I’ve noticed that a lot of people get stuck in a rut at the end of a season. The exciting anticipation of the holidays and snowflakes dwindles. The refreshing warmth of the summer becomes overbearing. Anyone else feel like August’s humidity can be relentless? The enthusiasm for a workout program fades. It can be hard to refocus or start fresh with goals and plans. So, how do you get out a rut? Here are just a few simple ways you can get back on your feet (metaphorically and literally).

 

Move in New Ways

I’ve blogged about moving in all three planes of motion to enhance our body’s circulation, strength, flexibility and balance, but what does that look like in a workout routine? Now’s the time to shake off the stagnation and try a new workout (see below). Maybe it will inspire you to try some other new moves? Nothing like a good sweat to feel better…

Warm-up:

20 squats

12 alternating lunges

30-second straight-arm plank

Repeat 2-3x

Circuit #1:

14 alternating lunges with single dumbbell twist across front leg

V-sit with overhead single dumbbell press (total 30-45 seconds)

20 lateral squat jumps

Single dumbbell wood chop with side lunge (10 per side)

Repeat 2-3x

 

Circuit #2:

14 alternating backwards lunges with dumbbell lateral raise

Plank position with single dumbbell alternating arm row and body twist (8-10 per side)

15 lateral box jumps or step ups

15 sit-ups with oblique twists

Repeat 2-3x

 

Circuit #3:

14 alternating curtsy lunges with dumbbell bicep curls

12 double leg lifts with scissor open/closes at top/bottom

20 “speed skater” side-to-side jumps

10 prone back extensions with breaststroke arms as lift

Repeat 2-3x

 

*Feel free to message me or leave a comment

for more detailed exercise explanations!

 

Write Things Down

I saw this picture on a friend’s Instagram and thought “yes!!! What a great idea!” So, I wanted to share it with everyone in case writing some of these down cheers you up or brings inspiration to help you feel less stuck-in-a-hole or bored with daily monotony.

 

Commit to a Daily Routine (and find an app!)

The simple daily actions we can take towards better health and happiness are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. They may feel like the journey but they’re the destination. Apps are just one of many great ways to implement and stay on track with these habits – and find fresh inspiration to give us momentum! Here are three apps that may motivate or help you:

• Productive habits & daily goals tracker – This app has an average of 5-stars from over 1,000 reviews! Its interface is straightforward and detailed. Whether you’re trying to be better about getting outside for some light exercise while walking the dog or setting aside five minutes a day for meditation and prayer, this app is for you!

 

• Holy Bible – If you’re feeling off track with your prayer and spiritual life then find an app that fits your religion and/or spiritual beliefs. Focus intently on its words and teachings during your lunch break, commute (assuming you’re not behind the wheel, of course!) or quiet time. For example, there are many Bible apps out there including some that allow you read a “verse of the day” or follow along with hand-selected reading plans.

 

• DailyArt – This app allows you to read daily short stories about famous pieces of artwork. Obviously, this is a fun find for art lovers but similar apps exist for other specific interests too. Finding even just a moment to lose yourself in something you love every day can help you stay centered. If it just takes a few minutes but can cheer you up for an hour, why not?

 

These are just a few ideas to get you started. What are yours? Have you found anything helpful for feeling rejuvenated and motivated? Please share!

 

Yours in health and wellness,

Maggie