One of our favorite things to talk about when we're with our friends and family is how quickly the month or year has flown by. I'm reminded of this every time I walk upstairs to put my kids to bed and kiss them good night. I walk by all the pictures of them from birth to their present age. Yes, time does fly be. Especially when we're busy.
Right about this time of year, I ask a question in my group exercise classes. It's a famous question that we've all heard many times. Here it is. Brace yourself. "Does anybody have their Christmas shopping done?" That's a great question to ask if you want to get a lot of reactions.
Well, the year has flown by and it's now October. It's not too early to start thinking about Christmas shopping and being mindful of our waist size. Before we know it, we'll be going to parties and socials and having excess food all around us.
We need to have a game plan now versus waiting until it's time to make the dreaded New Year's resolution. We need to increase our physical activity levels now.
Here's some easy ways to increase your activity level while doing your daily chores.
Get Active
Rake the lawn, clip hedges and prune with manual tools, walk the golf course, walk once around your house or work, walk around the block, toss a ball with the kids. Even small changes in your lifestyle can add more activity to your day.
You can: Sweep with a broom instead of a leaf blower, take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to your errands (if possible), park the furthest away and walk, join a dance club, walk the dog twice a day and stay out longer.
Be More Active
Haul branches and plant shrubs, double dig the garden, walk the golf course and carry your clubs, walk three times and climb the stairs, walk around the neighborhood or mall, play soccer or Frisbee with the kids.
Increase your activity levels now so you'll be ready for those holiday parties. Here's to you choosing to live well.
About the author: Jonathan Souder is the fitness director at Manor House, an ACTS Retirement-Life Community in Seaford. Email your thoughts to jsouder@actslife.org.
