5 Natural Ways to Anti-Aging
While wisdom certainly comes with age, so do a lot of other things – like decreased bone density, slowed metabolism, frailty/weakness, sleeplessness, and excess body fat – just to name a few.
Exercise For Sobriety
The crucial element that I always recommend to people when they say they have been experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction/s of some sort, or even sleeplessness, is exercise. Almost every time, I get a response like, “Does that help you?” Then I get to explain to them why I am so incredibly passionate about fitness. I discuss the fact that I never used to enjoy working out, and, as a matter of fact, still don’t enjoy it, but rather enjoy the feeling it gives me afterwards. This then opens the gateway for me to plead my case as to my passion and explain the many benefits that fitness provides. Exercise has helped people in many ways, but especially in terms of boosting mood and keeping mental illnesses at bay, both of which have a direct impact on addiction.
Types of Sobriety
The reason I live, eat, drink, and breathe all things fitness is because of how beneficial it has been on my own personal wellness journey. Rather than get into my whole life story, I will instead discuss how crucial fitness is to achieve sobriety. When people hear the term “sobriety” they tend to think of only substance abuse — mainly alcohol, opioids, or hard drugs. Not only can sobriety refer to the latter, it can also include medications that an individual was prescribed that their body happened to develop an addiction to, or could even refer to an undesirable behavior or reaction. For example, I had a client who would unconsciously binge eat after an unpleasant encounter with her then-husband, now ex-husband. Eventually, we realized that she was using food, and unhealthy foods at that, to make her feel better after arguments. In essence, she was supplementing her body with sugary foods that would help her body produce the dopamine her body was craving in order to produce the emotional high that would make her feel better. Here’s a different example: a different client would unconsciously lash out at her mother after having been insulted by her critical father. Once we realized why this was happening, I had her incorporate fitness into her daily schedule, right before she went home from school to her parents. Going to the gym every time she got angry with her father resulted in much less conflict between her and her mother, and, in conjunction with therapy, opened up a new line of communication between the two of them.
Improved Physiology and Psychology
Another common comment I encounter is after discussing the fact that I generally hit the gym for an hour and a half each day. Almost every single time, I get the exact same response, “I wish I had your energy!” For me, it’s not energy, it’s anxiety. I have discovered that I cannot eliminate it any other way than, as I say, “working out until I pass out,” or at least, until I’m thoroughly exhausted. I have found many other individuals who share my same sentiment, most of whom have also endured several instances of trauma, with the later group showing the most benefit and overall improvement from fitness. There have been numerous studies about the positive impacts that physical activity has on an individual’s mood and overall state-of-being. Exercise has been proven to reduce anxiety by promoting positive adaptations of several physiological processes within the body, such as improving dysregulations of the HPA axis of the brain, restoring abnormalities in monoamine function, producing endogenous opioids in the brain, and increasing BDNF (brain-derived neurotropic factors). There have been studies that suggest that fitness may increase neurogenesis, as well. Exercise has also proven to reduce the psychological effects of anxiety as well, such as reducing anxiety sensitivity, improving one’s sense of self-efficacy, and providing “time out” from one’s daily activities and stressors.
Work Out to Work It Out
In short, work out to “work it out.” All of the above are reasons why I always suggest to anyone struggling with their mental health that they start some sort of exercise regimen. Whether a person is addicted to a substance or even an undesirable or destructive behavior, fitness will improve the problem and provide results.
Tambryn Crimson-Dahn is a certified personal trainer, fitness coach, nutritionist, and addiction recovery specialist with 4 years of experience. After having worked in the gym industry, she founded and now operates her own company, Crimson Wholistic Fitness. She specializes in overall mental health and wellness, addiction, and relationships and how they can affect mental health.
