I wasn’t sure what to expect from a sub-$250 rowing machine, but the Sunny has proven to be a solid machine. It was easy to assemble (and came with a screwdriver, hex keys, and wrenches). Operation is smooth and very quiet. Resistance is magnetic and adjustable from 1 to 8. The tiny-display “computer” that tracks calories, times, and strokes is hard to read and not illuminated, but I use the countdown timer on my phone or watch anyway. — MF

In a now-deleted Reddit LPT that stuck with me, I read that in France people do not eat to the point of being stuffed or rarely say “I am full,“ instead they say "Je n'ai plus faim” which translates into “I am no longer hungry.” My French neighbor couldn’t verify if this was true, but even so it’s a good mindset to have when eating. Especially when dining out or in a friend’s home where I feel pressured to finish everything on my plate. — CD

I bought this orthopedic Stretch Mate more than five years ago and I still use it weekly to stretch out my back and alleviate soreness. For me, this works better than a foam roller because my clothing and hair don’t get caught up in it. It’s stiff and plastic, and not a one size fits all solution, but I recommend it if you’re not a fan of rollers and want to try something else. There’s an option to add on a padded cover which I have yet to try but ordered this week. Note: The Stretch Mate is $40 today without the pad, I paid $22 for it back in 2013. — CD

As a casual exerciser, I really appreciate this muscle chart from the DAREBEE website. It’s straightforward and I think, “hey, I can do that.” The website has other cool posters and printables to inspire you to workout. — CD

I find that walking a labyrinth is a much simpler way for me to meditate than sitting. I stand at the entrance and contemplate my issue or question, then after some deep breathing and when I feel ready, I enter. As I walk through the winding path toward the middle, I imagine myself shedding all fears and doubts, so that when I arrive at the center I physically feel lighter and open for clarity. — CD

A new habit I’ve picked up is to put my fork down between bites. Originally this was a weight-loss tip — and it has helped me eat less — but also it’s helped me relax while eating, and I enjoy my meals more. — CDduration

I feel great after I stretch my back with a foam roller like this one. It loosens me up right away and using it in the morning helps me be mindful of my posture all day long. — CD

Yoga Studio by Gaiam are like mini-yoga classes in your pocket. You can choose from 65 videos, varying in duration of 15-60 minutes. I’m still in beginner mode and the 15-minute videos go by so fast! The app is available on Android and iPhone. — CD

In 2012 I bought an $25 pull-up bar that hangs from a door frame. When I started, I wasn’t able to do a single pull-up. After a week I could do one pull-up. A couple of months later I was able to do over 10 pull-ups. I still can. — MF

I am a minimalist. What is the least amount of exercise I can do with max benefits? Answer: Just seven minutes of calisthenics. For the past several years I’ve been using a 7-minute workout app on my phone, which is also great for traveling. There are many versions to choose from, but my favorite app is free, no upsell: Johnson & Johnson’s Official 7-Minute Workout. — KK