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Category Archives: Wellness

How Not to Gain Weight during the Holidays

The holiday season is here. This means that many of us will be with families and eating homemade pies and cakes. At work, there will be streams of goodies and sweets seemingly surrounding us. Planning for and attending various holiday functions, we will unconsciously nosh, nibble and imbibe to our hearts content. All of this means that we will be making those New Year’s Resolutions at the beginning of the New Year. Typically, weight loss is at the top of the list.

However, we need not wait until the results of our holiday activities shock us into more healthy habits. In fact, there are things that we can begin to do right now that will minimize the amount of (unwanted) weight that we accumulate due to the holiday season excess. Specifically, by drinking more water, sleeping more, being more active, eating more fiber and monitoring portion size, we can keep weight gain to a minimum.

  • Drink Water

    Up to 60% of the human body is water, the brain is composed of 70% water, and the lungs are nearly 90% water. Lean muscle tissue contains about 75% water by weight, as is the brain; body fat contains 10% water and bone has 22% water. About 83% of our blood is water, which helps digest our food, transport waste, and control body temperature.

    “To all living things, water is of major importance.”

    When looking to minimize weight gain during the holiday season, one need look no further than though the bottom of their glass; that is to say, drink more water. Water is the liquid that sustains all life on earth. Water also has ‘0’ calories. But more than that, one can actually burn calories due to water consumption. Specifically, men burn more fat while women break down more carbohydrates due to water consumption. So, to hedge your bets against that holiday weight gain, drink more water.

    Recommendation: Ideally, 1.5 liters of water per day or 2 (8 Ounce) cups of water before each meal.

  • Sleep More

    a sleeping baby

    Babies are growing so they need rest. Adults need rest for health maintenance and physiological repair.

    According to researchers, adequate sleep can be instrumental to obtaining positive results from dieting and exercising endeavors. Adequate sleep allows for the activation of Human Growth Hormone: this hormone is responsible for “functions in the body such as vitality, energy and weight maintenance“. In addition, adequate sleep brings about a near 50%:50% muscle mass loss to body fat loss. Inadequate sleep can cause five times more muscle mass loss than body fat loss (5:1 ratio). Minimal sleep can stimulate higher levels of consumption because hormone levels, that stimulate hunger, food intake and retention of body fat, increase. One cannot sleep themselves thin but one can insure that caloric accumulation is kept to a minimum with adequate sleep.

    Recommendation: Get more than 6.5 – 7.0 hours of sleep.

  • Walk More/Be Active

    For those who are busy, there are creative ways to stimulate metabolism. Standing up and stretching a couple of times an hour will do wonders for the body.

    One step at a time: a good way to burn calories.

    To maintain (current) weight and avoid the effects of holiday binging, the importance of physical activity cannot be overlooked. The amount of physical activity can positively affect the efforts to maintain weight. Balancing Calories In vs. Calories Out will yield Weight Control/Weight Maintenance. 60 to 90 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity is recommended to maintain weight. If this proves difficult, however, there are options such as parking farther away from the entryway door and walking, taking the stairs, doing little chores around the home and the like. Every little bit helps. Increased physical activity will also help people to improve conditions of:

    1. Heart disease and stroke
    2. High blood pressure
    3. Diabetes
    4. Back pain
    5. Depression and anxiety

    Recommendation: Try to accumulate 30 minutes of mild to moderate activity per day or try to stand up and stretch a couple of times every hour.

  • More Fiber

    These are some great sources of fiber.

    These are just some of the great sources of fiber that are available

    Generally, studies indicate that increased fiber intake correlates to better weight control. Fiber is an important constituent of food that assist with the passage of food through the colon. Fiber supplementation, along with adequate water consumption, can be part of a balanced diet. However, if a person needs to see and consume an amount of food that makes them feel full, then eating fiber dense foods will be instrumental in their consuming less. Fiber may not help with calories that are consumed from high-caloric beverages: consider that the average American’s recent, increased calorie consumption has come from increased consumption of high-calorie drinks.

    Recommendation: Accumulate more fiber from food sources; drink more water.

  • Portion Control

    Which one do you want?

    Larger portions are being accepted as ‘normal’, single servings. This puts less active people at risk for weight gain.

    One of the best ways to minimize weight gain is through portion control. Many people often eat what is in front of them and most underestimate the amount (of calories) that they consume on a day to day basis by as much as 25%. In order to affect portion control, one must direct their efforts toward assessing, monitoring and regulating the portion sizes of foods that they consume. If you are at a restaurant, eat half of your order and take the remainder home, if possible. If you are at home, eat a smaller than normal portion and wait a bit before going for seconds. If the feeling a fullness is there, you just may not want to go for seconds.

