Yoga   Yoga: For Health and Much More

As the summer approaches do you make the most out of our time off? Do you maximise your lunch hour and time off after work? How do you revitalize yourself to make sure you feel on top of the World? Many of us forget about the small things that can instantly change the way you feel and only involve minimum impact and cost.

Go for a run – this had to be in our top list of things to do either during your lunch-break or after work. Running is one of the best forms of exercise not just for getting fit but for weight control too. A running break away from your desk will leave you with boundless energy for the afternoon.

Hit the gym – Many gyms offer shorter classes to accommodate the lunch-time market, a quick spin class or a yoga class could relieve any tension, and leave you totally refreshed for the afternoon and ready for the evening ahead.

Music for the Mind – As you head to work in the morning listen to upbeat music something a little more rousing to shake off any sleepiness and prepare you for the day ahead. As you leave work play music that will relax and de-stress you from the daily pressures surrounding work. Listening to calming music on your journey back should have the impact of shaking off work anxiety.
Power Walking – heading out on a power walk will definitely give you a boost throughout your day. It relieves stress, tension and enables you to lose calories quickly.

Book a holiday – Sorting your next holiday will completely reinvigorate you and give you a focus over the forthcoming months. Once you’re booked you can look at getting fit for your holiday, you can’t head to the beach without feeling your absolute best?

Take the Plunge – Half an hour’s swimming burns off 300 calories and is great for improving you all over body shape. You’ll feel totally alive when you have had a quick session in your local pool. Or if you’re lucky enough to have an open-air lido or open water pool near you then head there this summer and experience something a little different.

Do things you enjoy – In the evenings head to your favourite restaurants and maximise the time you have with your friends and family. Leave work behind for the day and concentrate on what you like doing best!

For more information, visit realbuzz.com.

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Everyone has stress – it’s unavoidable – but the way you deal with it can make a huge difference in your life. Spas are leading the way in helping the over-stressed. Research shows that spa treatments like massage, acupuncture and meditation can aid in stress reduction.

Stress can cause all sorts of unwelcome side affects including high blood pressure, decreased immunity function, reduced energy levels – even your attitude can be affected. It might even do a number on your appearance – acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis flare ups are all stress-related, and can be addressed with the help of an esthetician at your local spa.

Work is often cited as the main trigger point for stress. The American Psychological Association reports that 62 percent of Americans are stressed about work. Utilizing spa techniques like meditation and yoga poses in your cubicle to help calm and balance yourself is an easy and discreet way to manage stress while at work. It’s time to visit the spa when you need stress-busting treatments such as massage, acupuncture or guided imagery.

For more information, visit experienceispa.com.

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Perfect for mind and body rejuvenation, yoga uses meditation and aligning movements to encourage fitness and relaxation.
This low-impact fitness alternative allows pregnant women to continue an exercise regimen without putting strain on their heart or harming the baby. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the rewards of basic yoga outweigh the potential physical risks, as long as you take caution and perform the exercises in moderation, according to your individual flexibility level. Executing yoga positions properly is important, especially when pregnant or after giving birth.

Maternal stretching and meditation for expecting mothers gives women an option to be comfortable and healthy during their pregnancy. Yoga is an excellent choice for maintaining strength and flexibility, focusing on breathing techniques, and continued relaxation. Pregnant women and yoga-enthusiasts alike also need to practice yoga properly to avoid muscle or joint injury, especially if weight is not distributed properly or the body feels overworked.

• According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2008, more than 5,500 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, clinics and other medical settings for injuries related to yoga.

• Common yoga injuries include straining and overstretching of the neck, shoulders, spine, legs and knees.

To reduce yoga-related injuries, the AAOS recommends the following:

• Speak to your doctor before participating in yoga or other exercise during pregnancy. Your doctor may advise you to limit your maximum heart rate during activity at this time.

• Work with a qualified yoga instructor. Ask about his or her experience and credentials. If you choose to use a yoga DVD at home, look for one that comes highly recommended by your physician or other reliable sources.

• Warm up thoroughly before a yoga session–cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are vulnerable to injury. Make sure you cool down as well to relax your muscles and restore your resting heart rate and breathing rhythm.

• Wear appropriate clothing that allows for proper movement. Today, maternity yoga pants are readily available.

• Beginners should start slowly and learn the basics first, focusing on breathing rather than trying to stretch too far. The purpose of this is to make you and baby feel comfortable, strong, and relaxed, not to “win the race.”

• If you are unsure of a pose or movement, ask questions. As you enter the third trimester, you will want to focus on poses performed while standing, kneeling, or on your side. Avoid lying on your belly or back, doing backbends, or attempting balance poses on one leg.

• Know your limits. Do not try positions beyond your experience or comfort level.

• Learn what type of yoga you are performing. There are many different forms of yoga, some more strenuous than others. Most poses can be modified to be safer and more comfortable during pregnancy. It is important to learn which type of yoga will best suit your needs. If pregnant, enrolling in a prenatal yoga class is ideal. If that is not an option, talk to the instructor about your pregnancy and any known “trouble areas” before starting the class.

• It is particularly important for pregnant participants to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

• If pregnant, avoid Bikram or “hot” yoga, which can raise your (and the baby’s) body temperature too high.

• Listen to your body. If you experience pain or exhaustion while participating in yoga, stop or take a break. If pain persists, speak with a physician.

For more information, visit aaos.org.

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