Studying human growth and development in Psychology I learned about the, Life-span

perspective, which not only focuses on two decades of life, it depicts the multidirectional,
multicontextual, multicultural, multidisciplinary, and plastic aspects of all phases of
development. (Berger, 2014) It is important for us to view human development from this
perspective because of the opportunity to reflect and potentially make changes and better our
lives. A concept I was particularly interested in is Exercise. This is a significant activity that
plays a vital role for every person in this world.
Between Nutrition and Psychology I have gained a further knowledge of the influences of
exercise. In Nutrition Life Sciences, it expresses, Exercise is critical in the maintenance of a
healthy body composition. Furthermore, it improves cardiovascular fitness, raises HDL
cholesterol, slows heart rate, decreases blood pressure, supports brain health, maintains lean
body mass and bone density, it can also improve mental outlook and increase metabolic rate.
(Thompson, 2013) These are some of the many benefits of exercise for the human body.
This topic is important to me because I want to enjoy my life to the fullest physically,
cognitively, and emotionally. I also want the people in my life to do the same. In order for us to
do that exercise is key. The Invitation to the Life Span, has expressed the connection between
exercise and physical and mental health, People who are more fit are likely to resist disease and
to feel healthier as they age. The DRI for exercise is 60 minutes a day. (Thompson, 2013)
Which doesnt seem like that much, but when societys view of exercise is poor, Social norms
make exercise difficult, (Berger, 2014) to say the least.
One factor of inactivity, weight gain, is an increasing issue; In the United States, 65 to
70 percent of adults are overweight. More than half of those overweight people are obese, 6
percent are morbidly obese. (Berger, 2014) Luckily, Invitation to the Life Span has provided a

procedure to follow to break bad habits to set foot on a healthier path along with many other
options, but I am excited to try it for myself and to invite and encourage family to do the same
because in order to change inactivity levels and overall health in the world from children to the
elderly, it starts with an individual to a family to a community. Exercise-friendly communities
have lower rates of obesity, hypertension, and depression. This is not merely a correlation but a
cause. (Berger, 2014) We need to educate people about the benefits of exercise and promote a
social norm of a healthy lifestyle. Live long and prosper.

Works Cited
Berger, K. S. (2014). Invitation to The Life Span. New York, NY: Worth Publishers.

Thompson, J. T. (2013). Nutrition Your Life Science. Wadsworth, CA: Yolanda Cossio.