Get Fit! How to Drastically Enhance Your Athletic Performance
All athletes want to live their dreams and compete professionally as long as they can. You have the skills, and you have impressed enough people. You know you have a fighting chance, but the numbers can be pretty harsh. The chance of making a living out of what you love is pretty slim, meaning you really have to do your best to make it. You have to push the limits at all times, and continue to drastically enhance your athletic performance. The following are some tips to help you do just that.
Enhance Your Brain
You might not think your mind has much to do with your athletic performance, but it does. Your brain is one of the most important parts of your body, and making sure that it is running optimally should help enhance your performance. This is why you need to stimulate your mind using cognitive training among other tools. One thing you can do is solve a complex puzzle in your free time. Playing strategy games can keep your mind nimble. A sharper mind makes it easier for your brain to make quick but effective decisions, which is vital for any athlete.
Eat Right
The body can only use what it is given, so making sure you are giving it the very best is crucial. This means sticking to safe, healthy, and organic food. Beyond that, it is also important to seek out foods that are known to help improve athletic performance, such as probiotics. These organisms can be found in fermented foods and drinks, such as yogurt or kombucha. They help the body digest food and absorb more nutrients than it would otherwise, which makes them quite important.
Get a Cellular Boost
Okay, you have taken care of your diet and are doing what you can to enhance your brain’s ability to think, but you can also address your cells. Companies dedicated to athletic performance like ASEA sell products that have the ability to optimize cells within the body. This helps cells perform at their very best. You will likely produce more energy and be the very best version of yourself by simply making sure your cells are in tip-top shape. You should talk to a health professional to find out other ways to boost cellular function.
Lifestyle Revolution
You are young and may be drawn to things that could be hurting your athletic performance. For example, many people stay up late and end up losing sleep. You cannot afford this as an athlete because your body needs sleep to repair itself after training or a harsh game. You also have to find ways to balance your emotional and mental health. Both of these are vital because they directly correlate with your spirit. Every athlete knows that the spirit gives you that last burst of energy or power when you need it the most. Consider joining a meditation class to help you stay grounded and peaceful, or practice yoga to find ways to keep your mind and emotional health in good condition.
80% Experience Back Problems: What to Know Before Your Spine Is Affected
According to the American Chiropractic Association, 80 percent experience back problems at some point in their lives. Because of the likelihood that this may happen to you, you need to know the major causes of back pain. It can be mechanical or stem from serious conditions. Here is what you need to know before your spine is affected:
Most Back Pain is Mechanical
Movement that causes back pain would be categorized as mechanical. It is not the only cause of back pain to fit in the mechanical category, though. A few other mechanical causes of back pain are sprains, strains, and herniated discs. Some of the causes can be avoided by taking preventative measures. Mechanical causes are serious, but back pain caused by more serious conditions could be life-threatening.
Your Back Pain May Come from Serious Conditions
A few examples of serious conditions that cause back pain are cancer, blood clots, and kidney infections. There is little difference, however, to how back pack pain is caused. Mechanical cause is associated with the spine’s movement. Yet, serious conditions can come from anywhere. Back pain caused by such conditions can be easily masked and mistaken for a mechanical cause without proper diagnosis by a doctor. If you feel back pain, make an effort to visit the doctor as this could be one of the most important preventative measures that you take.
You Can Minimize Your Back Pain
One of the best ways to minimize your back pain is through practicing good posture. You have most likely heard it before—maybe from a teacher or parent—but it’s important! Being active is also crucial. Make sure to stretch before doing a workout session, though. If you work in an environment where you’re pretty stationary, you can minimize the chances of getting back pain by using ergonomic chairs, desks, and workstations.
It’s Possible to Avoid the Chronic Pain That Results from a Back Injury
A back injury can happen at any time. Lifting with the wrong posture or a sports accident could cause a back injury. Unfortunately, it can lead to chronic pain that will need to be dealt with proper pain management techniques in order for you to function in life properly.
If you have yet to experience serious back pain, do what you can now to prevent it from happening in the future. Be like the 20 percent! If you do experience some pain, don’t put it off. Ask a doctor if it is mechanical or serious and what can be done to get your back feeling better again. Don’t let it get to the point where chronic pain becomes an issue for you.
Pantone recently announced Ultra-Violet, as the 2018 Color of the Year. Serving as the hue of some of our favorite superfoods, Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified, has compiled a list of the impressive benefits these cosmic colored foods have to offer and why you should incorporate them into their diet.
