Time for a Snack!

It is December, that means Christmas baking and candy making…and snack, snack, snacking!

I would like to challenge you to try a different kind of snack. One that might not “taste” so yummy, but will feel so, so good for our body. A movement snack.

Now I know you are thinking what is a “movement snack”. A regular snack is that little bit of something to hold us through until it is time for a large meal, a movement snack is the same, a little bit of movement that breaks up our sitting time, so we are not so stiff and are ready for a longer workout later.

Rules for movement snacks. 

There are not rules, do what works for you, but just do it. Some suggestions are:

1. Keep it short, fun and relaxed (1-3 minutes)
2. Stand up and sit down, several times, (if possible, without using your hands).
3. Listen to music and dance.
4. Stand up and stretch, with arms high overhead, lower your arms and do a few shoulder rolls, arm circles and waving your fingers.
5. Try standing behind your chair and holding on to it, while lifts your heels, both feet at first, then one foot at a time; or wiggle your toes, circle your ankles
6. Repeat every hour or so.

As the cold, snowy winter season is coming, we are less likely to go for a long walk outside or work in the yard. Now is the time not to sit the winter away, but to get up and move, even if it is only for a few minutes at a time.

So snack away…