Improving Health

I realized yesterday that it has been over two months since the successful completion of my half marathon, and I have yet to reflect on and share the final moments leading up to, during, and after the event itself!

Again, this reminds me of my continued goal to not only write in the moment, but to practice mindfulness in ALL aspects of life.

When you make the effort to exercise, the last thing you want disheartening you is an injury.

Injuries occur for many reasons – some unpredictable, but some preventable!

We've got several tips to keep yourself on track — and off the sidelines — as you Spring into Fitness!

Tulsa-based Sky Fitness & Wellbeing recently released a bold, inspiring new video called "Say Goodbye to Your Inabilities," which reminds us why perserverance is essential in reaching your fitness goals.

Have you ever started a diet or fitness routine and given up? Or questioned why you started in the first place? Maybe you made a weight loss resolution at the beginning of 2015 and you slowly fell off track. Let's face it — fitness is not easy. It takes time and commitment, and no one can do it for you.

Beginning a walking plan is an excellent way to start getting active and improve your health!

It is recommended that we all do at least 30 minutes of brisk walking a day, 5 or more days per week.

Walking for 30 minutes a day may help:

• Reduce risk of coronary heart disease
• Improve blood pressure
• Improve blood sugar
• Improve blood cholesterol
• Maintain/achieve a healthy body weight
• Enhance your mood and mental well being
• Reduce the risk of osteoporosis
• Reduce the risk of some cancers
• Reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes

The cold, dark days of winter bring with them the temptation to take cover in the gym for the season or to put your workout routine on the shelf until you see the spring sun.

What you may not know is that you can actually get additional health benefits from taking your winter workout outside instead of becoming a treadmill robot at the crowded local gym!

“Create a challenge for myself and stick to it.” That was my mantra going into 2014. I wanted to find something that would both challenge and inspire me.

In January, I completed my first challenge — the Spartan Race, which is a 5K obstacle challenge. It was exhilarating, challenging, and amazingly rewarding to cross the finish line.

To say I was hooked on this small achievement is an understatement.  

What if I told you that you can increase your energy, burn calories and decrease stress in just 15 minutes per day, potentially without leaving your desk?

I know, it sounds too good to be true.  Many times we simply say "I just do not have the time," but the good news is that there is a better way. By sprinkling smaller workouts throughout your regular workday, you can get a quality workout while you're still at work.

Can’t touch your toes? Out of shape? Yoga can help you become more flexible while strengthening and toning your muscles. Yoga can also help you relieve chronic tension, cultivate concentration, and encourage self-acceptance.

Going to your first yoga class can also be intimidating, but as with any new activity taking that first step can be very rewarding. Below you’ll find some beginner yoga tips for your first class.