Who doesn’t love sitting in front of the TV or computer, watching show after show for hours? I know I do, but your body needs to have some movement. There are only so many hours in the day, and when it comes time for TV and relaxation, getting in shape and moving your body is probably the last thing on your mind. There are about 14 minutes of commercials during one hour of TV. Here are some really easy ways to keep your body moving and productive during those 14 minutes.
Make a cup of tea. Now that winter is in full swing and it’s cold and frigid outside, you need to warm yourself up, and what better way to do that than with a nice cup of tea? Going to make a cup of tea is quick and easy and all around good for your whole body. Try some green tea, which is filled with antioxidants and speeds up your metabolism. Tea is also shown to help with maintaining your weight and boost your working memory. If you’re watching TV at night, stick with decaffeinated tea like chamomile so you won’t be tossing and turning all night.
Just stand up. As comfortable as your bed or couch is, just stand up! The more time inactive people spend standing, the lower their risk of diseases and other body problems. When a commercial comes, just stand up until the show comes back on.
Floss! People often forget how important flossing is. Flossing doesn’t necessarily have to be done while you’re in front of the bathroom mirror, but it is something that has to be done. Go get some floss and clean your teeth in front of the TV! Getting floss from the bathroom will force you to walk and move, and then once you’re done flossing, go throw it out.
Stretch. Leg pain? Tight back? Aching hips? Why not stretch if you have the time? If you’re having any body issues—which, chances are, you are because of the cold weather and the stress from school— then the TV commercial break can be a perfect time to go through and stretch all of your aches and pains.
Walk around the house. Studies have shown that you should walk 30 minutes a day for cardiovascular health. If you walk around your house or apartment during the 14 minutes of commercials during your one-hour TV program, you’re basically halfway there! Even just five minutes of walking every hour helps your arteries function.
With these ideas, you won’t be a couch potato. Be sure to set aside TV time to unwind, de-stress and relax, but don’t let your body suffer while your mind is at ease. So stay healthy during those commercial breaks, for you and your body!