Let’s Kick Convenience to the Curb
Kibworth Osteopaths
This isn’t about removing useful tools like washing machines or dishwashers. Instead, let’s consider small conveniences we could forgo to benefit our body and mind.
Modern life keeps us too busy, rushing to maximise productivity, often ignoring what our body and mind truly need. Remember this: the body craves movement, and the mind craves stillness. While some conveniences are helpful, others might be worth rethinking. Here are some suggestions.
Day to day Life
Food is a significant area where convenience impacts health. Replacing ready-made meals with quick, healthy options is one way to nourish your body. Try cookbooks like Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills or food delivery services that provide fresh ingredients for inspiration.
When out, could you park farther away for more movement? Meeting a friend? Make it a walk-and-talk instead of sitting in a café. The benefits of being in nature are profound (see my review of 52 Ways to Walk by Annabelle Streets*). Walking instead of driving when possible is another simple change.
Working from Home
Turn your non-existent commute into an opportunity for movement. Begin and end your day with a 15-30 minute walk, and take a dynamic lunch break—walk after eating to boost movement and regulate glucose (see my review of Glucose Revolution by Jessica Inchaupse*). Take standing or walking meetings and follow my free ergonomics guide for more tips.
Working in the Office
Park farther away and opt for the stairs. Take dynamic lunch breaks and print from a distant printer to complete more steps. Walking meetings can also increase productivity.
Your Mind and Convenience
Create stillness in your day. Meditation, even for 10 minutes, can help quiet a busy mind and calm the nervous system. Guided meditations are widely available for free. Embrace convenience where it counts—like online grocery shopping—to allow time for activities that nourish both body and mind, such as yoga, gardening, or simply slowing down.
How can you kick the convenience of busyness to the curb?
*All references to book reviews can be found on my website.
For more on how osteopathy can help, visit www.kibwort
hosteopaths.co.uk or telephone 07761 664 325. Always happy to help,
Emily Coombes, Registered Osteopath (7416).