References
5 Pilates Exercises to Improve Respiratory Function
Pilates is a total body exercise method that is highly effective for strengthening and lengthening the entire body. While Pilates is mostly known to improve core strength (the “Powerhouse”), posture, and range of motion, this exercise method can be used to improve respiratory function in those suffering from respiratory diseases. Respiratory diseases include asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, and now COVID-19. These diseases affect the way one breathes and lowers oxygen saturation that the body needs to function properly. One of the main principles in Pilates is breathing, thus the need to take a closer look at the effects of Pilates on respiratory function.
Benefits of Pilates Related to Respiratory Disease
- Improves postural cavity to breathe properly.
- Expands breathing capacity with diaphragmatic breathing.
- Increases pulmonary ventilation which is needed for better respiratory function.
- Improves lung volume.
- Develops intercostal muscles (respiratory muscles) to better “squeeze” out impure air.
- Improves exhaling all impure air out of the body while inhaling pure air.
- Improves thoracoabdominal mobility.
- Improves circulation to deliver oxygenated blood more efficiently.
- Increased SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation).
- >95% indicates healthy respiratory function.
- <95% indicates taxed respiratory function.
The Pilates Breathing Method
Joseph Pilates, the creator of Contrology, stated in his book Return to Life Through Contrology: “Lazy breathing converts the lungs, literally and figuratively speaking, into a cemetery for the deposition of diseased, dying and dead germs as well as supplying an ideal haven for the multiplication of other harmful germs.”1
- Lateral Breathing: The main goal for Pilates breathing is to breathe deeply expanding the ribcage without raising the abdominal muscles training them to jet out. Therefore, deep lateral breathing through the ribcage is the hub of the breathing technique. Proper breathing is inhaling through the nose and exhaling forcefully through the mouth. When one inhales, the ribcage expands out to the sides using the intercostal muscles, and then when exhaling the ribcage knits together like one is being sinched in a corset. According to Joseph Pilates, one should exhale forcefully getting all impure air out of the lungs like wringing out every drop of water out of a wet cloth.
- Set Breathing Pattern: When performing the Pilates exercises, one should inhale to prep for the movement and exhale as one performs the movement.
- Rhythmic Breathing Pattern: In some exercises, one breathes in rhythm to the exercise. This breathing consciously activates respiratory muscles to enable the lungs to expand and transport oxygen.
5 Effective Pilates Exercises to Improve Respiratory Function
The Hundred (Rhythmic Breathing)
- Begin a tabletop position with the shoulder blades and head lifted off the mat looking forward.
- Pump the arms up and down 100 times vigorously so the abdominals respond to and control the movement.
- Inhale through the nose 5 times to the rhythm of the arms pumping, then exhale 5 times to the rhythm of the arms pumping.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
Single Leg Stretch (Rhythmic Breathing)
- In a supine position, lift the shoulder blades and head off the mat looking forward.
- Bend the right knee towards the chest as the left leg extends straight out hovering over the mat.
- Inhale through the nose as you switch the legs 2 times, then exhale as you switch the legs 2 times.
- Inhale, inhale, exhale, exhale as you switch, switch, switch, switch.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 8 sets.
Dying Bug (Set Breathing Pattern)
- In a supine position, position the legs in table-top and arms extend straight up towards the ceiling.
- Press the right hand firmly on the right thigh and press the right thigh to the right hand in opposition.
- Inhale through the nose as you extend the left arm back overhead and the left leg extends straight out hovering over the mat.
- Exhale through the mouth and draw the arm in and the leg back to tabletop. Repeat on same side and switch.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 8 reps on each side.
Toe Taps (Set Breathing Pattern)
- In a supine position, lift the legs into tabletop keeping the upper body and head down on the mat.
- Anker the arms next to the body pulling the shoulders back and down on the mat.
- Inhale through the nose as you lower both feet and legs together towards the mat. Keep the knees at 90º and the feet away from the glutes.
- Exhale as you pull the legs back up to tabletop.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 10 reps.
Thread the Needle (Set Breathing Pattern)
- Start in a side kneeling position with the hips lifted off the mat and one forearm down on the mat with the other arm straight up to the ceiling.
- Inhale through the nose as you lean the body back an inch to expand the ribcage.