- Blackberries are loaded with vitamin C, as well as vitamins A, E, K, and B vitamins, antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which sift free radicals and reactive oxygen species.
- Blueberries are a top superfood of the fruit world, containing iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and vitamin K, which help and maintain bone health.
- Red cabbage contains disease-fighting properties known as polyphenols, which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits. It also is a great source of dietary fiber and a rich source of several vitamins.
- Lavender Oil created from the lavender herb, has been proven to assist with getting rid of bloating and calming itching.
- Plums are rich in fiber and help to ease digestion, as well as great source of vitamin A.
- Açaí Berries are loaded with antioxidants, as well as being rich in fiber, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins A, B, C and E, mineral salts (calcium, iron, phosphorus and potassium) amongst others.
- Figs are rich in natural health benefiting phytonutrients, antioxidants and vitamins. Dried figs are a great concentrated source of minerals and vitamins.
About the doctor:
Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham's, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is a United Nations sponsored annual awareness day that takes place on February 6 as part of the UN's efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation. FGM involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, and interferes with the natural functions of girls' and women's bodies.
Lucinda E. Clarke, author of the suspenseful literary fiction, Amie Cut for Life (Umhlanga Press), which deals with FGM and human sex trafficking, is available to discuss essential aspects of FGM with your audience – the what, who, where, why and how – as well as why the International Day of Zero Tolerance is so important.
OVERVIEW OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION:
WHY
The practice, rooted in gender inequality, attempts to control women’s sexuality and ideas about purity, modesty and beauty. It is usually initiated and carried out by women (!), who see it as a source of honor, and fear that failing to have their daughters and granddaughters cut will expose the girls to social exclusion.
The reasons why female genital mutilations are performed vary from one region to another as well as over time, and include a mix of socio-cultural factors within families and communities. Where FGM is a social convention (social norm), the social pressure to conform to what others do and have been doing, as well as the need to be accepted socially and the fear of being rejected by the community, are strong motivations to perpetuate the practice. In some communities, FGM is almost universally performed and unquestioned.
FGM is often considered a necessary part of raising a girl, and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage.
FGM is often motivated by beliefs about what is considered acceptable sexual behaviour. It aims to ensure premarital virginity and marital fidelity. FGM in many communities is believed to reduce a woman's libido and therefore it will help her resist extramarital sexual acts. When a vaginal opening is covered or narrowed, the fear of the pain of opening it, and the fear that this will be found out, is expected to further discourage extramarital sexual intercourse among women with this type of FGM.
FGM is more likely to be carried out where it is believed that being cut increases marriageability.
WHERE
Female genital mutilation is widely practiced in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. However with many people now making their home is new countries, the practice is now seen in North America (USA and Canada) and most countries in Europe – despite it being illegal. Children are often sent overseas to their country of origin for the procedure during the school holiday (the cutting season). UNICEF estimated in 2016 that 200 million women living today in 30 countries have undergone the procedure. Since 1990, the estimated number of girls and women in the US who have undergone or are at risk of the practice has more than tripled.
SOME OF THE DANGERS
The procedure can cause bleeding (haemorrhage), chronic pain, scar tissue and keloid, recurrent infections (eg tetanus), swelling of the genital tissue, fever, wound healing problems, difficulty urinating and passing menstrual flow, the development of cysts, an inability to get pregnant, sexual problems, complications during childbirth, infant mortality, shock and even death.
This does not even touch the damage to the dignity and self-esteem of the victim.
Swimming VS Lifting Weights: a Guide to Effective Exercise
Putting together a solid exercise regimen can initially be overwhelming and hard. There are so many different and diverse physical fitness options available to people who are open-minded and attentive. There are many people who swim to stay fit and healthy. There are many people out there who lift weights, too. These forms of exercise both bring their own distinct advantages to the table.
The Advantages of Lifting Weights
What exactly can weightlifting do for health-conscious folks? A lot. Lifting weights, first and foremost, can enhance muscle mass significantly. If you want to look like the portrait of muscular glory, you can’t go wrong with weightlifting. Weightlifting can promote the strength and power of your bones, too. People who want their bones to be powerful often turn to lifting. It can be great for people who want better bone density. Note that better density can minimize the negative consequences that are associated with osteoporosis, a medical condition that involves the weakness of the bones.
