So here we are in 2022! The beginning of a New Year is typically a time where we make resolutions and want to have a good start. Gym facilities get busier, we make diet and nutritional changes and want to leave the holiday sugar, alcohol and stress behind and start to feel refreshed and renewed. But then life happens something causes us to fall “off the wagon” we might get frustrated with ourselves and give up. I am here to tell you that please do not give up. Over the next few months I am going to share with you tips to help you sustain the steps you would like in the New Year. I like to refer to these as the three M’s; Movement, Metabolism and Mindset. It is OK to feel frustrated at times or like you are climbing a mountain to reach your goals., but every little change that is a positive health step will make you feel better. So lets talk about those steps and how moving into the New Year can be fun and sustainable.
January is Movement month. As humans we are designed to move. Sitting at a computer for work or a school desk is not ideal for the human body. Any type of movement is good, as it does not have to be a drastic change! I have a few tips for you below.
1. Start with what you like. Any movement needs to be something you enjoy. If you do not enjoy going to a gym it is probably not best to join even if your family or friends say you should.
2. Move with someone else. Do you enjoy moving with a family member or friend or prefer work-outs on your own. There are so many options. You can start with getting out and taking a walk. Do you enjoy snow shoeing, XC skiing or ice-skating? These activities will get you outside and enjoying nature at the same time.
3. Does the cold bother you. So maybe it is better to do a form of activity indoors. There are many free options such as;
- Yoga with Adrienne on You Tube
- Pilates for beginners, full body and for seniors on You tube
- Daily stretching work-outs on You tube
- Sit and be fit for those who need to start slower or health issues that limit movement.
These work-outs range from 10 minutes to up to an hour depending on your schedule and what you enjoy.
4. Make changes slowly. If you have not done regular activity start with walking. It is one of the best forms of movement and we all should be walking daily. Set a timer if working from home so that you can get up and walk or stretch every couple of hours to get away from desk or computer. When you are out running errands park further away from your destination so that you can take a few more steps.
Remember, any form of movement will benefit you. Always be sure to check with your health care practitioner when starting any new form of exercise; especially if it is of a higher intensity such as a cardio work-out.
