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Wouldn't it be great if there was a magic pill to cure a myriad of ailments? A pill that's not too hard to swallow and could help us feel more youthful again. A single little pill that could potentially reduce our need for expensive medications. It's unfortunate that there isn't such a pill and there may never be. The good news is that there is something close. It isn't a pill that you can take but an effort you can make. It's called exercise.

I know that many of you are groaning at this point but think about it. You can feel younger, healthier, happier and stronger just from moving around! This doesn't mean you have to go our and buy a whole collection of aerobic DVDs. Just a few more steps each day can make a difference. Many of us think that we are moderately active but put that theory to the test. Get yourself a pedometer and wear it everyday for a week. It can be an eye opener.

As if the incentive for a great figure weren't enough, exercise can provide relief for many medical conditions. Even those affected by arthritis or chronic back pain can be benefited. Low impact exercises such as Thai Chi, Yoga and simple stretches will improve circulation and flexibility as well as increase muscle strength. This can go a long way at helping to alleviate symptoms.

The list of conditions benefited by exercise goes on and on. Most of us know that exercise can reduce the risk for heart disease, stroke and high cholesterol. We also have a pretty good idea that loosing that extra weight around the middle can reduce our risk for diabetes which can lead to other conditions. You might, however, be surprised to find that exercise can also bring relief from allergy symptoms by increasing our bodys natural immunities.

The benefits do not stop with the physical aspect of our health. Research has shown that those suffering from depression can receive an emotional boost by following a daily exercise routine. Exercise increases feel good endorphins and an improved waistline works wonders for the self esteem. Depression can also lead to insomnia. This just gives us one more reason to exercise. The relaxation and stress relief can assist in getting a better night's sleep.

Medical researchers and scientists are ever hard at work in efforts to discover cures for our ailments. Pharmaceutical manufacturers are also hard at work developing new drugs that treat the symptoms but may not really cure the problem. Wouldn't it be nice if you could reduce the amount of medication you take each day or prevent the need for it all together? I'm not suggesting that you toss all of your medication out the window. I am suggesting that you speak with your doctor about how your condition can be benefited by exercise. He or she can also guide you on an exercise regimen that will fit your needs.

I recently came across the story of a woman who was diagnosed with a mobility condition. She was told that it would worsen over time and she would eventually become completely unable to move. She was determined to not let this happen. She began by simple standing up from her wheelchair each day. Eventually she was able to take a few steps. These small efforts led to big result and today she is wheelchair free. Her story is a true testament that exercise really is the best medicine.

Learn more about this author, Talea Jurrens.
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