Health Affixed

Health Is Limitless

Better Beverages: Healthier Cocktails

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So, alcoholic drinks are not the healthiest beverages, but cocktails make a great guilty pleasure. Although alcoholic beverages are not generally considered healthy, they can be made healthier. For example, there are a ton of skinny cocktail recipes online. In addition, opting for fresh juices instead of concentrated mixers may increase the health benefits one might gain from a cocktail.

Likewise, another staple ingredient on any list of “healthier cocktails” is fresh fruit; whether it is muddled berries, cucumbers, lime, lemons, watermelon, oranges, or other, fresh fruit will undoubtedly add a little bit of health to your cocktail.

The next time you are in the mood for a cocktail, consider skipping the “rum and coke” for a healthier alcoholic beverage.

Music and Motion

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You know when that song comes on, you have to move - whether the movement is ever so discretely or vivacious. Despite the loss of control side effect, music is good for health. It has been proven to stimulate the brain, aid in the recovery of stroke patients, reduce stress, improve the heart, and improve mood. I think we can all agree that exercising with music is way more enjoyable than exercising without it. The right song can also provide that burst of energy to get you through the last five minutes of your routine.

With all the benefits of music, you should not slack on your playlists. Be sure to update your workout playlists often and keep a decent pair of headphones on hand.

A good playlist can provide the motivation you need to exercise on a rainy day.

Create a fun workout space.

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Exercising is only as fun as you make it. Sure, it’s satisfying afterwards, but dreading the workout session may mean that you never experience that satisfaction. When creating your workout space, opt for small and large equipment as well as easy workout options.

On your light days, you may want to walk on the treadmill, do a flat ride on the spin bike, or do a 20 minute DVD. If you are not fond of strength training, then opt for kettle bells, bands, and sliders in addition to barbells. A variety of options will allow you to combine your options to increase intensity or switch up your routine. If you feel full of energy, you can do the bike, treadmill, DVD, bands, sliders, kettle bells, and the barbells.

The goal is to create a workout space that is fun and full of options so that you never dread a workout session. Remember that getting dressed to workout is 75% of the battle.

Running Pain: Check Your Sneakers

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You saw a great deal and you bought it. The deal was great, but the sneakers may not be great for you. There are several factors that go into finding the perfect running shoes.

First – what is your arch type: low arch/flat feet, average arch, or high arch? You can outline your feet on a sheet of paper to find your arch type and compare it to a diagram online.

Second – what type of support does the shoe provide: neutral, stability, or motion control? Your arch type will determine the type of support you need. If the shoe does not provide the support you need, then you will likely experience pain or discomfort in the short or long term.

Third – how much weight can the shoe manage? Extra cushioning or support may be necessary depending on your weight.

Fourth – how many miles do you intend to average per day or week? If you plan to do some serious running, then you need to consider the quality of the sneaker not just the price.

Advice – do not play tennis or do aerobic exercises in running shoes. They were designed to support your feet while running which is a forward motion. Tennis and aerobic activity generally contain abrupt twists and turns that tennis, cross fit, and gym shoes were designed to handle.

Recovery Basics: Cool Down and Replenish

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Cool Down: The debate is over. Cooling down after a sweat session is mandatory. Stopping abruptly after vigorous activity can cause dizziness and fainting. In addition, your body needs time to adjust the hormone and acid levels that were built up during your vigorous activity. Cooling down allows the body to gradually return to a balanced state. Reduce the intensity of your exercise and continue at the level that will allow your heart rate to return to its pre-activity state. Once your heart rate is at a comfortable level, then complete your stretch routine. When in doubt, walk it out.

Replenish: Because we sweat it out, it is important that we replenish it. What is it? Electrolytes: Sodium, Chloride, Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium. An electrolyte imbalance can lead to health issues. If you exercise for 1.5 hours or more during a single session, then be sure to replenish your electrolytes. An easy way to replenish them is to drink a sports drink because sports drinks often contain electrolytes and minerals. Another option is to make your own drink using one of the many recipes online.