Adding More Movement to Your Days

By Donna Stark

You don't exactly want to pull out your yoga videos and you definitely don't want to start a new running program, but you do want to add just a little bit of extra movement into your days while you are stuck at home, isn't that right? Well, I think I can help you out! Finding ways to stay physically active without increasing the amount of exercise you engage in every day is actually not as hard as you would think. In fact, it is probably one of the easiest things you can do to improve your overall health and wellness.

Adding Movement to Your Routine

If you flip-flop back and forth from your sedentary lifestyle to your serious workouts and have trouble figuring out how to add movement during the times in between, take a look at the following suggestions. You may be surprised at how easy it is to incorporate new habits into your days.

• Go outside - Sunny skies and gentle breezes are the perfect conditions for stepping outside and getting some fresh air and if you do, there is a good chance that your initial step outside will turn into lots of steps outside. It's a good idea to make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes so you can allow this to happen!
• Sit on the floor - Do you sink into the cushions every time you sit on the couch? Is it impossible to move into a different position once the couch has conformed to your body? Well, you can try sitting on the floor more often then! In addition to helping you stay focused on your posture, sitting on the floor can also keep you moving. You will sway, you will change positions, and you may even be encouraged to stretch!
• Stretch - Speaking of stretching, why don't you try to take some breaks throughout your day to stretch those tired and tense muscles of yours? Daily stretching helps to ease any pain, improve range of motion, and increase flexibility. Trust me, your body will end up loving you for it!
• Establish new habits - You can add more movement to your routine if you force yourself to do it. For example, you can give yourself permission to make that second cup of coffee but only if you do a couple of lunges first. Or you can stop asking your children to retrieve that particular item you forgot in the other room and get it yourself. Little things like this can definitely add up.

All Movement Counts

It's time to get your body moving more and fortunately, all movement counts. So take the time to see where you can add more physical activity into your days and do it! It won't take long before you feel the difference.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Renton, Wash.