A NEW LEASE—on Life!

By Judit Rajhathy, B.A., RNCP, D.Ac.

Make Your New Year’s Resolution a Healthy One!

 

Before you know it, the turkey and trimmings will be nicely settled around your middle - just in time for New Year’s resolutions!

If you are content sitting on the couch day after day, occasionally getting up to eat, and accept that you might remain weak, grouchy, tired, and likely suffer from stiff, ache-ridden joints, and extra weight, this article may not be for you.  If, however, you are fed up and want a better, more vital life, it might be time to get moving!

A CDC report states that 55% of American adults were not active enough to meet the minimum recommendation of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week even though we all know that study after study has shown repeatedly that daily physical activity reduces the risk of obesity, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and enhances physical and mental functioning. Yet so many still opt for sedentary lifestyles.

“I don’t have time to exercise” tops the list of excuses. It is like saying I don’t have time to eat, or I don’t have time to sleep, I don’t have time to brush my teeth.  Attitude adjusting and scheduling your daily exercise time works like a charm! Studies show that those who exercise first thing in the morning stick with routines more than those who change their times.

“Exercise is boring” is another excuse. Is brushing your teeth exciting? Again, attitude adjusting and finding routines that are less ‘painful’ work.  For some, music is a huge motivator. And always keep in mind that what would be more “boring” would be a chronic illness or disability stemming from lack of activity. Also keep in mind that if dance is your favorite activity, working out on a daily basis on a treadmill, elliptical trainer or circuit goes a long way in building stamina, strength so that you would get the maximum out of those dance classes.

“I can’t afford the gym” is usually not a credible one when one night out on the town can equal a month at the gym! It is all about priorities...

“I can’t get myself motivated” -   Having another person to work out with makes it more fun and the buddy system demands accountability and increases commitment.

“I want instant results” - Sorry, but there is no magic pill. Consistency is the key to success. And if you fall off the wagon, simply get back on! Setting goals with your gym personnel makes a huge difference and being monitored in terms of personal progress is important.

Your body is designed to move, bend and stretch.  Most people feel a difference by the end of the first week if they work out six days a week.  Their breathing is less labored, their flexibility, strength and stamina improve and often they feel a renewed sense of wellbeing.  Try it!  It really works!  2010 is a new beginning. Seize the opportunity - carpe diem!  See you in the gym!

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