An old legend says that a spring called the Fountain of Youth will restore the youth of anyone who drinks of its waters. Variations of this classic story have existed for centuries. However, we don't have to make a pilgrimage to a legendary fountain; maintaining a youthful appearance is enhanced by establishing healthy eating habits, exercising, meditating regularly and having a positive attitude.
Healthy habits for youthful vitality
Youthful vitality is enhanced with healthy eating and exercise habits. In addition, regular meditation practice helps establish healthy breathing habits and effective relaxation techniques, which contribute to maintaining a youthful appearance.
Some yoga meditation techniques and other meditation practices use deep belly breathing, which is associated with relaxation and tranquility. Shallow breathing is associated with stress. Some dance classes (particularly belly dance classes which focus on abdominal movements) involve the use of yoga breathing and specific breathing techniques which assist with relaxation, muscle control and toning.
For optimum results, meditation needs to be practiced regularly and in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise to reap maximum benefits.
Benefits of healthy eating habits
A youthful appearance is associated with muscle mass (lean body mass) and healthy body fat percentage. A slender, healthy look "reads" nonverbally as youthful. When an overweight person transitions to a healthy diet and loses weight, their acquaintances often comment that they look younger when the extra body fat is gone.
Excess body fat can be disguised to some extent with clothing styles, but the face is the part of the body which people focus on most often, and it is hard to disguise fat there. The overweight person who has a double chin looks older than his years, but when he loses the weight and the extra chin, he looks younger.
Support your goals with professional advice
Training with weights with the help of a qualified personal trainer or instructor is an effective way for both men and women to enhance muscle mass and strength, while reducing excess fat. A trainer can also advise you on dietary needs to support your training program and fitness goals.
Support groups for weight loss are also helpful; studies show that dieters have greater success rates when they belong to a support group. If you choose to join a weight loss group, be sure that they are following a doctor-approved program which encourages healthy eating habits, because fad diets can be dangerous and ineffective.
Have fun and look young!
Physical activity can be fun. Select activities you enjoy; you'll be more likely to stick with them. Consult your doctor or trusted medical practitioner for advice prior to engaging in physical activity or weight loss. Here are some fun and healthy activities:
Dance classes of any kind enhance strength, flexibility and stamina. They're also a good way to meet new friends. Classes like belly dancing, ballet, jazz and modern dance are fun activities for dancing solo or with a group of friends. Dancing with a partner (such as in ballroom or salsa classes) is a good way to involve your mate in a healthy exercise program.
Belly dance classes assist with developing flexibility, coordination and muscle tone. There are many styles of belly dance; discuss your needs with a qualified instructor to determine which type of class would best help you meet your goals.
Yoga classes with a qualified instructor are relaxing and help develop strength, stamina and flexibility. Many yoga DVDs are also available, which complement in-person classes.
Meditation classes with a qualified instructor are often offered through yoga studios. Many CDs and DVDs are also available for at-home practice.
Strength training with a qualified instructor or personal trainer at a gym or fitness center helps build muscle mass and reduce fat. A trainer should give you guidance on getting started with a safe and effective program to help you reach your goals.
Smile! It makes you look younger.
Ramona is the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, the Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing. See free belly dance videos, read book excerpts and order an autographed copy at DynamicBellyDance.com DynamicBellyDance.com
Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active, do not edit the article, give author name credit and follow the EzineArticles terms of service for publishers. Thank you!
No comments:
Post a Comment