- Exhale through the mouth as you rotate forward and thread the arm under the armpit towards the back. Crunch the obliques and transverse abs.
- Inhale through the nose as you un-rotate and return to the start position with the arm lifted towards the ceiling.
- Perform 8 reps on each side.
Pilates, respiratory function and research
The literature is scarce and sometimes conflicting about the benefits of Pilates breathing related to the respiratory system. However, there are some existing studies that look at the increase in lung volumes, respiratory motion, SpO2, and the reduction in respiratory rate using Pilates breathing exercises. More research needs to be conducted. Refer to suggested reading at bottom of article.
Education for Fit Pros
Fitness Professionals & Personal Trainers: Become a Respiratory Disease Fitness Specialist!
Some of your clients may suffer from a respiratory disease and you may be an important source of relief. The Respiratory Disease Fitness Specialist online course will equip you with the knowledge to safely and effectively work with these clients to help improve their quality of life.
CarolAnn, M.S. Exercise Science and Health Promotion, is a 30+ year veteran in the fitness industry educating other health/fitness professionals to increase their expertise and brand influence. She is on the MedFit Education Advisory Board and the head health/fitness educator for FiTOUR. She is currently the Head Instructor at Club Pilates in Athens, GA.
Suggested Reading
- Cancelliero-Gaiad, K. M., Ike, D., Pantoni, C. B., Borghi-Silva, A., & Costa, D. (2014). Respiratory pattern of diaphragmatic breathing and pilates breathing in COPD subjects. Brazilian journal of physical therapy, 18(4), 291– https://doi.org/10.1590/bjpt-rbf.2014.0042
- de Jesus, L.T., Baltieri, L., de Oliveira, L.G., Angeli, L.R., Antonio, S.P., Pazzianotto-Fort, E.M. (2015) Effects of the Pilates method on lung function, thoracoabdominal mobility and respiratory muscle strength: non-randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Pesqui. vol.22 no.3. http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1809-29502015000300213&script=sci_arttext&tlng=en
- Hagag, A.A., Salem, E.Y. (2019) Pilates Exercises Improve Postural Stability, Ventilatory Functions and Functional Capacity in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science (IOSR-JNHS), vol. 8, Issue 4 Ser. VI., PP 86-91 http://iosrjournals.org/iosr-jnhs/papers/vol8-issue4/Series-6/M0804068691.pdf
- Baglan Yentur S, Saraç DC, Sarİ F, et al. (2020). Fri0613-hpr the effects of pilates training on respiratory muscle strenght in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases;79:912. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-eular.2129
References
- Pilates, J., William, J. M., Gallagher, S., Kryzanowska, R. (2000). The Complete Writings of Joseph H. Pilates: Return to Life Through Contrology and Your Health. BainBridge Books, Philadelphia, PA. (Originally written 1945)
Pre-diabetes – A Wellness Opportunity To Help
There is an opportunity for wellness and wellness coaching to impact the lives of millions of people in a life-saving way. 79 million Americans are estimated to have a condition called pre-diabetes. Usually symptom free, without intervention they will develop full-fledged Type II diabetes within ten years and possibly endure physical damage to their heart and circulatory system along the way. Yet, according to the American Diabetes Association, if a person is successful at lifestyle improvement they can completely avoid the onset of diabetes 70% of the time.
An Introduction to Cannabis’s Role as an Emerging Therapeutic Agent
With cannabis becoming increasingly mainstream in modern culture, its population is becoming aware of its use for a number of purported medical reasons ranging from skin ailments to digestive issues and pain. California has recently allowed its recreational use. Today, the industry is still nascent with a market of ill-vetted products with equally nascent scientific claims. However, cannabis may be unique in its application to holistic care as mediated by the endocannabinoid system and thus it is prudent to know what is useful and what isn’t.
