There is no doubt moms have a tough job. Their days start and end like a well-rehearsed symphony seemingly moving from one task to the next without skipping a beat. Because of this, it’s important to take time out of your busy schedule and focus on your health. A regular regimen that includes a healthy diet and exercise will help you to de-stress and stay in shape, giving you the energy to take care of your family.
Exercise does more than keep your body fit
Going to a gym like Fitness19 gives you access to multiple forms of exercise. You can work with weights, ride bikes or sign up for a few classes to add variety to your workout. If your schedule doesn’t afford you the luxury of going to a gym, there are many other ways to get into shape. Take a bike ride, a jog, run or long walk. Or you can turn a room in your home into a designated place to work out. There are also a variety of videos you can find online that you can fit into your busy life without the need for leaving your house. The important thing is to find something you enjoy doing and get in a workout at least a few days a week.
Benefits of exercise
Exercise does more than tone your body. When you get your blood pumping and your heart rate increases, your body releases dopamine into the brain. This makes you feel good, stabilizes your mood and naturally thwarts off depression and anxiety. A strenuous workout also makes you stronger, increases your energy level and makes you assertive and confident. You’ll also fall asleep faster and sleep better. When you sweat your body burns calories faster so you’ll enjoy the added bonus of being able to enjoy that piece of chocolate cake guilt-free.
Patience
When you give yourself time alone to do your thing, you feel better and this transfers to all those around you. You lose the trapped and got to-get-out-of-this-rut feeling, making you a better mom and spouse. Everyone needs time to themselves to think, relax and unwind. When you feel fulfilled you have the energy to tackle whatever comes along.
Exercise doesn’t work without a healthy diet
While exercise has many benefits, if you gorge and eat the wrong foods daily you’re not going to get to the level you want. Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, nuts and whole grains give your body the fuel and nutrient it needs to stay healthy. If you enjoy your midday snack, change it to a granola bar, a piece of fruit or a yogurt. Also, drink plenty of water. This will help to defend off false feelings of hunger in between meals while keeping your body hydrated. By you serving healthy meals you’re also starting your children off on the right foot with good eating habits that will transfer over into their adult years.
Raising a family is an important job that you may already handle with perfection. But even a machine needs oil to function properly. Find what exercise you enjoy doing and then do it 2 to 3 times per week. You’ll look and feel better and by taking some well-deserved “Me” time to maintain your health, you’re giving your family the best you possible.