A Beneficial Cheat Day?

armijoch

Something that I have been really interested in the last few years is the mind/body connection. Workouts have always focused on the physical aspect to achieve weight-loss/gain/physique etc. and usually seems to neglect the mind's impact on fitness. I have really focused on researching the mind/body connection and have found some really amazing things. The U.S. Olympic team uses meditation on a regular basis, but why? Data has actually found meditation to be just as beneficial in creating bodily changes as well as actual physical activity (reference link below). Meditation has been proven so effective that in some cases, even muscle development has occurred as if the individual was physically performing the act.

As my seasonal allergies kick in, I have been gravitating towards more meditation and less physical activity. Since incorporating more meditation, I have actually lost about 10 lbs, have a better lung capacity when performing physical activity, and enhanced my physique. The results are incredible to say the least. If you do not have time to hit the gym or do a traditional workout, then try meditation and still get results. I also use meditation if I have trouble falling asleep (youtube) has some great 8 hour sleep meditations (which is pivotal for health).

Here are some great links to help you out. It is best to wear headphones when using these and it may take some getting used to.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIeirj4UFxI - Meditation for weight-loss #1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DX0MiKZ8lj0 - 8 hour sleep meditation by Jody Whiteley (one of my favorites)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1AeeugeINo - Weight loss hypnosis (best fall asleep to)

Reference article link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/11/mind-hacks-from-olympic-a_n_4747755.html

stevejill91

Thanks for bringing up cheat days cause I think they are imprtant. The only thing I would add is if your starting out I would not cheat for at least thirty days. Let your system reset.

I myself enjoy a monster cheesburger and fresh cut fries on Sunday at the bar when I watch the Vikings play. I do workout still on that day to help compensate.
GO VIKINGS

armijoch

Yes good point Steve. You do not want to create bad habits off the bat. It is important to have cheat days, just not too many of them. Also I am a Colorado kid, so I have to Go Broncos all the way!