Other Weightlifting Perks
There are various other major advantages that are linked to regular weightlifting sessions. These advantages include reduced blood pressure and enhanced stability. People who suffer from hypertension can get a lot out of weightlifting. The same goes for people who simply want to stay safe. Trips and falls can lead to fatalities. You can protect yourself from the risks of falls by working on your bodily stability. Powerful muscles translate to dependable stability. People who go through severe falls often have balance troubles.
The Advantages of Swimming
If you want to feel amazing, then you should consider signing up for swimming lessons. Swimming is a type of exercise that offers many diverse perks. These advantages are generally nothing like those that are associated with weightlifting. The two activities couldn’t be more different. Their perks, however, are equally valid and worthwhile. Swimming makes a fine exercise choice for many for a wealth of notable reasons. People enjoy swimming. It’s not a chore. If you take swimming classes, the time will fly by. You won’t be staring at your phone waiting to go home.
Swimming Lessons
Swimming can enhance your wellness considerably, too. It can help you improve your stamina and endurance. If you’re the kind of person who always tires quickly, and want to learn to swim, swimming lessons may change your life for good. Swimming can also help enhance cardiovascular fitness. It can even boost the strength of your muscles. This activity can do wonders for people who want to keep their weight in check. Excess weight can be problematic in many ways. It can make people markedly more susceptible to all kinds of severe and potentially fatal medical conditions. Swimming, last but not least, even offers convenient muscle toning. It can be great for your entire physique, no exaggerations. When you swim, you employ the vast majority of your hard-working muscles, interestingly enough.
Try Weightlifting or Swimming Today
Weightlifting and swimming are two types of exercise that can transform your existence, body and health in general. They can do things beyond that as well. Weightlifting and swimming can help you gain clarity. People often do a lot of thinking when they’re in the middle of exercise sessions. Weightlifting and swimming can even be calming activities.
If you’re looking for an exercise path that can keep your mind off of all of your problems, lifting weights can work. Swimming can, too. It’s always a great idea to explore all of the fitness choices that are accessible to you. People should try to move their bodies in different ways all of the time. It can help to keep the body guessing.
BEST HAIR TIPS FOR GIRLS WITH NATURAL CURLS
International Stylist and Curl Master Creator of The Doux
Gets Real About Real Hair
People with wavy or curly hair are always looking for new products, tips and tricks to lock in their desired look. Whether they want to blow it straight, create looser curls or maximize their tighter coils, Maya Smith, Celebrity Hair Stylist, salon owner and creator of The Doux, the “Indie” haircare line with cult following available at Target is truly the master. Here she shares her best tips for girls with curls who want to revel in their natural hair and create a style they love.
Understand the battle between oil and moisture.
The first thing people must understand is that there are opposite things going on at the same time. “Due to the shape of curly haired strands, the hair tends to be under moisturized. On the other hand, the curly haired scalp can get very oily. Managing these opposite demands is the struggle of girls who wish to keep their curls. The key here is knowing how best to address both,” explains Maya who led the movement for women to transition from relaxers to natural curls.
Be gentle when washing curly hair.
According to Maya, kinky, thick, coiled textures tend to appear “tough” and strong enough to withstand heavy manipulation. “In my experience, these hair types are actually the most delicate, and should be handled with care, she recommends.”
Step One: Pick your products wisely.
Maya applied over 2 decades of research and development based on working knowledge of hair texture and listening to what people wanted. “I created The Doux™ SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner as the one-two step that delivers both deep cleaning plus exceptional nourishment necessary for styling.” It’s now available in Target stores and the full product line is available online at www.thedoux.com.
Step Two: Prep for shampoo.
Maya’s professional instructions for curl mastery begins with rinsing hair thoroughly with water for a minimum of 30 seconds. “This helps to eliminate any water-soluble product buildup, such as hair gel or heat protectant. It also helps you save shampoo! Assuming you’re shampooing in the shower, letting the water run over the hair in a downward motion helps prevent further tangling, and allows the hair shaft to swell and the curl pattern to fully rebound.” For those with extremely thick hair, Maya suggests separating hair into 4 sections prior to wetting the hair for increased manageability.
Once the shampoo is applied, Maya recommends light manipulation at the scalp, going from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. “Squishing” the hair up toward the scalp is a no-no. “Shampooing this way can cause unforgivable tangling and matting. I recommend repeating the shampooing process at least once.”
Step Three: Condition and comb through like a pro.
