Why am I so stiff?

When we move our bodies, a fluid is released from the cartlidge in our joints, called synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates our joints and enables us to move more freely. Less movement equals stiffer joints and less range of motion. Our bodies are not equipped to live a sedentary life. Begin each morning with gentle stretches, and remember to move as much as possible throughout the day. You could also incorporate stretch time with your prayer, meditation or reflection practice.

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More of you to Love = Increased
Pressure on Joints

It's quite simple: the more you weigh, the more force is placed on your joints.  According to Harvard, “when you walk across level ground, the force on your knees is the equivalent of 1½ times your body weight. That means a 200-pound man will put 300 pounds of pressure on his knees with each step. Add an incline, and the pressure is even greater: the force on each knee is two to three times your body weight when you go up and down stairs, and four to five times your body weight when you squat to tie a shoelace or pick up an item you dropped.”  

https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/why-weight-matters-when-it-comes-to-joint-pain; https://oaaction.unc.edu/2019/01/can-my-weight-make-my-joint-pain-worse/

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​Muscle Up!

Building muscle is important for health at any age because it supports overall physical function, metabolic health, and longevity. Muscle strength helps maintain mobility, balance, and independence, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, especially as we age. It also improves bone density, which is vital for preventing osteoporosis.

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Muscle tissue plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, aiding in weight management, and controlling blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, maintaining muscle mass boosts energy levels, supports the immune system, and enhances mental well-being by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

 

In essence, building and preserving muscle contributes to a higher quality of life and better health outcomes at any stage of life.

​​​Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4889643/; https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/how-can-strength-training-build-healthier-bodies-we-age

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