Some mornings I pop out of bed and I am ready to go. More often than not, lately, I don’t sleep all the way through the night, so I have a little trouble getting going in the morning.
When I was younger, sleeping through the night was more the norm. but I have always been in the habit of taking short power naps during the day. My work is physical and emotional as well. Dealing with people who are in pain can drain the energy out of me, and I need to replenish it so I can take care of my next client.

What do I do to give myself that energy I need to help people and work on bodies all day and evening? I exercise. I take an hour or 45 minutes out of each day and I do something. Sometimes its a walk along the beach with a friend. Other times its a Firm video with a client, and when the stress of everyday life starts piling up, I like to do Yoga or Tai Chi or Qi Gong.

I don’t do the same type of exercise every day. Why? Because I need different things on different days. When I just need to burn calories and get energized, the Firm videos are perfect. Plus, I usually do them with a friend or long-time client, and it’s always nice to personally connect with people.

During the recent waiting spell we had for hurricane Dorian, I did Qi Gong several times. It helped not only me but my partner, Larry, to expel some of the nervous energy we all had while wondering if our homes were going to make it through a possible Cat 5 Hurricane. I have had a home taken away from me due to hurricane, and the thought of possibly having to go through something like that again was wearing on my nerves.

For some folks, running is the way to get their motors revved up and ready for the day. I have other clients who hit the gym and lift weights, coupled with a bit of cardio. Whatever works for you, just don’t let being tired or busy get in the way of your exercise. There is always a 15 minute window of time somewhere in your day when you can at least stretch out and take a short walk.

So, get your day started with a little boost. Get your caffeine, if that works for you, stay hydrated, and maybe just turn on some music and dance.

Valentina Boonstra