Though it may not feel like spring yet in Chicago, it looks like it.
I've taken an obvious break for Pascha (for those of you who don't know, it is Orthodox Easter) and the following week, Bright Week, but my break lengthened somewhat unexpectedly since I am doing a seasonal job, working from home. Even part time, a job can really cut into the important things in life... blogging, working out, eating cupcakes non-stop. ;)
To keep myself active, first of all, I have continued running. Prioritizing my winter running has made such a positive impact now that the snow is gone and spring is starting to flourish. (Minor complaint about the temperatures not being spring worthy, in my opinion, but I shouldn't complain too much.) I feel like I can literally hit the ground running, instead of making up for lost training time. I have made some important gains like finally being able to run a 5K (have done it twice so far) and starting to think about improving my running times, which before would have been unthinkable. I've also had some new running experiences like running with a little friend- Mr. Bear! My husband and I started thinking that he looked a little too much like a fluff, so I have started running twice a week with him, no more than a mile to start. Even with the short distance, the increase in individual runs per week has been a challenge for me, and he is having the time of his life!
I have also been working on staying active while working. First off, I use an exercise ball instead of a chair when I am working on the computer. Even if I approach full-time hours in one day, I still use the Swiss ball. Secondly, I have given myself a little challenge to do every hour. This might not be the most appropriate way to act if you work in a busy office, ha ha, but I absolutely encourage you to find ways to move that would be more inconspicuous or follow along with my same challenge if you work at home- or if you just happen to be home. The challenge for last week was not easy, but I felt better throughout the day and noticed a daily increase in strength as I continued. And the main idea here? IT TAKES ONE MINUTE! ONE MINUTE!!! Isn't your well being worth it?! (My internal dialogue sounds a lot like this when I don't want to finish the exercises.) Improve your day so much, by a single minute taken out of every hour.
Daily Active Challenge
(each exercise after 1 hour of work, repeated until finished)
12 pushups
20 crunches on exercise ball
12 pushups
20 crunches on exercise ball
The second week, I increased to 15 pushups each time and 25 crunches. I'm considering changing up the exercises, but we'll see. One easy tips for doing this is to write down the exercise after you have done it or check it off a pre-made list. Seeing the effort on paper is oddly encouraging.
And yes, I did make a whole batch of Funfetti, cream cheese frosted cupcakes. Yes, there were sprinkles. Yes... I ate at least half of them, perhaps more.
Sometimes it's the cheap thrills in life that are the best.
Written without any cupcakes (because I ate them all),
Sarah, The Culture Thrift
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