Summer fitness dos and don'ts
November-14-2011
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1 Go for goals
Start your day with a positive summer body goal in mind and refer back to it whenever you need an inspirational reminder. It’s amazing how this simple activity can manifest itself in your everyday reality – you’ll naturally follow your intention if you give it enough time (and regular reinforcement) to take root!
2 Get some fresh air
The most effective way to oxygenate your blood, boost your metabolism and launch yourself into the day ahead is to breathe. Sit with your legs crossed and breathe deeply for the count of one, two, three (four or even five) as you inhale and exhale. Keep your spine upright and your chin tucked into your throat. Feel free to use a wall for support if needed.
3 Know your limits
When it comes to exercise and life in general, it’s important to work within your capabilities – always examine how you’re feeling at that moment in time. Remember to believe in yourself and stay strong, especially when times are challenging.
4 Keep moving
Energy gives you energy! Commit yourself to daily movements, such as attending a fitness or yoga class at your local gym or walking your dog around the park. Any activity that gets you into your body will keep you light and energised.
5 Stay hydrated
Sometimes your body’s signals for being thirsty can be mistaken as hunger. Make sure you’re fully hydrated from morning until night so you can achieve that healthy glow.
6 Get plenty of rest
There’s a reason it’s called beauty sleep. Ensuring adequate nightly levels of deep sleep is one of the key essentials to maintaining gorgeous, youthful-looking skin.
7 Do it in moderation
No matter what triggers your negative emotional buttons, try not to binge with food or drink. However, do remember to treat yourself every now and then.
8 Choose wisely When it comes to meal options, always go for fresh, organic and light meals, salads, and raw or steamed vegetables. This will keep your figure in top form for summer.
9 Take your time
Always give yourself some “me” time. In this fast-paced, distracting, chaotic urban world around us, this is an easy thing to forget. Whether you dip into the ocean, paint a picture or take a leisurely stroll, anything that relaxes your nervous system and brings stillness to your soul is a form of yoga.
10 Rest up
Sometimes, our biggest challenge is stopping what we’re doing and absorbing the moment we’re in. Relax in the savasana pose, or corpse pose (laying on your back with your arms and legs spread at about 45 degrees, and your eyes closed). Next, allow all of your organs to breathe and your limbs to completely relax. This is an effective power nap that can be performed anytime.