Takin' It Easy in August

Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be known. Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Relaxation and Exercise

Summer is often a time for serious play, time off and deep relaxation. Many of us use the summertime to rebuild our reserves for the rest of the busy year. In our work-crazed society we can lose sight of the benefits of slowing down and taking time to rest. Now that summer is in full swing, it's time to enjoy the restorative powers of reconnecting to your body through movement and relaxation.

The body loves to move. Even though our body is healthiest when it is getting appropriate physical activity, we often feel dread and boredom when we hear the word exercise. Think for a moment of what type of movement you would consider fun as opposed to torturous. Perhaps you loathe the idea of a gym, but miss taking dance classes. Maybe you secretly want to try yoga or rollerblading. You could play touch football with your kids, walk with a neighbour in the mornings or go for a swim. The summer offers so many choices it's simply up to you to choose which style of movement excites you! Your heart will thank you, your soul will be gratified, your limbs will be more fluid and you'll sleep better at night.

Summer is a unique time of year when we can do both our relaxation and our movement out in nature. Take a nap in a hammock and enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. Go to the park and meditate or read under a favorite tree. One of the greatest places to rest in the summertime is by the water. There is something magical and restorative about water, and we naturally crave to be near it, by it, or in it. Heading to the water, whether it is the beach, a lake or a kiddie pool, can be relaxing and rejuvenating.

Whether you are relaxing, exercising or both, notice that being outside in nature has a profound way of quieting the mind and reconnecting us to ourselves. Often this relaxation and peace of mind are what our bodies crave the most. So while summer is with us, strap on your sandals and enjoy the rich elements of sun, wind and water and all of the nourishment that they bring.

By Erica Cowart

Erica Cowart
		About the author:
		Erica is a Holistic Health Counselor, Model, and Freelance writer living in Las Vegas, NV. She decided to become a health counselor to fulfill her passion of working with busy Moms and career oriented women to improve their health, happiness, and family life. Erica is certified through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners, Institute of Integrative Nutrition, and SUNY Purchase College in NYC, as well as having a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences. She leads teleclasses on nutrition and healthy shopping tours, writes holistic health articles/newsletters for her clients, and offers individual/group coaching to busy women and their families. You can schedule a free consultation with Erica through her website, ericacowartswellnessforlife.info
	Read More >>