Let’s talk about health, Trucking Nation! The ExpressTruckTax Team understands that staying fit on the road can be a challenge, but with a little tweaking and a fresh perspective, your unique circumstances can be used to your advantage! So here are five easy tips to help you get started.
1. Dedication: As the Buddha once said, “The mind is everything. What you think you become.” Before you can make big changes, you must be consciously aware of what you want to change! Identify your vices- be honest with yourself. Then start by listing your top 5 goals. This helps you prioritize and keeps you from getting overwhelmed. If five is too much, then start with just one-and commit to it for at least a month. This makes the transition more manageable, which is vital, because you want to be committed for the long haul. Don’t burn yourself out trying to change your entire life overnight. Baby steps.
2. Drink Water Like a Fish: Kick that can of sugary stuff and drink water instead! It’s free of calories and, of course, necessary for survival (minor detail). This change alone can deliver major results. But it can be a hard habit to break, so lean into it. For that fiziness you’re used to, start by switching from soda to sparkling water. For the sweetness you crave, infuse your water with fruit, or use a stevia-based flavor enhancer (avoid ones loaded with sugar and artificial colors). All this extra water will help your body flush toxins, increase circulation, and even improve your skin.
3. MOVE: You don’t need to have a gym nearby-or even a fancy workout regimen-to get your heart rate up. Simply stretch and go for a brisk walk on your breaks, at least half an hour is ideal. This can be particularly fun if you take a friend, whether it’s a fellow-trucker or a loyal pup! Consider picking up a pedometer to keep track of your steps. Just seeing that number can motivate you to keep moving. You can even compete with your friends for most-steps-taken in a month!
4. Snack Smarter, and Easier: It’s oh-so-easy (and tempting) to grab that bag of chips. But it can be just as easy to make better choices. Buy pre-washed bags of salad, some even come with toppings and dressing right in the bag! Score! Many grocery stores also sell pre-cut fruits and veggies, which means no preparation! Unsalted nuts are also an excellent, protein-packed snack. Yum!
5. Boost that Immune System: Nothing kills productivity like a cold! Your best defense against illness starts with what you eat. When you can’t get fresh fruit, drink plenty of real fruit juice for that Vitamin C boost. Equally important, eat lots of yogurt with live, active cultures. This will nourish the healthy bacteria in your gut, and those buggers are responsible for most of your immune health! Combine this with regularly washing hands with soap and warm water, and your immune system will be in tip-top shape!
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