HEALTHY HABITSâ—½ YOU
I follow a lady in her 70’s (actually two!) that shares ways she stays healthy and strong, and one way she does is by being mindful of her movements all day. I like that, and I try to do that as well.
Because, let’s admit it. There are some days that a planned exercise routine or heading to the gym or even walking a trail just doesn’t happen.
But everyday life does happen, and we can always move.
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Here are ten ways to keep moving, to keep ourselves strong, alert, and limber!
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While you get ready in the morning, do push-ups from the counter, while standing there.
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When watching a show at night, do some leg lifts or scoots across the floor.
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When you’re in the kitchen, play music, and dance while you clean or bake…and wait.
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While at the movies, instead of reclining your chair, hang down your legs and lift them back and forth several times during that two-hour story.
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When sitting a while at your desk, reach and stretch, and do butt squeezes in your chair.
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When you do have a short break, head outside and walk around the block, even if all you have is 15 minutes. The sun AND the walk will do your body good!
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When your mind is full and your heart is heavy, take a few minutes to pause and give thanks for at least five things…starting with salvation. Is this movement? Sure it is. You’re moving that heavy load to his shoulders.
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When you’re cleaning your house, be mindful of all the movements and make them extravagant. Bend several times to get things out of the dryer, lift your hands and march from room to room while you vacuum, and make movement enjoyable in each room!
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While preparing dinner, grate that cheese instead of buying it already grated (it’s better for you, and your arms get a workout!)
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While out running errands, park farthest away from the door. This is something we all forget to do, and don’t want to do, but it’s a good do!
You have your own daily routines that perhaps you can think of ways to incorporate more movement while you do all of the things. Like watering your plants and maybe skipping from spot to spot. Or even doing jumping jacks a few times a day. Or how about grabbing his hand for a dance before bed? See! There are lots of ideas. Print some out. Hang them where you can read them, and move…daily…and see if you don’t feel better when you do.