I have never liked going to the gym. Or exercising even. But sometimes I like to go for walks or a swim. But it’s not so easy to take the time to do that when I have a 1 year old who just wants to play. As busy parents, it’s important to remember that we set an example for our kids. Do they see you sitting on the couch all day when you get home from work? Do they see you living off of fast food and TV dinners? I get being a working parent is exhausting. I often don’t have the energy to want to cook a fancy meal, let alone think of exercise at any point in the day. But that doesn’t mean I am not conscious of how I treat my body.

I am not a fitness mom by any means. But do you think about the amount of times you have to pick up toys off the floor, or lift a laundry basket, or even carry a child. ALL of these things require you to utilize your body, so make them work for you. Do some squats to pick up that toy, lunge up the stairs with that laundry basket. When you incorporate exercise into your everyday activities, it really doesn’t seem like exercise at all. But you’re being aware of how you’re moving your body and focusing on the muscles you use every day.

I always longed to be able to fit some fitness in my daily routine, but I’ll be honest, I can go a whole day and then go “Darn it! I forgot.” Sometimes you have to take the time to do something because there’s just so many other things you have to think about throughout the day. But I certainly didn’t have time to make it to the gym, or dedicate to a fitness program. So I started with stretches. Really, this is the core of yoga. I certainly can’t do any fancy balances or contort my body any crazy way, but I start my day by focusing on stretching my body and waking up my muscles. And I’ll tell ya, it’s a lot more refreshing than a cup of coffee. I feel more energized and loose, ready to tackle the challenges of the day. The best part, is that with each day I continue to stretch, I find that I’m becoming more flexible. I can stretch a little further, balance a little better. I may not bulk up anytime soon, but at least I am giving my body the time and attention it needs to keep going. More importantly, I’m preparing my body to be able to keep up with my kid.