A Matter of Active Lifestyle

Exercise does not need to be strenuous but we do need two types of exercise: stretching and cardiovascular.

Most health clubs have guidelines on how to properly stretch and how to achieve the proper increase in the cardiac rhythm according to age and physical condition.

For most people, 20 to 30 minutes of accelerated breathing three times a week is quite sufficient. During that time, the breathing will be made deeper to completely empty out the lungs and fully renew their oxygen content. Lack of frequent and deep breathing causes parts of the lungs and a myriad of the lung alveolus to remain collapsed.

Experts point to the need for breathing from the abdomen and not simply from the top of the lungs. This action helps the movement of the diaphragm, the largest muscle in the body, that acts as a major pump for the movement of lymph and of water throughout the body.

Exercising in general, and stretching in particular, sponsor the movement of vital energy throughout the body, accelerating the flow of blood that brings necessary nutrients to all cells. It also stimulates the process of elimination of waste within cells and tissues, yet one can also over-exercise and create a whole new set of stressors–physical and psychological.

It is good to remember that we generate more internal energy as we exercise, but depending on the type of exercise, we might also expend a large amount of energy leaving us depleted at the end of our session. The goal is to build up energy while exspending as little as possible. In that respect, low impact and moderately intensive cardiovascular exercises are superior forms of wellness enhancement. As always with vital energy, balance is important.

Mindful exercising connects intention to action. It is important because energy follows our intention, therefore we can redirect it. Yoga, qi gong, and tai chi are known for their focus on the coordination of movement and breast with intention and awareness. There are many other activities that can be performed with conscious focus, from golf to simply walking upstairs.

All this is contrary to the frequent practice of mechanicallyperforming exercises while listening to music or watching television in an attempt to distract the mind from repetitive and boring movements.