It's that time of the year where one sets out new year's resolutions, vowing to become a better version of themselves compared to the previous year. It's probably the busiest time of the year for gyms as scores of people enrol into fitness classes to do away with the post-Christmas weight. This week's feature is a special on Spa and Fitness, where we will give you an insight into some of the benefits of going to a spa or getting involved in fitness, as well as inform you about the many ways where one can keep fit and rejuvenate themselves.
Spas
The use of spas has gained immense popularity in the last decade, even though different forms of spas have been around from a long time. As an Asian, one is usually skeptical or cautious regarding the use of certain products on their skin and body which would make them think carefully before indulging into a spa treatment. However, there are specific treatments and products that cater to an Asian customer's needs; such as the treatments and products at Ayurveda Pura's Health Spa & Beauty Centre, situated in Greenwich, London.
Spas have been around before the existence of you and I. From the Roman Baths, to the Turkish Hammam, as well as the Moroccan Hammam; spas have been catering to the public's needs by rejuvenating them and vanishing their stress away.
Ayurveda
Products at Ayurveda Pura are certified organic and are designed to follow the principles of Ayurveda, where individuals are given products and treatments bespoke for their body types. They have a unique range of Ayurvedic skincare and cosmetic which include natural, organic vegetarian products. Their specific treatments which has proven to be beneficial for the South Asian communities are the Pinda Sveda treatment, which was the Ayurveda herbal bolus bags in hot oil treatment as part of a massage routine.
Roman Baths
The Roman Baths was voted the most romantic building in Britain in a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) poll. The Thermae Bath Spa, which is included in the Spas Ancient and Modern Special package, combines the best of the historic Spa with the contemporary design of the New Royal Bath. You can bathe in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters of the Minerva Bath, relax in the aroma steam rooms and enjoy the open-air rooftop pool with its magnificent views over the city and surrounding hills.
Hen-Do
Nowadays, going to the spa is a much common and popular choice for a hen party, instead of doing the rounds of nightclubs and downing a few tequilas. Many spas have special packages for hen parties for the bride-to-be and her special bridesmaids. There are many treatments where you and your friends can indulge in together; like a facial, or a manicure and pedicure. What's more, is that you will most definitely not leave without a goodie bag to take home with mini beauty products for you and your clan.
If you are clueless about where to find yourself the perfect spa at the nth moment, look no further as the internet has the best results. One of the most popular domains where you can search for fantastic spa deals is on lastminute.com. You'll be surprised with the special offers on spas available throughout the UK.
Detox
Spas also give you the option of detoxifying. After having indulged to your heart (and to your stomach's) consent, one not only tends to feel bloated but sickly internally. Detoxing helps you cleanse yourself internally, getting rid of all the toxins and impurities.
You know it is the right time to detoxify when you start getting symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, menstrual problems, mental confusion, and allergies, among many other symptoms.
There are many benefits of detoxing. It can help the body's natural cleansing process by resting the organs through fasting, stimulating the liver to drive toxins from the body, improving circulation of the body, and refuelling the body with healthy nutrients.
People tend to misunderstand detox with starving yourself. There are certain fasts that one is recommended to undertake, but that does not mean you should not consume anything at all; that is a tad outrageous. There are certain detox diets that could aid with cleansing your system; diets like the fruit and veg detox, juice cleanse or the hypoallergenic detox.
However, with all things new, one must consult with their doctors first. No two people are the same, so it is advised that you get the consent from your doctor before trying a new exercise regime, or a new diet.
Fitness
Taking care of ones body and wellbeing is an essential part of life. Many people take this for granted. Fitness is much more than just bulking up muscles or fitting into your skimpy bikini. It is more about your internal wellbeing that reflects externally. There are many ways you can become a fitter person by altering your lifestyle, making exercise compulsory, and amending your eating habits.
Hit the Gym
Going to the gym is one of the most popular choices amongst people as a way of getting fit, probably due to the full body workout options available, from cardio workouts to high intensity muscle-building exercises. For those who are unsure of how to lose weight or tone up can always opt for the option of having a personal trainer as well. Most gyms have personal training options. They can help you achieve your desired fitness goals, as well as put you on a tailor-made diet that would aid you in achieving your dream body.
Yoga
Yoga has many benefits, not only on the body, but on the mind as well. It is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Yoga originated from India about 5,000 years ago. It has been adapted and altered in many countries in various ways, such as Power yoga or Yoga and Hot Yoga.
