Just Move - A Must For Wellness!

Lately I have been hit with the true reality that we have become a sedentary society. Even though we have workout facilities, dance studios, groups sports, exercise clubs etc... we as a society are really MOVING on a regular basis. When you think about it we sit at our computers, in front of our TV's, playing video games, sitting at meetings etc... We are at a point in our society that we need to go back to basics and just MOVE!!!

Moving is not only important ot our physical health but it is also important to our emotional health. Have you ever stopped what you were doing while perhaps at the office, and just got up, started moving - perhaps take a walk around the office or a quick 5 minute walk to get some fresh air? Didn't you feel invigorated, rejuvenated and refreshed? It is amazing how that little bit of movement can create such a positive impact on our bodies and our attitude.

There are a few things that you can start to do to get yourself motivated to start adding moving to your daily routine. Before you know it you will want to incorporate a regular exercise program to your schedule. Really, the movement gets addictive (you know the happy hormones - the endorphins) and next thing you know you WANT more movement.

Here are a few tips:
*Make sure you getup from your desk if you can at least once an hour at the most - walk to the water cooler, the bath room, around the office etc - the goal - push away from the computer and move your body even if it is for five minutes
if you are at the office or in a place that is a confined space take five minutes and stretch! Put your arms straight over your head and clasp your fingers and stretch to the left and then to the right. Do this five times on each side. Be careful not to bounce but to stretch.

*Keep yourself hydrated. You would be surprised how many people do not drink enough liquids (coffee doesn't count in this case!) Would you disagree? When was the last time that you actually drank 8 glasses of water in a day? Dehydration occurs when more fluid leaves your body than is taken in. Symptoms include: fatigue, irritability, headaches, nausea, rapid heart rate, and, in extreme cases, even death. Dehydration also slows your metabolism,which hinders weight loss. Most importantly keeping yourself hydrated gives you the energy to MOVE. The electrolytes start going and you feel better and you want to MOVE, which will make you feel even better.

*This may sound funny but when you are doing your housekeeping (an activity we all love right?) turn on some music and MOVE while you work. Push that vacuum cleaner to the music, dust and stretch to the music, instead of walking through the house doing your chores do a little job to the next chore, jogg in place while washing dishes (be safe don't drop anything)
Find a partner you can MOVE with, perhaps a neighbor or co-worker who will not only MOVE with you but encourage you and coach you to push yourself further

Once you get use to moving more and making an effort to stop your sedentary lifestyle, you are ready for the next step. A bona fide fitness program! One that is fun, challenging and help you to achieve the goals you have set for yourself when it comes to your fitness and health.

Good luck with you new approach to life...JUST MOVE!


Lynnis Woods-Mullins, CEO and Founder , PraiseWorks Health and Wellness
Lifestyle Coach, Health and Wellness
Host, "The Wellness Journey" on Voice America Health and Wellness Network
www.praiseworks.biz