It’s that time of the year- the mid-September funk. You’ve lost sight of your “this school year” goals and have started seeing the reality of another insanely busy semester. You start to prioritize your commitments and the first one you think about letting go is your hour-long workout…. Stop that thought right there!
We’re here to show you five ways to stay healthy- even when it seems impossible.
1. Hydration
As much as you yearn for that second or third cup of coffee, ditch the caffeine for now. Drinking 64 ounces of water per day will help you stay awake as your body will continue processing the water you drink, keeping you awake. Plus, it can help clear up your skin and give your skin a healthy “I got more than five hours of sleep” glow.
Time Commitment: However long it takes to fill up a water bottle.
2. Veggie Trade-Offs
If you know that you won’t have as much time to invest in burning off calories, you can always make up for it by making smarter consumption choices. Swap out that serving of fries for some vegetables- you’ll cut out some calories and get more nutrients in your system.
Time Commitment: Looking at the menu and finding the side options. (or asking a server)
3. Take the Stairs
As convenient as the elevator looks, the stairs are better. There’s a reason why gyms invest in a stairmaster… Maybe it has to do with the fact that going up stairs can help you tone your legs? Who knew?
Time Commitment: Finding the staircase door.
4. Park Far Away
Parking sucks. Make someone’s day and leave the close, princess spot open. Go park as far away as you can and make your legs work their way to class. You’ll be sitting for the next few hours anyway!
Time Commitment: Whatever Google Maps says.
5. Tabata Workout
Let’s say that by some mysterious god’s work you do find time in your schedule. In that case, take advantage of it and do a quick HIIT workout. There are some 15 tabata workouts out there that will make you sweat as much as an hour-long boot camp. Just do a quick web search- you won’t be disappointed. (For those who are really fortunate, challenge yourself with a 30-40 minutes tabata!)
Time Commitment: 15-40 minutes- whatever your schedule blessed you with!
Next time you look at your priorities, keep in mind that your body is your temple. Whether you are looking for steps to take to become healthier or hoping to just stay fit, always remind yourself to prioritize your well-being. No matter how hectic your schedule becomes, you can always sneak in healthy decisions throughout your day.
Thumbnail courtesy of Matthew Kane via Unsplash