In the realm of locum dental nursing, movement is more than just physical transitions from task to task or location to location. Movement for dental professionals is important for staying active for our well-being. Physical activity beyond our work environment has amazing benefits for mental health, reducing stress and boosting positivity.
Movement causes your brain to release 'feel good' chemicals like endorphins and serotonin that help improve your mood. It also improves your fitness, which can help lift your mood. Doing physical activity can also distract you from negative thought patterns, therefore can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety which is all to familiar as a locum- Constantly jumping from one job to the next, meeting new people, facing new challenges – it can really get your nerves going.
We are often told that exercise is important for our mind and body, however when we are told this, a lot of us automatically think of having to go to the gym, pay for classes and participate in vigorous workouts. Exercise does not have to mean this.
The benefits of Movement for Dental Professionals:
A better night’s sleep
Regular exercise can improve our sleep quality, which supports our healthy brain function. When we exercise our body releases good feel chemicals which can help to reduce pre-sleep anxiety as well as insomnia, and sleep apnoea and is also essential for maintaining the highest standards of care and professionalism in our line of work- whether you are dentist providing treatment, or practice manager ensuring the smooth running of your dental practice.
Improves your thinking and memory
Research shows that your concentration is enhanced after exercise, helping with focus and problem-solving—essential skills for making clinical decisions in dentistry. Our hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning, actually grows during regular physical activity. Long term, exercise can also help to combat brain ageing and Alzheimer’s through improved blood flow and increased levels of important proteins in the brain
Improves energy levels
Starting your day with some physical activity can help you feel more energised and ready to tackle the rest of the day thanks to the release of endorphins in the brain, they not only reduce your perception of pain but trigger a positive feeling in the body
Reduces risk off illness
Dental professionals often spend long hours standing or sitting in static positions while performing procedures. Regular movement helps prevent stiffness, muscle fatigue, and discomfort, promoting better overall physical health and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal problems like back pain or repetitive strain injuries.
Improves your confidence
Self-esteem and how we feel about ourselves is an important part of our mental health. When we exercise our bodies feel better physically and mentally which in turn can help us feel better about our quality of life and have a more positive attitude towards ourselves and give us the confidence we need to tackle challenges and make informed decisions. It also instills trust and reassurance in patients, leading to better treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
A stress release
The dental industry can be fast-paced and demanding, leading to high levels of stress. Regular exercise is a natural stress-reliever, helping to reduce tension and anxiety associated with the job. As stress levels decrease, confidence levels increase, enabling dental professionals to approach their work with greater calmness and composure. When stress is intense and constant, it can result in changes to the brain that can contribute to the development of physical and mental illnesses. Exercise is one of the most popular recommendations by health care professionals to alleviate stress. Physical activity reduces levels of our body’s stress hormones including adrenalin and cortisol while having a positive effect on your cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems
Reduces social isolation
Locum dental nursing can often feel isolating, but many physical activities are groups which encourage you to get into more social settings such as parks, the beach and walking tracks. This can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and put you in touch with other people
Team Collaboration
Movement breaks provide opportunities for informal interactions and collaboration among dental team members. Taking a short walk or engaging in light exercise together fosters camaraderie, strengthens professional relationships, and promotes a supportive work environment.
‘Movement’ can be a range of activity; it can be incorporated daily into your routine and for free. Prioritizing movement in the dental industry is essential for maintaining physical health, enhancing cognitive function, reducing stress, and fostering a positive work environment. By incorporating regular movement breaks into their daily routines, dental professionals can promote overall well-being and ensure optimal performance in their roles.