We're often told that we need to exercise for better health; told that our Migraines and headaches would improve if we exercise. We all understand that, BUT how are we to exercise when we feel as if our heads might explode? Good question!
Below, you'll find some ways to sneak in a bit of exercise... some simple exercises that we'll be able to manage even on some of the days we're in pain. They may not seem like much, but the effects of them will build up...
1. Just Stretch.
Careful, gentle stretching feels good and is good for us. Stand with your feet shoulders width apart. Slowly bring one arm up over your head and bend at the waist the opposite direction. Repeat the other direction. Gently bend forward at the waist. If your balance is good, put one foot on a chair and bend your knee to stretch in. These may be done holding a chair if balance is a problem. You can also do stretches sitting. If your balance is good, stretching in a hot shower is great!
2. Dance With Your Swiffer!
UGH! We all hate to dust the furniture and wipe down the walls, corners, and ceilings for cobwebs. Put on your favorite music, and dance away that dust! Don't be tempted to skip the top shelves or far corners. Again, stretching is good. If you're concerned about the neighbors wondering what you're doing, pull the draperies. Of course, it's more fun to leave them wondering!
3. Fold That Laundry!
We all have baskets of laundry to be folded. Put the laundry basked on the floor. Then bend to take the laundry out -- one piece at a time -- to fold it. You're doing something that needs done and getting in some bending at the same time.
4. Work the Stairs.
When you need to go up- or downstairs at home, turn around and make the trip a second time. Walking stairs is great exercise. If you live or work several floors up, and aren't able to walk up the stairs, but can walk down them, do. Even going down the stairs gives you a bit of exercise, and is better for you than the elevator.
5. Pick Up Some Veggies.
Canned soup or vegetables make wonderful light hand weights. You can use them to work on upper body strength and/or range of motion. These exercises can be done one arm at a time, standing or sitting. Start with your arms straight at your side and bring them straight out to the side, pause level with the shoulder, then on up, straight toward the ceiling. Bring slowly back to your side. Do the same moving your arm forward. As you get used to these movements, increase the number of repetitions.
