When It Comes to Movement, Snacks Are Great

Snacking is bad for you, right?

Well, not necessarily.

When we use the idea of “snacking” for exercise, or just movement, and other aspects of wellbeing, it can take us far on our daily goals to live better.

We still need our full, well-balanced “meals” of gym workouts, running, etc. But these little “sneak ‘em in” tactics can help us move more, improve mobility, manage stress, and feel better.

But too often, we think of movement and healthy living decisions as strictly “all or nothing” options.

• “I will work out 5 times a week and get in the greatest shape of my life” – or do nothing.
• “I will eat only organic vegetables from local farms,” or whatever is handy and tasty.
• “I will manage my stress better than anybody ever, boy, ” which misses the point entirely. 

Say no to the false choice and enjoy doing whatever you can for yourself, whenever you can.

Here are 10 ideas to get you thinking in the right direction.

1. Start the day with stretches. If a body in motion stays in motion, then why not roll out of bed and do a short, comfortable series of stretches to get the blood flowing and limber you up right away? Go crazy and toss in a few pushups.
2. Take a short walk. Yes, longer walks are better – but when you can’t plan your day around going around the block a couple of times, remember that you don’t have to. Just get up, out, and moving.
3. Breathe deeply. You can do this anytime, no matter what you’re doing. Just pause, take a deep breath, and slowly exhale three times, paying attention to nothing but the air going in and out of your body. If this leads to a more extended, quieter period, that’s even better. (You don’t even have to call it meditation.)
4. Simple leg exercises. Can you do 10 squats during a TV commercial? Raise your heels a few times?
5. Park far from the store. The extra steps matter, and they add up quickly.
6. Take the stairs. Even better!
7. Unplug. Put the phone down. Pick up a book. Or your journal. For 10 minutes. You’ll be amazed.
8. Hydrate. Slowly sip a glass of water. You’re replenishing your body, lubricating your brain, and paying attention to what you’re doing.
9. Have some almonds. Or pecans or walnuts. This is smart snacking, literally, and much better than opening a bag of chips.
10. Dance, dance, dance. During housework. While folding laundry. During a commercial break (yes, you’re sensing a theme here). 

Are you thinking of more ideas? Are you realizing how much more you sit daily? We’re here to help, so let’s talk. The point is to move your body, eat mindfully, manage your emotions, and sleep as much as you should. Those are many of the components of well-being, after all.

According to the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we all need AT LEAST 150 minutes each week of moderate cardio exercise and two resistance training sessions.

And every little bit helps. So, snack away…

If you’re over 50, stuck in a health rut, and are ready to feel like yourself again, our team of functional aging specialists knows precisely what you need to get your health and fitness back where it should be! 

We help men and women over 50 feel better, look better, and age actively- because our life isn’t over as we age; in many ways, it’s just beginning!

Interested in changing your life for the better? 

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of!

Sign up here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

If you have any questions, call us at (361-857-5087), and we’ll discuss how we can help you!