Incorporate More Movement Into Your Day
Forget about exercise. That word can be so cringy. Remember those sweaty and smelly PE classes with required sit-ups, push-ups and…the dreaded running? Yah, me too.
Would it help to reframe exercise as movement? Because that’s really all it is. This simple switch in wording can open up your mind in terms of all the things that “count” and give you that shot of endorphins we all crave.
- Walking to your classes? Movement.
- Dancing to your favorite tune while cooking dinner? Movement.
- Playing hide-and-go-seek while babysitting? Movement.
Busy schedules can make it hard to fit in time for movement, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. How does squeezing small bouts of movement into your day sound? Much more manageable, right? Here are 8 ways to start sneaking more movement in throughout your day:
1. Take the stairs
Taking the stairs is an awesome alternative to taking the elevator. You can build strength in your legs and it only takes a minute longer than an elevator ride. If you live on the top floor and taking the stairs is too much, then try going halfway up the stairs and the rest on the elevator. You will be able to get to the top of the stairs without getting out of breath in no time! (Well, then again, here at 7,000 feet you’ll always get a GOOD workout. The truth is in Flagstaff, stairs means you’ll probably always be out of breath…or is it just me?)
2. Go for a walk
Taking a quick walk around the block between classes can help you recharge and enjoy the outdoors. Maybe you would prefer to take a walk in the evening to enjoy the beautiful Arizona sunset. Walks are a great opportunity for you to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and explore your surroundings. You can also use apps like Pokemon Go to help keep you motivated to get moving.
3. Park further away
Running errands is a convenient time for you to squeeze in some extra exercise. Walking around stores is good exercise, but parking further away can encourage you to move even more! Plus, it will make finding a parking spot way easier.
4. Walk or bike instead of drive
As the weather begins to warm up, it is the perfect opportunity to take walks. Take advantage of this opportunity to walk or bike to the store or to class. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains around Flagstaff!
5. Make your bed in the morning
Start the day off right by making your bed in the morning. This extra opportunity for movement can help you wake up and feel energized for the rest of your day. Your room will also look great!
6. Do some chores
Take a look around your room. There are probably a few things that you’ve been thinking about cleaning up. Taking 5-10 minutes to get some chores done can help you re-organize and move around. Not only can you sneak in some exercise, but you can create a more positive and clean environment for yourself to come home to.
7. Take a stretch break
Sitting at a desk all day while at Zoom University can make your body feel really tight and tired. Try taking a quick stretch break between classes to help keep you feel refreshed and focused. Check out this link for an article by the Mayo Clinic about different stretches you can do while sitting at your desk.
8. Walk the dog
If you are lucky enough to live with a dog, that dog will be super thrilled for you to take them out for a walk. Even just short 10-minute walks can do wonders for your mood and energy. If you are a dog lover but don’t have a dog, find a friend with a dog who lives nearby and see if they’ll let you walk their dog for them regularly (no charge!). The FUTS trails in Flagstaff are perfect for this!