“To enjoy the glow of good health, you must exercise.” Gene Tunney
A well-balanced diet goes hand-in-hand with physical activity. My health and beauty philosophy comprises good nutrition and adequate exercise. Physical activity is great for our muscles, bones, and brains, and is the key to achieving long-term wellness. It is essential for mind, body, and spirit to maintain perfect balance and equilibrium.
There are many reasons to move your body daily, such as increased circulation, flexibility, and energy; body tone; improved overall health and digestion, relieved tension; improved heart health; and the ability to focus. The main goal of exercise is to encourage circulation and the flow of energy evenly throughout the body. We can recharge energy by increasing circulation. According to Chinese medicine, all illness is a result of imbalance, and blocked and stagnant energy. The ancient Chinese believed when “chi,” or energy, is stalled in the body, we get sick. When chi flows freely and smoothly, the body’s systems and organs are in a state of harmony and balance. Physical activity is also something that improves the function of the skeleton, as well as of the respiratory, lymphatic, and digestive systems. It keeps us young, and fills us with vitality.
Try to find an exercise style that works for you. It can be tailored to your own needs and to the amount of time you have to spend on body maintenance. Choose your favorite class, and include it as part of your daily life. And remember, exercising too much or too little can work against you.
For people who are overweight, yoga, swimming, and other water exercise are good to begin with, but first adjust your diet. To maintain your fitness level, you should work out 4 to 6 times a week. Aim for a healthy weight, and moderate physical activity of at least 30 minutes on most days. Focus on health instead of trying to lose weight. Let your body find your natural ideal weight. Your ideal weight will come to you as a reward. By making small changes consistently, pounds will come off gradually, and you will feel lighter and healthier. Give your body one day to rest and re-energize. When you are resting, you can still do some walking. Achieving a health transformation brings immense pleasure.
We can usually live on less food than we eat. Cut back on portions. Use a smaller plate to eat less. Find a combination of good eating habits and adequate exercise. A slow but deliberate pattern of looking after your health will help make the transition easy and comfortable.
What do you want to do with your body today? Find a location where you can enjoy sports or other callorie-burning activities: a gym, yoga class, dance studio, or the privacy of your own home. Or try something new. You can design a workout based on your energy level. Make a personal promise and do it. Exercise daily if possible or at least routinely.