There are many evident benefits of doing yoga. Regular yoga practice has proven to be beneficial for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, lower back pain as well as other aches and pains, depression and stress.
One is never too old to start yoga. One can always join a class suitable for their age and their fitness level. It is rare that one is injured due to yoga. However, some injuries can be caused by repetitive strain or over-stretching.
Hot yoga
Hot yoga has emerged as another popular contemporary form of exercise over the years. The name pretty much sums up the exercise- this yoga is pretty hot! Hot yoga is basically you practicing yoga postures in a room that has been heated to 37 degree celsius. If you can embrace the heat, then this exercise is just for you. But do bear in mind that it is IMPORTANT that you remain well-hydrated before your hot yoga class. People with high or low blood pressure are advised to attempt an easier form of yoga. If you have any worries regarding your health and whether it would be best for you to practice hot yoga, then you ought to consult with your doctor for the best answer.
Runnin' runnin' runnin'...
If you do not want to spend a penny on gym memberships, or if the confide space of a room is not your ideal choice, then the outdoor is your oyster, so to speak! Going to the park for a run could be the best way to de-stress, exercise and while getting some much needed fresh air. Running works as a good cardiovascular exercise.
Walk it off
Now for those who have difficulties in running due to joint problems, age or other ailments can always opt for walking. There are many benefits of walking, apart from it toning your bum, tum and legs. It also helps you lose weight, lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes by 60%, strengthens your heart and boosts vitamin D (that's if you choose to walk outdoors while ditching the treadmill). A bonus is that it makes you happy! That's right, exercise is known as a great booster for mood, and studies has shown that brisk-walking is as effective as antidepressants in some cases of depressions. Walking also released feel-good endorphins while reducing anxiety and stress.
Meditation
Not many people associate meditation with fitness, however, it is an essential part of your well-being. A fit and balanced mind will reflect on the outside, while working its magic internally as well. 10-20 minutes of meditation can do the trick. Meditation makes you focus better, become less anxious and helps you have a better memory.
There are many forms of meditation; such as the guided meditation which is a session conducted with verbal instruction from a teacher; moving meditation, which is the act of quieting the mind and directing your complete attention to whatever you are doing at the moment; sensory meditation, where the mind is focused on sights, sounds, tastes, scents and other physical stimuli; and in mindfulness meditation, the key is to realise that we are not out thoughts, emotions or actions- the focus of the mind is the mind itself.
Take the plunge!
Swimming is a great form of exercise. It is a far more effective way of toning your muscles than any other cardiovascular exercise you may do on land.
For those who do not know how to swim, worry not! Here is where aqua-aerobics comes to the rescue. It provides a full body workout, and it is no longer a form of exercise for grandmas. Working out in water is also great for your internal organs and lymphatic system.
Good diet
How can we skip this out? This is one of the vital methods for healthy living. One should alter their diet as per the body and to what their body can tolerate. It is important to rectify your eating habits but not to starve yourself. One should take a step at a time, rather than throwing yourself completely into a diet, especially a diet which may not even be near to possible to keep. Remember to stay hydrated and opt for more fresh food; avoid processed and junk food.
Dance the blues away
Dancing is an extremely fun for of exercise that even people with two-left feet will enjoy! Zumba has become an international rage in terms of a fitness routine. It's an extremely energetic and fun-filled exercise routine, plus a great way of making new friends and socialising. Plus there are other different forms that you could opt for, such as salsa, street dance, or even Kathak if Indian classical dancing is more your thing. Plus, it is not necessary that you leave the comfort of your home to dance, you could always choose to do some Bollywood moves or Bhangra while in your bedroom. Every small dance routine makes a big difference in attaining your fitness goal. The beginning is always tough, so don't give up; you're nearly there!
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Fitness blogs:
Lazy Girl Running http://www.lazygirlrunning.com
This Guy Can http://thisguycan.co.uk
Born Fitness http://www.bornfitness.com
The Fit Bits http://www.thefitbits.com
Run To The Finish http://www.runtothefinish.com
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Diet blogs:
Losing Weight In The City http://losingweightinthecity.com
No Thanks To Cake http://www.nothankstocake.com
Run Eat Repeat http://runeatrepeat.com
Diet Blog http://www.diet-blog.com
Stellar Fashion And Fitness http://stellarfashionandfitness.com
