Non-Exercise Physical Activity

Daily movement provides many benefits for gut health such as reducing inflammation, promoting bowel movement regularity, and supporting the growth of helpful bacteria.

Here are a few ways to increase your movement, especially while experiencing symptoms:

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1. Expand your morning routine. The morning tends to be filled with routines—brushing your teeth, making coffee, and getting dressed. Pair one or all of these movements with physical activity such as a set of 4-5 lunges or pushups. You might even place a dumbbell next to your coffee pot and knock out a few bicep curls while waiting for your morning brew.

2. Talk and walk. Consider pacing during your next phone call or even going outside for a loop around the block if you know it will be a longer conversation. ‍

3. Squats before screens. Before you take a break to check your social media, move your body in a meaningful way.

4. Stand when you can. Stand during activities when you would normally sit such as while working on your computer, during a virtual meeting, or in the waiting room for the dentist. ‍

5. Clean regularly. 
Brief bouts of sweeping, scrubbing or vacuuming are not only an excellent physical activity but have the added bonus of creating an environment that is less stressful. ‍

6. Schedule reminders. Use the reminders feature on your phone to set regular notifications to get up and take a few steps throughout the day. ‍

7. Pair cooking with movement. 
Chopping food by hand, washing dishes in the sink, or moving side to side while you sauté are all ways to add movement while you get dinner on the table.‍

Most importantly, remember to:

• Pick the movements that you enjoy.
• Listen to your body-do the movement that feels 
most comfortable.
• Pick the time of day that works best for you.
• Tell a family member, friend, or your Salvo Health Care Team 
for accountability.