Archive for the ‘Physical Activity’ Category

Fitness Clubs

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

There is no doubt exercise benefits almost every aspect of our lives. Nothing helps circulate the blood more than moving. Keeping your figure trim and fit, and your weight at the proper level would certainly make you become healthier, stronger, and younger looking. Exercise also makes you feel relaxed, refreshed and positive.

To get serious with physical fitness, get help with fitness clubs like the Vision Quest Sport and Fitness clubs that help you choose the best exercise that meets your needs. They also have certified instructors to help you in your specific needs like toning certain muscle groups to maximize results. There is also the right fitness program for people who need to improve their cardiovascular system. A fitness guide can be given which is followed for self improvement.There is also cycling classes which is good for your legs and for toning up your whole body, yoga and stretch routines that improve strength and muscle tone as well as relaxes the mind and the body, and many more.

Choose the best exercise with a Seattle personal trainer to help you choose one that you enjoy, meets your goals, and fits your lifestyle. A personal trainer would also help you know what you want to achieve through exercise and help you become more focused. For whatever exercise you choose, be consistent and persistent and read more information so you can expect to benefit and get the best results by doing it regularly and for a prolonged period of time.

Brain Health

Friday, January 1st, 2010

Whenever we study and learn, several things happen in our brain: new cells generate, new connections are created between cells, and existing connections between certain cells are strengthened or removed. Studies show that stimulating environment and the presence of beta-endorphin (the good mood hormone) lead to good cell growth in our brains. The Neurological Foundation of New Zealand says these factors affect brain health:

Regular physical exercise. This protects the brain and the way it processes information. Exercise boosts levels of brain-protective chemicals and reduces stress.

Adequate sleep. A good night’s sleep recharges the brain and allows the body to rest and heal. Our brain consolidates memories while we sleep. Inadequate sleep affects the way our brain cells function and can increase the risk of stroke and depression. About seven to nine hours of sleep a night is ideal.

Balanced diet. Your diet should be low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Studies show that foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish) are good for the brain.

Social connections. Friendships and social networks are important as we age. Good mood hormones help us create new brain cells and keep them healthy.

Mental workout. Use it or lose it! Keeping the brain active and challenged increases its vitality, generates new brain cells, and bolsters connections and reserves.

Stop Varicose Veins

Thursday, November 5th, 2009

Varicose veins are often inherited. If your mother has them, there’s a good chance you will, too. Here are some tips you can do to keep them in check:

  • Avoid standing still for long periods. If you have no choice, keep your calf muscles, rising up and down on your toes, and squeezing your feet together in your shoes.
  • Avoid wearing knee-high nylons or socks daily. They can block the movement of blood up the leg.
  • Wear support hose. These stockings apply a gentle, graduated pressure to the leg from the foot upward, which help decrease expansion of the vein wall.
  • Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes every day.
  • Exercise with care. A well-toned leg muscle will pump out more blood than a weak muscle as you walk or move. When you lift heavy weights, however, make sure you blow out. Increased abdominal pressure can block the flow of the heart, forcing your veins to expand to get around the block.