Seven tips for a better commute
Long commutes have been shown to cause heart problems, neck and back stiffness, cholesterol problems and weight gain. We explore some tips to help you take the stress out of your commute:
Use predictive apps
Use apps like Google Maps to plan your route so you’re aware of traffic and delays and can find other options.
Listen to the right things
Listening to any music can help, but classical music is especially beneficial. It has been shown to have soothing effects and help moderate BP. Also consider listening to something educational e.g. an audiobook or podcast.
Stretch whenever possible
Long commutes can cause neck and back stiffness. Remind yourself to keep sitting upright. Drivers can try neck exercises – press your head sideways onto your shoulder, hold a few seconds, switch to the other shoulder and repeat. Also try tensing/releasing your muscles, or gripping the wheel and tensing your back, to stay flexible. Bus and train commuters can try exercises like calf raises – plant both feet on the floor, raise your heels, tense your calf for a few seconds, then repeat (put your bag on your lap to add some extra intensity).
Pack your own food
Eating home-packed food is healthier than buying food outside. Frequent small snacks can lift your mood by controlling blood sugar, while some nuts have been shown to reduce stress while citrus fruits help control BP.
Sleep well the night before
Good sleep inhibits sugar and nutrients reaching the brain, and makes you feel more relaxed and alert the next day. Switch off your phone or TV and sleep early. For the morning, set your alarm a few minutes earlier than required so you’ll always feel like you have a time buffer, reducing stress.
Put your phone away – or call a loved one
Call your friends or family on the way so that you feel less lonely on the commute and always have something to look forward to. Otherwise, avoid typing, browsing or checking emails – make your commute a refuge from constant connectivity, where you’re away from the devices that otherwise control your life. Use the time to catch a nap, read and listen to music.
Walk or cycle for some part of the ride
Commutes reduce the time available for exercise. Walk a bit longer to the next bus stop or cycle some distance to the station so you can squeeze in some commuting exercise, which has been shown to help control weight.