7 Easy Ways to Stay Active in 2013!

“We all know that we need regular exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Though that may seem like a big commitment, it’s a lot easier than you might think!” Instead of spending the next 30 minutes driving to the bakery and selecting a delicious chocolate cake that will only take two bites to consume, spend these 30 minutes outdoors, engaging in an activity that will improve your health and make you more energetic! With the New Year rolling into its 3^rd month, have you by now forgotten your New Year resolution to “exercise more?” Although creating a generic workout plan is beneficial, you don’t need to sign up for the gym to live an active lifestyle. The following seven simple habits can effortlessly work into your hectic daily schedule while achieving your New Year Resolution and staying active! 1) Go for a walk at your local park Take advantage of the beautiful weather while participating in the most healthy and simple exercise. Improve your cardiovascular fitness, your respiratory system, and your emotional wellbeing. 2) Bike or walk to work or school If you live close to work, leave your car at home. Ride your bike or walk to work; feel more invigorated! 3) Join a sport league Whether you like baseball, football, or basketball, join a local league. It does not matter what level your play is, there’s always a league that is right for you. Enjoy the excitement of a team sport, get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. 4) Walk with a co-worker or friend on lunch breaks Sitting in the lunch room can be dull at times so go for a walk and keep the blood flowing within your body! 5) Take the stairs instead of an elevator Oxygenate your system, wake your mind, burn calories and get your joints and muscles working. At the same time prevent sharing small spaces with individual who may be suffering from colds, the flu, or other contagious diseases. 6) Do chores around the house The possibilities for exercise at home are endless!

• Replace your gas lawnmower with a new push mower
• Plant a new garden, with some vegetables
• Hand wash your car

7) Park your car at the farthest end of the lot when going to a store We all laugh at the individual who waits 10 minutes for a car to free up the best parking spot at the mall. Swim against the stream on this one, park your car as far as you can from the main entrance to the mall. Walk a bit, feel invigorated. Since the Stone Age, when people were hunting and gathering, the human body was designed for activity. Exercising and following the above strategies regularly, will make you look and feel better each and every day! So why is staying active so important? There are 4 reasons: 1) A Healthy Heart Regular physical activity or movement can lower blood pressure, stress, cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of illnesses such as heart disease or different types of diabetes. 2) A Sense of Well-Being Staying active can increase your energy levels, reduce anxiety/depression, improve your self-esteem and help manage stress. 3) A Good Social Life Want to make new friends and spend quality time with your family? Staying active is a great way to do so and can make your quality of life a lot more enjoyable! 4) Looking and Feeling Better When you stay in shape and stay active, you look better, feel better and it helps you tone your muscles and improve your posture. You can maintain a healthy weight and stay confident in the way you look for social outings. If you’re reading this article, you are already on your way to a healthier you! All you have to do now is follow the seven strategies and you’ll be well on your way in always staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To read more about health tips and quick wellness facts, subscribe to our blog, Like us on Facebook or Follow us on Twitter.