Here are some excellent ways to keep moving when you can’t get outside:

• Maintain an active routine—While sleeping in and working in your pajamas might be appealing in the beginning, it’s better to have a more active routine to improve your overall mood. Try getting out of bed earlier and at the same time each day. A great way to get the blood moving is to do a simple workout routine first thing. Then take a shower and have something to eat. Many studies find that routine activities, whatever your choices may be, contribute to a positive mental attitude.
• Choose hobbies and crafts that keep you active—If knitting isn’t your cup of tea, try one of these: sewing, embroidering, crocheting, pickling, music-making, furniture restoring, pottery, making beeswax candles, pressing flowers, baking, writing, and scrapbooking. That should keep you busy.
• Basic circulation exercises—It’s important to keep your circulation going to prevent stiffness. Be sure that you’re getting up and moving around every half hour or so, at a minimum. You can also try flexing and rotating exercises for your ankles and lower legs while in a seated position.
• Stair exercises—If you have stairs in the house, whenever you get up to get a beverage, try taking five or ten steps on the stairs on your way to the kitchen. For a serious foot and calf stretch, stand on the edge of a step and slowly lower and then raise your heels ten times.

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with your feet or ankles, contact your podiatrist to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Kathleen Pyatak-Hugar, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.