Eight hours, or one-third of the day, are spent sleeping to maintain health and energy. Another one-third is devoted to work, providing income, fulfilling basic needs, and contributing to happiness. What about the remaining one-third? We often spend this time eating, traveling, relaxing, and enjoying ourselves. Would you be willing to spend an hour from this time for something simple yet valuable?

We can ask someone to cover our shift when we're busy. We can find someone to attend a meeting on our behalf when we're occupied. We can ask for help to complete our tasks, but no one can get sick for us when we're unwell. Regardless of how wealthy we are, we cannot hire someone to get sick for us. Treatments and medications can be purchased, but not our health. Many people find it challenging to prioritize their health, especially when they're feeling tired and stressed after work. It can be hard to find the motivation for a physical activity.

It's easy to find ourselves making excuses to skip exercise, but let's not wait for a health scare to get moving. Regular exercise benefits not only our physical health but also our mental well-being. We don't need to spend money on a gym membership or personal trainer. Activities like running, jogging, or push-ups are completely free. What we need is commitment and consistency.

Regular physical activity enhances muscle strength, boosts endurance, and improves heart and lung health, which in turn increases energy. Exercise helps control weight, combats various health conditions, promotes better sleep, and provides enjoyment. On top of that, its impact on mental health is even more significant. Studies show that exercise contributes 30% to physical health and 70% to mental health. People who exercise regularly tend to have better mental health, improved emotional well-being, and lower rates of mental illness. For those struggling with mental health issues, exercise can enhance your sense of control, coping abilities, and self-esteem. It helps distract from negative thoughts and offers opportunities for new experiences. Furthermore, exercising with others can provide a chance to socialize and receive support, making it an excellent outlet for troubling thoughts.

Our brains may tell us that we're too tired after work or that we can exercise later when we have more free time. But the truth is, we can always find time if we're willing to make it a priority. If we don't invest an hour a day in improving our physical and mental health, we might find ourselves in a situation where we’ll need 24 hours a day to spend on health concerns. The choice is ours.

Writer: Mr. Vuthyro Chuon, Deputy Campus Director, Aii TSK