Although everyone strives to be fit and healthy, achieving those goals may be a struggle for many working women. The biggest roadblock seems to be time.
Working women are constantly shifting gears between their office and their family, so they rarely find the time to wind down and do something for themselves. But that's an important part of maintaining your physical and emotional well-being.
Making more time for yourself
How can you make more time for yourself? Often it's a matter of organization. By planning menus in advance, buying groceries in bulk or laying out clothes the night before, you can shave time off daily decision-making duties.
Another strategy for making time is to lower your expectations. Do the children really need a bath every night? Could you dust and vacuum just once a week? There's nothing wrong with setting new priorities on how to spend your time. No one will judge you as critically as you judge yourself.
Regular physical activity important
When you have found some free time, be sure and make the most of it. Regular physical activity is important for women, whether it's formal exercise classes or a brisk walk through the mall or around the neighborhood. If you find an activity you enjoy, you'll be more likely to stick to it.
Running, walking, dancing, swimming or biking are all worthwhile forms of exercise that can improve heart and lung function, and decrease stress levels. If even the thought of such programs has you breaking out in a cold sweat, don't give up. Just start a little slower. Try making simple changes from passive to active activities, such as using the stairs instead of an elevator or manually changing TV channels. Even the smallest lifestyle change can begin to make a difference.
Last Updated: February 09, 2009