Relax and Lose Weight


 

Want to get healthy and lose weight?  Then relax.  It’s true.  Relaxing is good for you, and what better day to brush up on relaxation facts than on Relaxation Day!  August 15th is a relaxation holiday.  So relax and read on for tips!

The role of cortisol

One of the most important reasons that relaxation is good for you is because it prevents the release of excess cortisol.  Cortisol is a hormone that your body releases when it is stressed.  If you only have small amounts of cortisol, there is no problem.  But when stress is persistent, as it is in many of our lives, the amount of cortisol in your bloodstream rises and stays elevated.  The result?  Weight gain.

When cortisol is released, you begin craving foods that deliver quick energy, such as potato chips, candy bars, pastries, etc.  If this were not bad enough, cortisol goes on to store those extra calories as fat, mainly around your abdominal area.

Cortisol also interferes with the hormones that control your appetite; you will find that you are hungry more often and have a hard time staying satiated.

And if that were not enough, cortisol can also cause decreased muscle mass because it lowers testosterone levels.  The less muscle you have, the less fat you will burn.

The science of relaxation

The good news is that intentional relaxation can combat stress and combat cortisol.  Scientists have discovered what they call “the relaxation effect.”  Specifically, Harvard researchers have learned that deep relaxation causes bodily changes all the way down to our genetic level.  For those people who practiced yoga long term, their disease fighting genes were active, as opposed to people who did not make relaxation a part of their lives.1

The participants in the study who practiced yoga had ‘switched on’ genes that protect them from high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, pain and even infertility.

But wait!  There’s more…

When the researchers in the study asked the non-relaxation practicing participants to start using relaxation methods, it only took two months for their bodies to begin changing.  Genes that fight inflammation and help prevent cancer began turning on! And the more they practiced relaxation, the more improved were the benefits.

The take away message?  You can’t afford not to relax. Too much is riding on this. Start now and in just a couple short months, you can be enjoying the genetic benefits of robust health.

 

Source:

1 http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/relax--its-good-for-you-20090819-eqlo.html

 


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Uncover the Energy Thief: Breaking Free from Daily Drains

Image
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's all too common to feel drained and fatigued. If you find yourself constantly running on empty, it's time to shine a light on the energy thieves that lurk in your daily routine. This blog is your guide to identify, confront, and conquer these culprits, paving the way for a life filled with sustained vitality. 1. The Culprit: Poor Sleep Habits Identifying the Thief: Irregular sleep patterns, insufficient rest, or poor sleep quality. Confronting the Culprit: Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a sleep-friendly environment, and prioritize quality rest. 2. The Culprit: Unbalanced Nutrition Identifying the Thief: Relying on sugary snacks, processed foods, or skipping meals. Confronting the Culprit: Embrace a balanced diet rich in whole foods, prioritize regular meals, and stay hydrated. 3. The Culprit: Sedentary Lifestyle Identifying the Thief: Prolonged periods of sitting or lack of physical activity. Confronting the Culprit: I...
Read more

Boost Your Productivity: Strategies for Enhancing Focus and Concentration

Image
In today's fast-paced world, staying focused and productive can feel like an uphill battle. With constant distractions vying for our attention, it's easy to find ourselves overwhelmed and unable to concentrate on the task at hand. However, by implementing the right strategies and techniques, you can enhance your focus and concentration, boosting your productivity and achieving your goals more efficiently. In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies to help you sharpen your focus and maximize your productivity. 1. Prioritize Your Tasks One of the keys to maintaining focus and productivity is prioritizing your tasks effectively. Start each day by identifying the most important tasks that need to be completed and focus your energy on tackling them first. By prioritizing your tasks, you'll ensure that you're dedicating your time and attention to the activities that will have the greatest impact on your goals. 2. Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks Large, daunting ta...
Read more

The Journey of Self-Improvement: Continuously Working on Yourself

Image
  In the pursuit of personal growth and positive change, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the ongoing commitment to self-improvement. Making changes in life isn't just about achieving a specific goal; it's about embracing a journey of continual growth and development. Here's why continuing to work on yourself is essential for long-term success and fulfillment: 1. Embracing Adaptability: Life is unpredictable, and circumstances are constantly evolving. By committing to ongoing self-improvement, you cultivate adaptability and resilience. You learn to navigate challenges with grace and flexibility, adjusting your approach as needed to overcome obstacles and seize new opportunities. 2. Cultivating Self-Awareness: Self-improvement isn't just about acquiring new skills or achieving external success; it's also about deepening your understanding of yourself. Through introspection and self-reflection, you gain insight into your strengths, weaknesses, values, and aspira...
Read more