Hi there All,
Apologies for not being regular this week but it has been one of those weeks when things not only didn't go as planned, but there also just seemed to be too few hours in the day to get things done.
So most of my time has been spent writing an animated movie storyline this week and while it has been fun there is a downside. You can't program your time as well because it isn't like you can just "turn on or turn off the creative juice" once it begans to flow. You have to go with it and take advantage which isn't able to be scheduled. HINT for the homeplayers (keep a pad and pen handy at all times).
There were times this week when I found myself sitting there looking out over the Harbour (Sydney) from my apartment with no clue what to write when out of no where some random thought would proceed me on a tangent for the storyline and some hours later I would look up and realize that it was dark and I had been so engrossed in doing this that I had forgotten to breathe. By that I mean be present.
One evening I eventually stopped typing at 2.30am when my eyes had had enough of looking at the words and my fingers were protesting over their over-use. Although my body was tired, it wasn't the same for my mind as it continued to "play" with the storyline. Ah the joy of creativity !
This was a very inspiring week for the me with the story as a chance meeting with an icon of the Australia TV landscape led to us sitting down to have a coffee. He had been on TV when I was growing up and it was surreal to be there sitting with him and listening to such positive energy.
He spoke and I listened. It is possible you know.
He allowed me to gain awesome insight into elements of the Australian history that I want to weave into the storyline and had probably forgotten from school (if they even taught it - which is possible as I did tend to spend a lot of time surfing - not the web but waves - instead of learning).
There was one point when we discussing the Australian "Coat of Arms" which is a crest (symbol) that is used on most Australian government legal documents. That wasn't the fascinating point but it was the way that he spoke of it and how it will play in my animated storyline that was fantastic. You will enjoy it. We brainstormed and it was great to hear someone else getting passionately involved in the creative process with me whom I respect. It was also a priviledge for the opportunity. Thank you Mr Bonner.
Later it also got me to thinking (again) of the Human E.C.O. System and how we treat our bodies so poorly. How we need to regain our "relationship" of not only understanding the body but also the implications and ways that this can happen. This I see as an immensely important part of what I hope will be a significant changing process with behaviour.
Let us imagine that for the purpose of understanding that our "Coat of Arms" is actually our skin. We wear it daily and treat it with reverance by doing wonderful things to it and buying gorgeous things to add to it. It is of course the thing that we see most when we look in the mirror and pass judgement so it is always on our mind.
We seek answers for questions that decide our daily esteem.
Am I too fat = ?
Am I too skinny = ?
Am I too blotchy = ?
Am I too old = ?
Does my hair look okay = ?
Do these shoes go with this dress = ?
For all of these answers we look to "hide" with some form of coverage or some form of disguise. We add clothes, we take clothes off, we add make up, we remove make up off, we use moisturer and sunscreen, we get haircuts, we get hair colour, we do all the things that will either hide or show our selves (skin) based upon the way we feel from looking at it.
Now imagine that we are going to change your focus and peel away your "Coat of Arms" or Skin to reveal and see what is below.
Did you just squirm ?
Do you think that you would be embarrassed at what YOU find ?
If you do you are probably not alone.
What it means though is that you are NOT looking after your Human E.C.O. System and taking care of your INNER self. We need to remember that if we peel away our skin it will show us a lot of faults. It will reveal exactly what we do to care for ourselves.
The inner self reflects the outer self.
This is why I work so hard to create that relationship of understanding and responsibility with this project.
Now I need to refuel, rehydrate and relax = the 3 R's of the Human E.C.O. System !
I just want you to think what YOU would find if we took away your "disguise" ?
Friday, November 30, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Tuesday 27th November - Fat Loss Plateau
Sorry for the few days away but I have been dealing with a personal family issue that is probably part of the reason for wanting to create both this blog and the work that I do. I will cover this in a few days when I have had the chance to better put into words what has happened.
The topic for today is the inevitable fat loss plateau we will experience when the elation of the short term goals have been achieved. I was reminded of how this can impact your mental attitude when I was talking with a friend who had decided to get not only her body into shape but also encouraged another friend of hers along for the journey. This is a great idea - buddy training is awesome.
It is a "journey" because life doesn't stop in 56 days. I use this example as I wanted to get across the impact that programs can have on your perception of "lighting the fire on fat loss" but further how to "maintain the rage on fat loss". This is the harder yet far more satisfying aspect of getting healthy.
