Exercising mind and body!

Obesity rates have more than doubled over the past two decades, with predictions that they are set to rise even further by 2020. The current Australian lifestyle, in which employment and wealth plays a significant role, is having a dramatic effect on the health and wellbeing of the population. EBR stresses the importance of having a balanced lifestyle and incorporating exercise into your regime.

It's tough keeping up with the rising costs of living. We work longer hours to do so, resulting in a high number of the population finding it increasingly difficult to focus on health and wellbeing. Eating healthy foods is not the only important factor is staying healthy. Here are 8 suggestions for how you can keep physically and mentally fit, while not taking too much time out of your already busy schedule.

• 'Take the stairs'. We all know the saying, but actually taking this advice can be a great way to get that little bit of exercise into your day.
• Park the car a few blocks from your destination and walk the rest of the way. Whether it is at a shopping centre or close to work, walking those 10 extra minutes can do you a world of good!
• Keep some running shoes at your workplace and go for a lunchtime walk. What better than to stroll to the park and have a picnic?
• Do you have a pet dog? Walk it every morning and/or evening for 20 minutes.
• Why not get a colleague or friend to join a gym with you? Make sure it's close to your workplace so you can workout during your break.
• Clean the house. You have to do it anyway, but cleaning the house can be great for building up your strength and energy.
• Take up a sport. This could be anything from cycling to football to basketball. Sport can be a fun and social way of getting fit.
• Avoid unhealthy habits. Cut down on your levels of alcohol consumption and quit smoking.

If you cannot set aside a full 30 minutes for a workout, do smaller tasks like taking the stairs and walking 10 minutes extra to work. Ignoring your health and wellbeing today can result in significant health problems later in life so act now!

[Source: Nathan Tieppo, Revolution Health and Lifestyle]