11/06/2020
***FRIDAY FITNESS TIP***
Part of Fitness is Self-Care. When feeling stressed or in situations where you feel out of control, STOP... take a break. Calm yourself with these 4 easy tips:
1-Control Your Breathing: You have heard people say "stop and count to 10"; this is a great first step to stop the behavior that is causing the stress; yet in this moment of counting to 10, add 10 deep breaths to control your breathing, get good oxygen to the brain, lungs and blood stream to increase healthy blood flow, lowering blood pressure and reducing tension headaches.
2-Take a Walk: Whether figuratively or literally it is always helpful to take a break form whatever you are working on by walking away. We strongly recommend a literal "WALK". By removing yourself from a situation, you can clear your mind and form a plan of how to tackle the stressful situation. Don't forget to employ step number one, deep breathing, during your walk; come back refreshed and ready to work.
3-Positive Affirmations: People joke about positive affirmations, but they really do work! During your walk, remind yourself that you are strong enough to control yourself, and you are smart enough to overcome the trouble that has you stressed. Find that happy place that brings you to your best self. At first it may feel fake and silly, or a little braggadocios. But with a little practice you will find this technique is helpful in centering yourself to use your strengths to overcome adversity and identifying your weaknesses so you can improve your inner self talk.
4-Stretch and Relax: Stress will often cause muscle tension, and muscle tension will often cause stress! When stressed, if possible, find a quiet place to do some basic stretching techniques to relieve tension and open up your breathing patterns, and relax the mind and body. Simple stretching is easy, fast, and effective. While you don't need any equipment to accomplish some good relaxing stretches, you could also keep a Lacrosse Ball or Foam Roller, at work, for more advanced relief, when needed.
If you have questions about what types of stretches would be effective for you, at home or in the work place, contact Cameron or Carrie at Snap Fitness-Keizer 503-400-6344. Or Join our Mobility and Flexibility Class Coming in January!
BONUS TIP - Make sure you are getting enough sleep and water. Both of these things are not only good for your overall basic health, but are essential for mental health and proper brain function. 8 hours of sleep and 100 ounces of water a day are goals to be activly working toward to make your life less stressful.