Rest

                 Sorry for the long absence from posting. It has been hard for me to juggle going to school and work a few days a week, actually getting the work done, work outs, doctor appointments, and trying to stay in touch with friends. Being done with midterms and knowing that means finals aren’t too far away causes me to start stressing. When I do get a chance to rest the last thing I’m usually thinking about is writing something on my blog or wanting to work out at all. A few years ago this would have been no problem to juggle everything, but with all the medications and stiffness I’ve slowed down. In my psychology class this past week we’ve learned a lot about our body’s need for rest and just how important it is to take time for ourselves. Also, how being an introvert or extrovert tells a lot about just how much stress we can handle. Introverts, like me, don’t handle pressure very well unlike my very outgoing extroverted father who strives off chaos.  With the holidays coming up and all the amazing eating and running around for the perfect gift we do it is so important for us to take time for ourselves and slow down.          One of the best things that you can do, to keep yourself fit and stay relaxed without going to the gym, is to go for a walk. Walking can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as improve your mood. The mayo clinic says that taking brisk walks can help you “prevent or manage various diseases”, and it helps to improve your balance and coordination. As someone who struggles with balance, walking is one of the best things I can do to help me improvethis. Whenever I am feeling stressed I’m going to remind myself to take a break and go outside. I’ve also found that guided meditation has helped me to deal with stressful situations and not take life so seriously. You can meditate with a recording or self meditate. Meditating has been shown to reduce stress, improve concentration, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and even help to keep a healthy immune system. With the holidays approaching I encourage everyone to slow down and enjoy it with your family and friends. Enjoy the moments and create memories with the ones you love. Try not to get wrapped up in the commercialism and pressure to please. I hope that everyone has a great Thanksgiving and Christmas! I will be back with exercises and classes as soon as I can! 

Check out my logo that my super talented cousin designed!