Finding My Balance

By: Megan Beechy, Wellness Coordinator 1

As the days get shorter and more chilled, it can be a challenge to get moving. Chilly days like this inspire images of oversized sweaters, a large mug of coffee, some fuzzy socks, and a good book or movie. Unfortunately for me, I move a lot less. Which means I’m not hitting my weight or health goals as well as I could be. I have challenged myself to walk more this year.

I’m not a runner, I barely have time for any amount cardio, and honestly with the humidity this summer, working out didn’t feel worth it. But I knew I had to change something to help me keep on track with my goals. So I chose to move more.

Movement keeps our joints supple and strong. It helps our brains stay healthier, our mindset a bit more positive. Walking is an easy way to do that. We walk to the car, into work, and back again. Grocery shopping, events, church, the bank. All are great places to put some steps in. It’s a low impact workout that improves over time. It’s one of the few things we can do without a coach or scheduling. We just do it.

So how can we make a mindful effort to get moving?

Park a bit further from work entrances or the grocery store. This is a great way to add a couple hundred more steps. Instead of stuffing our arms with all the groceries to make that legendary one time trip to the house, make it in a few trips back and forth. Make a point to get up during commercial breaks to get a glass of water or lay on the floor to stretch or work your abs, arms and chest.

Working smarter, not harder, and using each moment intentionally will help keep you healthy and have more of a positive mindset as we head into the short days of fall.