The history of cannabis use is ancient and has resulted in many breeds of cannabis which differ in the phytocannabinoid content, ratio and terpene profile. Cannabinoids are molecules that act on cannabinoid receptors that comprise the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system modulates the psychological stress, emotionality and inflammation responses. CB1 and CB2 are examples of receptors within this system whose span is diverse, for example, they are found in the brain, gut and persist in osteoarthritic cartilage despite degradation grade. Interaction with these receptors can occur through phytocannabinoids; each of which has differing effects. To complicate matters, phytocannabinoids influence the effects of one another. Furthermore, the method of delivery also influences the effects; for example, ingestion allows the liver time to process phytocannabinoids into its derivatives which have their own effects.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two well-known examples of phytocannabinoids. THC has claims to work as an analgesic, antiemetic and antispastic; although, adverse effects include paranoia, lethargy, and tachycardia. THC can also induce euphoria which may play a role in how the analgesic properties work. CBD has claims to work as an anti-inflammatory, antiepileptic and works to block the binding of THC to CB1 and CB2 receptors. The interplay that cannabinoids have on one another has led to the notion of the “entourage effect.” (The idea that cannabis plant as a whole has curative effects.) Pharmacologically speaking, only a combination of THC and CBD, in a 1:1 formulation, manufactured by G.W. Pharmaceuticals has been vetted for its medical claims.
From oils and tinctures to hash and kush, the recreational market has driven into existence a myriad of products with a myriad of claims akin to the early days of the dietary supplement market. Assuming the source comes from one that complies with the current regulation, medical cannabis falls into three categories: plant, processed and formulations. Plant products refer to cannabis products in which the cannabinoids have not been altered and removed from the cannabis plant. These products use no heat or chemicals in their preparation and include: buds, keef, hash.
Processed products apply heat or chemicals to the cannabis plant in order to remove desired terpenes and cannabinoids. Processed products include oils, tinctures, e-juice, etc. and can be assumed to contain a higher percentage of cannabinoids in natural and unnatural ratios. Formulations are processed products whose consistency in manufacturing and medical claims have been vetted by the FDA. Formulations include products like Sativex and Epidiolex. Of course, marketing practices blurs the usage of terms; therefore, it is incumbent of the self to understand the product.
Jakub Pritz, Ph.D. has been working in the cannabis industry since 2015 as a separation operator and consultant for the production of recreational cannabis oils and other cannabis-related products. He can attest to current cannabis production methods and what the person should be aware of. His interest is to create botanical extracts of cannabis to be delivered in differing modalities depending on the effects sought and data affirmation. For example dosage control in inhalation for acute pain relief, transdermal applications for arthritic pain and oral methods for digestive symptoms. Patrons should be aware of the euphoric effects of THC and the interactions cannabinoids have with one another in varying ratios.
Prior to this, Jakub held a post-doctoral position at UCSD’s Moore’s Cancer Center where he was in charge of data management and accruing international radiation oncology centers to join the International Evaluation of Radiotherapy Technology Effectiveness in Cervical Cancer (INTERTECC). This trial required the coordination of several centers to follow strict data collection standards, quality checking of the institution capabilities and implementation of plan protocol. He received his Ph.D. in Applied Physics (concentration in Medical Physics) from the University of South Florida in 2011.
As an athlete, Jakub competed in the Patriot League as a swimmer, setting records along the way. During his graduate school years at the University of South Florida, he participated in, coached and competed with their water polo club.
Functional Fitness Training to Feel Less Pain and Move Better
The average person starting an exercise program may have knee, or back pain, and goals other than “how do I get a six pack or run a marathon.” All the workouts in the world don’t mean anything if we can’t sit, stand, and get out of bed in ways that don’t strain our body.
Can Sleeping Less Equal Weight Gain?
Eating fewer calories, exercising more and still having a hard time getting those extra pounds off? Here’s a question for you: How’s your sleep?
I for one, every time I travel, seem to gain a couple of pounds just when I want to look my best.
I noticed that I tend to sleep less and intermittently when I am on the road. Once I settle again in a place, my sleep gets more regulated and I am able to drop those pounds.