    Recommendation: Make a strong effort and adhere to consuming smaller portions and waiting to see if satiety sets in or eat smaller portions throughout the day.

These steps are presented as a way to help in minimizing the weight gain that typically occurs during the holiday season. By adding these steps to your daily routine throughout the holiday season, you can be in control of what transpires with your weight. Of course, if you are exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet, then these steps will easily help you in maintaining your weight.

Drinking water will assist in caloric expenditure. Sleeping more will help the body to burn more fat. Being more active will help to burn the calories that you consume. Consuming more fiber will keep the colon clear. Portion control will allow you to regulate how much you are actually consuming.

I have assembled a Percentage (%) of Effort Chart below to give you an idea of how these activities will contribute to your minimizing that dreaded holiday weight gain. The items are the five points outlined in this blog: i.e. water, sleep, activity, fiber and portions. The more days that you do these things, the better your results will be. 100% of effort will yield better results than 20% of effort.

Oh, before I forget . . .

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

% of Effort

1 item

2 items

3 items

4 items

5 items

1 – 2 days

4%

8%

12%

16%

20%

2 – 3 days

8%

16%

24%

32%

40%

3 – 4 days

12%

24%

36%

48%

60%

4 – 5 days

16%

32%

48%

64%

80%

5 – 6 days

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

SOURCES:

CNN: Trying to Lose Weight? Drink More Water

WebMD; Drinking Water May Speed Weight Loss

Science Daily; Sleep Loss Limits Fat Loss

HuffPo: Sleep Is Integral To Weight Loss, Study Suggests

WebMD: Exercise and Weight Loss

WIN: Physical Activity and Weight Control

CalorieLab: Does more fiber mean more weight loss?

Food Product Design: The Skinny on Fiber and Weight Management

Mayo Clinic: Portion control — Downsize portions for better weight control

WebMD; Portion Control and Weight Loss

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A Cleanse and Detox adherent speaks.

The changing of the seasons is symbolic of the cyclical nature of the heavens. In temperate climates, there are the seasonal rains that come and wash the earth during spring and autumn. The rains are a sort of announcement, a prelude, to the ensuing summer and winter seasons, respectively. It also during these times that some individuals commit themselves to seasonal cleanses and detoxes. Cleanse is short for Colon Cleansing. Detox is short for Detoxification Diet. In addition to setting the stage for enjoying a more vibrant life, cleanses and detoxes engender a higher degree of psycho-energetic sensitivity. People then can be more in tune to the seasonal vibrations.

Can you feel the change??

The changing of the seasons is symbolic of the cyclical nature of the heavens.

Cleanses and Detoxes can be very beneficial to the body. They allow the body to slow down and recuperate from the abuse that results from overindulgence in nutritionally devoid foods, overindulgence in improper drinks (alcohol, soda pop, etc.), exposure to chemically laden foods, and lack of dietary fiber. “Despite all of our best efforts, we may not be able to prevent toxic substances from entering our body and affecting our well-being. Pollution, packaged foods, caffeine, smoking, drinking, and etc, over a period of time can, impair our immune function and affect our health”.

We can always work toward better health

Despite our best efforts, we may not be able to prevent toxic substances from entering our body and affecting our well being.

To the individual who initiates and undergoes the process, the benefits of improved digestion, greater energy and immunity, and a slimmer, more vibrant appearance can be the result. Honestly though, cleanses and detoxes are only, can only be, a part of a true effort to live a more healthy lifestyle. It has been said that many people care more about their cars than they do their bodies. Given the recent statistics concerning health in the U.S.A., that statement seems to be ‘Dead On Point’. However, it does not have to be. If they are undertaken with caution and awareness of what one’s body is ready for, cleanses and detoxes can be a part of the initiative to reverse the trend of ill-health.

Do you know how good you can feel??

If they are undertaken with caution and awareness of what one’s body is ready for, cleanses and detoxes can be a part of the initiative to reverse the trend of ill health.

Lately, attention has been focused on cleanses and detoxes as a way to lose weight. This method of weight loss is totally counterproductive to a ‘healthy lifestyle’. Cleansing and Detoxing can most certainly result in weight loss. However, because of the intense and drastic manner in which it occurs, the weight loss is usually short-lived. Remember, the reason for the cleanse is to purge the colon of catarrh and built up waste material while the detox helps in purging impurities and toxins from the body. Lifestyle is what will really enable people to maintain a ‘healthy weight’. Cleanses and Detoxes can really only be a compliment to a healthy lifestyle. They can only be a means to an end as opposed to an end unto themselves.

