FITNESS
Muscle Strengthening Found To Lower Risk Of Death From All Causes
Do you incorporate practices into your daily or weekly routine for the benefit those things bring to your health and well-being?
Take coffee, for instance. Many folks enjoy their daily cup of joe knowing it can improve cognitive functioning and decrease the risk of certain diseases, even lowering the risk of mortality from all causes.
Or, what about your sleep habits? Do you aim to get a specific number of hours of restful sleep each night for the purpose of improving cardiovascular health, even adding length to your life?
Those are only a few examples of both foods and practices that, when incorporated into our lives, can improve our health and may even allow us to live longer.
And, according to the experts, upon analyzing research spanning more than three decades, muscle strengthening can be added to the list of things we can easily incorporate into our lives to add length to our days!
Spoiler alert: adding just 30 minutes of muscle-strengthening activity per week can help you reap this reward!
So, let’s take a look at the benefits of muscle training (strengthening), and then we’ll look at the science and discover some simple, practical ways you can boost your health and lower your overall risk of death.
Benefits Of Muscle Training
Muscle training, or strengthening, exercises offer a wide variety of benefits to your health, so before we dive into the research, let’s quickly explore just a few of those benefits…
1- Improves Bone Density
Studies show strength training to be capable of significantly increasing bone mineral density.
This is explained by a few things that occur as you increase the strength of your muscles:
- Weight-bearing exercises done while standing cause gravity to pull downward on the body, slightly stressing bones and muscles, thereby causing them to strengthen.
- Each time a muscle contracts throughout exercise, it pulls on the bone where it is attached. This pulling essentially mimics a trauma, causing the cells in the bone to stimulate the production of structural proteins which work to build up and strengthen the bone.
2- Improves Mental Health
Strength training has been shown to improve symptoms of both depression and anxiety.
Some believe, as in the case of high-intensity aerobic exercise, that these improvements are linked to a release of endorphins or increased endocannabinoid levels.
And, according to research findings from the Harvard School of Medicine, “strength training provides an opportunity to overcome obstacles in a controlled predictable environment, increasing mental resilience.”
3- Raises Basal Metabolic Rate
When you do strength or resistance training, your body requires specific amounts of energy based on how hard you are working.
Then, your body continues to burn calories at that rate as it returns to a state of rest even after you’ve finished exercising, known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption.
In the case of strength training, after you’ve put in a particularly intense amount of work, this amount is essentially amplified as you then continue to burn calories at this high metabolic rate through recovery.
Then, as you build lean muscle mass through your efforts, the physical activity that you engage in will require your muscles to burn even more calories as each kilogram of lean muscle mass increases your metabolic rate by upwards to 100 calories per day.
Mathematically stated:
- great efforts put into strength training equal great caloric burn post workout session
- lean muscle mass built through strength training equals greater calorie burn in your workouts
4- Helps Maintain A Healthy Weight
Now this may seem obvious after the last point, but those gains in muscle and potential extra calorie burn kick in to aid you as you seek to maintain a healthy body weight.
Not only can you shed pounds with those calorie burn gains, but studies have shown resistance training (one type of muscle strengthening exercise) works to help dieters keep those pounds off, with a weekly commitment to muscle training activity preventing weight gain as well as keeping visceral belly fat at bay.
5- Controls Blood Sugar
Studies have shown that as you build muscle this also improves the uptake and use of glucose within the muscle.
Transporters within the cells of the muscle travel to the bloodstream to get glucose and then bring it back to the muscle. When you strengthen the muscle, this makes that process more efficient, bringing more glucose into the muscle thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
For this reason, people with type 2 diabetes are encouraged to incorporate muscle strengthening exercises into their weekly routine.
Research, Muscle Strengthening, And A Lowered Risk Of Death
As we just saw above, and as we’ve known for some time, the benefits of exercise are great, but did you know (aside from the title and intro of this article) that this benefit list includes the ability to reduce the risk of death from all causes?
