Low back pain

Recently, I've run into some low back issues. The importance of not stressing, staying hydrated, and not sitting ALL DAY long really come into play here.

After going to the chiropractor to get realigned and the acupuncturist to get my muscles relaxed from work stress, I've been more motivated to perpetuating my health and the health of those around me. If you attend workout classes and ever get the feeling that a muscle or area in your body is hurting, not the good kind of hurt, but the kind that could lead to a serious issue, STOP. Move through safely and at your own speed. Don't worry about what other people are doing around you.

No matter what kind of workout you're doing, pay close attention to your body. Don't just flail, focus on form and breath.

Anyway, I've come to really appreciate the videos and information that Kelley Starrett. This video is one of my favorites, it tends to low back tweaks and how you can help yourself. It's almost 10 minutes long, but some of the best 10 minutes of your life (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoAj6frTsSs). He also has a great book called, Becoming a Supple Leopard. If you get the chance, read this, use this as your guide to help you prevent injury and really look at how your body moves. It's a big book with pages upon pages of information. Take it slow and learn.

Get in touch with your body now!

2016 Wellness Trends

Ah, it's that time of the year when we get out our pens and cute stationary and write down those looming resolutions we may or may not keep throughout the year. Let's not go there yet, we still have a day or two to really decide and write down the best resolutions. Instead, let's read something inspirational, something to get you motivated to aspire to more and stay well. Plus, this will serve as a five minute break at work, which will do you wonders.

Screenshot from mindbodygreen.com article.

My mom sent me an email recently from MindBodyGreen.com, this website never ceases to amaze with the variety of articles to choose from and motivational blips to keep you feeling and wanting to be healthy.

Are you into juicing? You'll enjoy reading the top trend. Or are you into cute, functional workout clothes that you can wear anywhere, not ONLY to the gym or yoga studio? Often times after a workout I know I need to get some proper food in my body, but if I don't pack something, driving to another place and finding parking can be a bit of a drag. Sound like you? Another neat wellness trend next year is the rise of the all-inclusive wellness studio, with a cafe, places to sit with yoga buddies after class. What? Yes.

"10 Wellness Trends to Watch for in 2016" via MindBodyGreen.com. Now hop to it!

Improve your sitting game

Photo: Ann Kathrin Rehse

How many of you sit down for almost eight hours a day at work? If it's not at work, do you travel a lot? Or are you a student? Spending countless hours studying at Starbucks,  a local coffee shop or library. Those long hours sitting at work or on a plane, wherever it may be - not healthy. I'm sure you may know that already, as you can find plethora of articles and studies out there proving so.

Do not fret! I recently came across a post on PopSugar.com sharing with us how to activate your muscles when you're glued to a chair all day. Alright, pop a squat and get reading on PopSugar.com

Here's a sneak peak on what you'll find in this article...

"Typically, when we sit in a chair, we dump our weight forward, curve our backs, and pull our shoulder blades out of position. The result is asymmetry — the muscles in the front of the body are way too tight, the muscles in the back way too long... help change your posture, and fight the adverse effects of slumping at your computer." - Men's Journal via PopSugar.com

Sip n' Sweat

The islands have been quite hot and humid the last several weeks. Walking outside is like a constant battle against a wall of humidity. My hair frizzes out, or is just completely flat, sweat drips down my back (and I'm sure for everyone else too), and the windows in air conditioned businesses start sweating. Humidity has been at 100 percent for I don't even know how long now. Now, we hear that this weather will continue into our Hawaiʻi "Winter." Shoot. I'm hoping for some cooler waters and some northern winds.

All this heat and water loss has lead me to think about hydration and dehydration. Our bodies need to be replenished with water and vitamins, electrolytes etc., especially with all this sweat! Often times you won't know if you're dehydrated, but a good sign is when you're thirsty, this is sign of mild dehydration. Weird, right? But, keep in mind that thirst is not a complete accurate way to diagnose your self with dehydration. If you use the bathroom and the color is well, dark yellow or amber, you're dehydrated.

Beautiful West Side - green and lush.
Photo: Instagram: EpicAdventureHI 

A few other signs, you might be lightheaded, dizzy, haven't used the bathroom in a long time, or even a dry mouth. Mild dehydration may not be require you to head to the doctors, but in some cases if you don't address the situation, you may have to do just that. Read EveryDayHealth.com's article on dehydration to get more information.

Don't let this sway you from having a good time outside, inside or where ever. Just be prepared, stay hydrated and enjoy the final days of summer.