The benefits of exercise extend beyond toning and weight loss. Aerobics, in fact cardio exercises in general, can alter the structure of your brain to make you sharper, more determined, and happier. The hippocampus, in particular, undergoes a size and density increase noticeable within six months itself. Dopamine, the mood and motivation enhancer, also gets a significant boost.
Bring a mix of 18 oz coconut milk, 2 teaspoons ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8th teaspoon black pepper, a pinch of sea salt, and 1/4 cup maple syrup to a simmer. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Freeze the mixture overnight. Add some olive oil for extra creaminess and whisk. Freeze the mix for another 4 hours.
Having disturbed sleep or sleep less than 6 hours can affect more than just your performance. It may make you crave energy-rich foods, which most of the time happens to be junk foods. It does this by activating the reward centers in your brain and increasing your sensitivity to food smells. As you look upon calorie-laden foods as rewards, you will find it hard to resist them.
Genetic tests can tell us if we possess certain genes that make us more prone to weight gain. With this information, we can modify our diet and lose weight quickly. However, while one Stanford study shows 3% more weight gain with gene-appropriate diets, a more recent, larger study finds that the difference is not really that significant.
Crystallized ginger or ginger chews are pieces of ginger boiled in sugar solution and coated with sugar. A serving contains about 5 grams more sugar compared to gummy candies. Being calorie-heavy, they carry the risks of weight gain and heart disease. However, they also offer the benefits of ginger. But for that you would have to eat a lot of candies, which is not recommended.
Vipassana meditation helps you see things as they really are; it gives you the bigger picture. Sit with your legs crossed and your back straight. Focus on your rising and falling abdomen as you breathe naturally and say “rising, rising, falling, falling” in your head. When your mind wanders, assign new words to your feelings, sensations, and thoughts. Be gentle on your thoughts and relax.
Acroyoga is a partner-based practice that combines acrobatics and yoga. With your child, it’s a fun way to workout. Start with the single plank. It’ll build up her balance, so that you can move into the double plank. The airplane pose uses your legs and core to lift her up in the air. From there, you can progress into front bird or folded leaf pose, which require more balance. Worried about safety? Have another adult help out.
If it’s cold out, look on the bright side. Shivering can actually burn calories. It works by helping brown fat make body heat, a process that uses energy. You’ll also sweat less in the cold, so body odor and acne are less likely. Personal hygiene will be a little easier. Plus, cold weather kills disease-carrying insects like ticks and mosquitos. Finally, as the seasons change, you’ll gain appreciation for warmer days. It’s the perfect chance to develop gratitude for nature.
