Healthy Harmony
Amy Ringler - Special to the Gazette
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Shape Up, Emporia!, is a weekly fitness and health column aimed at readers of all ages to get off the couch and get into shape. Each week will feature a fitness, health or nutrition professional from around the area who will share some friendly tips on how to improve your overall health. Our goal is to make getting in shape fun and easy to fit into your existing lifestyle and daily routine.
By Amy Ringler
Special to The Gazette
This time of year can be a tough one. That’s right, it’s cold and flu season. The weather brings us inside and germs seem to take over! Part of holistic yoga practice includes keeping the body, mind, and spirit in harmony. Here are some tips to stay healthy this cold and flu season:
- Stay active! Colder weather is no excuse to skip out on your workout. A goal of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity 3-5 times a week is essential to a healthy body and mind.
- Don’t forget water! Stay hydrated- eight 8 ounce glasses of fluid each day for the average adult. Remember, caffeinated beverages do not count.
- Get some sunshine! Ultraviolet B naturally produces Vitamin D in the body. The sunshine vitamin boosts the immune system. That bright sunlight can also boost your mood and put an end to the “winter blues.”
- Incorporate heart-opening poses into your practice! Some yoga poses, called heart-opening poses, stimulate blood flow to the thymus and increase immune system function. Poses such as Cobra pose1, Fish pose2, Bridge pose3, and Camel pose4 all fall under the “heart-opening” category. Incorporate these poses into your daily practice to strengthen your immune system.
- Take care of your mind just as you would take care of your body. Remember to breathe. A slow, steady, deep, and even breath can soothe a worried heart and calm a busied mind. Let go of expectations and judgment; each cause strife and unwanted stress. Listen to your body. Feel each movement. Cherish this moment.