Busy work days, jam packed evenings with soccer, ballgames and homework, leaves very little time for exercise, eating properly and taking care of ourselves. Make it a challenge! Squeeze in 30 minutes of exercise 4 times a week without stressing out about getting to the gym. Here are some great tips for getting that exercise boost we all need, regardless of how busy we are and without missing out on valuable family time.

1)      While you help your children with their homework, pace around the room. Make sure you tell your family what you are doing ahead of time so they realize you’re not rushing them or upset with them.

2)      If phone calls are on your evening agenda, pace while you talk. You might want to let the other person on the phone know what you are doing…your hard breathing might be misunderstood! You should be laughing here! Laughter burns calories!

3)      If your job keeps you sitting 8 hours a day…try putting your computer on a taller workspace so you can stand and work. Standing burns twice as many calories than sitting! If that’s not possible, stand up every hour and walk around. Your body and mind will thank you! It might even be possible to get a 5 minute workout session in every hour with co-workers…if your boss approves it. Better yet, get your boss involved, healthier employees means lower insurance premiums!

4)      Remember to keep your posture in check. Sitting at a computer all day or long work commute can lead to a slumped over posture, which can lead to all sorts of physical ailments. So…sit up straight and stand up tall, remember you look taller and thinner when you practice great posture!

5)      Ride an exercise bike, walk on a treadmill, lift weights or walk in place while watching TV. You’ll be shocked how quickly 30 minutes go by when you’re watching something entertaining!

Young or not so young, we can all find ways to get moving. Remember to exercise your mind too. Don’t stop challenging yourself. Learn new things, read new books, talk to a child or a teenager about computers and electronics…I guarantee you’ll be challenged and amazed! Don’t stop loving yourself, be the person you once were or have always wanted to be. There’s a reason God said to love thy neighbor as thyself. Not a self-consuming love, but a love that makes you want to be a better, healthy, wiser and happier YOU!

GET MOVING, THINKING AND GROWING!