For me, spring and autumn are optimal times for this. It is a chance for me to cleanse my body and be in communion with the Source of All Creating/Sustaining/Dissolving (my concept of GOD). I use cleanses and detoxes to prepare for deeper meditation and other physical/spiritual practices in lieu of bringing in more of the new seasonal energies. On a personal note, I have been blessed to see 52 years of age and, as of last year’s (2011) check up, I had no polyps in my colon. I think that my observing a healthy lifestyle has helped. However, I think that my spiritual practices, to include the recent addition of cleanses and detoxes, since 2009, have enabled and will allow me to maintain much of my health, vitality and positive outlook.

Intense Seated Forward Bend

This pose is great for taking breath into the backside of the body. Even so, there must still be breath going into the front side of our body as well.

We can all be healthier, if we so choose . . . .

Be Healthy, Be Ageless, Be You!!!

Sources:

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/122748-benefits-detox-colon-cleansing/#ixzz26eUtwxZO

Read more at Suite101: Health Risks of Cleansing Diets: Harmful Effects of a Detox Diet | Suite101.com http://suite101.com/article/health-risks-of-cleansing-diets-a99438#ixzz26eW2lqhF

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Christianity and Yoga – Commonalities

Religion and spirituality are part of the everyday lives of people across the face of the earth. However, they are often seen as being mutually exclusive of each other. Barriers are often erected between the two and serve only to bury, under the opacity of dogma and doctrine, their commonalities. Commonalities between religious doctrine and spiritual practices can be bridges that lead to a more expansive and grounded realization of The One Source (TOS). Specifically, yoga practice that incorporates the precepts of yama/niyama can be a supporting aspect of the Christian journey.

TOS is an acronym for The Source of All Creating/ Sustaining/ Dissolving. As mere words cannot really encapsulate the immensity of this concept, the term GOD is what many Christians find easy to grasp. TOS, for all intents and purposes, is a more expansive and encompassing concept that references the religious and spiritual acknowledgement that everything comes from TOS. Within the context of Christianity, the Bible states that TOS created the heaven and the earth and the sea and ALL that in THEM is. TOS did this by SPEAKING reality into existence. In the case of Man, TOS formed the matter (the dust of the earth) and put the spiritual essence (the breath of life) into man (spirit and matter). From the standpoint of yoga, TOS-GOD is actually a whole that exudes the duality of nature. (i.e. subjective and objective, spirit and matter). It is this duality that is perceived as everyday reality.

The practice of yoga, to include various concepts and methodologies, promotes the observance of certain precepts. These precepts are: Yamas – Asetya, Asteya, Aparigraha, Ahimsa, Brahmacharya and Niyamas – Ishvara Pranidhana, Tapas, Santosha, Shaucha, Svadyaya. These are Sanskrit (Ancient East Indian) terms which translate to Avoidances – Non-Lying, Non-Stealing, Non-Greed, Non-Violence, Non-Sensuality and Non-Avoidances – Attunement to a GOD Principle, Austerity, Contentment, Purity, Self Study, repectively. Yama (avoidances or conduct which is controlled) are those habits that should be minimized in one’s life. They are stated in a negative sense. Niyama (Non-avoidances or conduct which is cultivated) are those practices or acts that one should increase in their lives. These same precepts and the practice of them can be found in the KJV Bible.

These precepts, yama and niyama, can be the conduit through which the Christian can find common ground on which to explore the practice of yoga. Christians (sic) approach their salvation through observing a philosophy of monotheism. Yogis strive for self-realization by harmonizing the duality that comprises existence in this plane of reality. This plane of reality is that which emanates from TOS-GOD. By one being grounded in Christianity, the connection with observing non-greed, non-violence, non-lying, non-stealing, non sensuality, purity, self study, contentment, austerity, Attunement to a GOD Principle can be a place to more comfortably see that there is an inter-connectivity between all of life on earth. One can utilize the yamas and the niyamas as a way to bring yoga into a Christianity and yoga, via , to make the practice of yoga a practice that supports and even bolsters one’s Christian beliefs.

The idea being exposited here is that neither, religion nor spirituality, has to have dominion over the other; that they can be wholly supportive of each other. Unfortunately, in a world of wrong or right, the side of the fence where one resides is usually viewed as the correct side. By allowing the commonalities between the two to bring about a melding of ideas, there could be great beneficial results from this. When practicing (true yoga), one’s breath is always, should always be, at the forefront of the practice. The breath of life is what energetically and spirituality sustains the body in the body in this earth plane. If the practice of yoga can assist in the developing the ability to breath fully and completely, then why not practice it. It is the breath of life, as was bestowed upon humankind by TOS, that connects us to that all encompassing power. The precepts of yama-niyama can serve as a source of ideological common ground between religion and spirituality, between Christianity and yoga. One can, then, more confidently stand on their religious ideals while engaging in a spiritual practice.

