Monday, March 9, 2009

Wii Wellness

The Wii can be a great way to start exercising while having fun at the same time. The Wii sports which includes bowling, tennis, baseball, golf, and boxing can be quite a workout. It incorporates coordination and strength, timing, etc. which can be similar to doing a Pilates class or going to the gym. The Wii Fit is another great example of this. I can't wait until they come up with a Wii Pilates game but in the mean time the Wii Fit has yoga, aerobics, etc. to get your wellness fix. It's a great investment if you can start your workouts at home and the Wii Fit keeps you motivated with challenges and tests you can do daily.

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Matwork Pilates for Everyone

Here are some great ways to benefit from Matwork Pilates!

1. Breathing - This is a great way to relax or take a break from your busy day. Start by breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth, making an O shape with your mouth. Go ahead, try it! Nice deep breaths. This will increase your oxygen intake and get the blood flowing.

2. Posture - Pilates can greatly improve posture, relieving any problems such as a sway back or curvature of the spine. You may not even realize that you have bad posture! Let a Pilates professional assess you and you'll be amazed at what a few classes will do.

3. Muscle Tone - Pilates creates long, lean muscles using resistance as the form of exercise. It also incorporates stretching giving you more flexibility.

4. No More Headaches - Pilates can improve posture, balance, flexibility, and yes get rid of those headaches! Most people suffering from tension in the neck and shoulders will benefit greatly from pilates.

5. Feel Better - It's almost a feeling you can only describe when you have taken a pilates class. You will start to rely on your pilates classes to fix all those problems and aleviate pain or stress. It's amazing how your body responds when you listen to it. You will have more energy and start feeling better!

6. Look Amazing! - A Joseph Pilates said, "In 10 classes you feel a difference, in 20 classes you see a difference, in 30 classes other people start to see a difference in you". The complements will be flying!

For more information about pilates classes in Winnipeg, MB contact Alexandria at 204 298-2248 or email marikadeluca@hotmail.com

Want a Healthier Lifestyle?

Here are some great ways to promote a healthier lifestyle for you and your family:

1. Total Wellness - Think of each new day as a great chance to start fresh and get yourself motivated. One small new thing you can do each day toward a healthier lifestyle can result in a big change!

2. Relax and Laugh a Little - Studies show that stress can have a big impact on your overall well being and can cause premature aging and unwanted health problems. Laughing can be a great way to overcome stress and help you enjoy yourself more.

3. Eat Well - Eating a balanced diet filled with fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean sources of protein can give you more energy throughout your day. Incorporating plenty of fluids and vitamins in your diet will also give your body a younger feel.

4. Exercise - I know everyone is busy these days but take some time for yourself and exercise a little. You don't have to hit the gym to get exercise either. Try walking more, joining a pilates class, renting a fitness video, even stretching for 5-10 minutes a day. Starting small can get you going for more high impact activities in the long run.

5. Pamper Yourself - It is important to give your body some down time. Draw a bath, light some candles, and play some relaxing music once in a while. Try winding down your day with a book or crossword in bed, and invest in some soothing scents such as lavender. Place a dab on your pillow case to promote relaxation and a restful sleep.

6. Bad Habits - Everyone has them but it is important to assess your lifestyle and see where you can incorporate some healthier ways to live in your day. It can be as small as turning off the TV early one night and doing something together as a family such as a board game, promoting healthy eating habits such as sitting together as a family for dinner and not eating too late. Even keeping healthier snacks in the fridge to resist the tempting snack foods. Try cutting up carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and celery and keeping them in a container in the fridge for easy access when your hungry.

7. Read Food Labels - This is a great way to ensure you and your family are eating properly. Avoid food additives such as MSG and overly processed foods with simple sugars and preservatives such as hydrogenated vegetable oil.

8. Everything in Moderation - This is a motto which I live by. If you want to have that glass of wine or piece of chocolate, enjoy, just remember to keep everything in moderation. A chocolate bar once a day isn't exactly moderation!

I hope these tips can help you enjoy a healthier lifestyle each day!

Alexandria

Human Nutritional Sciences Student, Pilates Instructor and Dance Teacher