Health and the Writer by Camy Tang

Whether you’re a writer who also works a full-time job or are a busy stay-at-home-mom, it’s hard to stay healthy. I researched and figured out a bunch of tips and tricks to help me stay in shape without carving out of my precious writing time. I also found some tips to help me have just general better health. Pick and choose which of these will work for you.

Stress eating

Not all people eat when they’re stressed or emotionally upset, but I sure do. I pack on the pounds when I’m under deadline.

Curbing stress eating is a combination of practical tips and mental preparedness.

Remember that each day is a new day. Trying to leave negative or stressful emotions behind as soon as you fall asleep can sometimes help.

Try to cope with stress or negative emotions in positive ways. Do something you enjoy, like take a relaxing bath, read a book, play with the cat, walk the dog.

The key here is that exercises or activities that physically relax you will also influence your mental state. And that will prevent you from rushing the refrigerator.

Yoga sometimes works for some people. I personally enjoy the stretching. It makes my lower back pain ease and makes my body feel younger.

If you have a tendency to dwell on negative things, keep your mind busy. Sometimes I read a book or watch TV to de-stress—something that doesn’t give me a lot of thinking time.

Creative projects can also relax you. Knitting or crocheting, scrapbooking, stamping, making cards or soap or calico turkeys—whatever you enjoy.

Camy Tang is a novelist also fighting the battle of the bulge. Find out more about her and her books at http://www.camytang.com/, or enjoy the read on her blog at http://camys-loft.blogspot.com/.