While I fully intend to wear all the cosies during the next few weeks and not veer too far from the kitchen, cooking up one pan dinners and protein pancakes, I know that movement will keep my mind healthy and my bones and muscles stronger for longer 💪. It’s no secret we live more sedentary lives than ever before. We’re all not out working in the fields, many of us work at a desk at home or in the office, and our commute is either non-existent or stuck, sitting in a traffic jam… All this adds up to a less steps.
Even if it’s cold and dark out, I don’t want to give up doing yoga or my weights and daily walks outside even if the wind blows me all over Dublin (how many storms have we had so far…?) Moving our bodies is as natural as breathing and staying stuck to the couch, while tempting, isn’t a good long term health plan. We know that in the Blue Zones, the areas with the oldest and healthiest populations, people incorporate walking daily- often with a good friend alongside for the natter!
The physical benefits of movement are undeniable.
💥A brisk lunchtime walk, taking the stairs, joining a local pool, keeps our cardiovascular system ticking so our brains and bodies move us towards a healthier future. I know some people have those walking pads- a smaller version of a treadmill to use while working at their desks. They adjust the height of their desks up to arm level, switch on the mini walking pad, so they can work and workout at the same time. I am kind of conflicted about these walking pads. I worry that we are too housebound already and that a walk in the fresh air is better for our health. Not only does it allow us a change of scenery-getting outside, seeing and talking to people can lift our spirits too.
Another hot trend is a weighted vest, to be used while briskly walking outside. I don’t have one, but the thinking behind these is that we increase muscle and bone density by lifting additional weight while we move.
Your Health Doesn’t Need Your Excuses!
⏰ Don’t let time constraints become the enemy of investing in your health. We have to make time for ourselves and our health or else our health won’t make time for us!
🏋️ Besides, you don’t need to spend hours in the gym to keep the blood pumping. I usually do a Caroline Girvan weight circuit, and sometimes I go to a yoga class, although more often I’ll just roll out my mat and do my own series. Either way there are loads of online yoga tutorials; I also did a 10 Day Use it Or Lose It Series with my sister, Rachel. It’s FREE and FUN!
So many of you have added my fabÜ JOINT-BONE-MUSCLE to your wellness routines. Whether you’re increasing your reps or starting out and need supplemental help to support your fitness, this beautiful blend of turmeric, vitamins C D & K, as well as glucosamine and Reishi mushroom, you are all FEELING so much better and stronger!
I’d also add more REST to your routine. As contradictory as it sounds, sometimes when we work out too hard, we get burnt out, or worse, injured… It’s always good to get that cat nap in or an early night to recharge your muscles from today’s workouts to be tomorrow’s gains.
I don’t always feel like working out but I always feel better afterwards! I also try to think about the expression: Use it or lose it! I don’t want to lose my mobility and independence. I want to be vibrant and kicking up my heels for ages.
Let’s build our muscles and bodies today to carry us well into our stronger future!
Laura x