However, those benefits can seem vague. After all, how much exercise brings these benefits?
What type of exercise benefits you the most? And, how much benefit are we talking about here?
Well, a group of scientists at Tohoku University in Japan have recently analyzed multiple international studies, spanning over three decades, to bring us those answers.
The studies reviewed included research conducted over the course of 2-25 years on adults who were healthy (lacking any major health concerns), with a centralized focus on 16 particular studies from the United States, England, Scotland, Australia, and Japan.
These studies involved a large number of participants, both men and women, from samples with as few as 4,000 to as many as nearly 480,000 people, including ages ranging from 18-97.
Participants in each study did a variety of physical activities, including aerobic and muscle strengthening exercises.
And, as the team analyzed the data, one thing stood out: you don’t have to exercise for hours and hours each week to improve your health and reduce your risk of death!
Incorporating just 30-60 minutes per week of muscle strengthening exercises proved to lower the risk of death from all causes, including heart disease and cancer, by 10-20%.
Even better, when strength training activities were combined each week with aerobic exercise, the risk of death decreased by 40%, the threat of cardiovascular disease dropped by 46%, and the risk of death by cancer reduced by 28%.
Another bonus? The types of muscle strengthening exercises that will allow you to reap these rewards aren’t only those typically done in a gym setting.
Muscle strengthening activities are beneficial due to their (positive) impact on your musculoskeletal health.
And, while those types of activities certainly include lifting weights, using resistance bands, doing push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups, squats, and lunges, they also include practical work such as heavy gardening and shoveling.
Furthermore, according to the physical health guidelines in the UK, even yoga, pilates, and tai chi, as well as wheeling a wheelchair, lifting and carrying children, and carrying heavy shopping bags are considered to be worthy muscle strengthening exercises as they work to benefit the musculoskeletal system.
While there were limitations to the analysis done here, such as limited data, a lack of diversity in the population of participants, and data collected through observation as opposed to clinical trials, there is still much to be gleaned from the information reviewed.
But, this new analysis of data can serve to add to what we’ve already known concerning a reduced risk of death with muscle strengthening exercise, now giving us precise “doses” or prescriptions for how much time we should spend engaging in such activities to reap optimal rewards.
And, as we mentioned above, that prescription reads: 30-60 minutes spent weekly doing muscle strengthening exercises to lower the risk of all causes of death (by 10-20%), with added benefits to be reaped when including aerobic exercise alongside your muscle strengthening routine.
References:
- https://lifeboostcoffee.com/blogs/lifeboost/how-many-cups-of-coffee-should-you-be-drinking-each-day
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-duration-and-longevity-2224291
- https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm
- https://www.healthline.com/health-news/less-than-an-hour-of-strength-training-a-week-can-lower-your-risk-of-deathhttps://www.sciencealert.com/study-links-muscle-strengthening-activities-to-a-lower-risk-of-dying
- https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-02-mins-weekly-muscle-linked.html
- https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/feb/28/muscle-strengthening-lowers-risk-of-death-from-all-causes-study-shows
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/add-strength-training-to-your-workout.aspx
- https://egym.com/us/blog/boost-metabolism#:~:text=Muscles%20are%20lean%20body%20mass,four%20days%20(afterburn%20effect).
- https://health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/benefits-of-strength-training-that-have-nothing-to-do-with-muscle-size
- https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/five-benefits-of-strength-training.html#
- https://www.eatingwell.com/article/290619/trying-to-lose-weight-heres-why-strength-training-is-as-important-as-cardio/
FITNESS
7 Ways to Create a Holistic Morning Routine
Your morning sets the tone for the entire day. A rushed, chaotic start can leave you feeling scattered and stressed, while a mindful, intentional routine can help you feel grounded, energized, and ready to take on whatever comes your way. A holistic morning routine isn’t just about productivity, but it’s about nourishing your body, mind, and soul from the moment you wake up.
