Move Your Derriere!

By Ivy Mills

We all know that we’re supposed to exercise, so why are 63% of Canadians are not active enough to receive any health benefits? If we would all just get off our keisters our bodies would thank us. I know your busy, but, it’s easier than you think.

First we have to define the proper level of exertion. Any activity that creates a small amount of increase to your heart rate or rate of breathing is considered moderate activity. You need to squeeze in 30 minutes five days a week.

If you graduate to a more intense activity that requires you to "catch your breath", you can get away with 20 minutes three days a week. This can be all at once or compiled throughout your day.

Doesn’t sound like much, but surprisingly, only 43% of American women meet these requirements and 17% are active for less than ten minutes.

When you have a choice, choose the active option over being passive. The best example is to take the stairs instead of the elevator. The extra time is very minimal and if you have a lot of floors to go, get out five levels early.

Use a push mower instead of a power mower. Take the parking spot a couple blocks from your destination. Skip the coffee with your girlfriend and take a walk together - it’s amazing how much you’ll chat with all that fresh air.

For those of us with desk jobs, a whole lot of problems can arise from sitting around. Get yourself one of those exercise balls to sit on instead of your chair (make sure you get the proper size). Don’t feel silly, it’s really comfortable and will save your back.

Make sure you stretch your neck and shoulders at your desk every few minutes and take full stretching breaks a few times a day.

A cool trick is to concentrate on contracting your abs for as long as you can remember without losing focus on your work. This little exercise can take 2-4 inches off your waist!

Basically think active, not passive. Before you grab a cup of joe in the morning, start out by stretching or walking outside for a breath of fresh air. Listen to your body - it wants to move.

Join a class like yoga or thai chi, tend a garden, dance when you feel like it. Better yet, grab your friends and go out dancing. You’ll burn calories, tone your muscles, relive stress, bond with your friends and have fun. Move your derriere!

Ivy Mills has been researching chemical sensitivity and natural alternatives for over five years and has brought her knowledge to the marketplace in her company, Valhalla Essences. Her personal experiences have fed a passion to help others with the same problem. Ivy welcomes others to share their stories and experiences on her blog, Peaceful Power.

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