Keeping fit and healthy from head to toe – Heart, arteries, circulation, spine
Today this body region is especially susceptible to exercise and looking after it. The highlighted region today is your heart, arteries, circulation, and spine.
Looking after your heart is crucial
The first step is to eat well and exercise regularly. A good way to start (if you currently don’t exercise at all) is to add a walk/run to your week. A few minutes of cardiovascular exercise per week can make a big difference. It is really important to measure your heartbeat. The rule of thumb is to take the number 220 and subtract your age. Say a 30-year-old would be 190. This is the maximum (healthy) heartbeat for your age.
Your resting heart rate should be in the region of 55 to 70 beats. But when you start to exercise your heartbeats will increase. Here is an article that tells you how to find your optimum heart rate for fat burning according to your age.
You will need a device like a fitbit or similar to measure your heartbeat when exercising. This investment is well worth it if you want to start a regular exercise regime to strengthen your heart and improve your cardiovascular system.
Without it, you may ‘over-exercise’ and raise your heart rate beat too much. This is not good for you. Your body will shut down and you will lose your appetite for future sessions. So please remember – always exercise according to your heart rate! If your run looks more like a walk, but your heart rate is in the right zone, then this is the right speed for you. You will be able to speed up in your own time and when your heart/body is ready.
Your resting heart rate should be in the region of 55 to 70 beats per minute. But when you start to exercise your heartbeats will increase. Here is an article that tells you how to find your optimum heart rate for fat burning.
The back and spine
are also highlighted today. A good posture is the best way to keep your spine in a good shape. An ancient Indian pearl of wisdom says – you are as old as your spine is flexible. Exercises such as yoga, pilates, and regular stretching will keep your spine healthy and flexible. Posture work has gone out of fashion and now many youngsters slouch. The old-fashioned method of ‘keeping two books in your armpits when you eat’ or holding your shoulders back by having a stick wedged behind your back – will make sure that you keep your good posture into old age.
Remember a good posture will make you look more positive, confident, and outgoing. It will further improve your breathing (from shallow to deep breathing) which allows more oxygen (energy) to flow into your body.
More information on this subject will be added in due course
