Brooklyn in the Haus

Category: Fitness

How I Stay Active During Summer
Staying active during summer always feels a little easier when the days are longer, the weather is nicer, and everything feels lighter. But let’s be real, between busy schedules, vacations, work, and wanting to just relax sometimes, staying consistent can still be hard.

Here’s what helps me stay active during summer without making fitness feel overwhelming or stressful.

Summer is honestly one of my favorite times to reset my routines and focus on feeling good physically and mentally. I don’t try to make my workouts perfect, and I definitely don’t pressure myself to be in the gym 24/7. Instead, I focus on movement that feels realistic and enjoyable.

For me, staying active during summer is less about chasing perfection and more about creating habits that fit naturally into my everyday life. I’ve noticed that when I keep things simple, I’m much more likely to stay consistent.

Why I Love Staying Active During Summer

More Energy
Moving my body regularly helps me feel more energized throughout the day. Even a quick walk or workout can completely change my mood and productivity.

Better Mood
Getting outside, walking, or working out instantly helps me feel mentally refreshed. Fresh air and movement honestly help me feel less stressed and more balanced.

Less Pressure
Summer workouts feel more relaxed and flexible compared to strict routines. I love giving myself room to move in ways that feel good instead of forcing perfection.

It Becomes Part of My Lifestyle
When I focus on consistency instead of perfection, staying active feels way more sustainable. It starts feeling less like a task and more like a natural part of my routine.

Ways I Stay Active During Summer

1. I Go on More Walks

One of the easiest ways I stay active is simply walking more. Whether it’s a morning walk, walking while listening to music, or going on sunset walks, it helps me move my body without feeling like a chore.

Sometimes the simplest habits are the most effective. Plus, walks are such an easy way for me to clear my mind and recharge.

2. I Keep My Workouts Simple

I’ve learned that complicated workout plans usually overwhelm me during busy seasons. In summer, I stick to simple workouts I actually enjoy.

Some of my favorites are:
- Quick gym sessions
- Pilates workouts
- At-home workouts
- Stairmaster sessions
- Stretching routines
Keeping things simple helps me stay more consistent and takes away the pressure of needing a “perfect” workout.

3. I Focus on Consistency, Not Perfection

There are days when I have lots of energy and days when I don’t. Instead of feeling guilty, I try to remind myself that doing something is better than doing nothing.

Even a short workout or walk still counts. Learning this mindset has honestly helped me build a healthier relationship with fitness.

4. I Make Movement Fun

I’m way more motivated when movement feels enjoyable instead of forced. I’ll make a fun playlist, wear a cute workout set, or go outside for fresh air.

Little things honestly make such a difference. When workouts feel fun, I actually look forward to staying active.

5. I Stay Hydrated

Summer heat is no joke, so staying hydrated is super important. I always try to keep water with me throughout the day, especially when I’m active.

Bonus points if the water bottle is cute because somehow that helps too. Staying hydrated also helps me feel more energized during workouts and throughout the day.

Benefits of Staying Active During Summer
- Helps improve mood and energy
- Supports a healthy routine
- Reduces stress and mental burnout
- Encourages better sleep
- Helps you feel stronger and more confident
Tips That Help Me Stay Consistent
- Don’t overcomplicate your workouts
- Find movement you genuinely enjoy
- Keep realistic expectations
- Rest when your body needs it
- Focus on how movement makes you feel
Frequently Asked Questions

Do I work out every single day?
No. I try to stay active consistently, but I also prioritize rest and balance. Giving myself rest days helps me avoid burnout and stay motivated long term.

What if I don’t have gym access?
You definitely don’t need a gym. Walking, home workouts, stretching, or outdoor activities all count. Some of my favorite workouts are actually the simplest ones.

How do I stay motivated?
I focus less on motivation and more on routine. Once movement becomes part of your lifestyle, it feels more natural. Creating habits makes it easier than relying on motivation alone.

What’s my favorite summer workout?
Probably walking while listening to music or doing a quick Pilates workout. Both help me feel active without putting too much pressure on myself.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, staying active during summer doesn’t have to look perfect. It’s really about finding small, enjoyable ways to move your body and take care of yourself.

Give yourself grace, stay consistent in ways that feel realistic, and remember that healthy habits should support your life, not stress you out. The goal is to feel your best, not to be perfect.

