Make this Summer an Active One

June came and went in a flash, but the summer is still young. We want to make sure that we make this one that counts!

The warm weather naturally makes us lethargic...

...but there are several ways to get motivated to work out and just lead a healthy lifestyle every day.

Exercise in the early morning. It is typically best before 10 a.m. before the summer heat sets in, because not only is working out in the heat uncomfortable, it can be very dangerous. Starting your day with even a light workout will leave you feeling good and energized for the day.

Play music that pumps you up! Make a playlist of music that makes you want to get up and dance, and play it in the morning when you wake up. The music and the feeling you get from it will make your mindset shift from “I want to go back to bed” to “I want to get out and do something!”

Make your plans the night before. You do not want to wake up and then make plans for your workout. Do everything the night before so the only thing you need to do is get up and go:

• Look up tomorrow’s weather: This way, if it is raining, you already have your indoor workout plans.

• Lay all of your workout clothes out so you don’t have to look for them. Actually, sleep in your workout clothes if they’re comfortable. Then you just have to wake up and head out!

• Sleep early. This may be hard when it does not get dark until late during the summer, but give yourself 8 hours of sleep every night.

So be prepared to kick yourself in the butt! Whether it is walking, jogging, or swimming, getting out and just being active will have you feeling your best. We promise :)

Sources:

http://beta.active.com/running/articles/8-tips-for-exercising-in-summer-heat
http://www.sparkpeople.com/blog/blog.asp?post=how_to_make_yourself_work_out_when_its_dark_out

Getting Some Shut-Eye: Sleep Matters for your Health

Sleep does more for the body than preparing you for the day and banishing under-eye circles. Did you know that making sure your body is well rested can result in weight loss and increased metabolism? 

Not getting enough sleep is common for many Americans in this busy world, but lack of sleep can lead to poor food choices and lessen your desire to exercise. Sleep and metabolism are also controlled by the same receptors in our brains. Studies suggest that getting 6 1/2 to 7 hours of sleep nightly will help you feel more rested, which allows you to make healthier lifestyle choices. This small step can aid you in your weight loss journey.

There are also other surprising health benefits to getting enough rest at night. These include:

• Improved memory: Your brain is very busy while you snooze. Getting enough sleep will help you learn a new activity faster and retain information better.
• Longer Life: Making sure your body is getting enough sleep, but not too much can help you live a longer and happier life.
• Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, and premature aging.
• Creativity: Researchers found that emotional components in the brain are strengthened while we sleep which can lead to more creativity.
• Increased Weight Loss:  Studies have proven that well rested dieters lost more weight from fat, while sleep deprived dieters lost more muscle mass.
• Less Stress: Well rested people have less stress and have better control of their blood pressure.
• Decreased Depression: A good nights sleep helps improve your mood and makes your anxiety levels lower. Sleep allows you to have emotional stability.

Making time for more sleep in your daily life will help you improve your overall happiness and help you reach your weight loss goals faster. Adjusting your schedule and making time for an extra hour of sleep is a simple way to improve your overall health and well being. Now go catch up on some vital ZZZ!

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/lack-of-sleep-weight-gain

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/02/sleep-health-benefits-_n_817803.html#slide=234474