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Keeping on top of my health is a constant battle. I used to walk miles everyday. I then commuted for maybe three hours a day which involved least a mile of walking at either end of a train journey. Now I work from home, for myself, I do find it hard to get out and about as much. Work is hectic and whilst I love the freedom of self employment, I’m perhaps not quite as active as I could be. Let’s look at what I’m putting in place and my journey so far.
What I’m Eating
I found myself snacking on anything sweet. Biscuits would vanished rapidly, anything to give me a little burst of energy. I enjoy a good coffee but I’ve cut back on that as well. Even cups of tea, I’ve found a decaf version that I actually like. Snacks are dried fruit and nuts. Even when I’m not working we’ve tried to overhaul our diets. More cooking from scratch, even though it takes more time. But by using a meal plan and a bit of preparation it works. Of course I have little treats here and then but it’s the mental side of things which needs overhauling first. Thinking about what I want to put into my body and what will actually help me long term.
How I’m Active
I get out and about a couple of times a week. I have to go to a post office at least once a week and I make sure that I walk. I used to drive down there but now I walk, and I walk to the furthest post office in town for that little bit of extra exercise. I also do a lot of photography but with the pandemic, I’m not travelling quite as far as I did. But that has meant that even though I’m taking local photographs, I’m doing lots of walking to get there. Whenever I go out for a morning of taking pictures I always hit 10,000 steps by the time I’m back home. Staying active whilst sitting at a desk is difficult. I try and plan my work so I can take on a task and then go and do something. Even going to the toilet, I go to the upstairs one so I have to climb the stairs. I think this helps my body but also my mind. Short breaks from the screen to refocus certainly helps.
Other Things
Limitations on getting out and about as much and the shorter days means I am taking vitamin D supplements to make sure I’m getting plenty of that. I also take cod liver oil and CBD hemp oil UK every day. My office is often pretty cold so I bought a fan heater and make sure I wear a decent pair of socks and slippers to stay warm. When you’re sitting still it’s easy to catch cold and I’ve found having a hoody on the back of my chair to pop on if needed is a great idea. It’s all about looking after yourself mentally as well as physically and one of the best things I do is enjoy a hot bath once a week. I pour a bit of bubble bath in there, put a stress relief playlist and just relax.
How are you looking after yourself? What do you d in you typical week to maintain your health and your mental wellbeing? Sometimes it seems that there are too many apps and supplements and different superfoods which can help keep you in shape. What do you swear by and use time and again? Wishing you happiness and health!