If you have favorite ways to stay active during summer, let me know in the comments. I’m always looking for new ideas 💗

With Love,
May 21, 2026
Staying Active During Busy Weeks
Busy schedule but still trying to stay active? Same. Here’s how I keep moving even when life gets a lot—because staying active doesn’t have to mean spending hours at the gym.

Introduction

There are weeks when everything just piles up—classes, work, family responsibilities, and somehow trying to have a life in between. And usually, the first thing that gets pushed aside? Working out.

I used to think if I didn’t have time for a full, perfect workout, then it wasn’t worth it. But honestly, I’ve learned that staying active during busy weeks is more about consistency than perfection. It’s about showing up in small ways that still make a big difference.

Why You’ll Love This Approach

Realistic & Flexible
This isn’t about strict routines. It’s about fitting movement into your life as it is.

No Pressure
You don’t need to have a “perfect” workout to stay active.

Boosts Energy
Even short bursts of movement can help you feel more awake and focused.

Supports Your Routine
It helps you stay grounded, even when everything else feels chaotic.

Simple Ways to Stay Active

1. Quick Workouts Count

Even 10–15 minute workouts can make a difference. Whether it’s a quick home workout, a short walk, or a fast gym session, it all adds up.

2. Move Throughout the Day

Take the stairs, stretch between tasks, or walk around while on your phone. Little movements matter more than you think.

3. Schedule It Like an Appointment

Treat your workout like something important—because it is. Even blocking out a small time window helps you stay consistent.

4. Keep It Simple

Don’t overcomplicate your routine. Go-to workouts make it easier to stay on track.

5. Do What You Enjoy

Whether it’s lifting, walking, dancing, or a workout class, you’re more likely to stay consistent if you actually like it.

Benefits of Staying Active
- Improves mood and reduces stress
- Boosts energy levels throughout the day
- Helps maintain a healthy routine
- Supports both physical and mental well-being
Tips for Making It Work
- Lay out your workout clothes the night before
- Keep a short list of quick workouts you can rely on
- Don’t aim for perfect—just aim to move
- Listen to your body and adjust when needed
Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have time for a full workout?
That’s okay. Short workouts or even small bursts of movement still count.

Is it okay to skip some days?
Yes. Rest is important too. The goal is consistency over time, not perfection.

Do I need a gym membership?
Not at all. You can stay active at home or outdoors just as easily.

How do I stay motivated?
Focus on how you feel after moving, not just the results. That shift makes a big difference.

Conclusion

Staying active during busy weeks isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about doing what you can, when you can. It’s choosing to move your body in ways that support your life, not stress you out.

Give yourself grace, keep it simple, and just keep showing up.

If this helped you, let me know in the comments how you stay active during busy weeks. I’d love to hear your go-to routines.

Stay moving 💗

With Love,
April 28, 2026
Fitness Habits That Feel Sustainable

Building a routine you can actually stick to

Introduction

Let’s be honest, fitness can feel overwhelming, especially when social media makes it look like everyone is working out twice a day, meal prepping perfectly, and never missing a Monday. As a 21-year-old balancing college, helping with our family business at Bailey Rae Foods, staying active, nurturing my faith, and trying to still enjoy life, I’ve learned that extreme routines just do not last. The pressure to be all in can actually make you quit faster.

What does last are habits that feel realistic and flexible. Habits that work even during midterms, busy work weeks, low-energy days, or seasons where life just feels full. Sustainable fitness is not about intensity. It is about consistency over time. It is about building something you can live with, not something that takes over your life.

Here are five fitness habits that have helped me stay consistent without feeling burnt out.

1. Move Your Body 3–4 Times a Week, Not Every Single Day

For a long time, I thought I had to work out every single day for it to count. If I missed one day, I felt behind. That mindset was exhausting. Now, instead of aiming for perfection, I aim for consistency. I plan to move my body intentionally about three to four times a week, and that structure feels doable no matter how busy my schedule gets.

Some weeks that looks like lifting weights at the gym. Other weeks it is incline walking, a Pilates-style workout, or even just getting extra steps in between classes and errands. Giving myself flexibility removes the pressure. I no longer feel like I have failed if I do not hit seven workouts in seven days. Three solid workouts done consistently over months will always beat seven intense days followed by burnout.