She mentioned her friend (nearing the completion of the 56 day program that I created) had gone through an amazing transformation and while elated with his success at changing his past, he wanted to further his goals. This is all to common with human beings who go through a transformation.
They either -:
a) move the end goal posts further away as they the original finish line or
b) they forget how much success they have achieved by denying the start point in their plan.
The second one is easy to cope with IF you have taken pictures and good measurements when starting your journey - this is why we trainers ask you to do it. If you have not it is more challenging as you never want to admit to yourself that you had let yourself go THAT much and believe that with your inner dialogue along the lines of "I wasn't that bad before, was I ?".
Now what is the correct answer to that ?
It is a no win situation. I mostly took the honesty answer and said "Yes, you were" but there were times that I just wanted to help this person over an emotional hurdle and move forward so I answered "No".
The first point about moving the "end goal posts" happens as you start to see changes and want more. This is your ego talking to your "greedy gene" who tells you that you can do one or all of the following - workout a bit harder, do more sessions, limit your intake of food, not hang out with friends, and all this so that the reflection you see in the mirror is better.
How would I suggest we deal with this issue ?
I think that first off we have to accept where we have come from, where we are, where we want to go and have moments in the journey where we congratulate and reward ourselves on the efforts to date.
Now I am not going to tell you that I ever stop trying to improve. It is not in my nature to either lie or ask you to do something I wouldn't try myself. However I will temper this with the fact that I have been working on improvements every year. I have a personal goal of improving some facet of my life by 10% each year, whether it be physical, financial or emotional.
I can not always improve physically (view in mirror) by 10% but I can definitely improve internally (health status) by 10% EVERY year. LIFE is about the quality of effort you put in balanced with the quality of LIFE you desire.
You have to put the work in to get a better result.
So how do we cope with the "voice in our head" telling us that we are not good enough, or we need to try harder, or we can go just that little bit further.
All of these options MUST be balanced with reality.
When it comes to fat loss your body has what is known as a "set point". I am going to make this simple so that we all understand how our body works. When you reach a certain level of fat loss your "set point" kicks in and starts to limit the use of stored fat (use of fat for energy).
It will start to send signals to your body that you are tired so that you limit your levels of activity. It will ramp up your hunger signals so that you eat. It will do all of this in response to your current activity regime because it wants to limit how lean you get. It is perfectly normal. You will have to work through all of this as well as the emotional rollercoaster ride of "creating a NEW YOU".
This is part of your Human E.C.O. System resetting your thermostat to a new level and this will allow you to access another level of stored energy.
Hope that helps. Keep on working out, eating well and saving your Human ECO System !
The topic for today is the inevitable fat loss plateau we will experience when the elation of the short term goals have been achieved. I was reminded of how this can impact your mental attitude when I was talking with a friend who had decided to get not only her body into shape but also encouraged another friend of hers along for the journey. This is a great idea - buddy training is awesome.
It is a "journey" because life doesn't stop in 56 days. I use this example as I wanted to get across the impact that programs can have on your perception of "lighting the fire on fat loss" but further how to "maintain the rage on fat loss". This is the harder yet far more satisfying aspect of getting healthy.
She mentioned her friend (nearing the completion of the 56 day program that I created) had gone through an amazing transformation and while elated with his success at changing his past, he wanted to further his goals. This is all to common with human beings who go through a transformation.
They either -:
a) move the end goal posts further away as they the original finish line or
b) they forget how much success they have achieved by denying the start point in their plan.
The second one is easy to cope with IF you have taken pictures and good measurements when starting your journey - this is why we trainers ask you to do it. If you have not it is more challenging as you never want to admit to yourself that you had let yourself go THAT much and believe that with your inner dialogue along the lines of "I wasn't that bad before, was I ?".
Now what is the correct answer to that ?
It is a no win situation. I mostly took the honesty answer and said "Yes, you were" but there were times that I just wanted to help this person over an emotional hurdle and move forward so I answered "No".
The first point about moving the "end goal posts" happens as you start to see changes and want more. This is your ego talking to your "greedy gene" who tells you that you can do one or all of the following - workout a bit harder, do more sessions, limit your intake of food, not hang out with friends, and all this so that the reflection you see in the mirror is better.
