Fall Fitness Tips

I don't know about you, but fall is a really challenging time for me as far as my energy and motivation to be active goes. The urge to curl up with a blanket and take a nap is strong. The daylight hours are decreasing with each passing day and the temperature is dropping. I think it's nature's way of getting us to make some changes to our routine that will serve our bodies well.

• That urge to sleep more - follow that!! I used to fight that desire to rest in the fall and winter months and I would push my body to keep to my regular schedule. As I have learned to listen to my body and take better care of it I have noticed that our urge to rest and sleep is something we need to follow. Most of us don't get enough sleep as it is so these cooler, darker months are perfect time for us to nurture our bodies with sleep. Take naps if you can. Go to bed earlier and wake up later - whatever works for your schedule. Follow that urge to sleep more and don't feel guilty for it! Sleep is critical for a healthy body.
• Most of us are less active in the fall and winter months as a result, this is time to cut back on calories. When you don't have the physical output you don't need the caloric input. Try to resist the urge to eat those fall comfort foods and instead load up with fresh, seasonal veggies and keep the nutrition clean and lean. Pinterest has a wealth of recipes for slow cooker fall meals that are easy, warm and tasty...perfect for staying on track. 
• Get outside! With the natural drop in energy as the days get shorter, getting outside is a great way to get energized. The fresh air is a great pick-me-up and is always so healing to our souls. Take advantage of dry days and do something outside, even if it's just a quick walk. 
• Wake up early! The shorter days make it challenging to get your workout in after work and in the evening. It's dark, we're tired, we want to go home and be cozy. Eliminate that issue by getting up early and getting your workout done. Getting up in the dark takes some getting used to but after a few weeks it will become a routine for your body. Stick with it. 
• Stay hydrated! It's so much easier to remember to drink our water in the warmer weather but it is equally important during the cooler months. Make sure you keep pushing the water as staying hydrated is another way to keep energy levels up.