Tiny Habits That Make Movement Easier
By Genevieve Cunningham
Movement matters more than we know. Too often, we think that we can sit around, watch TV, eat whatever we want, and our health will miraculously stay the same. But it doesn't work that way. What we do affects our health, and if we want good health, then we absolutely must make movement a priority. But how? If you're not currently exercising, that probably feels like a big request. To get moving toward a life of movement, take a look at these tiny habits that can make all the difference.
Stretch While You Watch
If you're in the habit of coming home and watching TV, then use that time to improve your body and movement. How? Get on the floor and stretch! Stretching elongates the muscle, works out soreness, and improves range of motion over time. You can follow a routine from the internet, or you can learn a few stretches that you enjoy and do them over and over again. If it hurts at first, don't get discouraged. The more you stretch, the better it will feel, and the more you'll want to stretch. And the improvements in your general movement will keep coming slow and steady.
Get Up, Get Up, Get Up
Sometimes the hardest part is just getting up. Make it a habit to get up as much as possible. If you need the remote or a drink of water, don't call your spouse or your kid to grab it on their way through. Just get up. If you can do an activity standing -- like typing or folding laundry -- then stand instead of sit. You'll be impressed by how much easier it is to move when you get off your behind and on your feet! Give this a try, and the results will come.
Walk Throughout Your Day
There was a point in time that we all walked everywhere. Luckily, we don't have to do that anymore. We have modern conveniences that take us wherever we need to go. But we've gone too far in the opposite direction. Now we rarely walk! If you want more movement, walk more often throughout your day. Don't immediately look for the closest parking spot. Don't immediately take the elevator. Walk! This can improve your physical health, your strength, your stamina, and even your mental wellness. Get up, start walking, and enjoy the benefits.
Movement is important. It's crucial! Use these tips to help incorporate more movement into your everyday life. With more movement, you'll feel better, look better, and be more productive in work and play moving forward.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Boynton Beach, Fla.