcare - kids running around tend to scream with joy - kids sitting still staring at small screens tend to lose the happy expression and look frustrated, especially if they are waiting for a turn on the computer game.
sure both are good - burn yourself out physically then sit and do some contemplative thinking exercise
but I totally agree - eat less and move more - sitting alone at home may be an easy passive default action if you're tired, sick, mobility-challenged, lazy, poor, depressed, antisocial or lack motivation - or addictive for those so inclined as apps like Facebook are designed like casinos - colour and movement to keep you looking at it - for too long to be healthy
but those who make it a habit to walk everywhere (I live inner city Sydney - it's great) tend to have endless opportunities to smile and chat to strangers - standing staring confused at a map - 'would you like some directions ?' - help them with a smile, make their day, makes both of us feel good !
sure both are good - burn yourself out physically then sit and do some contemplative thinking exercise
but I totally agree - eat less and move more - sitting alone at home may be an easy passive default action if you're tired, sick, mobility-challenged, lazy, poor, depressed, antisocial or lack motivation - or addictive for those so inclined as apps like Facebook are designed like casinos - colour and movement to keep you looking at it - for too long to be healthy
but those who make it a habit to walk everywhere (I live inner city Sydney - it's great) tend to have endless opportunities to smile and chat to strangers - standing staring confused at a map - 'would you like some directions ?' - help them with a smile, make their day, makes both of us feel good !
4
So those too depressed to movie, remain immobilized.
"Of course, this type of study does not establish causation. It cannot tell us whether being more active actually causes us to become happier or, conversely, whether being happy causes us to move more. It only shows that more activity goes hand-in-hand with greater happiness."
"Of course, this type of study does not establish causation. It cannot tell us whether being more active actually causes us to become happier or, conversely, whether being happy causes us to move more. It only shows that more activity goes hand-in-hand with greater happiness."
1
The study also is limited by the fact that the subjects who'd agreed to use the app and answer questions are themselves prone to feeling cheery. It says nothing about those subjects who refused to be part of the study.
8
Your assumption only which enables you to attack the evidence. If you are so against the idea of exercise, why read articles about the subject? Like smokers who refuse to read how their habit is killing them.
People who exercise regularly virtually all say the same thing. When forced to refrain from working out, they become cranky and irritable. When regular activity resumes, they seem to experience a heightened sense of satisfaction and optimism.
66
this suggests that regular exercise causes frustration when you stop - (the reverse of 'why are you banging your head on the wall? - it feels so good when I stop!')
I've read of the endorphin/runners' high from exercise - but your suggestion might encourage more people to Avoid regular exercise if it would make them cranky when they stop !
I've read of the endorphin/runners' high from exercise - but your suggestion might encourage more people to Avoid regular exercise if it would make them cranky when they stop !
3
It's those 'endorphins', right?
This is so true! I used to commute to work and exercise regularly and I was so much happier! I have been through multiple hip surgeries due to a recalled hip and I work at home at the computer. Exercise used to help me relax and improve my mood, but now I have no outlet. I haven't been able to walk, stand, bike or swim for a few years. At 62, I have little energy and stamina. I am determined to get it back, but it's very slow. I long to take a walk! When I am anxious, a walk calms me down and helps me focus.
55
Melanie, you aren't alone. I'm 67 and still working. I worked in Boston and ran all over town. Since then I've had two hip replacements and also have bursitis. There are things that I can't do at this stage. I am active but the exercise of everyday commuting has changed because sitting while driving and not having to walk to the office eliminates a good workout! Go with the flow is my mantra. Do what you can then press a bit harder. It is a new year. I wanted to be at the Women's March but I couldn't do it. Stay strong!
5
I'm so sorry. good thoughts and hopes to getting ambulatory again!
7
Melanie,
I know you can do it! A little every day and try just a bit more each time. Keep a smile on your face, and be thankful for what you can do. I was a distance runner, have MS and 2 c-sections. I walk with a cane now. After the surgeries, my stomach muscles were destroyed, but I've tried everyday and now much improved, though I have not attained anything near what I had, I am happy and still keep trying! : )
I know you can do it! A little every day and try just a bit more each time. Keep a smile on your face, and be thankful for what you can do. I was a distance runner, have MS and 2 c-sections. I walk with a cane now. After the surgeries, my stomach muscles were destroyed, but I've tried everyday and now much improved, though I have not attained anything near what I had, I am happy and still keep trying! : )