Supporting our Clients to Maintain Balance Through Exercise: The Role of Homeostasis and Physical Activity

We are excited to share that we were recently featured in FHT’s International Therapist magazine, where we discussed various strategies for supporting and advising our clients on maintaining homeostasis. We would like to explore these topics further, starting with the crucial role of physical activity.

The Importance of Homeostasis

At its core, homeostasis is the body’s method of keeping its internal environment stable and balanced, despite changes in the external environment. This stability is crucial for the functioning of cells and, consequently, the health of the entire organism. Various physiological parameters, such as body temperature, blood sugar levels, and pH balance, are regulated through homeostasis. Understanding this delicate balancing act and how we can support the body allows us to educate our clients in how best to take care of their own homeostasis.

What Role does Physical Activity Play

Physical activity plays a pivotal role in regulating hormones, improving mood, and supporting metabolic balance—essential components for maintaining homeostasis. Encouraging daily physical activity can help our clients maintain this delicate balance.

Here are some ideas to help your clients start thinking about ways they can incorporate exercise into their lives.

1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

• Start with small, manageable goals, like a 10-minute walk each day.
• Gradually increase the duration and intensity as confidence and stamina build.

2. Find Activities You Enjoy

• Choose exercises that you find fun, such as dancing, swimming, or playing a sport.
• Mixing up activities can prevent boredom and keep you motivated.
• Try something different. Tai-Chi and Yoga emphasise controlled, mindful movements and deep breathing. Practices like these reduce stress levels by activating the body’s relaxation response, balancing the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous systems. You can join a class or simply use an app guided meditation at home.
• Get outside! Enjoy fresh air at the same time, you can even add things into your daily dog walk like intervals of running or press-ups against a log in the woods - make it fun!

3. Make it Social

• Exercise with friends or join a group class to make workouts more enjoyable.
• Having a workout buddy can provide accountability and encouragement.

4. Incorporate Exercise into Daily Routines

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Walk or bike to nearby destinations instead of driving.
• Do simple exercises like stretching or squats while watching TV.

5. Schedule Exercise Time

• Treat exercise as a non-negotiable appointment in your calendar.
• Consistency is key to forming a lasting habit.

6. Use Technology for Motivation

• Utilise fitness apps or wearable trackers to monitor progress and set reminders.
• Follow online workout videos or join virtual fitness classes.

7. Start with Short Sessions

• Begin with short, 10-15 minute workouts and gradually increase the duration.
• Even brief periods of activity can have significant health benefits.

8. Focus on Functional Fitness

• Engage in exercises that improve your ability to perform everyday activities.
• Strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance work are excellent choices.

9. Reward Yourself

• Set milestones and reward yourself for achieving them.
• Rewards can be anything from a relaxing bath to a new piece of workout gear.

10. Be Mindful of Your Body

• Listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
• Rest and recovery are as important as the exercise itself.

11. Seek Professional Guidance

• Consult with a fitness professional to create a personalised exercise plan.
• Professional advice can ensure you’re performing exercises correctly and safely.
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Any single one of these ideas or a combination can be used to help people ease themselves into the headspace and routine of doing exercise.

Maintaining homeostasis is vital for overall health, and physical activity is a key factor in supporting this balance. By encouraging clients to incorporate enjoyable and sustainable forms of exercise into their daily routine, we can help them achieve and maintain optimal health. Whether through a simple walk, a calming yoga class, or a social group activity, the benefits of regular physical activity on homeostasis are profound and far-reaching.