Being active is a good way to reduce stress and improve your mood. If you’ve been feeling lethargic lately, here are 4 tips that might help you get back on track.
TIP 1: Set specific goals and make a plan
If you’re not sure how to start being more active, set some realistic and specific goals. For example, you might want to walk 20 minutes a day or visit the gym once a week. Once you’ve set your goals, think of ways to achieve them — join a walking group or schedule time at the gym in your calendar.
TIP 2: Focus on what you enjoy doing
If you set goals that you don’t really enjoy, they’re less likely to motivate you. For example, if you hate going to the gym, trying to go every day isn’t going to give you the same benefits as if you went just once a week. Instead of focusing on what activities will be effective, think about what things give you pleasure and build your routine around them. For example, if playing tennis makes you happy, arrange matches with friends several times a week instead of running on a treadmill for an hour every day.
TIP 3: Be active during the day
Take the stairs instead of the elevator, park farther from your office building or take five-minute breaks from your desk to stretch and move around throughout the day. Even if you don’t have time for a full workout, any extra movement counts toward your goal of being more active every day.
TIP 4: Make it convenient
If you’re serious about getting in shape, make sure that exercise is easy and convenient. For example, if you want to start running again, schedule your runs first thing in the morning so they’ll happen before any other responsibilities take over your schedule or psyche.
