It’s no secret that sports have a healing effect on both our body and mind. But if it’s so beneficial for us, why doesn’t everyone practice it? Many people are convinced that physical exercise requires too much effort and time, or that it’s difficult to remember and perform. On the other hand, scientific studies show that even a 30-minute walk has a positive physical and mental effect on us. Moderate movement not only keeps the entire body’s muscles toned, but also improves sex life, uplifts the mood, reduces stress, and helps prevent depression.
You don’t need to lift weights, exhaust yourself cycling, or run until you drop, losing the joy of movement. All you need is to take a little time out of your daily routine to get your body moving.
Here are some of our suggestions on how to do that in an easy and fun way:
1. “On-your-feet” yoga:
Before diving into your next task, during breaks from sitting at the computer, or when you feel fatigued and stiff at the end of the workday, try this short sequence of asanas: Warrior pose, Triangle pose, Backbend in standing position, Side bend with both arms extended, Forward bend with legs apart. The beneficial effect is immediate, and you don’t even need a yoga mat to do them.
2. Three ways to hit the pause button:
When you feel tired, unmotivated, or unable to concentrate, try the well-known breathing technique Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (Alternate nostril breathing), step outside for a breath of fresh air, or spend a few moments in greenery.
3. Sensory walk:
Give yourself this unforgettable experience and turn it into your special personal ritual. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, try to open your senses and let yourself be captivated by the moment. Feel how beautiful and unique each day is! You can perform this ritual while walking to work or on your way home. Try to store all the sensations from the sensory walk in your mind so you can return to them as a form of meditation whenever you need rest or just before going to bed.
4. Join the game:
Turn ordinary exercise into play — run around with your children, throw a frisbee with a friend in the park, put on some music at home and dance. Be spontaneous and curious, ready for adventures. It’s never too late to find your passion, to start something new, to rediscover yourself.
5. Walk barefoot:
Feel how pleasant lightness can be! Walking barefoot is a way to connect with the Earth, to feel grounded and in harmony with your surroundings, and to give your feet a healthy dose of reflex therapy.
6. Hula hoop instead of gym:
Besides being fun, hula hooping helps speed up metabolism. Did you know that in just one minute, you can burn up to 10 calories?
