By Hope Zvara, CEO of Mother Trucker Yoga
Like your truck, your body needs proper maintenance to run smoothly. And when you’re clocking in those miles, it’s easy to forget about what’s going on under your hood. And when you don’t fuel it properly, it’s only a matter of time before the real engine moving that truck of yours will begin to break down, often without warning.
EXERCISE
You don’t need a gym membership, folks. Just a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. Stretch those legs at rest stops, do some truck-side lunges, or even some seat exercises while you’re parked. It keeps your blood flowing and your nervous system firing on all cylinders.
VITAMINS AND MINERALS
Your engine needs the right fuel, and so does your body. B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s are like high-quality oil for your nervous system. You can find them in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Consider a daily multivitamin to make sure you’re covering your bases.
SITTING POSITION
Ah, the trucker’s throne. How you sit can be a royal pain or your best ally. Keep that back straight, adjust your seat so your feet can rest flat, and don’t forget to use that lumbar support. A well-positioned seat can help avoid unnecessary stress on your nervous system.
FOOD CHOICES
We’ve all been tempted by the siren call of truck stop eats. But fueling your body with the right foods is crucial for keeping your nervous system happy. Opt for snacks that pack a nutritional punch – think fruits, veggies, nuts, and whole grains. And water, drink lots of water. Staying hydrated keeps everything running smoothly, from your brain to your toes.
HEALTHY OILS
Here’s the real inside scoop: healthy fats are your nervous system’s best friend. They’re the slippery slide that keeps everything moving without a hitch. Foods rich in omega-3s, like fish, walnuts, and flaxseed, or cooking with first-press extra virgin olive oil, can make a big difference in how you feel mentally and physically. Some of the healthiest populations in the world have diets rich in healthy oils, so it may be wise to take note.
So, there you have it. Taking care of your nervous system is much like maintaining your truck – it might take some effort, but boy, is it worth it. You’ll feel better, think clearer, and hey, those long hauls might just start to feel a bit shorter.
Now, conquer those highways with a well-oiled, finely tuned system!
