by Stephanie Nickel

These are suggestions I’ve discovered from personal experience. Please don’t mistake them for medical advice. If you have questions, contact your healthcare professional.

Should I eat?

Sometimes, if you’ve eaten poorly and your system is acting up, it’s best to drink lots of water to flush your system and eat small amounts of bland foods.

At other times, it’s best just to drink the water and let the unhealthy food exit your system. However, remember to drink and don’t go without food for a prolonged period.

Should I sleep?

Consistency is so important. Try to get to bed at the same time every night and rise at the same time. That second part is tricky, especially if you don’t have to be up at a particular time. However, you have probably noticed that too much sleep feels remarkably like too little.

There are times, however, especially when you’re feeling under the weather that you’ll need extra rest, if not extra sleep.

Warning: If all you want to do is sleep and there is no particular physical reason, consider talking to a professional. This is a sign of depression.

Should I run?

Well, if you’re being chased . . .

But seriously, if you are going to run, invest in supportive footwear and consider joining a running group. It is easy to do damage to your feet and joints if you don’t take precautions.

I have mentioned before that I’m not a runner. The elliptical trainer and power walking are good options, as are swimming and biking.

Should I do resistance training?

There are countless benefits to regular resistance training. I seek to make it a regular part of my routine—and I enjoy it. However, I rarely do as much as I’d like. (Funny thing . . . most of my excuses for not exercising are the very reasons I should.)

Last week, I pulled a muscle. That was not a good time to lift weights. Today, I have an upset stomach. I plan to do a little, but I won’t be overdoing it.

When you’re sick, sometimes the best thing to do is take a break and let yourself recover. Sometimes, it’s best to modify—but not eliminate—your workout.

Warning: If you are in your teens, are pregnant, haven’t been exercising regularly, are older, or have health concerns, do your research and consider hiring a professional to set up a routine for you. Also, whoever you are, check with your doctor before changing your level of physical activity.

So, should you or shouldn’t you?

You absolutely should.

It’s just learning when and how that is the most important thing . . . and yes, of course, actually doing it.

Stephanie Nickel, CLD, PTS is a freelance writer and editor, a labour doula, and a personal trainer.