Here’s how to create a morning routine that aligns with your health goals, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
1. Wake Up with Purpose
Start by giving yourself enough time in the morning. Waking up just 10–30 minutes earlier can help you transition into the day without pressure. Use this time to set an intention. Ask yourself: What kind of energy do I want to bring into today?
This simple mindset shift can help you stay centered, no matter what challenges arise.
2. Hydrate First Thing
After 7–8 hours of sleep, your body needs hydration. Drinking a glass of water (preferably with lemon) jumpstarts your metabolism, aids digestion, and flushes out toxins. Add a pinch of Himalayan salt for added minerals.
3. Gentle Movement to Wake the Body
Stretching, yoga, or a short walk can help awaken your muscles and improve circulation. Movement doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. The goal is to reconnect with your body, increase energy, and boost your mood.
For more ideas on morning activities that support weight loss, check out these 10 Morning Rituals That Help Shed Pounds.
4. Nourish with a Light, Balanced Breakfast

Skip the sugar-laden cereals and opt for whole, nutrient-dense foods. A balanced breakfast with protein, fiber, and healthy fats will stabilize your blood sugar and fuel your morning.
Looking for a fast and effective fat-burning option? Try this 3-Ingredient Fat Burning Soup. It’s keto-friendly, satisfying, and designed to help you burn 400 calories on autopilot!
5. Practice Mindfulness
Spend 5–10 minutes meditating, journaling, or simply breathing deeply. This helps regulate stress hormones and primes your brain for focus and calm. Even just one mindful breath before starting your tasks can shift your entire outlook.
6. Limit Screen Time
Resist the urge to check your phone or social media first thing. Instead, spend your first moments being present — with yourself, your family, or nature. This preserves mental clarity and reduces anxiety triggered by digital overload.
7. Plan Your Day Intentionally
Before jumping into work, take a few minutes to review your top priorities. A written to-do list or planner can help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
Creating a holistic morning routine isn’t about perfection but it’s about consistency and self-care. When you start your day with intention, you build a strong foundation for your health, focus, and happiness. Small, mindful choices in the morning lead to big wins over time.
Start tomorrow with a purpose. Your future self will thank you.
FITNESS
Mind-Body Connection: Using Holistic Practices to Reduce Stress
In today’s fast-paced world, stress can take a serious toll on both your physical and mental health. But what if the key to managing stress lies within you, through your mind-body connection?
The mind-body connection refers to the powerful relationship between your thoughts, emotions, and physical health. By embracing holistic stress-reduction practices, you can tap into this connection to calm your nervous system, improve your mood, and restore balance to your life.
Here’s how you can reduce stress naturally by strengthening your mind-body connection.
1. Meditation and Mindfulness
Meditation is one of the most powerful tools for stress reduction. By practicing mindfulness and focusing on the present moment without judgment, you train your brain to become less reactive to stress.
Try this:
- Start with 5–10 minutes of guided meditation each morning.
- Use apps like Headspace or Calm to stay consistent.
Benefits:
- Lower cortisol levels
Improved focus - Better emotional regulation
2. Yoga and Gentle Movement
Yoga combines breathwork, movement, and mindfulness — making it a holistic remedy for chronic stress and anxiety. Even simple poses like Child’s Pose or Legs-Up-the-Wall can activate your parasympathetic nervous system (your body’s relaxation mode).
Try this:
- Practice a 15-minute gentle yoga flow at the end of your day.
- Focus on deep breathing and stretching tight areas.
3. Breathwork Techniques
Intentional breathing can quickly calm your mind and regulate your nervous system.
Try this:
- Box breathing (Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4)
4-7-8 breathing to unwind before bed
Benefits:
- Reduces anxiety
- Slows heart rate
- Clears mental fog
4. Journaling and Emotional Release
Writing down your thoughts helps process emotions and gain clarity. It can also reveal patterns in your stress triggers.
