So, what's my point? We all need to remember to keep moving, regardless of how stressed, fatigued or time cramped we may think we are. The truth is, most of us have become so consumed with our daily routines and demands that we forget how to look for the moments of time we can create in our days. I'm not saying we can suddenly make up a 13th hour. But, without a doubt, I do believe everyone has 15 minutes in their day to do what it is their body and mind is silently screaming for. Here's a few starting points on how to find it:  

What is your life asking you for? Beyond the demanding boss, the numerous emails and accounts, screaming kids and softball games you have to drive to, think about it: If you had an hour of time without any demands, what would it take to make your body feel just a little bit better? Relaxation, exercise, a good stretching session, a good sized glass of water and healthy food?  If you're not sure, pay attention to the physical "notification signs" that you're body has been giving you- headaches, pain, spasm, stiffness, changes in weight, etc.  

Once you're able to determine what you need most, its time to start recognizing ways to build it into your daily activities. Here's a list of time improving ideas:

* Prepare your clothes/ kids clothes for the week ahead on the weekend. Taking a few extra minutes on Sunday may prove to prevent the hectic rush during the week. 

* Set your daily alarm 10 minutes ahead of the time you need to get up. (...Even if you already think you do this!) Trust me, I am not a morning person and understand the need for sleep. However, most of us have an "I'm going to be late" time that we inwardly know we have to avoid. So, just try it. Even if you hit the snooze, you'll be getting up when you (really) need to, building another cushion of less stressed minutes into your day.

* Take your calls outside. If you don't have to be in front of your computer at all times, try taking your calls outdoors where you can get fresh air, a little bit of exercise, and can enjoy the mood-improving benefits of the sun. 

* For the busy car-pool parents. If you think you're too busy to exercise because you have to sit at your child's soccer or little league game, you're definitely missing the opportunity here. Instead of sitting on the bleachers, why not put on a pair of running shoes and take a few laps around the field while you're watching? Even if you have another child to bring with you, they'll probably enjoy the chance to walk or kick around the sideline with you. You'll both inevitably get a workout, and they'll just think they're playing.

* "Stop means stretch". Many of you have heard me say this before, but its a point worth restating. If you still think you're too busy to take time at home or work, make sure to use every opportunity you have to at least stretch your arms and neck. A perfect time to do this is during your commute to work at those wonderfully long stop lights San Diego provides to all of us. 

* Turn your "I cant's" to "I can's". If you can't run, you can try walking. If you can't work out your legs, you can probably still work out your upper body. If your back is bad, you can probably start working out your abdominals (and there by make your back better). If you can't leave to go to a gym, you can still do activities at home. If you can't afford home exercise equipment, you can still use your floor, a towel, and a can of soup. If you think you can't stretch because you don't know how, you can contact a health care provider or get on the internet to find videos and articles that teach you how.  

Get the drift? Good- now go figure out your own! Oh, and if you're convinced you can't fit one more thing into your day, you can give up facebook, tv, and certain aspects of the internet to make time. Its all comes down to attitude and priorities. Be sure to put your health at the top of the list, or losing it will keep you from the rest!  

Want that Dori clip? Check it out! 

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