Stay Positive and Stay Active!

By Devon Cox, MMC Weight Loss and Wellness Nutrition Counselor

Regular physical activity is important for staying healthy.  Moderate-intensity physical activity is associated with better immune function and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. 

Indoor Activities

• Put some music on and walk briskly around the house or up and down the stairs for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times per day
• Dance to your favorite music
• Jump rope/mock jump rope if you don’t have a rope
• Do an exercise video (there are several free ones online)
• Use home cardio machines if you have one
• Download a strength workout app to your smart phone
• Perform yoga - deep breathing and mindfulness can also reduce anxiety
• Find ways to do simple muscle strengthening exercises around your house such as: using food cans or water jugs for weights
• Squats or sit-to-stands from a sturdy chair
• Push-ups against a wall, the kitchen counter or the floor
• Lunges or single leg step-ups on stairs

Outdoor Activities (if allowed by your government)

• Walk or jog around your neighborhood (stay 6 feet away from others)
• Be active in a local park - spending time in nature may enhance immune function
• Go for a bicycle ride
• Do gardening and lawn work
• Play active games with your family

Don’t sit all day! For example: If watching TV,get up periodically and do a lap around your home or an active chore. For example: throw some clothes in the laundry, do the dishes or take out the garbage. Also, maybe don’t skip commercials;use that time to add some exercise. For example: squats for 1st commercial, wall push-ups for 2nd,and quick march in place for 3rd is a good full body exercise routine. Feel more productive &healthier after just one show!