Sustainable fitness means choosing a frequency you can maintain long term, not just during your most motivated week.

2. Build Short, Efficient Workouts

Not every workout needs to be an hour and a half long to be effective. Some of my most productive gym sessions are 30 to 40 minutes of focused, intentional movement. When I keep workouts concise, I am less likely to skip them because they do not feel overwhelming or time-consuming.

I usually choose four to five exercises, focus on good form, and avoid unnecessary extras. Instead of trying to do everything in one session, I focus on doing a few things well. This helps me leave the gym feeling accomplished instead of drained. When workouts feel manageable, they are easier to repeat, and repeatability is what builds real progress.

Short, effective workouts fit into busy college days and work responsibilities without making fitness feel like a second full-time job.

3. Eat to Support Your Energy, Not Punish Yourself

One of the biggest mindset shifts I have made is viewing food as fuel instead of something to restrict. In the past, I associated healthy eating with eating as little as possible or cutting out entire food groups. That approach was not sustainable, and it definitely did not make me feel strong.

Now, I focus on building balanced meals that support my energy levels. I try to include protein in every meal to help with muscle recovery and fullness. I make sure I am eating enough carbohydrates to power my workouts and busy days. I stay hydrated, especially on gym days. I also allow myself to enjoy food without guilt because enjoying your meals is part of a healthy lifestyle.

As someone who genuinely loves experimenting in the kitchen, I have learned that fitness and good food can coexist. When you eat to nourish your body instead of punish it, staying consistent becomes much easier.

4. Protect Your Rest Days

Rest used to make me feel unproductive, but now I see it as an essential part of my routine. Your muscles repair and grow when you rest. Your nervous system resets. Your energy restores. Without rest, even the most structured workout plan can eventually lead to burnout.

On rest days, I focus on gentle movement or complete recovery, depending on how I feel. Sometimes that means stretching or going on a slow walk while listening to music. Other times it means a quiet morning with my Bible, journaling, and giving my body space to recharge. Rest days are not a setback. They are part of the plan.

When you start treating rest as a strategic choice instead of a failure, your entire approach to fitness becomes healthier and more balanced.

5. Focus on How You Feel, Not Just How You Look

This habit has been the most transformative for me. It is easy to measure progress by the mirror or the scale, but those metrics do not always tell the full story. Instead of constantly asking whether I look different yet, I started asking how I feel.

Do I feel stronger when I lift?
Do I have more stamina walking up stairs?
Is my mood more stable?
Am I sleeping better at night?

When fitness becomes about strength, confidence, and mental clarity, it stops feeling like a race. I have noticed that when I focus on feeling good, the physical results tend to follow naturally. Even more importantly, I feel proud of myself for showing up consistently.

Sustainable fitness is built on internal motivation, not just external appearance.

Tips for Making These Habits Stick

If you are trying to build sustainable fitness habits, start small and stay patient. Schedule your workouts like you would a class or meeting so they feel important but realistic. Keep your gym outfits ready if that helps you stay motivated. Create a playlist that energizes you and makes workouts feel fun instead of forced.

Most importantly, give yourself grace during busy seasons. Life will not always be perfectly structured. There will be weeks when you can only manage two workouts instead of four, and that is okay. Progress is not ruined by imperfect weeks. It is built through consistency over time.

FAQS

How long before I see results?
Physical changes can take time, but many people notice improved strength, mood, and energy within a few weeks of consistent movement and balanced eating.

What if I miss a week of workouts?
Missing a week does not erase your progress. Simply return to your routine without guilt. The goal is long-term consistency, not perfection.

Do I need a strict meal plan to see results?
Not necessarily. Many people thrive by focusing on balanced meals and listening to hunger cues rather than following rigid plans.

Conclusion

Sustainable fitness is not built on extremes, quick fixes, or all-or-nothing mindsets. It is built on small, repeatable habits that support your life instead of overwhelming it. When your routine fits your schedule, nourishes your body, and respects your need for rest, it becomes something you can carry into every season, not just your most motivated one.

Start small. Stay consistent. Give yourself grace. And if you are building habits that feel sustainable too, I would love to hear what is working for you. Leave a comment below and let’s grow together 💗

With Love,

February 27, 2026
How to Get a Flat Stomach

Introduction

Dreaming of a flat stomach? You’re not alone. Many people aspire to achieve a toned and trim midsection, but it takes more than just crunches to get there. From diet to exercise and lifestyle habits, there are several key factors that contribute to a flat stomach. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore actionable tips and strategies to help you sculpt your abs and achieve the flat stomach you’ve always wanted.

