Relaxation and Exercise
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Summer is often a time for serious play, time off and deep relaxation. Many of us use the summertime to rebuild our reserves for the rest of the busy year. In our work-crazed society we can lose sight of the benefits of slowing down and taking time to rest. Now that summer is in full swing, it's time to enjoy the restorative powers of reconnecting to your body through movement and relaxation.
Summer is a unique time of year when we can do both our relaxation and our movement out in nature. Take a nap in a hammock and enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. Go to the park and meditate or read under a favorite tree. One of the greatest places to rest in the summertime is by the water. There is something magical and restorative in water, and we naturally crave to be near it, by it or in it. Heading to the water, whether it is the beach, a lake, or a kiddie pool, can be relaxing and rejuvenating.
Just as much as the body loves to relax, the body loves to move. Even though our body is most healthy when it is getting appropriate physical activity, we often feel dread and boredom when we hear the word "exercise." Think for a moment of what type of movement you would consider fun, as opposed to torturous. Perhaps you loathe the idea of a gym, but miss taking dance classes. Maybe you secretly want to try yoga or rollerblading. You could play touch football with your kids, walk with a neighbor in the mornings or go for a swim. The summer offers so many choices - it's simply up to you to choose which style of movement excites you. Your heart will thank you, your soul will be gratified, your limbs will be more fluid and you'll sleep better at night.
Whether you are relaxing, exercising, or both, notice that being outside in nature has a profound way of quieting the mind and reconnecting us to ourselves. Often this relaxation and peace of mind are what our bodies crave the most. So while summer is with us, strap on your sandals and enjoy to the fullest the rich elements of sun, wind and water and the nourishment that they bring.
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| Recipes of the Month
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Sun Tea
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 24 hours
Yield: 2 liters
Ingredients:
3-4 tea bags of your choice
water
Directions:
- Fill an extra-large mason jar with water, add 3 or 4 of your favorite tea bags, and cover with lid.
- Place in sun for one full day and let the shining rays pour in heat and energy, bringing out the wonderful tea flavors.
- Sweeten if so desired with natural sweetener, serve room temperature or cold over ice.
Note: Garnish with mint leaves or lemon wedge.
Ginger Drink
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 24 hours
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
1 pound fresh ginger root
2 quarts of water
juice of 2 limes
maple syrup or agave nectar to taste
Directions:
- Thinly peel the fresh ginger, grate and mix with water in a large saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 4 minutes. Cover the pan, turn off the heat and leave for 24 hours.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve.
- Add the lime juice and maple syrup or agave. Stir until dissolved. Serve chilled.
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