Most regular exercisers think of “pumping iron” as strength training done with either free weights or machines. However, iron the mineral is so important to good health that even a minor deficiency can affect muscular strength as well as aerobic capacity and muscle endurance. Read more
Spring has arrived, and the month of May is blooming with a myriad of health observances. May health promotions include:
April is the month when we fully welcome Spring, when the weather and the energy shift, and nature supports new growth. This can mean re-evaluating our thoughts, beliefs, and habits so we can make health-supporting choices. Read more
March is National Nutrition Month. There is so much confusing and conflicting information about nutrition, many consumers simply throw in the fork and eat whatever whenever, convinced that trying to “eat healthy” is too hard, and that scientists will change their minds about what’s healthy anyway. Read more
February is a month to “take heart”. In the heart of winter’s short days, long nights, cold winds, and post-holiday weariness, it is easy to become disheartened. However, it is vitally important to reconnect with your spirit, recommit to your goals, and reclaim your whole self. Read more
Traditionally, this is the time of year for new resolutions. Usually made with determination and fresh hope, these resolutions are often wavering in February, and melting away with the last snow of March. Perhaps the goals were unrealistic, or the expectations hindered by perfectionism. Maybe “all or nothing” thinking made it easier to give up altogether. Read more
Turn on any news report these days and you’ll be deluged with predictions of “the worst holiday season in decades”. In addition to forecast of economic decline, are reports of increases in depression, anxiety, and “holiday blues”. Read more
As the holiday season approaches, many of my clients and readers express some measure of anxiety around dealing with the over abundance of food and beverages. Here are some key elements to remember:
1. Moderation and Balance
2. Avoid “All or Nothing” Thinking
3. Keep Moving
4. Maintain an “Attitude of Gratitude” Read more
As the weather changes from hot, humid, and rainy to crisp and clear, getting outside to walk, jog, bike or rollerblade becomes more pleasant. However, autumn does bring its own set of fitness challenges with fewer daylight hours and approaching holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Hanukkah filled with excesses of food, drink and calories – and more time demands competing with time for healthy food preparation and exercise, and adding to the stress quotient. Read more
The ancient practice of meditation is making news! The use of modern brain imaging technology shows that an individual’s brain has a natural “set point” for good and bad moods, with greater activity on the left front side of the brain associated with “happy – calm”. Greater activity on the right side is associated with stress, anxiety, and worry. Read more