Keep on Moving!

The one thing that does not help us in the time of COVID-19 is to be sedentary. Our mind and bodies need to stay active especially when all we seem to do these days is sit at home and work. You don’t have to be involved in a 5k or even workout every single day, but we do need to find time throughout our weeks to stay active.

First thing is first, we must listen to our bodies and determine what is best for us. We are all built differently and not everything will work for everyone, so we must adapt to the things that will benefit us the best. Here are a few helpful questions to guide you into starting your workout regimen:

• Do you feel tight and your body is always aching? Start by adding simple stretches for at least 10-15 minutes 2 or 3 times a week. As we age our body tends to get tighter and therefore needs to be stretched out even if it is minimal. Stop saying you will wait for tomorrow or Monday because all days are practically the same now!
• Do you feel irritable and grumpy a lot? Go out for a 15-30 minute walk. Clear your head and get out for some fresh air. Move those legs. Feel the energy of the outdoors and inhale deeply and exhale that negativity.
• Do you still feel grumpy after that walk? Then you should try some cardio. Cardio helps with blood flow and circulation, overall physical endurance, weight loss, stress, increases metabolism burn, and releases dopamine and serotonin which will help to make you feel good and energized.
• Do you feel like you need more zen in your life? Try Yoga. There are some excellent benefits to yoga including increased mobility and calmness along with strength building. Yoga is not about all these crazy poses that only flexible people can do, but it can really change the way you feel and energize your mind and body.
• Do you feel like you need to lose weight? Try weight lifting. Weight lifting is a great way to boost your metabolism, burn more calories, and help to increase bone density. Weight lifting doesn’t mean you have to go out and purchase all this equipment and weights, it simply means you have the opportunity to get creative and can even do resistance training with workout bands.

YouTube has so many great online videos with endless workouts for free. They also provide so many great tips and tricks if you don’t have the proper equipment. It may be difficult to begin so try asking a friend or a family member to hold you accountable for 2-3 days each week.

Remember the only way to feel different and help yourself is to change your daily habits. You can do it!

Written by:

Amanda Cuoco