It's happening again! Minimal movement, too much screen time, unnecessary binge-eating, are all turning us into couch potatoes. The 2021 lockdown imposed amid the second COVID wave has taken away every ounce of motivation that was left after surviving a year of the pandemic. While the measures are necessary to curb the rise in cases, lockdown blues leading to various physical and mental health issues are turning into a reality, all over again. Especially for those working from home, with long office hours, health and fitness have taken a backseat. There are many simple ways in which you can stay in shape and calm your mind. They don't require too much time, or any equipment, and are so easy and fun that even celebrities swear by them.
1. Yoga with Shilpa Shetty and Kareena Kapoor Khan
One ancient form practice that most celebrities swear by, when it comes to fitness is Yoga. And, not just in India, but, it has even gained momentum across the globe with many Hollywood stars following it regularly. Known to not just help maintain a fit body but to also heal internal issues, this practice needs no gym or equipment. All you need to do is get a mat, and start with any asana of your choice in your balcony, terrace, or garden.
"It is so important to start your day with the right frame of mind. Honestly, for me, nothing works better than Yoga when I need to delve into a day or week full of activities with a clear head and a rather high level of energy. The Eka pada Vasisthasana, or the one-legged side plank, works very well to help improve balance, concentration, and focus. It also helps strengthen and improve flexibility in wrist; while strengthening the forearms, shoulders, and spine. It also works on strengthening and toning the obliques, and stabilising the core. This routine helps me start off my day on an energetic note," writes actor Shilpa Shetty on her Instagram handle.
Another Bollywood diva and a mother of two, actor, Kareena Kapoor Khan adds that yoga is her me time, and that consistency is the key.
2. Muscle-building with Soha Ali Khan and Yasmin Karachiwala
Willing to build up some muscle and speed up the exercise routine? Don’t worry, you don't need to head to the gym for that. All you need to do is get yourself a pair of dumbbells and you can start the routine in your living room itself. Start with simple squats like actor Soha Ali Khan, and slowly graduate to functional and plyometric workout, like celebrity fitness trainer, Yasmin Karachiwala.
"Plyometrics is a type of exercise training that uses the speed and force of different movements to build muscle power. The primary focus of plyometric training, however, is to expand and contract muscles as quickly as possible, with the main benefits of doing this being greater flexibility and the ability to move the muscles more rapidly," Karachiwala explains in an Instagram post.
3. Jump, push, squat with Sara Ali Khan and Bipasha Basu
Another interesting way to stay fit at home is to do some jumping exercises, both with and without weights. This gives you a sudden rush of energy to stay active throughout the day. Just play some upbeat music and you are good to go. If you don't feel motivated enough, watch this reel by actor, Sara Ali Khan.
Another actor, known for her workout videos that you need to follow for some at home workout routine is Bipasha Basu. Her squat video from her living will instantly make you leave your couch and hit the floor.
4. Learn to draw an 8 in your living room with Mandira Bedi
Well, we aren’t talking about drawing one on a piece of paper, as you may have guessed. Actor, designer and TV presenter, Mandira Bedi, will tell you how you can lose weight by running in your living room in the figure of the numeral. Although headstands and pushups that aren’t suitable for beginners are part of her routine, something simple and basic like the idea of drawing an eight is worth a try. "One year on and I’m still running in a figure of 8, in my living room," her Instagram post says.
5. Sameera Reddy wants you to simply play with your kids
Actor and mother of two, Messy Mama Sameera Reddy, who recently recovered from COVID-19 is urging people to stay fit and healthy by taking out just one day every week for some yoga and slow walks. And to spread the message of positivity and inform people to stay focused, she has even uploaded a video on her Instagram where you can see her jumping and walking with her toddler resting around her shoulders. "Are you staying fit? Keep moving! Stay focused! You can do this #fitnessfriday. One week post COVID recovery. Slow and steady but with a fun and positive attitude. The kids are keeping me on my toes. I have to take it easy with slow walks and light yoga. But this is a reminder to keep going with your fitness goals. Whatever they maybe!" she says in her post.