In these stressful times it is easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted and fatigued.

There is so much that we have to deal with from staying at home, taking care of elderly parents, children, being laid off, worrying about money and just the mental duress of seeing ones we know and love dealing with the virus!

While I am working at home I try to have some sort of normalcy to my daily existence and have decided to include walking to my schedule. I do best when dealing with crisis and stress with daily a routine. It allows me to focus better and calm my mind.

I plan a 3-5 mile walk everyday when weather permits to allow my body to get fresh air, expand my lungs and move my joints.

I have a walking path in my neighborhood that is safe, challenging with steady inclines and plenty of social distancing.

At times it is hard to motivate myself but the fresh air feeds my soul and the physical activity is what my body and mind needs to handle the stress.

If I am feeling really motivated I add a series of 4 sets of 25 jump ropes and 20 mountain climbers to the end of my walk. These added exercises increase my heart rate. Then I roll out on a foam roller once I come back home and stretch out.

It takes me motivating myself because at times the stress tells my mind not to go but I fight it, go for the walk and feel so much better afterwards!

My mind is clearer and I can focus better on what I need to do for the rest of the day!