Work at Home Weight Gain

I have to confess that while building my writing business over the past two and a half years I have not been taking very good care of myself. I sit at a computer for several hours a day and have not engaged in an exercise routine in months. And I’m paying for it with some extra, “baggage.” Besides being unable to fit into my favorite jeans, I’m taking my health for granted, and I don’t think I’m alone.

I’ve noticed other writers confessing their own lack of exercise or healthy diet on blogs and forums. Add to that the sad fact that many freelance writers are without health coverage and problem reach another level of urgency.

The truth is that freelancing can lead many into a very sedentary lifestyle. You’re sitting in front of a computer for hours, you may miss regular meals and find yourself mindlessly snacking around the clock. You might switch things up every now and then and spend some time working at the local coffee house among the bagels and cream cheese-filled pastries. Before you know it there’s more of you to love.

We all know regular exercise can protect us from conditions like heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, non insulin-dependent diabetes, obesity, back pain and osteoporosis; what you may not know is that it can also help improve sleep, concentration and energy – three things most freelance writers could use a lot more of.

I’m not big on resolutions, but I am vowing to make more time for exercise this year. I want to start running again, so that’s the goal I’m working toward. I’m a vegetarian and already enjoy a diet filled with vegetables, fruit and whole grains, so tweeking it a bit to reduce my sugar intake and portion sizes should help me shed a few pounds by Spring.

Has anyone else found themselves battling work from home weight gain? How do you prioritize fitness in your life?