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Pasaquan – a journey of spiritual imagery

“The devil went down to Georgia, he was lookin’ for a soul to steal
He was in a bind cuz’ he was way behind and he was willin’ to make a deal” . . . . Charlie Daniels Band.

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The Georgia Guidestones

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A mural of the Christian Cross

I took a trip down to Georgia. I was soul searching on this trip. This journey was my effort to connect with a couple of the spiritual edifices of that region. I visited the Georgia Stones and the Pasaquan. I enjoyed visiting both places. The Georgia Stones were a rather stoic place. They were stones arranged on top of a hill. There were exposed not only to the elements, but also to the ravages of limited human perception and appreciation. Poignant messages were inscribed upon and around them. Visiting the Pasaquan was like taking spiritual a journey through the mind of a man. This man, Saint Eddie O Martin, had assembled various concepts and images from different spiritual and religious origins. His assemblage was presented in the forms of various murals, castings, totems and mandalas.

If one has any religious or spiritual leanings, that extend beyond the barriers of their particular belief system, they would greatly appreciate what is contained within the bounds of the Pasaquan. Murals are images, which may or may not encompass various themes (i.e. countrysides, seashores, religio-spiritual concepts, etc) that are [typically] painted on a wall. Castings are realistic images various forms (human or animal) that are done in plaster, bronze, pewter or the like. Totems, are typically large, carved representations of deities or spirits that are stack one atop another. Mandalas are diagrams (painted, drawn, inscribed) that represent patterns of energy and often serve as a focal point for the spiritual venues of concentration, contemplation or meditation.

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A Mandala made of Beads

I experienced a sincere sense of reverence for the work work that was displayed within thee walls of the Pasaquan. Saint Eddie O. Martin and other artist undertook the task of depicting concepts and forms that would resonate with visitors and clients and would serve as a focal point for varying stages of concentration. From what I could tell, there were works that referenced Abrahamic faiths, Buddhism, Yoga, Toaism, indigenous religions, etc. I was only able to spend 4 – 5 hours at this site but I could have easily stayed there for the whole day.

What was really enjoyable about being at the site was that there was no ONE religion or spiritual system being promoted over any other one. Being at he site was like being exposed to the idea of how religion and spirituality could co-exist. I observed displays that represented various inspirational sources; all of them were carefully crafted. There was no spot on the grounds that did not contain or display some type of religio-spiritual reference. Walking along the grounds allowed me to reflect upon my spiritual leanings and to more concretely meld them into a cohesive whole.

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Sculpture of plaster – Representations of Kundalini and Suns

Whatever one’s particular religio-spiritual leanings might be, it is always good to explore the bounds of the particular belief system. Jesus walked across the water during the tempest to the boat in which the disciples rode. Peter wanted to come to him. Jesus said to Peter, “Come”. However, Peter’s faith, focus, belief was not enough to sustain him on this unfamiliar surface so Jesus bore him up. When we are grounded in what we profess belief in, nothing should be able to alter that belief. Many who express belief in this or that system are loathe to explore other systems. Yet, when the core of a certain belief system is compared to the core of another system, there really is not enough difference between them to be concerned about. My trip to the Pasaquan established my belief that all religio-spiritual paths originate from “The ONE SOURCE”.

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Totems with various spiritual symbology

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To Breathe or to Breathe Fully, LFSB

Intense Seated Forward Bend

This pose is great for taking breath into the backside of the body. Even so, there must still be breath going into the front side of our body as well.

Breathing exercises, that utilize long, full, slow breaths (LFSB), provide benefits that enhance the gains obtained from conventional, western exercise. LFSB, as is encouraged through the practice of yoga, tai chi or meditation, allows for maximum oxygenation of the blood and the ensuing, corresponding development and exhalation of carbon dioxide. During exercise, the actions of skeletal muscles, and associated physiological processes, require that fresh oxygen (O2) constantly replace carbon dioxide (CO2) in the lungs. O2 supplies fuel for the bodily processes that supply energy.

