Sometimes, finding time to move more can feel like just another chore. But adding even a small amount of extra activity into your daily routine can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health.
Finding moments
Finding moments in your day to move more might be easier than you think. It doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or sweating it out in an exercise class. There are plenty of ways you can find moments in your everyday routine, and here are some ideas for how you can make a start.
Morning mobility
Roll out your mat, breathe deeply and get ready for the day ahead. Set aside just five minutes to start your day with a gentle stretch or a short yoga session. You’ll improve your flexibility and prepare your body and mind for the day. Find out more about stretching for flexibility.
Get some fresh air
A quick 10-minute walk or roll outside can work wonders for your mood and reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. It's not about reaching a goal. It's about changing your surroundings and giving yourself a break, to improve both your physical and mental well-being.
Find out more about walking for health.
If you can, use the stairs
Instead of taking the lift, why not use the stairs if you can? It’s a really simple way to get your muscles moving and give your cardiovascular system a boost at the same time.
Take stretch breaks
If you’re sitting down for much of the day, try setting aside a few minutes at regular intervals for a quick stretching session. It will help loosen up your muscles, increase your flexibility, and leave you feeling refreshed.
Activate your chores
Why not make those more mundane tasks a bit more fun? Crank up your favourite music and put a bit more energy into your chores. Who doesn’t want to make those everyday tasks a bit more fun? You might even get some help!
Take a screen detox
If you spend a long time in the same place, especially if you are using a screen, try taking micro-breaks throughout the day. These brief moments of movement help you shake off any stiffness from sitting too long and help refresh your mind.
Find out more why (if we can) we should sit less.
Park further away
If you drive to work or run errands, try parking your car a bit further away from your destination. Not only will you get some fresh air, which is a great way to lift your mood, but you’ll also be adding some physical activity to your day. Using the bus? You could try getting off a stop earlier.
Use your waiting time
You could try using the time you spend waiting to move more. Waiting for the kettle to boil? You could try marching, or arm circles. Waiting for the kids to come out of school? How about some heel raises or shoulder shrugs? Even short bursts of activity add up over time, so try seizing those waiting moments to keep your body moving.
Embrace playtime
After school, if you’re heading off to the local park, why not join in? Pushing the swing, chasing the kids around, or joining in with a game is not only great fun for everyone, but you’ll also give yourself a bit of a workout.
Kitchen Dance Party
Is making dinner a bit of a chore? Well why not turn up the volume and have a kitchen party! Dancing is such a fun way to get your heart rate up that you don’t even notice you’re exercising. It’s a great way to get fitter and lift your spirits!
Move more with Lucy
If you’ve found inspiration to add some moments for movement to your day, you’ll be well on your way to improving your physical and mental wellbeing. So let's get started.
Lucy's home workouts
We've teamed up with the remarkable Lucy Wyndham-Read. Patron, Army veteran, and a leading online fitness instructor, Lucy brings you a playlist of short home workouts to boost your fitness and wellbeing. Ready to take the first step?
How we can help
If you need support with your physical or mental health, feel lonely, or need help with housing, or applying for benefits, just get in touch. We also host free activities and events across the UK so you can spend time with other veterans and find activities to enjoy in your community.
To get support, all you need to do is submit an online form or call our friendly helpline team on 0300 303 9888
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