May 2022: Michigan Moves Month

WHEREAS, physical activity plays a critically important role in overall health; and,

WHEREAS, while many are aware of the physical health benefits of activity, the mental health benefits may be ever more striking and more important as our nation deals with the mental health consequences of the pandemic; and,

WHEREAS, recent research suggests being active for as little as 15 minutes everyday can reduce depression by 26%. Additional research shows a 20% reduction in developing anxiety by maintaining higher levels of physical activity; and,

WHEREAS, physical activity is a cost-effective, fun, safe and evidence-based public health intervention to address chronic lifestyle disease (Diabetes, Heart Disease, Obesity, etc.) as well as mental illness and substance abuse disorders; and,

WHEREAS, despite this well-documented evidence, approximately 50% of Michiganders don’t meet the CDC’s recommendations for overall physical activity; and,

WHEREAS, in an effort to improve the health and wellbeing of Michigan residents, several key physical activity stakeholder groups in the State are coming together to promote fun, meaningful, and health-enhancing physical activity during the month of May, in the first annual Michigan Moves Month;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2022, as Michigan Moves Month to celebrate the physical and mental health benefits of physical activity.