Try this:
- Set aside 10 minutes daily for free writing
- Use prompts like: “What’s causing me stress today?” or “What can I let go of?”
5. Nature Therapy and Grounding
Spending time outdoors reduces stress hormones and improves overall well-being. Grounding or walking barefoot on grass or sand helps restore your body’s natural rhythms.
Try this:
- Take a 15-minute walk in nature
- Sit under a tree or near water to reset your mind
6. Herbal Teas and Natural Remedies
Holistic stress relief includes nourishing the body with calming herbs like chamomile, ashwagandha, or lavender.
Try this:
- Sip herbal tea before bed
- Use essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus in a diffuser
7. Digital Detox and Tech Boundaries
Constant connectivity contributes to mental overload. Setting boundaries with technology allows the brain to recharge.
Try this:
- Turn off notifications
Establish “no-screen” hours before bedtime
Why the Mind-Body Connection Matters

Understanding that your mind and body are not separate allows you to take control of your health in a more holistic, sustainable way. These practices go beyond short-term fixes, they create long-term resilience to stress.
Final Thoughts
Stress is unavoidable, but suffering from it doesn’t have to be. By integrating holistic mind-body practices into your daily routine, you can reduce stress naturally and create more peace, balance, and vitality in your life.
If you’re also working on improving your overall health and energy, check out our guide on 10 Morning Rituals That Help Shed Pounds. It is packed with simple, science-backed habits to kickstart your day and support your wellness journey.
FITNESS
Staying on Track: How to Overcome Obstacles and Achieve Your Fitness Goals
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Staying on Track: How to Overcome Obstacles and Achieve Your Fitness Goals
Setting fitness goals is a great way to stay motivated and improve your overall health and well-being. However, staying on track and overcoming obstacles can be a challenge. Whether it’s lack of time, motivation, or even injuries, there are many roadblocks that can hinder your progress. But fear not, with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome these obstacles and reach your fitness goals.
Here are some tips to help you stay on track and achieve your fitness goals:
Set realistic and specific goals: It’s important to set goals that are realistic and achievable. Instead of aiming to “lose weight” or “get in shape,” set specific and measurable goals such as “lose 10 pounds in 3 months” or “run a 5k in under 30 minutes.” This will give you a clear target to work towards and help you stay focused.
Create a plan: Once you have your goals in place, create a plan to achieve them. This could include a workout schedule, meal plan, and tracking your progress. Having a plan in place will make it easier to stay on track and overcome any obstacles that come your way.
Find an accountability partner: Having someone to hold you accountable can make a big difference in staying on track. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a personal trainer, having someone to check in with and keep you motivated can help you stay on track and overcome any obstacles.
Stay motivated: Finding ways to stay motivated is crucial in achieving your fitness goals. Whether it’s reading inspirational stories, setting up a workout playlist, or rewarding yourself for reaching milestones, finding ways to stay motivated will help you push through any obstacles that come your way.
Listen to your body: It’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you’re feeling tired or sore, take a rest day or adjust your workout routine. Ignoring your body’s signals can lead to injuries and setbacks, so make sure to prioritize rest and recovery.
Be flexible: Sometimes life gets in the way and you may need to adjust your plans. It’s important to be flexible and adapt to any changes that come your way. Whether it’s a busy week at work, a family emergency, or an injury, finding ways to modify your workouts and stay on track will help you overcome any obstacles that come your way.
Seek professional help: If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to seek help from a fitness professional. Whether it’s a personal trainer, nutritionist, or physical therapist, getting professional guidance can help you overcome any obstacles and achieve your fitness goals.
Staying on track and achieving your fitness goals takes time, effort, and dedication. By setting realistic goals, creating a plan, finding motivation, listening to your body, and seeking help when needed, you can overcome any obstacles and reach your fitness goals. Remember to stay focused, be patient, and celebrate your progress along the way. With the right mindset and strategies, you can achieve your fitness goals and improve your overall health and well-being.
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