Workplace Workout

Turn Your Office into a Health Haven

by Christine L. Faraci

Time flies by, and oftentimes we barely spare a moment to take proper care of ourselves. Yet, if we don't stay healthy, we can't accomplish all of our tasks, much less enjoy the feeling of success that comes once a completed project is behind us.

We are told that the way to health and happiness is paved with positive lifestyle choices regarding diet, exercise, attitude and activity. But many of us often feel so tired and pressed for time that the average day seems to offer little opportunity to build good, healthy habits. So we put dieting and exercise on the back burner, promising ourselves we'll take them on at a later date. But what if these changes were as simple as getting up and going to the office everyday?

Time Management

No longer limited to a gym or spa, you can achieve wellness while you work. It can be done during your commute or even while you're at the office. A productive way to utilize your car time is to de-stress. Take the time to relax on your way to the office instead of worrying about the clock or the workload that awaits you. Try deep breathing, listening to soothing music or meditation/prayer during your drive. Practicing shoulder shrugs can also be helpful.

Once you're at your desk, more rigorous exercise can commence. Use the nearest wall to work out your arms by doing pushups, or if you have a more private space, feel free to do them the traditional way--on the floor. Other exercises you can do during work hours include wall/chair squats, crunches, inner thigh lifts, calf raises, hip stretching and chair dips.

If you're interested in more office exercises, don't hesitate to purchase an exercise band. Also, pick up a copy of "Workplace Workout," which offers solutions to help you incorporate healthy habits into your work space, office commute and demanding schedule, all in thirty-five dividable minutes throughout the day. You'll learn about simple behavior modifications, energy-giving nutrition, stress reduction and fitness training. Most of the desk exercises are depicted in the book and done with the accompanying exercise band.

Portion Control

According to the World Health Organization, "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Just because you haven't been diagnosed by a doctor, doesn't mean you are maintaining a healthy attitude. But it's never too late to start. One way to eat less is to avoid waiting until you reach the point where you feel starved, as this can lead to overeating. Make sure you pay attention to serving sizes; this also applies to liquids. A small glass of juice, such as what you'd receive in a restaurant, is an accurate portion. If you have more than this, you'll be digesting too much sugar, so increase your water intake to help combat thirst. Tomato or vegetable juices are also good choices.

Snacking is another way to help quell your inner hunger beast. If you snack every hour or two on healthy food, then you're less likely to stuff yourself during meal times. For instance, dark chocolate is an excellent healthy snack. Others include vegetables, raw almonds, baby carrots, yogurt, fiber cereal and popcorn--without the butter, of course. Adding a small amount of parmesan cheese to your popcorn is a yummy but still healthy option. Also, try to increase the amount of healthy proteins, healthy oils (non-hydrogenated) and calcium you consume.

Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle

The physical benefits of a healthy, balanced lifestyle include:

• Increased energy and increased immune functions
• A stronger heart and lower blood pressure
• Reduced cholesterol and decreased body fat
• Stronger muscles and increased bone density
• A healthier appearance

When you make your personal and environmental health a priority, you decrease your risk of getting illnesses, which translates to a decrease in medical expenses. Also, improved health helps your attitude and can make you a happier person, effectively stimulating your life experience. In other words, you'll have more fun!

Many people tend to think of the things they'll lose, or have to give up, when adopting a healthy lifestyle. Instead, individuals should consider everything they'll gain. Current research continues to indicate that attitude, physical activity, emotions, job satisfaction, relationships, prayer and meditation, and life circumstances impact wellness. Don't waste another minute thinking about what your life could be--start forming healthy habits and being good to your body today!

Christine Faraci is a Certified Personal Trainer and President of the Elemental Life Center LLC, a business dedicated to individual and corporate wellness facilitation through educational workshops and complementary care services.

Workplace Workout Workshop
Date: Jan. 12, 2010
Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: Elemental Life Center
5810 E. Waltann Lane, Scottsdale, 85254
Cost: $45—Includes CD, workbook and exercise band
RSVP: 602.579.7662

http://ElementalLifeCenter.com