Did you know September was Yoga Month? Yeah, neither did I. And I know you’ve seen pictures of me and are like, there’s no way this dude does yoga. You’d be right, of course. Although I have started an exercise routine that includes a couple of yoga positions. (Have you noticed most of these positions have weird names? I mean, come on, Half Lord of the Fishes? Downward Facing Dog? Are they trying to insult me even more than the fact that I can’t even get into these positions does?) With the health scares this year, I’ve begun to take my health and fitness more seriously. I’ve also found out that I can think of story ideas while exercising. Well, later I will be able to do that. Right now, I just focus on breathing and not dying.
So, what does my exercise routine look like outside of a lot of whining and panting? I do simple calisthenics in my living room as I follow along with some videos I’ve discovered. Each time, they throw in a couple of yoga positions, so the only thing I need is a yoga mat. With that in mind, I decided to do a little research on the benefits of yoga in case I wanted to create a yoga instructor as a character. Might make a good cozy mystery theme - Death by the Downward Dog or Victim of the Cat-Cow Pose.
So, what did I find? First, yoga improves strength, balance, and flexibility, which is good because just bending over to put on my socks causes pain in my sides. There are other benefits, such as helps with back pain, increases your heart health, and relieves arthritis symptoms. Of course, the ones that intrigued me the most were the ones that said it helps you fall asleep and relieves stress, which will help with my high blood pressure, while giving you more energy and brighter moods. And who doesn’t need a brighter mood!
As I’ve shared in previous emails, health has now become a focus for me. I intend to lose weight and get out of my recliner without feeling as if I need oxygen. I’m moving more, walking more, and eating better. I have also found it helps clear my head so I can focus more on my writing and the business. And that’s a plus in my book. That doesn’t mean I don’t have major cheat days. Rome wasn’t built in a day, as they say. But it’s getting better, and the pounds are slowly coming off. That’s enough for me.
How about you? Do you do any type of exercise, or have you tried yoga? I’d love to know, so hit that reply button and share your health tips.
Until next week, happy reading!
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