If your scalp was properly shampooed, conditioning is easy. “This time, you’re focusing on your thirsty ends first, working upward toward the scalp. Gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush (our favorite is Felicia Leatherwood’s “Brush with the Best” detangling brush) before rinsing, starting at the ends, working up toward to the roots. Remember to rinse with cool water which snaps cuticles shut, locks in moisture, makes your hair shinier and reduces frizz.”
When it comes to “co-washing” or “conditioner washing” Maya equates the popular trend to washing your clothes with fabric softener. “In my experience, co-washing causes build-up on the hair, coating the cuticle and impairing the hair’s natural ability to absorb water. Oils, waxes, and product residue harden on the hair shaft, making it more brittle and less porous over time. When the hair can no longer effectively absorb water, the elasticity of the hair is compromised, leaving the hair “crunchy” and stiff, where it is more likely to break. The result is hair that feels dry and brittle, no matter what product you use to moisturize it,” explains Maya.
One of the things Maya Smith and her team of stylists are known for is their ability to restore hundreds of their clients’ curls, simply by getting them to trade in the co-wash for a gentle, pH-balanced moisturizing shampoo, like The Doux’s SUCKA FREE which properly cleanses hair of product residue. “Once you have the hair thoroughly clean it “drinks” up the necessary amount of moisture, and returns to its natural softness,” Maya clarifies.
Avoid alcohol and kick the crunch to the curb.
Styling products high in alcohol give curls a crunchy feel. They suck up every last bit of moisture. Hair spray tends to contain the most alcohol, while gels, mousses and anything that provides hold or lift come in second. “I recommend water-soluble gels that don't feel sticky on your skin, and aerated mousses or foams that resemble beaten egg whites, to give hair fullness, control, and non-brittle curls,” Maya says.
She adds that she created The Doux so it can be used on hair that is worn curly or straight. “Our clients purchase one set of products, and apply them differently to achieve the style they want. If you’re rocking curly hair today, you’re using The Doux’s Mousse Def and Bonita Afro Balm for softness and definition, and The Light for shine. If you’re wearing a blowout, you’re still using the same products, but applying them less liberally, and using the shine mist as a heat protectant. It’s super simple and easy to follow once you’ve seen the results each of them deliver,” Maya explains.
Blow-Dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer.
Maya’s first choice for curly styles is to air dry. “If you don’t have the time to air dry then dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer on a low heat setting. A regular blow dryer nozzle disrupts the curl pattern and focuses hot air on one small section at a time while a diffuser, dries curls evenly for a full, uniform look,” she explains.
Maya recommends always applying a heat-protecting product, then flipping your head upside down using a diffuser at the roots and mid-length making sure to dry the area completely to lock in volume. “It’s important to leave the ends for last, and leave them only semi-dry. Air drying the ends is your best option.”
Care for the curls you were born with!
About Maya Smith:
Maya Smith is an International Master Stylist and Founder of The Doux Salon and haircare line now available in Target. With over two decades of styling experience Maya dedicated two decades to cracking the code on curl care, maintenance and expert styling. When it comes to caring for one’s natural hair and styling it, Maya is the best there is.
While still in high school, Maya got her hair cutting license and graduated from beauty school. Soon after graduating high school, Maya began following her passion and worked as an assistant for celebrity stylist Tracy Johnson. She learned from Johnson and progressed as a hair stylist for celebrities and entertainers. Years later the military wife would relocate to Germany, where Maya opened up her first salon The HoneyComb, a mecca for textured hair care for women from all over Europe, The UK, and as far as Africa. Maya's unique system of textured hair styling sparked the development of The DOUX® haircare products, first launched overseas, and distributed throughout Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Currently, Maya leads a carefully selected team of stylists at The DOUX® Salon in Macon, Georgia and on Christmas Eve 2017, celebrated the arrival of The DOUX® in Target stores nationwide. Maya Smith, wife, mom of 5 and savvy business woman is an example not just for women of color but for all women who believe their gifts can impact the world, striving for entrepreneurial endeavors with grace, ease and hustle.
Finding Your Center: 4 Pointers to Aligning Your Energies
When you’re trying to improve your health and achieve a greater balance in your life, it’s easy to overlook your energy. After all, it’s something that doesn’t get discussed as often as diet or exercise. There’s a tendency for people to focus on the physical side of life even when they would benefit by taking better care of their mind and their energy. The good news is that it takes just a few simple practices to get your energy aligned and have a sense of peace, no matter how stressful your life may be. Here are four ways to align your energy.
