Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Stopping For A Nice Deep Breath


Hello again, after too long of a break.  It’s been almost a year since I’ve written a post on this blog.  So, as you can see, I’m going to stop, take a deep breath, and get back to something that makes me very happy—researching and sharing wellness ideas.  I’ve been spending a lot of time with my sweet grandchildren.  Lucky me, to have them living so close. They’ll be grown, and/or moving further away from me, (or I from them), before you know it.  I cherish our time together.
Do you ever find yourself literally stopping and doing some deep breathing just to relax amid an otherwise hectic day?  What I notice, in myself and others, is that we sometimes let out a big sigh when we're tired or stressed.  It’s as if our body is telling us that it needs a big boost of oxygen.  I think that the breathing that is practiced during Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates can really make a difference in our emotional and physical health.  Plus, I’m sure it’s helpful to just stop, lie down for about 15 minutes, and listen to relaxing music, or a CD with relaxing sounds, while concentrating on relaxed breathing.  I need to research that topic, and see what I can find for proven results.
 
Anyway, I digress.  Here are a few fun tips to share:

*If you make iced coffee at home, use “coffee ice cubes” by pouring the leftover brewed coffee into an ice cube tray.  Then your coffee won’t taste too watered down when the cubes melt.
*For a fun treat while camping, (or barbequing), put this on the fire:  a banana that has been wrapped in foil, with a few chocolate chips added.

*Are you trying to save calories by ordering a grilled chicken breast and/or a dry baked potato at the restaurant?  Ask them to bring you some salsa!
*If you are trying to lose weight, or have already successfully dropped several pounds, why not come up with a visual to help you remember how far you’ve come, something to signify each pound lost.  For example: collect empty butter packages, (since each one really does represent one pound of fat); or, put together a bracelet where each bead represents one pound lost.  Be creative.  Heck, come up with a new idea and sell it!

*It’s a good idea to eat a snack that is rich in carbohydrates before a workout, because carbs will get into the bloodstream faster than protein or fat.  Examples:   a banana, or a piece of whole grain toast.
*Protein is a good choice for a post workout snack, for muscle recovery and repair, especially after lifting weights.  Good choices:  a hard-boiled egg, string cheese, or almonds.

That’s all for now.  I hope you found something helpful or motivating in this post. And, I hope I can get back to blogging on a more regular basis again.  It makes me happy to share my love for wellness.

Mary