By pH health care professionals

So many articles harp on how much TV Americans watch, and how we should better spend our time exercising. And, while there is no question that exercising is important because it improves your physical health and reduces stress, studies show leisure activities – including watching TV – also have health benefits. 

Specifically, a recent study conducted at the University of California, Merced found that leisure activities reduced stress. These leisure activities included exercise and socializing, but more often the participants chose to do quiet activities like solve a puzzle, sew, or watch TV or a movie. 

The stress reduction effects even persisted for hours after the participants finished the leisure activities. Thus, the study concluded that the cumulative effect of engaging in leisure activities each day could have a long-term, positive impact on a person’s health. 

So, next time your favorite guilty pleasure TV show comes on, you can feel a little less guilty knowing you are reducing stress and improving your health. But like anything else, it’s important to remember that balance is key. Exercise is important, but so is relaxation.

Enjoy Your Healthy Life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. This team also includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, click here.