I’ve adjusted my sleep pattern, as I have gotten older to help myself sleep better. The earlier I get up in the morning the better chance I have of getting to sleep that night and staying asleep for a longer period of time. I’m more energized, and when I eat, I eat less and feel more filled.
Can Sleeping Less Equal Weight Gain?
It turns out that there are many studies that indicate that sleeping less then 7 hours can increase body weight. One recent study with several pairs of twins, found that the twin who slept more than 9 hours was about half as likely to gain weight as the one that slept only 7.
Sleep deprivation affects your hunger urge. If you sleep less, you feel like eating more and you probably do. That’s because not sleeping increases your body’s level of ghrelin, the hunger hormone and decreases leptin the “I’m full” hormone.
A sleep study in Finland with middle-aged adults who had sleep problems found that women had greater sleep related weight gains than men. Though men were also affected. The study indicated that it seems the fewer hours you sleep the more calories you tend to eat the next day.
If you want a good night sleep here’s are some things to consider:
Exercise: Don’t exercise too late in the day. So many of us go to the gym after work but it can keep you up at night. Late exercise can prevent the body from making sleep-inducing melatonin for several hours.
Caffeine: It can take 6 or more hours to wear off. Having that cup of coffee after dinner, even with a low-fat dessert, may not be such a good idea.
Alcohol: A couple of drinks with dinner can wake you up in the middle of the night and make it hard to get back to sleep. I have a friend who swears by a glass or two of wine at lunch but never alcohol after 2pm. She says she sleeps like a baby at night. I think if I had a glass or two at lunch, I’d sleep like a baby at 2pm and be up for the night at 5.
Stress: And then there is our old buddy stress. We all have some level of stress and how we deal with it can keep us up at night. Getting yourself relaxed in quiet, dark, temperature controlled environment can relieve stress and induce a desire and ability to sleep.
So, what’s it going to be, wide awake at 3am or getting that beauty sleep and waking up lighter and brighter on your toes? Learning to get a good night’s sleep is a process. Don’t stress over it, it may keep you up at night.
Mirabai Holland MFA, EP-C, CHC is one of the foremost authorities is the health and fitness industry. Her customer top rated exercise videos for Age-Onset health issues like Osteoporosis, Arthritis, Heart Disease, Diabetes & more are available at www.mirabaiholland.com. Mirabai also offers one-on-on Health Coaching on Skype or Phone. Contact her at askmirabai@movingfree.com.
Sports Nutrition News You Can Use
Staying on top of the latest sports nutrition news can be a full-time job. Between conferences, webinars, and journal articles, I learn a lot of information that I like to translate into practical tips to share with athletes, like you! Enjoy this news you can use! (The research was presented at the International Sport & Exercise Nutrition Conference in the UK.)
If you try to “stay away” from peanut butter, deeming it to be fattening, think again! Peanut butter—and peanuts in any form—contribute to no more weight gain than the same number of calories from carbohydrate-rich snacks. In a 10-week weight-gain study that included lifting weights three times a week, 28 athletic women and men (average age, 25.) consumed:
— an extra 500 calories of peanuts and peanut butter-based snacks, or
— an extra 500 calories of peanut-free carb-based snack foods (such as pretzels, fruit chews, bagels).
The carb-snackers gained about 6 pounds; the peanut eaters gained only about 3.5 pounds. How could this be?
One explanation is the fiber and fat in peanut butter is satiating. That means, it keeps you feeling fed for longer than fat-free foods, such as pretzels. Peanut butter can curb your appetite, so you end up eating fewer calories overall for the day.
This study helps confirm why I vote peanut butter to be one of the best sports foods around (assuming you are not allergic to it)! Peanut butter requires no refrigeration, is anti-inflammatory, nutrient rich, inexpensive, and most importantly, yummy. How about enjoying more peanut butter on bananas for your morning and afternoon snacks?