How would I suggest we deal with this issue ?
I think that first off we have to accept where we have come from, where we are, where we want to go and have moments in the journey where we congratulate and reward ourselves on the efforts to date.
Now I am not going to tell you that I ever stop trying to improve. It is not in my nature to either lie or ask you to do something I wouldn't try myself. However I will temper this with the fact that I have been working on improvements every year. I have a personal goal of improving some facet of my life by 10% each year, whether it be physical, financial or emotional.
I can not always improve physically (view in mirror) by 10% but I can definitely improve internally (health status) by 10% EVERY year. LIFE is about the quality of effort you put in balanced with the quality of LIFE you desire.
You have to put the work in to get a better result.
So how do we cope with the "voice in our head" telling us that we are not good enough, or we need to try harder, or we can go just that little bit further.
All of these options MUST be balanced with reality.
When it comes to fat loss your body has what is known as a "set point". I am going to make this simple so that we all understand how our body works. When you reach a certain level of fat loss your "set point" kicks in and starts to limit the use of stored fat (use of fat for energy).
It will start to send signals to your body that you are tired so that you limit your levels of activity. It will ramp up your hunger signals so that you eat. It will do all of this in response to your current activity regime because it wants to limit how lean you get. It is perfectly normal. You will have to work through all of this as well as the emotional rollercoaster ride of "creating a NEW YOU".
This is part of your Human E.C.O. System resetting your thermostat to a new level and this will allow you to access another level of stored energy.
Hope that helps. Keep on working out, eating well and saving your Human ECO System !
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Saturday 24th November - 7 Day ECO-Cleansing Week E-Book
I had originally planned not to release this week seperately from the remaining seven (7) weeks that make up the 56 days of the program.
Then I was talking with a colleague who was asking me what I thought about detox programs and in particular the lemon drink version. When we spoke he said that he wanted to see and complete my version as it seemed not only healthier but it also made sense. Wow, a plan that makes sense.
Now I am from a background where although I don't profess to be an expert of nutrition I have a pretty good understanding of the body and it's nutritional requirements. To support this I work with highly schooled health professionals (nutritionists and dieticians) so it will come as no surprize that I really dislike this lemon drink option.
The "real experts" hate it and totally dismiss it as anything other than a "quick fix option" with no real long term results. They all agree that there should be a better way (so we created one) and if you are tempted to try any of these "programs" you should read on.
Think of your Human E.C.O. System.
Your body needs certain nutrients every day.
Your body functions from these nutrients being available from the daily intake of foods and some of these are not available unless you consume them every day.
If you do one of these extreme alternatives you are going to totally "upset" your natural inner balance by only providing lemon water and not too mention your natural functioning will be unable to meet your body's energy demands. Now how can that be good for you ?
People in the magazines say that they feel amazing after doing this "detox".
Let's be understand why they feel so "clean and clear".
They feel amazing because what they have done is to remove all the activities that cause their unhealthy state that required this severe action.
- They abstain from alcohol.
- They abstain from eating too many calories.
- They limit the intake of foods that are not designed to give them energy.
Wow it is an ephiphany.
By doing the right thing they feel amazing. Imagine if they didn't need to take such extreme measures. And don't be fooled this is an extreme measure. You are stopping your body getting what it needs to be function and be healthy !
Imagine if your attitude by doing this to your body was the same regard that you give to your other "possessions" like your car or your pet or your children.
You wouldn't willingly do something unhealthy for them, so then why would you do it yourself ?
We lack a clear and concise relationship with "our bodies". We judge it when we look in the mirror and this can be the basis for our esteem. We fail to note all the other aspects of our life that are given high value when we stand naked in front of the mirror and from these few moments can be the way our attitude (compass direction) is set for the day.
So why have I designed a sensible version for restoring your eco-system back to a healthier state. For all the people who look for a safe option and for all the reasons I have mentioned that I hate the other options.
How much will it cost you to get my version ....... NADA - NIL - ITS TOTALLY FREE.
I am setting this up as a FREE downloadable E-Book so that you can benefit from what "real experts" know is the better option for you.
With the "silly season" upon us it is now that we need to be most mindful of the "life choices" we make.
Do you want to get eco-friendly with your body ?
