By: Dr. Michelle Irwin

Exercise is not just for weight loss or muscle definition; it is also important for the health of our immune systems.

Have you ever noticed that when you sit too much or just aren’t as active as you used to be how quickly you start to feel crummy?

There is a reason for that which has nothing to do with aesthetics.

We all know how the heart pumps blood to the rest of the body, but it is the movement of our muscles that moves the blood from the body and cells back to the heart.

Muscle contraction of the legs and arms moves the blood in the veins back toward the heart because veins don’t have muscles in their walls, that is why it is important to squeeze your legs when flying.

Blood carries our red blood cells and oxygen to the body as well as white blood cells which are our immune system fighters.

The other system that transports fluids in the body is the lymph system.

This system removes excess fluids from the tissues, absorbs fatty acids and transports them to the circulatory system, as well as producing immune cells such as plasma to carry antibodies, lymphocytes, and monocytes.

Exercise and muscle contraction move the lymph along the system and there are valves just like in veins to prevent the fluid from flowing backward just like in veins.

Movement is the way fluid moves through the body and how the immune system stays strong. It also moves nutrients through the vessels and into the tissues that are in need.
The movement required to do this can be as simple as walking or standing up and doing squats or standing on your toes. We also need to move multiple times an hour and stay hydrated to avoid getting tight and stiff and to feel more energized and focused.

Small 1-5 minute breaks through your day on top of your longer breaks are the best way to move it and not lose it.

Chiropractic care focuses on healing the body naturally, holistically, and without the use of medication from the inside out. If you need help getting out of pain, schedule an appointment today!