Everyone wants to stay young for as long as possible. The legendary fountain of youth lured ancient adventurers into a lifetime of vain searching. In time it became a sign for an hopeless dream. That was then. Today science seems able to put at least part of this dream within reach of nearly all of us.

What do I mean?

When the explorers were searching for a secret fountain that would keep them young forever, many people were dying in early adulthood of infectious diseases. Today improved sanitation and hygiene, along with antibiotics and vaccines, have almost done away with those diseases. The fight has now centered on lifestyle diseases. These are the diseases that are now robbing us of our energy, disabling us and killing us slowly.

The good news is that greater energy, better health and longer life can be ours through regular, brisk physical activity.

Can exercise really be the modern day fountain of youth?

If you were to take a look at the facts you will see; that inactivity is killing us. Do you remember the expression "Use it or lose it?" It does not only apply to muscles and bones but also hearts, lungs, brains, blood vessels, joints and every other part of the body.

Exercise not only helps us live longer it also helps us feel better. Here are some of the ways:

1). Exercise helps you feel good. Life becomes more fun, and the high that comes from exercise won't let you down later. Moreover, the hormones producing the exercise high also promotes good health.

2). Exercise strengthens our hearts. This is extremely important in a country where thousands die everyday from heart attacks.

3). Exercise also lowers our blood pressure.

4). Exercise lowers the bad cholesterol and raises the good cholesterol. Decreasing your risk of heart disease.

5). Exercise strengthens bones by retaining calcium and other minerals.

6). Exercise helps depression. Outside activities are most valuable. Long walks in the park, or an area that you really like does wonders in lifting depression.

7). Exercise relieves anxiety and stress. If you are in a high stress job, it will be beneficial to do some type of exercise.

8). Exercise increases overall energy and efficiency in our lives.

9). Exercise helps you lose and maintain desirable weight levels. It builds muscles and burns fat. Moderate exercise controls appetite by temporarily increasing blood sugar levels.

10). Exercise improves circulation, and that makes for clearer minds, better sleep, and faster healing of damaged body areas.

Exercise along with a healthful lifestyle can hold back the aging process as much as 30 years.