1. Focus on Nutrition

They say abs are made in the kitchen, and it’s true. Nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving a flat stomach. Here are some dietary tips to help you shed belly fat and reveal those toned abs:

Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a variety of whole foods, including lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to belly fat accumulation.

Watch Your Portions: Pay attention to portion sizes and avoid overeating. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help keep hunger at bay and prevent overindulgence.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support proper digestion. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day, and limit sugary beverages and alcohol.

Include Fiber-Rich Foods: Foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, can help promote satiety and prevent bloating. Aim to include fiber-rich foods in every meal to support digestive health and keep your stomach feeling flat.

2. Incorporate Cardiovascular Exercise

In addition to a healthy diet, cardiovascular exercise is essential for burning calories and reducing overall body fat. Here are some effective cardio exercises to help you trim down and reveal your flat stomach:

Brisk Walking: Take brisk walks around your neighborhood or on the treadmill to get your heart rate up and burn calories.

Running or Jogging: Incorporate running or jogging into your workout routine to torch calories and boost your metabolism.

Cycling: Hop on a stationary bike or hit the trails for a scenic bike ride to work your lower body and burn fat.

Swimming: Dive into the pool for a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints and great for burning calories.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Incorporate HIIT workouts into your routine for a quick and efficient way to blast fat and improve cardiovascular fitness.

3. Strengthen Your Core

While cardiovascular exercise is essential for burning calories, strength training is equally important for toning and sculpting your abs. Here are some effective core exercises to target your abdominal muscles:

Plank: Hold a plank position on your forearms and toes, engaging your core muscles and keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.

Russian Twists: Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Lean back slightly and twist your torso from side to side, touching the ground with your hands.

Leg Raises: Lie on your back with your legs straight. Lift your legs towards the ceiling, keeping them straight, then slowly lower them back down to the starting position.

Crunches: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Place your hands behind your head and lift your upper body off the ground, engaging your abdominal muscles.

Bicycle Crunches: Lie on your back with your knees bent and hands behind your head. Bring your knees towards your chest and lift your shoulder blades off the ground, then alternate bringing your elbows towards your opposite knee in a bicycling motion.

4. Practice Good Posture and Mindful Eating

In addition to diet and exercise, practicing good posture and mindful eating habits can help you achieve a flat stomach. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Maintain Good Posture: Stand tall with your shoulders back and core engaged to help improve your posture and strengthen your abdominal muscles.

Eat Mindfully: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and avoid eating out of boredom or stress. Chew your food slowly and savor each bite to prevent overeating and promote digestion.

Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to belly fat accumulation, so it’s essential to find healthy ways to manage stress levels. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature to help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

5. Get Adequate Sleep

Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of sleep when it comes to achieving a flat stomach. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance and increase cravings for unhealthy foods, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Achieving a flat stomach requires a combination of healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications. By focusing on nutrition, incorporating cardiovascular exercise and strength training, practicing good posture and mindful eating, and prioritizing sleep, you can sculpt your abs and achieve the flat stomach you’ve always wanted. Remember, consistency and patience are key, so stay committed to your goals and celebrate your progress along the way. Here’s to a happier, healthier, and flatter stomach!

With Love,

May 15, 2024
10 Fast 10-Minute Workouts For People on the Go
As a busy person, I understand how difficult it can be to find time to exercise. There always seems to be something else that needs to be done, and the thought of spending an hour or more at the gym can be daunting. That’s where 10-minute workouts come in. They’re quick, efficient, and can be done anywhere, anytime. In this post, I’ll share ten different 10-minute workouts that you can do on the go, without any equipment. So no matter how busy your day is, you can still find time to stay active and take care of your health.

