Why Staying Active Matters Year-Round
As the seasons shift and the world outside transforms, I find myself reflecting on the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, no matter what the weather may bring. It’s all too easy to succumb to the temptation of staying indoors, wrapped in a cocoon of comfort when the days grow shorter and the air turns chilly. But here’s the truth I’ve come to embrace: staying active is a year-round commitment that profoundly impacts both my physical and mental well-being.
THE SEASONAL DANCE
The transition from one season to another can be a dance of challenges and opportunities, affecting us in various ways:
1. Less Daylight
With each passing day, we’re blessed with fewer hours of sunlight. It’s natural for our enthusiasm for outdoor activities to wane as we adjust to this new rhythm. The diminishing natural light can sometimes disrupt our sleep patterns, leaving us feeling a bit worn out and susceptible to mood swings.
2. Weather Surprises
Seasonal changes bring unpredictability, especially when it comes to weather. Rain, snow, and gusty winds can dampen our motivation for outdoor workouts, making us question whether it’s worth braving the elements.
3. Mood Matters
As the seasons evolve, some of us may find ourselves riding emotional waves during the autumn and winter months, with symptoms like fatigue and moodiness. Here’s where exercise steps in as a potent antidote.
THE MAGIC OF 20 MINUTES
Here’s the beautiful part: I realised that maintaining an active lifestyle doesn’t demand hours of our day. A mere 20 minutes of exercise can ripple positively through my life, offering physical and mental benefits that are nothing short of transformative. The secret sauce? Consistency. They say it takes around 21 days to form a habit, so consider dedicating yourself to this suggestion for at least that span:
MY PERSONAL 20-MINUTE DAILY ROUTINE
I understand that you may not resonate with my daily exercise routine. The beauty of staying active is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. 😉 At SF Studios, we believe in offering choices. If my daily routine doesn’t align with your preferences, you can explore the exercise library on our sister company’s website www.authentikwellness.com and create a journey that resonate with you. You have the freedom to craft a workout routine that suits your unique needs and interests.
No fancy equipment is required—just a little space at home. Here’s a simple yet effective routine (I personally prefer to start the day with it. However, my sister prefers to do it after her home office hours as she is not a morning person at all.
- Jumping Jacks (3 minutes): Begin with a burst of energy. Jumping jacks awaken your heart rate and invigorate your spirit.
- Push-Ups (3 minutes): Strengthen your upper body with a few sets of push-ups. Modify them as needed to suit your fitness level.
- Bodyweight Squats (3 x 1 minute): Focus on your lower body with squats. Keep your form on point to prevent any unwelcome surprises.
- Planks (3 x 1 minute): Activate your core muscles by holding a plank position. Start small if you must, and then build up your endurance over time.
- Stretching (8 minutes): Wrap up your workout with some gentle stretches. These will enhance your flexibility and ease muscle tension.
In addition to my daily routine, there’s something special that I make sure to include in my weekly schedule. Every Wednesday evening, I eagerly join Kriszty at SF Studios for her “Feel Good” yoga class. It’s a moment in the week when I can truly connect with my body and mind, letting go of the stresses and worries that often accumulate during the workweek. Yoga is not just exercise; it’s a soul-soothing experience that helps me find balance and harmony in the midst of life’s ever-changing seasons.
EMBRACE THE CHANGE, YOUR WAY
As the seasons unfurl their unique charms, let’s remember that the importance of staying active knows no boundaries.
Will you join me and create and do your own daily routine for 21 days?
Let’s create a healthy habit that stands the test of time. Embrace change on your terms, and you’ll find that your body and mind will thank you for it, no matter the weather.
Hugs,
Judit
P.S. Let me know in the comments what your daily exercise routine is or if you got inspired by this article and joined the 21 days challenge. 😉
