Seth Browarnik, WorldRedEye.comYou're not into going to the gym. You think quinoa is a type of cactus. And, you'll wait five extra minutes in the car for the parking spot closer to the store.
You're not alone, friend.
The truth is celebs use trainers, nutritionists and public pressure to motivate themselves to get fit. Your drive? Not so strong. And that's OK, because there are small, easy things you can do on the daily to feel a tad bit healthier.
Ahead, nine tricks you can do while lounging around this summer.
Not only can slouching lead to headaches and body tension, according to Today, but weird bodyweight distribution can affect the way we perform other physical activities, which might lead to more injury. We know it's hard, but focus on your posture when sitting in front of your computer all workday long. Sitting up properly will help strengthen those core muscles—that's everything from under the rib cage to mid thighs!
Whether you're mindlessly eating in front a computer or just missed your last meal, slow the process down! Many of us eagerly consume, our stomachs don't tell our brains that we're full fast enough and we end up overeating and really regretting that last slice of pizza. Setting your fork down after each bite will help you remember to slow your roll. Take your time and chew, then pick up that utensil when you're ready.
If you're constantly looking at a screen all day, this is for you. Every 20 minutes, find a target about 20 feet away and look at it for 20 seconds. This will help readjust your eyes every so often without straining your sight.
If grocery lists are not your thing, a good rule of thumb is sticking to the perimeter of the store—you know, where the protein, veggies and fruits live. Most of the processed, "oh-so tasty but really bad for you" food are stored in those center aisles.
Speaking of food, try replacing one snack a day with vegetables. (We see that bag of chips on your desk!) Baby carrots, sliced-up peppers or celery are much better alternatives. Too bland? Dip them in hummus or guacamole. Too lazy to cut the veggies up? We hear you! It's more expensive, but many veggies come pre-prepped.
This sounds way too easy, but most of us forget to breathe, especially while stressed. Taking deeper breaths will open up your chest as well as get the circulation going. There's a reason why a major focal point of yoga and Pilates is focused on breathing. Inhale for three seconds, hold for three seconds and then exhale for three seconds. Feel good doesn't it?
We all know that at least six to eight cups of water a day is essential for good hydration. A few slices of lemon will not only add some refreshing zing to water but the fruit is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium and fiber, just to name a few ingredients. At the very least, it'll help with bad breath.
We get it: The grind has got you down—but research has shown that people who have gotten at least seven to eight are more prone to better health than those working on less. So tell your boss, kids, significant other you need to sleep, because a better you will meet them tomorrow (hopefully!).
Finally, laugh more. Take a break from that Game of Thrones binge and catch a comedy show. Not only is laughing good for the soul but it can also help stimulate organs (with all that air intake), relieve stress and soothe tension, according to the Mayo Clinic.
So, the next time your friend asks you to hit the gym, tell them you've got a movie date with Amy Schumer.