10-minute HIIT workout

High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, is a great way to get an effective workout in a short amount of time. Warm up with 30 seconds of jumping jacks, then do 3 rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of high knees
- 30 seconds of jump lunges
- 30 seconds of mountain climbers
- 30 seconds of burpees
- Take a 30-second rest between rounds.
10-minute core workout

This core workout will get your abs burning in just 10 minutes. Do 2 rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of bicycle crunches
- 30 seconds of leg raises
- 30 seconds of Russian twists
- 30 seconds of plank jacks
- Take a 15-second rest between exercises.
10-minute full-body workout

This workout targets your entire body and requires no equipment. Do 2 rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of jump squats
- 30 seconds of push-ups
- 30 seconds of reverse lunges
- 30 seconds of plank shoulder taps
- Take a 15-second rest between exercises.
10-minute cardio workout

Get your heart rate up with this quick cardio workout. Do three rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of jumping jacks
- 30 seconds of high knees
- 30 seconds of butt kicks
- 30 seconds of skaters
- Take a 30-second rest between rounds.
10-minute bodyweight workout

You don’t need any exercise equipment for this quick bodyweight workout, so it’s a good option if you want to exercise at home or at the park, or if you’re traveling and staying in a hotel without a gym. Warm up with 60 seconds of jumping jacks. Complete 2 rounds of the following:
- 45 seconds of jump squats
- 45 seconds of push-ups with shoulder taps
- 45 seconds of crossover mountain climbers
- 45 seconds of burpees
- 45 seconds of up-down plank
10-minute abs workout

This quick abs workout is perfect for targeting your core. Do 2 rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of reverse crunches
- 30 seconds of bicycle crunches
- 30 seconds of leg raises
- 30 seconds of Russian twists
- Take a 15-second rest between exercises.
10-minute standing ab workout

This ab workout can be done standing up, making it a great option for when you don’t want to get on the floor. Do 2 rounds of the following:
- 30 seconds of standing oblique crunches (each side)
- 30 seconds of standing knee to elbow twists (each side)
- 30 seconds of standing leg raises (each side)
- Take a 15-second rest between exercises.
10-minute arm workout

Give your arms a quick and effective workout in just 10 minutes. Complete 2 rounds of the following exercises, with a 15-second rest between each exercise:
- 30 seconds of push-ups
- 30 seconds of bicep curls (use dumbbells or any available weight)
- 30 seconds of tricep dips (use a sturdy chair or bench)
- 30 seconds of arm circles (15 seconds clockwise, 15 seconds counterclockwise)
- Remember to maintain proper form and control throughout each exercise.
Feel free to adjust the intensity and weight according to your fitness level. This routine is perfect for busy schedules and can help you maintain strong and toned arms.

10-minute yoga flow

This 10-minute yoga flow is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to get in a quick stretch. It’s also a great way to start or end your day.
- Begin in mountain pose and take three deep breaths.
- Move into a forward fold and hold for three breaths.
- Move into downward dog and hold for three breaths.
- Move into warrior I on each side and hold for three breaths.
- Move into triangle pose on each side and hold for three breaths.
- Finish with child’s pose for three breaths.
10-minute jump rope workout

Jumping rope is a great cardiovascular workout that can be done anywhere. If you don’t have a jump rope, pretend you do or just jump in place.
- Jump for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
- Jump for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
- Jump with high knees for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
- Jump with butt kicks for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
- Jump side to side for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
- Jump for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds.
Bonus: 10-minute stretching routine

Stretching is an essential part of any workout routine, but it’s also important for reducing stress and preventing injury. This quick stretching routine can be done anywhere and is perfect for a cool-down after a workout or as a standalone routine to improve your flexibility.
- Start with a simple standing hamstring stretch. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, hinge at your hips and fold forward, reaching your fingertips towards your toes. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds.
- Move on to a quadriceps stretch. Stand on one leg and bring your heel towards your buttocks. Grab your ankle with one hand and hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Switch sides and repeat.
- Next, perform a standing calf stretch. Stand facing a wall and place your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Step one foot back, keeping your heel on the ground, and lean forward into the wall. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and switch sides.
- Finally, finish with a seated spinal twist. Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your foot on the ground outside of your left thigh. Bring your left elbow to the outside of your right knee and twist to the right. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and switch sides.
Remember, the key to staying consistent with your fitness routine is finding workouts that work for you and your lifestyle. With these 10 quick and easy 10-minute workouts, you can stay active no matter how busy you are or where you are. So, take a few minutes out of your day and try one of these workouts. You might be surprised at how much you can accomplish in just 10 minutes! Keep moving, stay motivated, and don’t forget to have fun!

With Love,
February 18, 2023