Are You In The Know?

I was just at a weekend long fitness conference and I am totally suffering from information overload. From learning about the latest equipment to new ways of training it made me realize a few things:

1. The world of fitness is growing - There were over 7000 professionals at this conference. Canadians are leading the way in fitness...yay!
2. Things are constantly changing - With research and more awareness in the world of fitness we are constantly finding more effective ways of training the mind and body.
3. We are always learning - I consider myself fairly knowledgeable in many areas of health and wellness yet every year at this conference I learn something I didn't know and I need to know.

This brings me to you: It is so important that you educate yourself when it comes to you health. Here are some questions to consider when you are thinking about wellness:

What are your health and fitness goals?
Do you have a specific health condition?
Have you researched it?
Are your working with a personal trainer?
If so, are they certified and educated in the areas that apply to your and your goals?
Do you need to consult with other professionals? (ie Dietitian, Massage Therapist etc.)

There are many more questions you can ask but the big take home message is this: Learn about the latest fitness trends. Ask your trainer questions. Find out why you are doing the exercises they prescribe and what muscles you are working.

Now get out there and learn something.

Zzzzzzz

I am right in the middle of my vacation (woo hoo) and I have to tell, boy, did I need to be on vacation.

The last few weeks have been so hectic and it was getting to the point where I was so worn out that I was feeling completely unproductive. I wasn't getting very much sleep and when I finally got some rest, I woke up feeling groggy and gumpy. Has this ever happened to you?

We often get so caught up in family, work and other obligations that we neglect to give our bodies the rest that they need. Here are some tips to help you get some well deserved sleep:

• Try to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning.
• Sleep in complete darkness. If you have an LED clock, cover it up so the light doesn't distract you.
• Do no drink or eat at least 2 hours before bedtime. This will allow the body to completely relax and not have to worry about digestion. It may also prevent the middle of the night trips to the washroom.
• Take a bath with an essential oil such as lavender before bedtime. Lavender has been know to help encourage relaxation.
• Avoid stimulating activities such as the television or computer before bedtime, try listening to calming music instead.
• If you really can't sleep, get up and do something else. Lying in bed will just make you frustrated. Read a book or journal your thoughts. Clearing you mind may help you relax.

Are you feeling sleepy yet?

Stay Healthy,
Tracy

Toughing It Out

I have had a pretty rough few weeks.

As many of you know, I am one of the thousands of people in Canada who suffer from Fibromyalgia. Like most sufferers, I have good weeks and bad weeks - the last few weeks have been bad.

I have been so tired and sore that I don't want to do anything. Work, eat and sleep (or at least try to sleep). I find myself getting frustrated and depressed.

Over the last few months I have made huge changes in my life. I have started seeing a Naturopath. I have modified diet ( I am not dairy, wheat and gluten free) and I have increased my weight training and am doing yoga. Today I feel like I am doing everything in vain - I am in more pain than ever.

Why am I sharing this story with you?

As rough as I feel right now, I know the positive changes I am making in my life will eventually pay off. Instead of wallowing in my pain, I am taking active steps to try and get better. I remember what it was like to be pain free and I want to be there again so I will keep tweaking and changing my regime until I find the right formula for me.

We all have issues that interfere with our health. Maybe you struggle with your weight. Or perhaps you are dealing with major stress. The important thing to remember is that YOU have to be proactive to make change happen. You may succeed or you may fail, what is important is that you are trying.

So, what are you doing to help yourself heal?