Spring into Action!

Spring is officially here (even if Mother Nature seems a little unsure at times—classic New England, right?). But the birds are singing, the peepers are peeping, and flowers are blooming, which means it's the perfect time to breathe new life into your wellness routine.

It’s also the best time of the year to get outdoors and exercise - whether you already have an exercise ritual or you are trying to get back in the groove, the longer days and warmer temperatures definitely play a role in motivating us to get out there and move!

But, you don’t have to rely solely on planned exercise and workouts to burn calories, tone muscle or improve your cardiovascular system. There are so many little action steps you can take throughout the day to benefit your physical well being.  These activities where you burn calories outside of sleep, eating or formal exercise are called N.E.A.T. (non exercise activity thermogenesis). I think it’s pretty awesome that by just tweaking your normal routines you can increase the number of calories you burn.  Here is a link to an article if you’d like to learn more What is N.E.A.T.

Strategies to Move More: 

• Take the stairs when available

• Park far from your destination 

• Make the most of waiting time (i.e. practice squats while waiting for the microwave)

• Arrange active dates/gatherings rather than coffee/lunches

• Organize walking meetings

• Fidgeting, yes, fidgeting can burn calories

• Sit on a stability ball

• Use an under desk elliptical

• Stretch

• Join your kids in play at the park rather than just supervising  

• Do your own inside/outside chores 

• Walk faster when on errands