It’s true. Sometimes we have to use energy to get energy. It’s amazing how much more energy I have when I get up early and exercise instead of hitting the snooze button three times. However, some of us have more energy after we’ve been awake and working for 8 hours. Many times we use that energy to pick kids up from school or day care, figure out dinner, check on homework, clean up the house, get the kids to bed, etc. So at the end of all this, we feel so worked up that it’s hard to get to sleep. Then we stay up late watching TV or reading and the cycle repeats itself the next morning.

How can we break the cycle and find time to be active? We have to change our thoughts about physical activity and change our actions. If we have negative thoughts about exercise, then chances are we won’t do it. Let’s take a step back and think about the benefits; Exercise: 

o  Decreases my stress and clears my mind 

o  Improves my mood and how I feel about myself 

o  Provides me with some important “me time” 

o  Helps me to look fit and healthy 

o  Gives me more energy to get through the day 

o  Sets a good example for my kids about staying healthy 

When we start feeling good about exercise, we will build it into our daily routine. If we fight the urge to hit that snooze button, we will exercise in the morning. If that’s not an option, get your kids involved after school and get moving together. Kids do what their parents do so it’s a “win-win.”

To get some all important “me time” we can go on an evening walk. If safety is a concern, walk the mall or see if your school district has no cost or low-cost exercise, walking or swimming programs. Put on a gentle yoga video after the kids are in bed. You may have to experiment with a few options and see which one works best for you. Remember to start small; try to fit it in 2 – 3 times per week and see how you do. Any exercise is better than no exercise. Give it a try and see if you have more energy.