Visualization
Never discount the power of your imagination. Your thoughts often become your reality, and that’s what makes visualization such a useful tool. Visualization is a common practice among people who need to perform in high-pressure situations, such as elite athletes.
To use visualization to your advantage, you simply need to clear your mind of other thoughts and envision yourself achieving something you want. It’s important that you paint a vivid picture in your mind of yourself doing this. When you focus completely on a goal and see yourself accomplishing it, that helps you keep track of what’s important in your life.
Meditation
It’s easier than ever to get overwhelmed and feel like you have a million different things running through your head. You probably spend your day receiving emails, text messages, phone calls and emails, and perhaps your to-do list is a mile long. When you feel like you’re being pulled in different directions it can leave you unbalanced and out of sync.
Meditation is the perfect practice to help you stay in the present moment instead of getting stuck in past or future worries. Although there are different types of meditations you can do, the easiest option is to just spend time clearing your head. Focus on yourself breathing in and out, and if any thoughts come to mind, let them go. Meditating is particularly useful in periods of considerable stress. It can also help to look into learning the chakra chart so you can focus your energies on the areas that need it most.
Self-Reflection
One of the reasons you may get out of alignment is because you’ve fallen into a routine. It’s easy to feel like something’s missing when you’re following the same basic pattern every day of going to work, relaxing at home and repeating ad nauseam. Self-reflection can help you fix that.
This practice is exactly what it sounds like—you’re reflecting on your life, and this can mean that you look back on your life or that you look forward to the future, or both. One good way to self-reflect is to write down some of the things you’re grateful for in life. You should also write what you would like to accomplish moving forward, as goals can keep you on the right track.
Affirmation
An affirmation is a positive phrase to tell yourself as encouragement. As simple as it sounds, positive self-talk can be very useful in building and maintaining a positive mindset. For an affirmation to be effective, it needs to be something that’s meaningful to you.
For example, let’s say that your goal this year is to make exercise a regular part of your life. Your affirmation for that could be “I love working out,” and you would tell yourself this before and during a workout. You don’t need to say it out loud, although you can if you want to. As you say this to yourself, it reinforces a love for exercise inside of you.
All it takes is a little focus and determination to better align your energy. Give the practices above a try, and you may find that your life is mo
Does a Back Injury Mean the End of Your Fitness Goals?
Just because you injured your back doesn’t mean that you need to throw your fitness goals out the window. Even though these injuries can be quite painful, many people are able to recover from them in as little as a few weeks with the proper treatments and lifestyle changes.
If you have recently set new fitness goals, then here are a few steps you can take to make sure that a back injury won’t bring your life to a grinding halt.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
One of the most common mistakes that fitness enthusiasts make is ignoring the early warning signs of a back injury. Some discomfort is perfectly natural during a rigorous training regimen, but the pain should never be unbearable.
You must immediately stop exercising if you notice any sudden weakness in your body, shooting pain, or numbness. In some cases, those side effects are caused by back problems that can easily be treated as long as they are addressed quickly.
Cut Back on Your Training
If the side effects seem relatively mild, then you should at least cut back on your training to prevent further injuries. No matter what exercises you plan on doing, you must make sure that you are using proper form at all times.
Switching to lighter weights and focusing on your form might be just what you need to speed up your recovery avoid secondary complications. You can also try low-impact exercises such as swimming or riding a stationary bike.
Contact a Rehab Specialist
Many back problems must be treated by a team of rehab specialists. Some minor sprains will heal on their own, but serious issues such as herniated discs and hairline fractures must be taken care of by a medical professional.
Treating these conditions typically requires a blend of physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, so you should contact healthcare professionals from places like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates. With the proper treatment plan, you could be back on your feet in as little as a week or two.
Learn to Prevent Future Injuries
Back injuries can become a chronic problem if you aren’t careful, and you need to start taking precautions if you continuously hurt your spine or core. Stretching every day and focusing on your form are two of the most effective ways to prevent back injuries. You can also try preventative services such as deep tissue massage, acupuncture, cryotherapy, and heat shock therapy.
Having a healthy back is extremely important, and you need to do everything in your power to keep your spine and core as strong as possible. Those who notice sudden or debilitating back pain must immediately contact a doctor to prevent permanent injuries.
