Jennifer Russo

Why do we exercise?

On the outside, it is about building our strength, getting muscular and lean, and creating a vessel that allows our bodies to operate at their optimal potential. Additionally, it helps with metabolism, not only to lose weight, but to increase our energy. Our hearts and lungs get an internal workout too, keeping them working the way they should, increasing blood flow and decreasing the risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other concerns. Increasing our strength and endurance obviously allows us to achieve more physically, but let’s consider how we maintain mental peace too.

Many people (including myself) exercise not only to get physically fit, but to reduce stress. I find yoga to be a great example of being strong and still at the same time. Holding poses of balance and strength, while maintaining your steady and mindful breath and focusing internally, brings emotional balance too.  There is benefit to more cardio-centric workouts too, like running and aerobics. While you are not in stillness, it is a great opportunity to get a long, busy and sometimes aggravating day out of your system in a constructive way.

Whatever kind of exercise you resonate with most, make sure you are going into it with an awareness that it is not just about getting physically fit, but mentally fit. It is scientifically proven that exercise of any kind reduces anxiety and depression, promotes better sleep schedules, boosts your memory function and helps to reduce overall stress. 

Ohm shanti. Peace.

Pose of the Month: Warrior II Pose

Place your right foot in front of you, almost like you were going into a regular lunge position, and stand wide legged, with your back foot at 90 degrees. So the heel of your right foot would line up with the heel of your left foot. Place your arms into a T-position, facing the same direction as your legs, palms down.  Then bend deeply into your right leg, being sure that your knee stays in line and doesn’t fall inward.  Make sure your weight is evenly distributed between the feet. This is a strengthening pose that also promotes stillness. It will stretch your hips, build arm and leg strength, develop balance, bring in more energy and help with circulation.