Some of the benefits of LFSB include:

  • Slows the heart rate – the heart rate slows when the parasympatheric nervous system is operating.
  • Full diaphragmatic breathing increases the ratio of O2:CO2. Normal inhalations result in a 1:1 ratio. Full diaphragmatic inhalations create a 5:1 ratio. Thus, more O2 can be absorbed into the blood.
  • Normalizes blood CO2 levels – full exhalations facilitate CO2 build up in the blood. This triggers and facilitates maximal uptake of O2 from the following inhalation.
  • Reduces blood pressure – Dilation of venous-blood vessels decreases venous-blood pressure. This allows a slower heart rate and more efficient blood flow/O2 transfer.
  • Reduces stress – Breathing deep, full inhalations and exhalations, synchronizes CO2/O2 blood levels and produces a natural autonomic relaxing effect.
  • Increases the health of lung tissue – The lungs are completely expanded and contracted during deep breathing. This maintains the elasticity of the lungs, especially as we age.
A very relaxing pose. Good for relieving tension in the ankles and for taking breath into the front of the body.

This pose requires hip flexor length and good opening in the knees. It is a great pose for allowing breath into the front of the body.

Conventional exercise (Running, Tennis, Basketball, Weightlifting, Gymnastics, Aerobics) focuses on developing (1) the external muscles and (2) the body’s ability to make O2 consistently available in the presence of an O2 debt. In a totally complementary manner, LFSB exercises help develop the ability to fully expand the lungs, which is beneficial for maximal absorption of O2 into the lungs and into the body and contract the lungs, which exhausts CO2 from the lungs and increases blood CO2 concentration. LFSB exercises also provide a natural massage for the internal organs which has a beneficial and rejuvenating effect on the physical, physiological and psychological processes. This can greatly benefit the vigorous exerciser.

LFSB training is a methodology. It can shift the autonomic nervous system away from fight or flight (sympathetic) mode into a more relaxed state (parasympathetic). LFSB inhalations and exhalations have ‘been shown to positively affect immune function, hypertension, asthma, autonomic nervous system imbalances, and psychological or stress-related disorders‘ (Jerath et al., 2006). Jerath and colleagues add that investigations, regarding stress and psychological improvements, support evidence that deep, full breathing alters the brain’s information processing, making it an intervention that improves a person’s psychological profile.

intense twisting posture from a standing position. Ground through the rear foot and initiate the rotation from the rear ankle, rotating the rear leg outer hip down toward the ground and spiraling the torso.

LFSB exercises can enhance the benefits gained from vigorous exercise. The physical aspect of western exercise is good for muscle strengthening and development of aerobic capacity. LFSB practice benefits the body on the physical, physiological and psychological levels. Studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of LFSB. Breathing to finish that mile run is good; breathing fully to assist the body in processing O2 more efficiently will provide long lasting effects throughout one,s life.

Some techniques that can be employed to develop one’s LFSB capacity is to breath full inhalations and full exhalations at a rate of 4 breaths per minute. As one’s ability improves, the rate can go to 3 breaths per minute, then 2 breaths per minute, and then one breath per minute. This practice should not exceed a period of 15 minutes and should be done no more than twice per day.

Please consult your physician before attempting any of these practices.

Happy Breathing


References
http://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/Breathing.html

http://naturalhealthperspective.com/resilience/deep-breathing.html

Yoga and Health, Yesudian and Haich, Harper and Row; pg 67

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Bicycle Safety a-la-mode.

Go for a bike ride

My lovely wife finishing a ride in Scottsdale, AZ

When I wore a younger man’s clothes, in the 80’s, I was pretty daring and bicycle safety was minimal on my list of concerns. I was just beginning my journey down the road to good health as I was finding out that a bicycle is perfect for displaying the strength and endurance aspects of one’s fitness. Being young, rambunctious, in shape and 21 years old might imply that there would be some sort of recklessness intertwined with one’s life (especially during college summer break). I am not necessarily saying the rambunctiousness goes hand in hand with being a 20-something but one sure does seem to follow the other.

Drafting a Vehicle

Riding in a vacuum is like . . . WOW!!

Cases in point, I did a couple of time trials when I was younger so I was always riding. I used to ride in traffic to catch green lights and to see how fast I could go. I used to ride along 16th Street in Omaha, NE, when I was heading downtown, in order to catch drafts behind trucks. One day, after finishing a 30 mile training ride, I happened to come up behind a dump truck that was stopped at a red light, on a different street. Well that was too good of an opportunity to pass up. I was able to draft that truck at a max speed of about 50 mph!! There are a couple of other things that I did then that I won’t share here but you get the gist. I was young and indestructible. By the way, I wasn’t wearing a helmet in those days.

