Powerful Scientific Reasons to Exercise

I'm a firm believer that well-nourished bodies coupled with regular exercise (even a walk program) is the most healthiest antidote around for the human body. Following are some incentives to get you moving....

• Longevity
• New brain cells development
• Prevention of cardiovascular disease
• Cholesterol lowering effect
• Prevention and control of type 2 diabetes
• Blood pressure lowering
• Prevention of neoplastic (cancer) diseases
• Reduced risk of stroke
• Weight control
• Attractive body, bone and muscle strength
• Strong immune system
• Better night sleep and better sex life
• Stress Management
• Alternative to hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women
  
  

A Favorite TV Show that Distorts Self-Image

Incidently, one of my favorite TV shows can really drive home the self-image point made by the media in our society. The key in watching programs like this is to be comfortable within your own body/skin. I've been watching this show since it aired in 2003 and has never missed an episode. This show has a Blog and it's amazing to read some of the comments about the characters.

Nip Tuck TV Show Web Link

Nip/Tuck Blog

Would you have followed the doctor's advice?

Or, is self-image more important?

I think our media has driven people to such desperate measures that they would do anything to have the right self-image at any age.

Attached is a link about an article surrounding the untimely death of a celebrities' mom.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21742159/

This is the Media's Idea of Beauty

The media sets unrealistic standards for what body weight and appearance is considered “normal.” With these media images and body ideals, it’s little wonder that women and men feel inadequate, ashamed, and dissatisfied with how they look. In actuality, only about 5% of women have the genetic make up to ever achieve the ultra-long and thin model body type so portrayed in the media. Yet that is the only body type that women see and can compare themselves to. Similarly, all boys see is a body ideal that for most men is impossible to achieve without illegal anabolic steroids.

Unfortunately, the action Barbie doll images and action figure heroes on toy store shelves and male fitness models on magazine covers and ads are ruining our self-image and self-esteem.

Tips on What You Can Do To Improve Your Body Image

The following are just some tips you can quickly implement into your lifestyle to help improve your body image:

• Realize you cannot change your body type
• Invest money and time in yourself rather than the diet industry
• Move and enjoy your body: walk, dance, bike, swim, hike
• Stop weighing yourself and focus on your clothes and how they fit
• Don't compare yourself to others
• Nurture your inner self: music, bubble baths, fragrances, candles, massages, reading, writing, napping
• Surround yourself w/people who have a healthy relationship w/food
• Celebrate your body and the marvelous things it can do when you are well-nourished.

What factors influence your body image?

The Media is one avenue that influences your body image, but family, friends and romantic partners can as well. It is so important NOT to let society dictate to you what is considered beauty. The most critical factor is that YOU are healthy and feel great about yourself. I am in the process of writing a 10 page paper on the Media's affect on how we feel about the way we look and ways you can improve your body image but in a very safe manner.

Below are some very distrubing images of men and women (one of Nicole Richie) who have become anorexic. These pictures are definitely not an image of beauty. Often times, our obsession with being thin can lead right down this path.

Body Image:

Why are so many people unhappy w/their bodies? One of the reasons is because of the 'Media' who has set unrealistic standards for what body weight and appearance is considered “normal.” This has affected not just everyday people, but celebrities as well.

Below is a website link to famous people who have died from anorexia and some who are still suffering:

Celebrities_who_died_or_have_Eating_Disorders

With age and an ever busier life, it can be difficult to think of reading as a good pass-time. But, reading is a great pass-time for everyone. Not only is it a healthy personal and family activity, but reading is an excellent way to keep learning and to exercise the mind for all! Hopefully, you'll find the books below useful.

Quick and Healthy Dinners in 30 Minutes

It's a fact that time is one of the obstacles for most when considering a healthy meal. Often, we work all day and once we get home, we grab the first thing we can which isn't always the healthiest. I found this website link to some really good healthy dishes in under 30 minutes. Try one and let me know if it works for you.

Healthy Dinners in 30 Minutes

Clearing Your Mind

It is just as important to have a clear mind as it is to have a healthy diet and exercise. Although your food intake and exercise reigment work together to keep you balanced, it's also a good idea to make sure your mind and thoughts are healthy as well.

As we know, stress can lead to all types of illnesses within the body. Just this week, I learned that to fret over an issue/problem that has not ocurred is as unhealthy to my body as not eating well and exercising. I think the example that was used for me was that my body doesn't know that the tiger is NOT in the room when I start trying to troubleshoot future issues. Instantly, the body goes into 'fight or flight' mode. This is not good. So it's important to stay in the moment and not fantasize or try and look through a crystal ball which can create more, more stress.

What's your take on this? Do you feel like you would rather troubleshoot issue that may or may not happen as a means to being prepared?

3-Easy-Beginner-Meditation-Techniques

Can We Eat Healthy On the Go?

Most Poll participants said that they find it hard to eat healthy because they eat on the go. Much of the food that’s served in fast food restaurants isn’t exactly healthy. However, by making smart choices, you can eat healthy. Opt for grilled chicken sandwiches and skip the mayonnaise. Most of the big chains offer salads as well as side salads on their menu. Opt for a low fat dressing and skip the soda for a healthy fast food meal.

My favorite healthy fast food place is Subway. Stick with whole wheat bread, and one of the sandwiches with 6 grams of fat or less. Skip the mayonnaise and pile on the veggies. Hm...Hm...Good!