Today, my mom went on the treadmill for 45 minutes of walking. That may not seem like a big deal, but to me it is! As you know, my platform is Tackling Obesity in America. Since I have come home for winter break, I have been pushing my mom to go on our treadmill. So finally, my pushing and her compliance led her to the treadmill. Every day, I'm going to encourage my mom to exercise and eventually, she won't need my pushing and kind reminders because she'll begin to see the benefit and FEEL the difference in her body...afterall, exercise leads to the release of endorphins, which are these wonderful substances produced by the brain during exercise that decrease pain sensation, reduce stress, and produce euphoria. Basically, endorphins produce a (non-addicting) high!
I regularly work out 4 to 5 days a week. So, when my dad saw me continuing this habit at home over break, he became motivated to get a one-year gym membership himself! I am so proud of my dad for not only getting the membership but going to the gym after work a few times last week and this week.
I'm not going to take all the credit for this change in my family, but I like to think I am inspiring my parents to become more active.
I want to add that my mom is incredible. She is an extremely hard working woman and spends most of the day doing things for my family, whether it's cooking every family meal from scratch, taking care of my grandparents (who are currently staying with us), cleaning and organizing the house, working at the hospital, helping my dad at his veterinary clinic...whatever family business you can think of, she's doing it! So, I TOTALLY understand why she doesn't have the energy to workout!!! I believe this is an issue for A LOT of women. Women are still the primary caretakers of the household, leading them to have more responsibilities than their male counterparts. My mom and I talked about this, and I expressed to her that even though I admire her dedication and am EXTREMELY THANKFUL for all the things she does for my family, it would overjoy me to see her dedicate some time for herself.
It's important to spare time for yourself. Health should be everyone's NUMBER ONE priority. We enjoy life the most when we're healthy. We can give more of ourselves to others when we have good health. So, please Moms, take care of your body so you can take care of your children and serve as a good role model for them! Healthy habits start young and parents are the primary role models for their children.
Remember: sound body, sound mind. Goodnight :)
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