Take a Break

Most people I know enjoy their jobs.  They like who they work with, find their work atmosphere fulfilling and are looking for promotions.  Putting in extra hours or taking on additional projects are important for advancement, but can be harmful if you do not take care of your body.  The traditional work day can be extremely demanding, especially if you are an active individual.  

Sitting in front of a computer all day is draining.  If you are anything like me, you sometimes leave work ready to take a long nap.  What used to be a normal routine of working out after work has become a challenge.  Instead of getting upset with yourself, reward yourself with small breaks throughout the workday.  Every 30 minutes get up and take a short walk, even if it is only to the water fountain.  If you have an hour lunch break, use that time to workout for 30 minutes.  Examples include taking a walk, use the fitness facility at your office, or taking a meditation class.  Incorporating fitness into your workday energizes you for the rest of the day, increases your morale and leaves you with a positive outlook.


Yours in health,

JoAnne

Catching Some Zzzzzzz....

Sleep is something many people take for granted.  They have no problem falling to sleep the second their head hits the pillow!  If any of you are like me, your sleep habits are not that easy.  When I lie down in bed I notice that my head is spinning.  I'm constantly thinking of what I have to do the next day, if the doors are locked, what I'm wearing to work and the next item on my to-do list.  This nervous energy makes it difficult to fall asleep easily and instead it can become a silent struggle to get comfortable and relax.

 

Here's what I have come to realize....even as adults, we need night time rituals.  Remember when you were young and your parents would put you in your PJs, help you brush your teeth, ready you a story and say your prayers?  We need to reestablish a ritual as we get older.  Give yourself an hour to mellow out before you hit the sheets.  Drink tea, write in a journal and listen to relaxing music.  Allowing yourself to unwind puts your mind at ease so that you can get sleep soundly and be productive the next day.

Yours in health,

JoAnne

The Fit Life: Early Morning Workouts

How many of you love to work out?  I mean, love it so much that you set your alarm at 5am to wake up and get your sweat on?  Sweating produces those "feel good" endorphins that we need to have a positive outlook on life, make healthy choices and life a positive lifestyle.  Too often we struggle with the demands of work and every day life to the point that at the end of the day we forget to take care of ourselves! 

Accept this challenge: For the next week set your alarm 1 hour ahead of schedule and work out before you start your day...I promise you, you'll feel energized, healthy and ready to take on the world!

Yours in health,

JoAnne