I have also met with misfortune while riding my bicycle. My bicycle has been hit twice while I was riding it; no injuries fortunately. I have also had a car door opened up on me as I was passing. It was a small car and my bike slid over the top of the door and flipped. My practice of the martial arts was of use to me as I tucked and rolled onto the pavement because I was flipped off of my bicycle . . . again, no helmet. Thank you, LORD.

Bike Path on a Street

Usually, this a safe bet for a bicyclist.

Fast forward some 30 years. I reside in the Phoenix, AZ area now. I still ride, albeit a bit more cautiously. I am not a fan of some of the Phoenix, AZ area drivers. Everyone seems to want to get somewhere ysterday. The posted speed limit, at times, seems to be a minimum speed posting. I have ridden in the streets here but I am not very fond of it, even when there is a designated bicycle path in the street. I look back on the things that I used to do and I say to myself, ‘I could hit the streets again and just go for it but what’s the hurry’? Really, bicycling for me now involves bicycle safety. I ride for the enjoyment of the scenery and to relax instead of gobbling up the road and being on the lookout for bumps, glass and errant drivers.

As I aged, and became wiser, I realized that the bicycle is a convenient mode of alternative transportation and not necessarily a device to display your physical prowess, per se. With the availability of public transportation that can accommodate bicycles, one can veritably circumnavigate the entirety of an urban/suburban area and without the use of a car. So, the rider and the bicycle can go around the entire city . . . Safely. It is all about bicycle safety. Safety, for yourself and safety, for others.

Car in Crosswalk

Why do cars not let me cross he street first?

As I ride now, I am always watching for the courteousness of automobile drivers. Since I am usually on the sidewalk, I can take things in. I share the sidewalk with pedestrians and I am mindful of traffic rules. Most of the drivers are generous but there are those that I have to be cautious of. I guess my biggest pet peeves are the drivers who put their cars into the crosswalk when I am crossing the street . . . Oh Well.

I implore you to be careful as you ride. Be careful and keep your safety helmet on and, more than that, keep your wits about you. There is no telling from whence an inopportune accident could come. Click this link for information on bicycle safety. Be cautious but most of all be safe.

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Functional Exercises for Golf

Hip Extension with Feet on the Stability Ball

Hip stability is a very important aspect of movement. No matter what you want to engage in, be it walking, running, tai chi, tennis, or swimming. Specifically, hip stability plays a key part in the mechanics of golf. The stability of your hips comes from good core engagement and the ability to coordinate the musculature of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip complex.

The primary purpose of the functional exercise being presented here is to develop Neuromuscular Integration. Neuromuscular Integration ties movements together so that the body, as a whole, operates as a synchronous unit.

How this exercise can benefit your golf game:

  1. Trains the posterior chain muscles (back, hamstrings, and glutes) to work together
  2. Conditions the core musculature as stabilizers
  3. Improves postural endurance
  4. Improves coordination
  5. Improves balance

Directions

  • Lie on your back and place your feet on the ball. Start with the feet separated and bring them closer together as you progress.
    • The little muscles are working

    We want to develop more spinal mobility.

  • Put your arms out to your side with the palms facing up. If this is your first time using the stability ball and your balance is not yet refined, your may want to place your calves on the ball and your arms straight out to the your sides at a 90° angle to your trunk.
  • From the start position, extend the hips into the air, over the count of three, until your ankle, hips and shoulder all line up. Hold for three seconds and then lower for three seconds.
    • Length of the lumbar spine

    The stability of the shoulders and the hips enables us to sustain this position.

  • As you become more proficient at this functional exercise, you can move your hands closer to your body. Also, you can either articulate the spine from the floor, place less of your legs on the ball or move your arms closer to your body, eventually placing them across your chest. All of these variations can serve to make the exercise more challenging and thereby lead to greater neuromuscular integration.

Instability in the hips leads to compensations in the mechanics of the golf swing. Specifically, when the hips are unstable, that instability translates into the shoulders, the spine and the knees. These parts of the body, that work to make up for the lack of stability in the hips, will eventually experience various aches, pains and sundry complications.

This is a challenging, yet basic, exercise. The hips may be restrictive due to tight hip flexors or the lower back may not be strong enough to support the work of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip complex. Greater nueromuscular integration, that comes as a result of performing this functional exercise, will help with challenges in the hips and low back areas. As you perform this exercise, these areas will become less and less of a hindrance to improving your golf game.

