Hi! I am Nikki Rivera. I am a huge yoga fan. I find yoga a great way to distress and stay fit. Join me as I explore the world of yoga, laughter, positivity and the ultimate zen.
Yoga Benefits Info
1. Build muscle
Our bodies constantly burn calories, even when we’re doing nothing. This resting metabolic rate is much higher in people with more muscle. Every pound of muscle uses about 6 calories a day just to sustain itself, while each pound of fat burns only 2 calories daily. That small difference can add up over time. In addition, after a bout of resistance training, muscles are activated all over your body, increasing your average daily metabolic rate.
2. Step up your workout
Aerobic exercise may not build big muscles, but it can rev up your metabolism in the hours after a workout. The key is to push yourself. High-intensity exercise delivers a bigger, longer increase in resting metabolic rate than low- or moderate-intensity workouts. To get the benefits, try a more intense class at the gym or include short bursts of jogging during your regular walk.
3. Fuel up with water
The body needs water to process calories. If you are even mildly dehydrated, your metabolism may slow down. In one study, adults who drank eight or more glasses of water a day burned more calories than those who drank four. To stay hydrated, drink a glass of water or other unsweetened beverage before every meal and snack. In addition, try munching on fresh fruits and vegetables, which are full of fluid, rather than pretzels or chips.
4. Sinless snacking
Eating more really can help you lose weight — eating more often, that is. When you eat large meals with many hours in between, you train your metabolism to slow down. Having a small meal or snack every 3 to 4 hours keeps your metabolism cranking, so you burn more calories over the course of a day. Several studies have also shown that people who snack regularly eat less at meal time
5. Spice up your meals
Spicy foods contain chemical compounds that kick the metabolism into high gear. Eating a tablespoon of chopped red or green chili pepper can boost your metabolic rate. The effect is likely temporary, but if you eat spicy foods often, the benefits may add up. For a quick boost, spice up pasta dishes, chili, and stews with red-pepper flakes.
6. Recharge with green tea
Drinking green tea or oolong tea offers the combined benefits of caffeine and catechins, substances shown to rev up the metabolism for a couple hours. Research suggests that drinking two to four cups of either tea may push the body to burn 17% more calories than normal for a short period of time.
Studies show that music can have a positive impact on exercise. Pfft as if we didn’t already know that one ;)
Music can help reduce perceived exertion, making your workout seem easier! Some sports Psychology studies show that motivational lyrics can actually keep you on the treadmill longer or push you to another set in the weight room.I’m constantly updating my gym playlist! If you read my cutandjacked interview, you know some of my current favorite songs!
I’m curious to know.. what are your favorite songs to listen to in the gym?
Most Americans do not get the recommended amount of fiber per day. You can get more fiber in your diet by eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains! Not only does fiber make you feel fuller, it also has some great health benefits!
- Normalizes bowel movements.
- Helps maintain bowel integrity and health.
- Lowers blood cholesterol levels.
- Helps control blood sugar levels.
- Aids in weight loss.
The recommended daily intake for females under the age of 50 is 25 grams per day and 30 for men. If you’re over 50, females should be getting 21 grams and men 30 grams.
(via tired-of-excuses)
