Let me be real. Even though I am really ambitious, I am also a really lazy person at the same time. For projects, I am always most efficient at very last-minute notice. And for physical activity, that’s a word I have not used in a really long time.
Work it out
You guessed what was about to come. So, a study found that working out helps you to reduce stress. To sum the explanation up very briefly, it is because the reduction of stress hormones works faster in running shoes than on the sofa. As explained in my previous posts, during stressed out situation the body produces hormones such as adrenaline. During workouts your body cuts back on those hormones, which it also does while lying on the sofa – but it simply works much faster when you are carrying out physical exercise.
Me personally, I always find excuses why I still cannot work out. Either it’s because I don’t have time, because I’m tired or because I can’t afford going to the gym.
Get it together
But those are not valid excuses. You can always find a way to get some fresh air and movement.
First off, I stopped taking the bus or car for short distances. By doing so I walk at least 4 kilometer a day. Of course, it takes a little more time, but getting some fresh air has never hurt anybody.
Secondly, as I am a fresh air fanatic and really talkative person, I started to go for walks while I am talking on the phone to friends or family. Or when the weather is nice, I listen to a podcast while walking outside. This will give you some movement and some Vitamin D at the same time.
Thirdly, find a sport you enjoy. I really do not like going to the gym. I don’t like the smell, I always imagine tons of bacteria spreading around (don’t think about it too much, it could make you picturize thing you don’t want to see) and it is really expensive.
What gets my brain from stressing and helps me to get my movement in is horseback-riding.
Something about having to focus on another individual whilst being outside just really shuts my stressed-out voice up.
Of course it is really time consuming and I am also not telling you that you all should start riding. Try to find a sport that you really enjoy and that does not make you feel annoyed about carrying it out.
And last but not least, there is always the opportunity to do a home workout. All you need is your body weight and a yoga mat. Below I have listed you my favorite home workout videos that you can try out.
Pamela Reif
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zl1_XGgDVk
Blogilates
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUsSMr3tb4g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZoR7YKqIe8
Speaking from lazy to lazy
My tip – from an extra lazy and stressed person: when coming home from a stressful day at Uni or at the office, do not sit or lay down. Change into your workout gear right away and get going for one video. You will feel much better and avoid the risk of ending up on the sofa instead of on your yoga mat. And you can even do it while watching Netflix.
What is your favorite activity that helps you relax? Let me know in the comments or on my Instagram.
P.S.: I wanted to close this blogpost with an explanation, about why I always add studies in my posts. It is because I think it makes it much more reliable and trustworthy. Does it make a difference for you whether I include it?
