Healthy FOR Life
By Julie Asbach
HTF Columnist
Definitely sensing the season’s change when the squirrels start gathering their plenty. It is the awakening in the late-night hours of the pitter-pattering and pinecones skedaddling across our rooftop. It is the constant chattering if I happen to get in the squirrel’s space or the frenzied chase from our dog Bella.
While enjoying a lovely fall day, Bella and I were in our usual sitting place under the tree by the lake when all of sudden a pinecone dropped almost hitting us. Then another one dropped by us, so I looked up as our ears encountered a loud chatter realizing it was mischievous laughter coming from the squirrel. Bella and I looked at each other as we realized the squirrel was aiming at us. We found it quite amusing and probably one of the reasons is the endless hours Bella has been pursuing this squirrel. It is also probably the same squirrel that has been teasing and taunting Bella and many of our other dogs before her. Bella and I found another place to sit and all was well once again in our little corner of the universe.
While enjoying a lovely fall day, Bella and I were in our usual sitting place under the tree by the lake when all of sudden a pinecone dropped almost hitting us. Then another one dropped by us, so I looked up as our ears encountered a loud chatter realizing it was mischievous laughter coming from the squirrel. Bella and I looked at each other as we realized the squirrel was aiming at us. We found it quite amusing and probably one of the reasons is the endless hours Bella has been pursuing this squirrel. It is also probably the same squirrel that has been teasing and taunting Bella and many of our other dogs before her. Bella and I found another place to sit and all was well once again in our little corner of the universe.
Time to transition
Do you love those cooler temps? Change is a comin’ whether you want it to or not. It is time to get your mind motivated to welcome the change of the season. Here are a few suggestions for a smooth transition into autumn bliss and wellness:
• Kiss the fall-time and pray for a good season.
• Get immune system in check or get a check-up if you haven’t this year already. May need to supplement certain vitamins, minerals or herbs.
• Be more aware of what you are eating. Choose less processed, more home-cooked meals.
• Buy food in season and eat the colors of autumn; foods that are warm such as pumpkins, yams, squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, beets and turnips, and fruits like apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries, elderberries and figs. Also garlic, parsley, all onions, and ginger are great cold busters.
• Change in exercise. You may want to slow down your physical activity routine and aerobic activity especially if your body is prone to pain due to the cooler temps. Try stretching, yoga, Pilates, walking or bicycling and lighter weight-training.
• Metabolism change. The body may crave more food, fats and sugar to prepare for the cold. If you have circulation issues, such as cold hands and feet, nervous tension, heart problems, etc., eating high fats and sugar can clog your arteries, worsening matters and slowing down your metabolism and circulation.
• The clothes connection. Layers are a must during this time.
• Get some sleep. Daylight is lessening now, so this means it’s time to rest. Early to bed and early to rise can make you healthy, happy and wise.
Exercise for immunity
The Tree:
One of my favorite yoga postures, which is great for growing nerve-muscle coordination, creating balance, awareness and managing your nerves.
• Stand with good posture with arms at your side.
• Feet and legs are parallel while shoulder-width apart.
• Keep eyes open and focused while breathing normally.
• Lift one leg bending knee while placing the sole of your foot in your hands to place it in the inside of your upper thigh.
• Bring your hands in front of your breastbone in prayer position.
• Focus on your breath – breathing into the pose and hold comfortably. Also focus on your foot being completely balanced and even on the floor.
• Feel at ease, then return to the starting position.
• Repeat the exercise by using the opposite leg and foot.