Take It Easy, Baby

There is a gross misunderstanding in regard to the value of exercise and physical activity that is not strenuous. For many their is a belief that if it is not of a "sweat and blood" or 'no pain no gain" level of intensity the activity is of little value. There couldn't be too much more ignorant of a perspective one could possess they tried to support a stand for no physical activity at all. 5 - 10 minutes of integrated, controlled, full range movement complimented with full rhythmic breathing has many benefits and many places it can fit into our seemingly, time devoid, lives. Exercises that fit into this category take very little space and include, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, martial arts katas, some dance, calisthenics, and zen walking.

Done first thing in the morning a short bout of this type of exercise will wake the body and brain up and create a calm, focused, energized state, burn some calories, rev up your metabolism for extended metabolic rate as well as create a pliable, more balanced body.

Whether your work day is active or sedentary a short break every 2 hours will do wonders for waking up the brain and body as well and untangling some of the knots, contortions and postural deviations that occur during most of our days. It doesn't matter whether you are sitting or constantly bending and lifting objects, your body and mental focus will be reinvigorated with a little movement and getting the blood pumping.

Even you macho-athletic studs will benefit greatly from these type of exercises. There is not a better form of active recovery to help increase your rate of recovery from intense bouts of weight lifting or any type of team competition that leaves your joints and muscle fibers talking to you.

Here is a little example of one of the many moving-meditation exercises I use daily. This is a simple exercise that really gets the blood flowing and creates a great vertical decompression and stretch. I was showing off doing it on a rock that had a 20 foot drop behind it. It has nothing to do with the exercise and is not recommended. Your bedroom, office or backyard will suffice.