Jennifer Closshey hopes you're sticking to your goals.
By Jennifer Closshey
New Year’s resolutions bring focus to areas in our lives that we want to change or improve. But, just a few weeks into the new year, many of us find that this focus has gotten lost in the “I’m too busy” department. Unfortunately, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, self-improvement plans are usually the first to go.
Why should they?
The many benefits of exercise, including stress reduction, are reason enough to keep up with your original plan. When your schedule is too full for a longer exercise period, you should simply find ways for more frequent, but shorter, periods of physical activity. A simple 10 minutes, two to three times a day, can work wonders.
Some of these ideas might help.
ON YOUR FEET
Walk when you can. Walk the dog twice a day — you both deserve it. A brisk walk before eating lunch helps boost metabolism while reducing hunger. Park the car in the furthest parking spot. Skip the elevator, and take the stairs. Walk around the field or block when waiting on your children. Power walk when shopping. Zoom around the grocery store or mall, while being careful of others.
PICK AND CHOOSE
Use time more effectively. Reduce TV and idle computer time — go for a walk instead. The YMCA offers TVs at the treadmills, bikes, stair steppers and elliptical machines. Slip in some sit ups and push ups when listening to the evening news. I do toe raises and squats when watching the local weather report, as it takes just the right amount of time. These types of exercises quickly bring benefits, making us want to be more active
GET ‘ER DONE
Do more projects around the house. Burn calories while scrubbing, mopping and vacuuming. Washing the car, the dog or the lanai can be added to your daily exercise quota. Wash your windows: you’ve got Florida sunshine, fresh air and a water hose. Have fun. Laughter reduces stress and creates positive body chemistry.
MIX IT UP
Climb the stairs at home, if you have stairs, more often. Take items up or down stairs one at a time to maximize exercise time and benefits. Getting up 30 minutes earlier to tackle an extra project, or to take a walk, adds up.
BOND
Make the most of family time. Walk or hike with loved ones or friends. Play tag with the kids. Kick a soccer ball or shoot a few hoops. The fresh outdoors is free and inviting.
Jennifer E. Closshey, Ph.D., is a doctor of integrative holistic health based out of Plant City. She teaches restorative yoga classes at the Plant City Family YMCA on Thursdays.