When an athlete goes on a low-carb / low-calorie diet, their bones also go on a diet. In a study with 327 runners (ages 18-35) who trained 8 or more hours a week, those who restricted carbs and/or trained without having first eaten, experienced 1.5 times more bone injuries More research is needed to learn how carbs and calories can influence bone health. In the meantime, enjoy carb-based grains, fruits and veggies at every meal.
With global warming, athletes who exercise in the heat should take steps to prevent problems related to elevated body temperature. One tip is to pre-cool your body prior to exercise. Try drinking ice water or slushies, or suck on ice chips. Doing so might help you have greater endurance.
A study of professional female soccer players reports they burned about 2,900 calories per day. Of that, about 1,400 calories supported their resting metabolic rate (calories needed to be alive) and about 1,200 calories were burned during exercise, the rest supported general daily activities. This equates to about three 700 to 800 calorie meals per day plus two 200 to 300 calorie snacks. That’s a lot of food! For athletes who may wonder, Why do I feel hungry all the time?, the answer might be because your body is hungry!
When female athletes undereat, they commonly stop having regular menstrual periods. When male athletes undereat, they experience hormonal changes that can lead to loss of sex drive. In a study with 10 healthy, active males (25 years.) who strictly dieted for five days—they ate less food and exercised more—the calorie deficit caused significant physiological changes. The men lost about 6 pounds (losing more muscle than fat, as happens with quick weight loss). Their thyroid hormones dropped, as did their testosterone levels.
Restrictive dieting not only reduces calorie intake, but also intake of protein, calcium, iron, zinc, and many other valuable nutrients needed to maintain optimal health and performance. Don’t consciously restrict your eating and stop eating at meals just because you think you should. Listen to your body; stop eating because you feel content, not just because the food is gone.
Athletes in endurance sports (such as runners, triathletes) and jumping sports (such as basketball and volleyball players) prefer to be light to enhance their performance. The problem is long-term restrictive eating can contribute to health issues. In a study comparing weight-conscious male athletes (age 24.) to a group of fitness exercisers, the athletes were leaner, but they had lower levels of thyroid hormone (a sign they were conserving energy). They also had weaker bones. If you skimp on food to be lean, your best bet is to seek guidance from a registered dietitian (RD) who specializes in sports dietetics (CSSD). This professional can help you healthfully achieve your weight goals. Use the referral network at eatright.org to find your local sports dietitian.
Personal trainers commonly believe they should have a “perfect” physique to achieve success in their careers. This can put them at high risk for developing eating disorders and disordered eating. Among personal trainers who responded to recruitment messages on Twitter and Instagram, 15% reported high levels of disordered eating behaviors (binge-eating, restrictive dieting, over-exercising). Sadly, these trainers are seen as role models. We need authentic fitness leaders who represent a variety of sizes and shapes the average exerciser can attain and maintain. Don’t be fooled; a “perfect body” generally comes with a high cost.
Some women gain “belly fat” at the time of menopause. This might be related to midlife lifestyle changes and aging, as well as to hormonal shifts. Peri-menopausal women who had big dinners and snacked frequently at the end of the day tended to have more belly fat than those who front-loaded their calories. One suggested weight management solution (for both women and men) is to eat less at night. A satiating high-protein breakfast can help reduce the urge to overeat at the end of the day. Peanut butter on a bagel with a side of Greek yogurt, anyone?
Nancy Clark MS RD CSSD counsels both fitness exercisers and competitive athletes in the Boston-area (Newton; 617-795-1875). Her best-selling Sports Nutrition Guidebook is a popular resource, as is her online workshop. Visit NancyClarkRD.com for info.
The Feet: The Body’s Foundation
The feet are one of the most overused and taken for granted parts of the body. Since the feet are the foundation for the rest of the body, it would only be logical to begin developing strong, aligned, and full functioning feet from the start when developing a personalized fitness program. The feet should be a priority for developing sound fitness education in order to prevent injuries. Most fitness and sport injuries usually involve the feet. Even when the injury is to the knee, hip or back it can usually be traced back to a misaligned foot pattern.