Video – Stretching the low back

References – Paul Chek, The Golf Biomechanics Manual, 2001

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Citrus Mini Cakes w/Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Gluten-Free

Low-Carb

Ingredients for Cakes

1 and 1/2 cups almond meal or flax meal
1 cup whey protein powder
1 stick butter
4 oz low-fat whipped cream cheese
2 eggs
1-2 cups sugar substitute (Sucralose)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 large orange

Preparation

In this recipe a combination of almond meal and whey protein powder takes the place of flour. If using a flavored protein powder, you may want to decrease down the amount of sweetener in the recipe. I used Sucralose for this recipe. Sucralose is the sweetener in Splenda.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

1) Cream butter and cream cheese together until fluffy. Add sweetener and salt, and beat again. Add eggs, and beat until combined.

2) Add almond meal, protein powder, orange zest, and baking soda and combine well.

3) Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet, or one covered with parchment paper. The size is up to you, but avoid very large cakes.

4) Bake about 8 to 10 minutes, until top is just browning. Cool completely before frosting and store in a sealed container.

Ingredients for Frosting

8 oz low-fat whipped cream cheese
½ stick of butter softened
1-2 cups of Sucralose
1-2 teaspoons of lemon extract

Preparation for Frosting

You will need an electric mixer for this step. Whip butter, cream cheese, sucralose, and lemon extract until well blended. The finished product will be creamy and stiff. Spread atop cooled mini cakes and enjoy.

2 grams of carbs per cake

Gluten-free, Low-carb, Sugar-free Dessert

Healthy Food , , ,

30 minutes and I’m gone . . . .

So you have only 30 minutes to workout? What can you accomplish in 30 minutes? When structured properly, you can achieve an effective workout in just 30 minutes.

Due to time constraints, exercise usually gets put aside until the next day. If this happens often enough, accountability may begin to wane and exercise may be skipped for a week, two weeks, maybe even a month. This is not the way to maintain healthy habits that add to the longevity and vibrancy of living.

I am presenting an exercise routine that can accommodate a limited time frame. Some of the exercises might be a bit advanced so be aware of your abilities when doing them.

This exercise routine will meet the following criteria:

  • Addresses the major muscle groups
  • Addresses the deeper stabilizer muscles
  • Develops core stability and strength

This 30 minute exercise routine encompasses multi-joint movements, core strengthening, stabilizer activation and engages all of the major muscle groups. The deep stabilizer muscles are often neglected in workout routines. Activating and stimulating the stabilizer muscles and the major muscle groups will give you benefits throughout the day, after the workout has been completed. The stabilizer muscles are important for maintaining good posture, bending forward or backward, reaching up, leaning sideways and twisting, with or without a load.

According to Reebok University, the muscles that function in trunk movement or stability comprise the core. This includes deep abdominal and back muscles, as well as muscles that stabilize the hips and shoulders.* Moreover, walking, running and jumping require that the ankles function in a stabilized manner. Handstands, backward and forward handsprings, and pushing weight overhead mandate that the wrists and forearms function to stabilize the movement.

For information on engaging the core, please see the blog: Tell me More About the Core

Exercises:


Lunge Position – Overhead Press

3:00 min: 4 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

Pressing Dumbbells Overhead Press from Lunge Position Dumbbell Overhead Press

Lunge Position – Biceps Curls

3:00 min: 4 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

These are great exercises for the major muscle groups of the arms and the legs, as well as a good overall body movements.

Biceps Curl from Lunge Position Dumbbell Biceps Curl

Maintain a good upright position without leaning while doing these exercises. The ears, shoulders, hips and rear knee should be aligned when executing the movement.

These movements will engage the core, the hip, ankle and shoulder stabilizers, and develop shoulder and arm strength.

Seated Reverse Cable Fly (resist-a-bands or Cable Tower)

3:00 min 4 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

Seated Reverse Fly FinishSeated Reverse Cable Fly

Stabilize through the foot that is opposite to the working hand. Maintain an upright position and keep the core engaged. Do not lean.

This movement will develop core stabilization, oblique strength, rhomboid and trapezius strength, and strength and tone for the mid and rear deltoid.

Reverse Table Top

Leg Lift 3:00 min: 4 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

Table Top Up Leg ExtendedReverse Table Top w/Leg Lift/Extension

Arm Lift 3:00 min: 4 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

The hip flexors may be tight and/or the lower back may be weak. Do not force the lifting of the hips beyond what is comfortable for you.

  • Let the hip flexors lengthen and the lower back strengthen as you repeat this series.
  • Keep the tip of your tongue connected to the roof of your mouth behind the top row of teeth;
      This will keep the neck musculature from straining.

Do not perform these movements haphazardly.

