Post Vacation Exercise

Okay - I am feeling a tad bit guilty about all of the treats I allowed myself this past week while on vacation. I assume I am not the only one out there that is feeling this way. Here are a few ideas for getting back those few pounds that may have crept onto to our waist lines!

YOGA: Yoga improves posture, increases the intake of oxygen, and enhances the functioning of the respiratory, digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and elimination systems. Its effects on the emotions are equally beneficial: calming the mind, attuning us to the environment, and diminishing insomnia caused by mental restlessness. Yoga is highly recommended for people in competitive, stressful working environments, for those who suffer from headaches, back and shoulder aches, allergies, and asthma; and for anyone over the age of 40 (although the younger, the better). Yoga also works to unite the split between the mind and the body. Find a yoga studio near you. http://www.yogafinder.com/

Stomach crunches: Lie on the floor -- you may want to use a mat or blanket -- with your knees slightly bent and your hands gently resting behind your head, elbows pointing out. Using your stomach muscles only, slowly lift your chest toward the ceiling, keeping your feet on the floor and your chin pointed toward the ceiling. Lower your head until your shoulder blades hit the floor -- but do not completely relax. Repeat.

Push-ups: Get down on your hands and knees. Rest all your weight on your extended arms, and keep your body straight. Slowly lower your chest toward the floor, keeping your chin up, and then raise until your arms are straight again. (You can keep your knees on the floor, but you should eventually try to use just your toes.) Repeat.

Aerobic exercise: Spend at least 5 minutes warming up/stretching; then speed walk, jog, do an aerobics or strenuous yoga class, jump on a stairclimber, go biking, jump rope -- anything that will get your heart rate up. Then spend at least 5 minutes warming down/stretching. Ideally, you should alternate your aerobic activity so you don't get bored.