If so then now is the perfect time.
Get real and get healthy.
Then I was talking with a colleague who was asking me what I thought about detox programs and in particular the lemon drink version. When we spoke he said that he wanted to see and complete my version as it seemed not only healthier but it also made sense. Wow, a plan that makes sense.
Now I am from a background where although I don't profess to be an expert of nutrition I have a pretty good understanding of the body and it's nutritional requirements. To support this I work with highly schooled health professionals (nutritionists and dieticians) so it will come as no surprize that I really dislike this lemon drink option.
The "real experts" hate it and totally dismiss it as anything other than a "quick fix option" with no real long term results. They all agree that there should be a better way (so we created one) and if you are tempted to try any of these "programs" you should read on.
Think of your Human E.C.O. System.
Your body needs certain nutrients every day.
Your body functions from these nutrients being available from the daily intake of foods and some of these are not available unless you consume them every day.
If you do one of these extreme alternatives you are going to totally "upset" your natural inner balance by only providing lemon water and not too mention your natural functioning will be unable to meet your body's energy demands. Now how can that be good for you ?
People in the magazines say that they feel amazing after doing this "detox".
Let's be understand why they feel so "clean and clear".
They feel amazing because what they have done is to remove all the activities that cause their unhealthy state that required this severe action.
- They abstain from alcohol.
- They abstain from eating too many calories.
- They limit the intake of foods that are not designed to give them energy.
Wow it is an ephiphany.
By doing the right thing they feel amazing. Imagine if they didn't need to take such extreme measures. And don't be fooled this is an extreme measure. You are stopping your body getting what it needs to be function and be healthy !
Imagine if your attitude by doing this to your body was the same regard that you give to your other "possessions" like your car or your pet or your children.
You wouldn't willingly do something unhealthy for them, so then why would you do it yourself ?
We lack a clear and concise relationship with "our bodies". We judge it when we look in the mirror and this can be the basis for our esteem. We fail to note all the other aspects of our life that are given high value when we stand naked in front of the mirror and from these few moments can be the way our attitude (compass direction) is set for the day.
So why have I designed a sensible version for restoring your eco-system back to a healthier state. For all the people who look for a safe option and for all the reasons I have mentioned that I hate the other options.
How much will it cost you to get my version ....... NADA - NIL - ITS TOTALLY FREE.
I am setting this up as a FREE downloadable E-Book so that you can benefit from what "real experts" know is the better option for you.
With the "silly season" upon us it is now that we need to be most mindful of the "life choices" we make.
Do you want to get eco-friendly with your body ?
If so then now is the perfect time.
Get real and get healthy.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Friday 23rd November - Thought Pollution
Today I was talking to a friend about how our thoughts can be like pollution which again really fit in nicely with the Human E.C.O. System theories.
We were discussing how following on from yesterdays Blog she wanted to know if I ever have self doubt about my choices or actions.
I smiled and admitted that of course I have self doubt from time to time and my errors in life and business are testimony of that.
However I don't dwell on a choice once it is made. If it wrong I try to learn from it so that I don't repeat the error again but this will occassionally happen. That is LIFE and you have to experience this to be a whole person.
As most of my close friends know - I am not only unconventional in my methods I am not highly schooled. I left school early to join the Military but have always challenged the "normal thought process" because being both curious and non-traditional I like to understand why things must remain the way they are.
This has led to some confrontations with "experts" who tell me just to accept this and move on. Sadly for them that is the worst thing to tell an individual who revels in his undiagnosed ADD world.
People like myself are very pragmatic and "want to get it" so that it makes sense in our heads and often this will involve questioning what others tell us. It is not meant to be annoying (sure occassionally it will be) but rather it is meant to seek mental solace for ourselves.
The human body and in particular the human brain is an incredibly exciting thing. As you are reading this I want you to realize that there are synapses firing off left and right making sense of the words and then compartmentally breaking them down into understanding. It is an inner world full of as much fascination as the most incredible computer.
Now when that brain (computer) gets either overloaded (needs more RAM), or tired, or gets a virus, or gets old, or any other condition that affects it's ability to function at it's optimal you are going to know it.
