Routines, who needs ‘em? There are two trains of thought to this question. Some experts say that changing up routines from time to time is healthier and can stop the feelings of getting into a rut.
While, this may be so, we still need a routine to change up, don’t we?
Fall is a great time to get back into a regular schedule. It’s the time of year that lends itself to returning to a healthy routine. Here are some tips:
• Sleep is key and the first place to start. It’s important to get at least 7 hours of sleep a night. Try to get to bed no later than 11. Try creating a bedtime, and sticking to it.
• It takes about four weeks for the body to adapt to lifestyle changes. So, when the alarm goes off in the morning and it’s darker and colder, don’t roll over and hit the snooze button. Try to stick with a program for a month. After a month, behavior patterns will have adapted and it will be much easier to stick with it after that.
• Drink more water. You can experience dehydration even during fall. Dry central heat robs your body and skin of vital moisture and increased fall wind does the same. Fall is a time of surprise flu and other viruses. Hydration helps to revitalize those membranes that filter out disease causing organisms.
• In many parts of the country, autumn is synonymous with the apple harvest. Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, apples are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed any time of day.
• Fall is also a great time to start spending time indoors. As the days get shorter, and the weather cools down, we naturally gravitate to indoor spaces. Use this time to cuddle up on the couch and read a good book.
• Want to find new fun ways to get moving? You can play a sport, dance, or ride your bike. But for you to stick with it, it’s important that you do something you like. If you like doing a certain type of exercise, it’ll be fun and you’ll keep doing it more. And that’s good for your body. To help you stay healthy, be physically active for one hour a day. You don’t have to do it all at once. Just make sure you’re moving all during the day.
