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Hey, you, with the cup of coffee, iPhone, and protein bar in your hands. Step away from the laptop and get some lunch! After you read this blog, I mean.
Even if you’re committed to a healthy lifestyle, finding time to eat during the day can be challenging—whether you’re a busy stay-at-home mommy or slaving away in a cubicle. I manage my lunch by putting it off until I can get home to cook—since my work day starts around 6:00-7:00 a.m., I am usually back at home in the early-mid afternoon. On a bad day, I have lunch in my car between appointments, but I try not to let that happen very often. Most days, I might have something light on the go, then prepare something hot and well-rounded once I'm home so I can eat in peace. If you’re a member of the go-go-go corporate culture, however, you need to exercise some self-discipline (and self-love), and step away from the desk. Every Monday morning, schedule 15-60 minutes each and every weekday to break from your work and enjoy a proper lunchtime.
And, since you’re such a multi-tasker, you woman of the new millennium, why not use that lunchtime you so deserve to not just eat, but exercise? Scheduling exercise midday will re-energize you for the afternoon, motivate you to skip that late-afternoon vending machine visit, and allow you to settle into family time after work, knowing you’ve already done something today to care for yourself. Keep a pair of sneakers handy and (optionally) a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to change quickly into. And try not to stress out too much about a shower—take it from someone who works out around clients and coworkers every day (with nary a shower stall in sight), you probably don't actually smell. Unless body odour is an exceptional issue for you, remember the pit stick and tie up your hair, and you'll be A-OK.
Here's how to split that precious lunch break between fitness and fuel.
If you have a 30-minute lunch break, try this 15 minute workout before you eat:
If you have a 60-minute lunch break, try this 30 minute workout before you eat:
Next, eat! Remember to take the time to enjoy your meal—away from your desk, laundry, iPhone, or whatever haunts you. Complete your lunch with a big glass of water or two, and perhaps a piece of fresh fruit for dessert.
Got a few more minutes? Enjoy some quiet time to visit with colleagues, catch up on the latest Yummy Mummy Club blogs, or dig into a good book. Resting and relaxing is key to your physical fitness. And your sanity.