While our routines have certainly been disrupted in recent weeks, the pandemic has also shown us how resilient and adaptable we all are. Take our fitness routines, for an example. While we haven’t been able to workout at the gym, that hasn’t stopped us from staying fit. Here are just a few wellness tools we’ve employed in recent weeks for staying fit both mentally and physically in the privacy of our own homes, no gym membership required:
Squats
According to a fitness article in ActiveTimes®, the squat is the one exercise people should do every day if they had no time for anything else. “50 squats a day will keep the doctor away—seriously,” says Dr. Christopher Stepien, a sports therapist and chronic pain expert. “Daily squats will help you mentally and will even give you better yearly check-ups with your primary physician.”
In case you’re not familiar with the squat, here are the basics:
1. Stand with your head facing forward and your chest held up and out.
2. Place your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider.
3. Sit back and down like you’re sitting into an imaginary chair.
4. Lower down so your thighs are as parallel to the floor as possible, with your knees over your ankles.
Planks
This simple bodyweight exercise is capable of strengthening your entire body, though it specifically addresses your core, or midsection. A strong, flexible core underpins almost everything you do, according to Healthbeat, a publication from Harvard Medical School. Fitness experts love the plank because it affords total-body strengthening and it’s appropriate for all age groups.
1. Begin in a kneeling position. Bend your elbows to 90 degrees and pitch forward to place your hands and forearms on the floor.
2. Extend your legs behind you with toes tucked under to press into the plank. Distribute weight in your hands evenly by spreading your fingers apart, creating a stable base.
By the way, if you’re working remotely, are you keeping track of how much water you are consuming every day? If you’re forgetting to get up and refill your water bottle, try introducing a special drink into your routine. Think of it as a special treat you can look forward to or an excuse to get up and stretch. Many types of tea, for example, are packed with protective antioxidants and restorative spices to promote better digestion, enhanced skin health and even reduced stress levels.
Our passion at Skin Care Institute is helping you live your fullest life. For your safety, we have temporarily closed the medical spa and dermatology clinic. While we have no definite reopening date, we are committed to keeping you informed as the situation progresses. Please feel free to contact us via phone with any questions you may have: 918.948.9639. In the meantime, visit our online store or call us for an online consultation!
