Getting into an active lifestyle may be difficult. With the fast-paced lives we lead, it is easy to lose track of time – leading us to believe that there simply isn’t enough time! If you’ve been wanting to try working out, there are many forms of exercise you can do and enjoy without having to spend over an hour at the gym.
Try these simple workouts, which will not only challenge your body but will also bring you more peace and calm.
- Yoga
Yoga is an ancient science designed to transform, balance and awaken a person on their physical, mental and spiritual levels. Yoga as exercise is a physical activity consisting mainly of postures, often connected by flowing sequences and sometimes accompanied by rhythmic breathing. A yoga session often ends with relaxation or meditation. Yoga in this form has become popular across the world. Not only does yoga work on the physical level, but the practice also teaches its students how to move beyond limitations and towards possibilities.
- Tai Chi
The practice of Tai Chi has been around for many hundreds of years. Though originally conceived as a martial art, it is not only practiced as self-defence training, but also for its health benefits and for meditation. The term refers to a philosophy of the forces of yin and yang, related to the moves. Some training forms are known for their relatively slow movements. The practice of Tai Chi endorses one’s relationship with silence in the mind. When the mind is calm, so is the body.
- Qi Gong
Qi Gong means “energy work.” The practice, like Tai Chi, originated long ago in China. It involves harnessing energy through one’s palms and deep meditation. Qi Gong places important focus on mental concentration during the practice. People who practice Qi Gong believe that linking attention with intention creates mastery in life.
- Swimming
As a form of exercise, swimming may not be as easy as running, biking or jogging, but the benefits of swimming can easily outweigh most forms of exercise. In swimming, you utilise more muscle groups and improve overall flexibility. Aside from that, water has an instant calming effect on the brain. In a similar way to meditation, swimming gives the brain a moment of peace.
These four exercises are more than just workouts. They are also good for meditation, and that in turn is good for overall health. At the end of the day, what is important for you is to do what you love and enjoy.
Take the time to explore and experiment with different activites to find out what exactly works for you – be it walking, swimming, dancing or something totally out of the ordinary! Doing things with positivity has a much bigger and better effect than doing an activity you feel is a chore or a burden.
Holistic Healing Medical Centre offers yoga classes for beginners and long-time practitioners, where we like to tailor the class to your needs. You may also book one-on-one classes, if you prefer some alone time!