Contributor: Brittany Hopkins
Once in awhile, even the most active Urban Deers find themselves stuck in ruts. Changes at home or work, or even just a series of cloudy Bay Area mornings can slow you down mentally and physically. If hopping to it just isn't coming naturally for whatever reason, we've got a few ideas for jumpstarting your system.
Stretch it Out
Photo: Army Medicine / photo on flickr
Just not in the mood to run, jump or climb? It happens. But there's always yoga! Whenever I find myself dragging, I force myself to my nearest studio for a good hour or more of gentle, mindful stretching. Choose a class that's appropriate for your level of experience, and you should waltz out of there feeling mentally and physically refreshed and ready to plan your next adventure.
Focus on Nutrition
The Pre-Workout Green Smoothie from Simple Green Smoothies. Doesn't this photo make you want to bulk up on greens then go for a long run?!
You are what you eat, and noshing on burgers and fries every chance you get will not help you climb out of a lull any faster. Instead, focus the energy you do have on cleaning up your diet. Purge your fridge or rotting matter and empty calories. Peruse your local farmer's market for a few fruits and veggies you don't normally eat. Try a few recipes you've pinned to your 'healthy eating' Pinterst board but haven't actually tried.
I'm personally obsessed with the library of green smoothie recipes by the lovely ladies at Simple Green Smoothies. The recipes I've tried so far taste great, and their photos are quite inspiring.
Dress the Part
Sweaty Betty's gorgeous line of Athlete Vests. Live in your workout clothes you love, and I swear you'll sweat much more often.
If you're having trouble committing to a routine, here's an idea: Wear your favorite work-out clothes more often. If I'm struggling to commit to early morning runs or gym sessions, I go to bed in my favorite workout tank and shorts. When I get up to turn off my alarm, I feel mighty silly not heading out when I'm already dressed.
Workout clothes are getting so stylish these days, this trick works for after-work activities as well. I've worn cute workout tops with a pencil skirt and blazer, or a sports bra and running shorts under a dress to the office. If done right, no one but you will know and you'll stop skipping out on your nightly exercise. If you don't have any office-appropriate workout attire yet, we strongly recommend the glamorous pieces over at Sweaty Betty.
So there you have it. Stretch out your mental and physical kinks, eat right and get dressed up. All very painless right? If you have other tips and tricks we should all try, please do let us know in the comments.