It’s American Heart Month! Many of us are still working from home at least part time, which creates changes to our daily routine. We aren’t moving as much as we do when at the office (with virtual meetings and less frequent breaks) and snacking more frequently. This month, let’s focus on how to support our WHOLE selves while working from home.
1. Stay active.
- Go for a walk 2x/day
- Walk your stairs a few times/day
- Take dance breaks
- Shovel snow.
- Go snowshoeing.
2. Eat well.
- Fruits/veggies/whole-grains
- Healthy proteins
- Lean poultry in moderation
- Reduced-fat dairy
- Unsalted seeds and nuts
- Keep hydrated
3. Educate yourself about your heart health.
- General heart health
- Heart conditions
- Blood pressure
- Blood cholesterol
- Exercise
- Walking
- Research
- Protect Your Heart: 5 Simple Steps
4. Check on your heart.
Let’s take a closer look at increasing your exercise this winter. If going outside, you also will want to dress in layers to keep warm and dry with a moisture wicking base layer, then fleece, and waterproof on the outside.
Getting outside to move in the winter has its advantages:
- Cooler weather makes you feel invigorated.
- Move longer and burn more calories.
- Enjoy the sunlight for mood and vitamin D boosts.
- Exercise increases your immunity.
You might need to get creative moving in the winter months. Besides traditional indoor workouts, you could try dancing, vacuuming, movement video gaming, gym apps, or YouTube classes. The goal is about 20 minutes/day (or 150 minutes/week) of exercise to improve your health. Set small goals and get moving. Be sure to check in on colleagues and friends too!
HR Synergy is happy to help you. Click here to contact us.