Table Top w/ Arm ExtendedReverse Table Top w/ Arm Lift/Extension

The hip flexors may be tight and/or the lower back may be weak. Do not force the lifting of the hips beyond what is comfortable for you.

  • Let the hip flexors lengthen and the lower back strengthen as you repeat this series.
  • Keep the tip of your tongue connected to the roof of your mouth behind the top row of teeth;
      This will keep the neck musculature from straining.

Do not perform these movements haphazardly.

These movements activate and tone the hamstrings, gluteals, quadriceps, mid/low trapezius, rhomboids and the deeper spinal extensors, as well as develop shoulder and mid/low trapezius strength and stabilize the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex and the ankles.

Staggered Plank 4 min 30 sec: 6 x(30 sec. exercise with 15 seconds rest)

Plank Opposite Arm ExtendedStaggered Plank w/ Arm Lift/Extension

There should be a feeling of lift in the chest and the shoulders should be pulled away from the ears. The core is engaged.

This movement develops stabilization and strength for the core; including the shoulders and the hips, spinal extension, shoulder flexion and back strength.

In this 30 minute workout session, I present options to address stabilization. Stabilization is key to developing and maintaining good posture. The more that we stabilize the more efficiently our bodies will perform.

This workout can be used as a supplement to your regular workout regimen.

If all that you have is 30 minutes, give this routine a spin.

Please consult with your healthcare practitioner before starting any exercise program.

Be Healthy, Be Ageless, Be You – Ab-Sutra Health and Fitness Coaches, LLC

Exercise Routine

You will need;

  1. Dumbbells
  2. A chair or a bench
  3. A cable tower or an resistance band w/ a good anchor
  4. An adjustable timer

Key points

  • Work both sides of your body equally and evenly.
  • Use enough weight to challenge you and allow for good form.
  • Keep the tip tongue connected to the roof of your mouth to minimize neck strain.
      Reverse Table Top
  • The hips should be parallel to the floor.
      Staggered Plank
  • There should be no tension in the neck.
      Seated Reverse Fly
      Dumbbell Overhead Press

5 minute warn up

Perform a five minute warm up of your choice or click on the following links:

Video – Zuzana’a 5 minute warm-up

How-to-warm-up

Lunge Position – Overhead Press 3:00 min total: 4 x (30 sec. and 15 sec. rest)

Perform this exercise with the left leg forward two times and the right leg forward two times.

Video – Lunge Position – Overhead Press

Reverse Table Top – Leg Extension 3:00 minutes total: 4 x (30 sec. and 15 sec rest)

Lift the left leg arm two times for 30 seconds and the right leg two times for 30 seconds.

Video – Reverse Table Top – Leg Extension

Seated Reverse Fly (cable tower or resist-a-bands) 3:00 minutes total: 4 x (30 sec. and 15 sec. rest)

Perform this exercise twice with the right arm and twice with the left arm.

Video – Seated Reverse Fly

Lunge Position – Biceps Curls 3:00 minutes total: 4 x (30 sec. and 15 sec. rest)

Perform this exercise with the left leg forward two times and the right leg forward two times.

Video – Lunge Position, Biceps Curls

Reverse Table Top – Arm Lift 3:00 minutes total: 4 x (30 sec. and 15 sec. rest)

Lift the left arm arm two times for 30 seconds and the right arm two times for 30 seconds.

Video – Reverse Table Top w/ Arm Extension

Staggered Plank Series

Work the left arm, the right arm, and the central leg for 30 seconds each.

Video – Staggered Plank 3:30 minutes:seconds total: 2 x (90 sec. and 15 sec. rest)

5 minute cool down

Video – 5 minute cool down

References

* Stand Up Strong, Eve Fleck, MS, 2006

Exercise, Fitness, Health, Wellness, Workouts , , , , ,

Berry Fresh Smoothie

Healthy Fast Food

Berry Fruit Smoothie

Fresh fruit smoothies are an easy way to consume several servings of fruit at one time. I prefer to make my smoothies at home so I know exactly what’s in it. I purchase fresh berries, freeze them and use them throughout the week. This smoothie is high in folate, potassium, manganese, magnesium, vitamins C and K, antioxidants and flavonoids. Fresh fruit smoothies are also a great source of fiber. The berries are my smoothie staples, but I will vary the other ingredients. Sometimes I add a fresh banana, pineapple, oranges, grapes, cherries, peaches, etc. Be creative.

Ingredients

5-10 Strawberries
½ cup Blackberries
½ cup Blueberries
1 Kiwi
2-3 tablespoons yogurt (optional)
½ cup 100% juice

Combine in the blender until all ingredients have liquefied.

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