Martial - Fitness Minimart
For the martial artist, the fitness enthusiast, and the good/better/best lifestyle and health-seeker…
Energize Your Morning with These Routines, Part 2: ZZ
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Energizing Routine 2: Zhan Zhuang
Like Yi Jin Jing (YJJ), Zhan Zhuang (ZZ) is a Chinese qigong exercise that is usually translated to mean standing post, or stand like tree. Qigong, very simply defined, is a series of Chinese physical movement exercises that emphasize breath control, vital energy, movement, and improved health*. But, unlike YJJ, in ZZ there is very little, or ideally, no external movement at all–you just stand still.
Having read that previous sentence, you might be thinking, “Well…that’s pretty easy, I do that every day…” No, not like this you don’t.
Just…Stand?
Yes, stand still. Don’t move. Don’t fidget. Don’t squirm. Don’t…move. That’s it, but there is much more to it. When you follow the method, you’ll begin to learn to relax your muscles on a deeper level and rely on proper structure and not tension to hold you up. At the same time, as you begin to connect with and manage the subtle energy inside, believe it or not, if you stick with it, new strength will emerge.
But don’t under estimate the seemingly simple exercise. You will sweat, you will tremble, you will ache, and you will get a good workout. With diligent effort, one might experience increased strength, greater awareness of self, and improved grounding, and calming centeredness. Along with this, various internal organs and systems may also be strengthened. These benefits are not instant, to be sure, but are cultivated slowly through correct and consistent practice and patience.
My Experiences
I’d heard of “standing post” training a from a fellow martial artist, a former instructor, and through various online articles on martial arts, but I didn’t really give it much thought. It wasn’t until I entered winter training mode a few years ago that I, quite by accident, began exploring ZZ. That year, one of my winter training goals was to learn more about internal energy methods, so in mid December I ordered this book, The Way of Energy (see below), not realizing fully what it was about. I’m pretty sure I read the description and reviews, but when the book arrived, I was more than a little surprised that it was a deeper exploration of something I’d only heard about in passing.
As I flipped through and scanned the what, how, and why of ZZ, I became intrigued and excited to give it a try. The author does a great job explaining the finer details and emphasizes the need to take your time and not rush development. Some may find the need to practice certain exercises for several months if not a full year before moving to the next level off-putting or unnecessary. And, of course they’d be wrong. Following the prescribed training plan is the only way to reap the benefits; there are no shortcuts.
Almost immediately upon experiencing my first time “standing like a tree”, I was hooked. I recognized something simple yet powerful in this exercise. As I continued to train, I hit the milestones the author described and eventually began to notice positive changes. One of the most important for me personally is greater sense of muscle control, as in which are being used and how efficiently are they being used for the tasks at hand. Along with that, I feel stronger internal body connection and energetic flow. And, standing in an unnecessarily long line at the grocery store, or airport is now much less of an annoyance and more of an opportunity to train!
While the author recommends practicing outside under a tree, one can practice indoors and still make great progress. The few times I have stood like a tree while standing by a tree have been amazing. Whether indoors or out, this is a vital part of my morning routine.
The Next Step
You don’t have to be martial arts to practice ZZ. If you’re curious, just click the link above, take a look at the book, or if you’re fortunate to find a good teacher, contact them and give it a go. If you stay with it, you will be glad you did!
You can also find other ZZ books and resources on our Zhan Zhuang page.
Wishing you the good, better, best of what’s possible!
Eric
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Is Your Deo Doing More Harm Than Your BO?
Let’s face it, we humans can raise a stink, especially during summer. One doesn’t have to be super-active to sweat, and that sweat feeds and fuels the bacterial hoards that cause body odor (BO). That’s just how it is, and while it’s natural and normal, it can be…unpleasant.
While the store shelves are overflowing with hundreds of options when it comes to products designed for keeping the BO at a minimum, we need to be on the look out for potentially dangerous chemicals that could do us more harm than good. As you’ll recall from science class, our skin absorbs to some degree or another almost everything that comes in contact with it. That means both the good and the bad chemicals can and do pass through your skin, even when this protective barrier is sound. Unfortunately, some of the chemicals in deodorants may be linked to cancer and other diseases, could be neurotoxic, and may be hormone and endocrine disruptors so, in general, minimize use of, or stay away from products containing any of the following.
Top Chemicals to Avoid
- Aluminum (or sodium bicarbonate that isn’t explicitly aluminum-free)
- Propylene Glycol
- Synthetic Fragrance
- Parabens (Ex: methylparaben, sodium butylparaben, etc)
- Petrochemicals (Ex: paraffin wax, benzene, PEG, mineral oil, petrolatum, etc)
- Phthalates (Ex: di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), etc)
- Sulfates (Ex: sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, etc)
Healthier Alternatives
After reading that list you’re probably thinking, “Come on, dude, I get it, I’m with you, it’s all bad, but what in the #@%* am I supposed to use then?”