Then add in the emotional content. Now you don't get this with your best computer BUT we have it inbuilt and hardwired into ours. This element can work for us or against us. BUT we are in control of it. It does not control us. They are OUR thoughts and this power needs to be exercised. It can be like an animal on a leash and if we control it well much like a well trained animal it's behaviours can be enhanced, even moreso with training.
Now most of our throughts during the day are rubbish.
I did a search on the internet and "they" say that we have anywhere from 6,000 to 60,000 thoughts each day. That is quite a disparity but it shows that some of us have way too many and this pollution causes problems.
There is a non-traditional belief that this level of having many thoughts causes the "monkey mind" meaning that the mind is out of control. That this thought pollution is responsible for a lack of clarity in LIFE.
If you are constantly thinking you are not present. You are not actually being "in the moment". Now I don't want this Blog to get too "airy-fairy" (not sure but don't think that is a medical term) but I am aware that when you sit still and try not to think you seem to slow everything down.
We have all heard that life is moving faster and faster in modern society. What about if you try to focus on controlling it and slowing it down for just this moment. Read this and then just sit there with your eyes closed and breathe in and out for 5 long breathes.
You will notice these few things :
Your breathing will slow down.
Your muscles will relax as your breathing slows down.
Sounds that you overlook everyday with your eyes open.
It is time to clear your mind, get present and get rid of some of the pollution in your Human ECO System !
We were discussing how following on from yesterdays Blog she wanted to know if I ever have self doubt about my choices or actions.
I smiled and admitted that of course I have self doubt from time to time and my errors in life and business are testimony of that.
However I don't dwell on a choice once it is made. If it wrong I try to learn from it so that I don't repeat the error again but this will occassionally happen. That is LIFE and you have to experience this to be a whole person.
As most of my close friends know - I am not only unconventional in my methods I am not highly schooled. I left school early to join the Military but have always challenged the "normal thought process" because being both curious and non-traditional I like to understand why things must remain the way they are.
This has led to some confrontations with "experts" who tell me just to accept this and move on. Sadly for them that is the worst thing to tell an individual who revels in his undiagnosed ADD world.
People like myself are very pragmatic and "want to get it" so that it makes sense in our heads and often this will involve questioning what others tell us. It is not meant to be annoying (sure occassionally it will be) but rather it is meant to seek mental solace for ourselves.
The human body and in particular the human brain is an incredibly exciting thing. As you are reading this I want you to realize that there are synapses firing off left and right making sense of the words and then compartmentally breaking them down into understanding. It is an inner world full of as much fascination as the most incredible computer.
Now when that brain (computer) gets either overloaded (needs more RAM), or tired, or gets a virus, or gets old, or any other condition that affects it's ability to function at it's optimal you are going to know it.
Then add in the emotional content. Now you don't get this with your best computer BUT we have it inbuilt and hardwired into ours. This element can work for us or against us. BUT we are in control of it. It does not control us. They are OUR thoughts and this power needs to be exercised. It can be like an animal on a leash and if we control it well much like a well trained animal it's behaviours can be enhanced, even moreso with training.
Now most of our throughts during the day are rubbish.
I did a search on the internet and "they" say that we have anywhere from 6,000 to 60,000 thoughts each day. That is quite a disparity but it shows that some of us have way too many and this pollution causes problems.
There is a non-traditional belief that this level of having many thoughts causes the "monkey mind" meaning that the mind is out of control. That this thought pollution is responsible for a lack of clarity in LIFE.
If you are constantly thinking you are not present. You are not actually being "in the moment". Now I don't want this Blog to get too "airy-fairy" (not sure but don't think that is a medical term) but I am aware that when you sit still and try not to think you seem to slow everything down.
We have all heard that life is moving faster and faster in modern society. What about if you try to focus on controlling it and slowing it down for just this moment. Read this and then just sit there with your eyes closed and breathe in and out for 5 long breathes.
You will notice these few things :
Your breathing will slow down.
Your muscles will relax as your breathing slows down.
Sounds that you overlook everyday with your eyes open.
It is time to clear your mind, get present and get rid of some of the pollution in your Human ECO System !
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Thursday 22nd November - Self Doubt into Self Belief
An interesting thing happened to me today when I was doing my Yoga.
Many things had been on my mind overnight with trying to complete work on three projects, plus being up late writing a movie script and then having a close family member in hospital knocking on the final door set up some mental blocks.
