Are you making yourself sick just thinking about finding the time to be healthier? Surely you can spare five minutes here and there, right? Here are five quick ways to get you on your way to better health.
Ditch the drugs
Go through your medicine cabinets and get rid of your expired medications. After the expiration date, drugs may not be as effective as they’re supposed to be and in some cases, they’re not safe either. But DO NOT flush them away. The American Pharmacists Association has guidelines here on how to toss those drugs safely.
Move it
You’ve probably heard a few ways to squeeze in more activity throughout your day like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking around your office for a few minutes when you can. Here’s another tip – next time you’re at work, leave something you need that day in your car – maybe your lunch or some important notes. After a couple hours of work, take a quick break and go get them. Walk to your car and back briskly. Oh, and take the stairs.
Exercise your brain
Research shows working out your brain can make you sharper and could also reduce the risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Start a little Sudoku or a crossword puzzle after dinner or during your lunch break – you can always finish it later.
Stretch as you shower
It’s the perfect place, really. The hot water helps loosen up your muscles so you can get a good stretch. Stretch your hamstrings, quads, and arms. Maybe do a few shoulder rolls as you shampoo! You’ll feel less tension as you start your day.
Take a breather
Grab a quick minute to just close your eyes and focus on your breath. Count to 10 as you slowly inhale through your nose, thinking positive thoughts. Exhale through your mouth, again counting to 10. This time release all the tension and stress out of your body. Repeat if you have a few more seconds.
Since these are small changes, you won’t feel overwhelmed so you’re more likely to keep doing them. As they become second nature to you, gradually make more small healthy changes.
What quick things do you do to be healthier? Share them in the comments!
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I keep a water bottle with me at all times. There is a water bottle at my desk all day and I make sure to carry a water bottle with me every where I go.
I like them! Thanks!
I need to work on exercising my brain more often for sure!!!
I can do those, thanks
I like the idea of leaving something in your car and then taking a walk to get it after a few hours. (note to self-don’t wear heels on those days!)
Stretching is also huge-I do yoga almost everyday on yogatoday.com and if I miss a day, I can totally feel it in my lower back and hips.
Great tips!