Thankfully, there are many healthier alternatives formulated with natural ingredients that do not contain these harsh chemicals, and some of the best can be found on our Deodorant page, so click over and take a look.
Sure some of these healthier choices may be a little more expensive than the standard, probably tainted, $1.99 roll on, but then again, your health is worth a few extra bucks, isn’t it?
Yes it is, and more.
Wishing you the good, better, best of what’s possible!
Eric
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7 Hot Essentials for a not so Cruel Summer
Yes, summer is finally, officially, here! But, no matter how long or hot it actually may be, summer never, never, ever seems to last long enough. Since that’s always the case, let’s do all we can to enjoy to the full this season of sun and fun. In order to do that, in order to help make this your best and healthiest* summer yet, be sure to have these seven essentials on hand:
1. Sunscreen
These days, everyone knows that if you are going to spend any appreciable amount of time in the sun, you need to wear sunscreen. And, everyone knows not all sunscreens are created equal. Not only does the Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, matter, but what’s in the sunscreen may matter just as much, if not more. You’ll want to choose a sunscreen made of natural ingredients and free of suspect chemicals such as parabens and phthalates, and nano-particles. Such harsh chemicals may cause or contribute to long-term health issues*, so please avoid them.
If you need healthier alternatives, your Martial – Fitness Minimart is here to help! Visit our new Sunscreen page for organic, paraben-free, nano-particle-free, better for the environment options. Get what you need, so you can enjoy your time in the sun!
2. Swimsuits
If you’re still wearing that old suit from last summer or the summer before, it’s time to upgrade. Check out our Women’s Swimwear page for a wide assortment of hot bikinis and sweet swimsuits. Be sure to take advantage of Rosewe’s crazy-generous discounts too!
3. Super-Hydration
It goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: drink lots of water. Whether you’re working or playing in the summer heat, or working out or playing in a cushy club’s A/C, drink good quality water. Then drink some more. Our bodies are mostly water, so even a “touch” of dehydration can negatively affect your mental focus, emotional capacity, and physical performance.
When you’re sweating, you’re also leaking precious minerals that you’ll need to replace. Consider adding Hydration and Mineral Support aids to your water. I’ve compiled several great options for you that are free of dangerous and unnecessary additives.
If water is just not your thing and you prefer something with a little taste, throw in natural / non-GMO / organic fruit or vegetable slices for a hint of flavor:
- Berries
- Citrus fruits (orange, lemons, limes, etc)
- Peach or plum slices
- Melons (water, honeydew, etc)
- Cucumbers
- Mint leaves
- Ginger slices
- Garlic and black pepper (not really, just checking to see if you’re paying attention)
We’ve also got you covered if you need a handy, BPA-free, or stainless steel Water Bottle.
4. Smelly-Pit Eliminators
Let’s faces it, we humans can raise a stink, especially during summer. One doesn’t have to be super-active to sweat, and that sweat feeds and fuels the bacterial hoards that cause body odor. That’s just how it is, and while it’s natural and normal, it can be unpleasant.
The market is overflowing with body wash and deodorants that can help, but most of them contain potentially dangerous chemicals like sulfates, parabens, silicone, artificial fragrances, and petroleum products. Thankfully, there are many healthier alternatives with natural ingredients that do not contain these chemicals, and some of the best are found on our Deodorant page.
5. Soap
Why is soap an essential for summer? If you have kids, work with kids, or ever was a kid, you know why. While some dirt won’t hurt and is actually good for you, you’re gonna wanna wash your hands at least a few times this summer. Wash up after a day in the garden, or working on the lawn mower. Lather up after fishing, or playing with said kids. Clean up after enjoying an evening cookout on the deck with friends.
Like the previous essential item, you’ll want to watch out for the nasty chemicals that could compromise your health*. Fortunately, as with the previous item, our page, Bar and Liquid Soap, has the healthier options you’ll appreciate.
6. Snacks
Good healthy snacks make for a good day. A good day makes for a good week, and a string of good weeks makes for a fantastic summer. See, your summer hinges on your choice of snacks! Good thing we’ve got a whole bunch of good, organic, non-GMO snacks to choose from here:
- Snacks and Treats
7. Savory Grillin’ Meats
If you’re going to grill, go all the way. If you’re going to grill, grill grass-fed beef, pasture-raised poultry, or wild-caught seafood. Sure, hotdogs are cheap and easy, but why waste time, energy, and money on cheap and easy pseudo-food filled with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives?
No, go all-in and enjoy the natural full flavor, and the nutrients, of High-Quality Beef, Poultry, and Seafood, and steak!
8. Bonus Essential: Songs of Summers Past
Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince
Cruel Summer by Bananarama
Summer Breeze by Seals & Croft
Summer Breeze (Tsuper Tsunami remix)
Summer Law #1701-E: one must listen to or view a minimum of one of the above songs / videos at least twice per summer, or else.
There you go. Be sure to visit each page, browse the aisles, and grab your summer essentials.
Please share, share, share, the Martial – Fitness Minimart, and like, like, like its pages and posts. Oh, and find us on Facebook too.
