Re-balance Your Energy by Marina

Last blog we discussed how stress can cause long term problems which can cause weight gain. I left you in the lurch by asking, “how is one supposed to recover from these stressors?” For the answer, I turned to Jillian Michaels (Master Your Metabolism, 2009).

Taking steps to “rebalance your energy” will give your stress response system a well-needed break and return your hormones back to optimal level.

STEP 1 - SLEEP

About an hour after you fall asleep your body releases a hormone that promotes the body to burn stored fat. To optimize on this release of hormone you need to get at least 7 hours of sleep and try not to eat carbohydrates before you go to bed.

“. . .eating anything, especially carbs, before bed can delay your entry into deeper sleep for several hours.” (Master Your Metabolism, pg. 191)

STEP 2 - MOVE

Exercise promotes the burn of excess adrenaline. Adrenaline being a primary hormone in your stress response, you want to burn off any excess that might be lingering. The release of endorphins from exercise also improves your response to stress and changes your mood.

TREAT YOURSELF

There is no time like the present to take care of you. I cannot stress this enough. You cannot nurture with love and affection without nurturing yourself first. At a time like the holiday season, there is no better time to check your list twice for your name. Add a few of these “wishes” to your letter to Santa Clause.

-The time to mediate and get a massage.
-The strength to detox my life of what makes me feel bad.
-The will to ask for help.
-The wits to act on what makes me stressed and take vacations.
-The power to exercise whenever I can.

Rebalance your life and enjoy the holidays.

See you in class.

Yours very truly,
Marina, Shop n’ Stroll Instructor (www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com)

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