Top 5 Romantic Spas for Valentine’s Day Wellness Escapes
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, discover the best spa and wellness experiences to show your ‘special someone’ just how much you care. If you’re looking for a gift that will go straight to the heart, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists unveil the best romantic and radiance-giving getaways to help you rediscover romance and time just for you. From a tranquil healing spa in sun soaked Cyprus, to an unforgettable pampering experience amongst exciting wildlife in South Africa, fill your love bubble with blissful harmony at one of these perfect-for-two holistic spas.
Cyprus: Ayii Anargyri Healing
Combine idyllic settings with indulgent treatments on Ayii Anargyri’s blissful healing spa programme. Love will truly be in the air as you unwind together in the tranquil and inviting environment this spa brings. Re-balance with mineral rich spa treatments, nourished with natural spring water that is also channelled to their three treatment pools. Once you’ve achieved an emotional equilibrium, head to one of their gourmet restaurants for a romantic meal, compiled of refreshing Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine collection.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Ayii Anargyri from £1,250pp. Price includes full board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.
Italy: Borgo Egnazia Pamper
Turn Valentine’s Day into a romantic weekend getaway to the holistic heart of Puglia, Italy on Borgo Egnazia’s indulgent pamper spa programme. Spoil your partner with romantic luxury at this candle-lit spa, with a trio of three innovative spa treatments that will leave you both fully revitalised. Experience the soothing effects of the sea with a rejuvenating salt water massage, to relax and purify the mind, body and soul. The expert hands of Borgo Egnazia’s therapists will have you wishing for a weekend wellness getaway every Valentines Day.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 2 nights at Borgo Egnazia from £1,170pp. Price includes breakfast, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.
Portugal: Pine Cliffs Awakening of Senses
Dripping with decadence, Pine Cliffs offers a couple’s spa experience that exceeds all expectations. Refresh yourselves with fragrant Ayurvedic treatments and cleansing juices to have you glowing on the inside and out. With spa treatments that envelope you in aromas such as orange blossom and jasmine, this programme is sure to have your head in the clouds for a Valentines experience bursting with romance. This programme leaves no time for boredom; endlessly exciting your senses with activities such as paddle boarding, personal training, yoga and even tea tasting.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 6 nights at Pine Cliffs from £1,920pp. Price includes full board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.
South Africa: Karkloof Safari Spa
The couple that travel together, stay together – right? Well this year, up your Valentines game with a long-haul spa break to Karkloof Safari Spa in South Africa. A one-of-a-kind romantic oasis awaits you, with an added adventurous element of astonishing wildlife surrounding the resort. Relax together at the award-winning spa and indulge in a wide range of exotic spa treatments from uplifting grapefruit facials to black pepper scrubs. After a fruitful cleanse, discover the jewels of the African jungle with a fascinating Safari game drive, for memories that will last a lifetime.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Karkloof Safari Spa from £4,650pp. Price is all-inclusive, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.
Sri Lanka: Santani Re-balancing Bliss
For the ultimate in luxury romance, treat yourselves to an unforgettable wellness spa experience along the verdant hills of Sri Lanka. Indulge with soul-lifting treatments for a transformative re-boot and build internal strength with a range of activities to boost fitness levels and enhance physical endurance. Reconnect with each other and reach a new level of consciousness for a truly bespoke wellness experience. Recalibrate from head-to-toe with group yoga, guided hikes and a calming dip in the salt-water pools for the ultimate Valentines experience.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Santani from £2,540pp. Price includes accommodation, full-board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.
For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891
People are nowadays increasingly health conscious. Most of us want to look and feel our best on a consistent basis. As such, you may feel, if you are into video games, that you should swap Call of Duty and Super Mario for the gym, Yoga and Kale smoothies. You may feel that gaming is not healthy, and cannot be part of a healthy person’s regimen. However, this may not be the case.
A lot of research has actually shown that gaming can actually be good for you. Gaming can improved the efficiency of the brain areas responsible for spatial awareness, memory, planning and other cognitive skills. As well as this, it can reduce the feelings of pain in those who have chronic pain, and can lessen feelings of trauma in those who have been involved in traumatic events.
Granted, gaming will not improve your physique, and you cannot regularly replace a gym session with a gaming marathon if you want to stay trim. However, it can be part of your regime, and can actually help you keep your brain healthy, while you take care of your body.
So, gaming can help you wind down after a long week, and may even help to reduce the pain after a particularly tough gym session. If you want to learn more about the benefits of gaming, peruse the infographic below produced by those at Computer Planet.