Now go and make it a great summer!
Eric
Create a Balanced Life With Fitness and Overall Self-Care
Ms. Susan Treadway, an addict in recovery, authored the following guest post. She uses a holistic approach to sobriety to stay on a successful path and believes adopting even a few holistic methods can help anyone struggling with addiction.
Susan wants everyone to know that you don’t have to be a hippie to embrace holistic wellness – this concept is simply about focusing on your entire sense of well-being rather than just one part. She hopes her website, rehabholistics.com, will inspire anyone who has struggled with addiction to incorporate holistic practices into their own self-care routine.
Everyone has their own unique fitness goals. Whatever your personal goals are, if you work hard in the gym but don’t make time for other self-care practices, you won’t achieve overall wellness. Finding balance in our busy lives is a challenge, but incorporating regular self-care just may be the solution.
Self-Care Is a Process
Fitness does much more than help us achieve our personal goals. Being active keeps your body healthy, while also warding off stress and anxiety. These are the main components of any self-care practice — giving your body and mind some TLC. Fitness is only one way to achieve self-care, though. You also need rest, relaxation, and good nutrition. Doing these things should be an ongoing process that you practice every day. Adding self-care to your to-do list may feel like an impossible task, but these ideas will help make it easier.
Make Good Nutrition Simple
Eating a balanced diet is one of the best things we can do for our bodies. One way to make nutrition more convenient is to find a meal delivery or grocery service in your area. These services eliminate the time spent planning and shopping, and many also offer low-calorie meals, so they make eating a balanced diet much easier to fit into your busy life.
Another self-care must when it comes to nutrition is to always eat breakfast. Whether you grab a protein shake to take on the go or you put together a healthy breakfast at night to have ready the next day, eating breakfast sets you up to feel your best all day long. And when it comes to fixing dinner, electric pressure cookers can easily and quietly help you create simple, delicious meals such as mac and cheese, BBQ pulled pork, and tomato soup, just to name a few.
Proper nutrition can also be easily obtained by eating the right amount of food daily. However, this might be difficult for those who are trying to manage their hunger. While eating foods high in protein and fiber are solid solutions, appetite suppressants also exist to help with hunger control. If you are planning to go with the latter option, it’s important to proceed with caution and do your research first to find the one that’s best for you. Keep in mind too that some appetite suppressants can interact with certain medications, and some contain caffeine, which can lead to feeling jittery and uncomfortable.
Create Daily Rituals
We all have our daily routines, from waking up in the morning and getting ready for our day to how we relax and unwind before bed. To make self-care stick as a way of life, look at how you can incorporate it into those routines with simple rituals. Remember that these rituals aren’t about the end result. Instead, it’s about the process of doing things that are good for you. Consider trying these ideas:
- Meditate – Can you add a quick meditation session to part of your day? Perhaps first thing in the morning or right after a workout.
- Practice yoga – Practicing yoga is an excellent way to stretch out sore muscles while caring for your mental health so you feel less stressed and more relaxed. Group yoga sessions are fun, but you can also do a quick yoga practice at home. If you don’t have a spare room, consider adapting a room for your yoga practice that you don’t use that often. A rarely used dining room can be perfect for this purpose.
- Get outside – Getting some fresh air and connecting with nature makes you feel more grounded and helps achieve balance. If you live in the city, simply taking a walk around the block or heading to a park will do the trick, and this is an easy ritual to combine with fitness.
Take Back Your Time
When you feel like there is simply no time to take care of yourself, the best thing you can do is stop spending time on things that aren’t good for you. Mind Body Green calls these “low-value habits,” and they can be anything from time spent watching TV or engaging in social media to checking emails and making small talk. Reducing these distractions is in itself an act of self-care, and it frees up your time for what truly matters.
Be Mindful of Your Schedule
Just like everything else in life, your schedule is all about balance. If you struggle to make self-care practices stick, try writing them down in a planner just as you would for appointments. At the same time, Bustle reminds us that we should also leave room for spontaneity. Balancing out your schedule helps make self-care a priority, but it also means allowing for fun and trying new things.
Self-care is truly the key to leading a more balanced life. It helps us live more fully, and it’s necessary to see fitness results. Most importantly, self-care doesn’t have to be a chore. When you make these rituals part of your new routine, it no longer feels like something you have to do and becomes a part of your daily life.
Susan Treadway
Best to you!
Eric
Monday Motivation 04.29.19: When All Hope is Lost
If you are human, you will feel it, the hurt, the pain, the desire to give in.
If you are human, you will feel it, fear, doubt, defeat, the desire to surrender.
If you are human, you will experience it, the darkness, the despair, the discouragement, the desire to give up.
But if you are human, you are resilient, you are strong enough to get through it.
Don’t run from it, face it.
Feel what you feel.
But don’t give in.
Hold fast.
Breathe.
Dig deep.
Learn.
And yes, fight back.
Fighting back is a victory in itself.
Fight back, because this is what we humans do.
Hope abides.
Eric
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