Move More

Move more!

For many, the COVID-19 pandemic and home confinement have caused the need to move more to be nonexistent. We know the benefits of decreased blood glucose, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol, and weight loss.

Concerns about not being able to go anywhere and what to do had been scary. One way to stay protected was to be in the safety of your home, and moving for exercise was not a planned event.

So let’s talk about three things you can start doing now that will help you see results. I believe in simple steps. Steps that might seem silly, but start and let’s see what happens.

The first step is to remember you can do anything you put your mind to. The mind can trick you into believing there is nothing to do but to sit, watch television, or sleep. It is time to stand up and walk in place for five minutes. The five minutes can be just before eating a meal or during a TV commercial break. Try walking for five minutes anytime you say, “I have nothing to do.”

The second step requires no money or exercise equipment. The dress attire is casual comfort. If you are comfortable with what you are wearing, then you are ready to get started. At times we put off doing things because we feel that we have to go to a gym or fitness center or buy special clothing.

Here is what to do: Turn on music and move your body for 10 minutes. You can move while sitting in a chair or standing up. You can move your arms, legs, and any other body parts. Be creative.

The third step is to smile with gratitude while you walk outside with a purpose to move. Imagine walking and thinking about being grateful for enjoying the fresh air, moving your arms and legs. As you move more, the weight of stress starts to disappear. Your gratitude list starts to replace the unpleasant feelings and emotions that have taken space in your world. Suppose you are unable to move outside; then you can do step three in your home. The key to this success is the feeling of gratitude.

Life is often unfair or inconvenient. Moving more is one way to stop and change your situation. Five minutes might not seem long, but it is a place to start and slowly increase weekly. Music can lighten the heart and your weight. You can do this alone or with someone else. The last step to move while feeling grateful will change how you move and feel. The three steps will decrease blood sugar readings and weight if done 5–7 days a week and you increase to 10-15 minutes a day. Start slow and increase your time by 2–3 minutes a week.

Moving more leads to improved health.

Linda Wadud

Core Basics Health, LLC