So I knew my ability to "let go and relax" for this activity session was going to be a challenge. And for a self confessed A.D.D. but never diagnosed person, all of this baggage came into the Yoga room with me.
Why did I even go ?
I knew it would be good for me.
I try and apply my personal principle of LIFE 101 - which is that LIFE will always throw up an excuse for you to get out of your commitment to your workouts. It is human nature to look for an excuse BUT my personal pro-active philosophy is that if I am looking for a reason not to do the workout - then it is likely that I need it.
So not letting LIFE get in the way this morning I showed up and settled onto my mat with a focus of "just breathing". The instructor was really tuned into my "dial" this morning as she mentioned that in order to relax and concentrate on our breathing we have to "stop having the conversations in our head". Those voices of self doubt seem to be loudest when we are the quietest.
She also mentioned that what we try to resist - will often persist.
Isn't that so true in many situations in our lives. When we worry about something (beyond our control), the problem seems to grow like a snowball rolling down a hill. Yet when we just let that snowball go and don't try to stop it then it no longer concerns or worries us.
This was truly powerful to me as I felt like my "voices" were on full blast.
As I tuned out my inner voices and focussed JUST on breathing in and breathing out, this provided the ability instead to tune in to and listen to her words and I started to feel the muscles in my body respond.
My shoulders relaxed as the tension dropped away.
My breathing became the life for my body and the pressure valve for my mind.
Of course this meant my human eco-system was again starting to show signs of life - through positive joy for the efforts of my mind being able to STOP thinking - and be clear.
I tried to imagine my mind was a glass of water.
Fresh; clear; cool; and this "picture" I decided was going to be my home-base that I would use when I was noticing my thoughts start to drift.
It was empowering to regain the space inside myself.
By that I mean we often fill ourselves up with unimportant issues as we try to cram in even more though we are already overflowing with totally meaningless things.
As this was happening another amazing situation developed.
My body started to relax and move into poses that had been in recent sessions difficult for me to get into. For example there is a series of balance poses in my Yoga that I try to concentrate to achieve stillness in.
I use this example in my book under the heading "the impatient perfectionist" - he who wants to good at everything he tries which is really just another voice in my head (the ego) wanting me to try harder.
This point is about 45 minutes into the workout and it was at this moment in the class that I noticed that I was starting to "try again". I wasn't getting any of the poses how I would have liked and could start to feel the frustration building as my breathing became forced.
Then I recalled another instructor in a previous session mention that if you are feeling frustrated then just remember this "all you are doing is standing on one leg, so is it really that important that you get this pose today ?"
No it wasn't.
In fact I was giving myself grief over this.
I slowed down my breathing and thought of that glass of water. Still, clear and serene. In no time at all my breathing slowed and my body became still.
As I was leaving the instructor mentioned how in control I seemed during the workout and I had to smile and share with her all my frustrations and we both laughed at how all this was happening on the inside and outwardly I looked at peace.
My lesson today wasn't to learn how to be a great Yoga student.
My lesson today was to learn how to be a better ME.
Many things had been on my mind overnight with trying to complete work on three projects, plus being up late writing a movie script and then having a close family member in hospital knocking on the final door set up some mental blocks.
So I knew my ability to "let go and relax" for this activity session was going to be a challenge. And for a self confessed A.D.D. but never diagnosed person, all of this baggage came into the Yoga room with me.
Why did I even go ?
I knew it would be good for me.
I try and apply my personal principle of LIFE 101 - which is that LIFE will always throw up an excuse for you to get out of your commitment to your workouts. It is human nature to look for an excuse BUT my personal pro-active philosophy is that if I am looking for a reason not to do the workout - then it is likely that I need it.
So not letting LIFE get in the way this morning I showed up and settled onto my mat with a focus of "just breathing". The instructor was really tuned into my "dial" this morning as she mentioned that in order to relax and concentrate on our breathing we have to "stop having the conversations in our head". Those voices of self doubt seem to be loudest when we are the quietest.
She also mentioned that what we try to resist - will often persist.
Isn't that so true in many situations in our lives. When we worry about something (beyond our control), the problem seems to grow like a snowball rolling down a hill. Yet when we just let that snowball go and don't try to stop it then it no longer concerns or worries us.
This was truly powerful to me as I felt like my "voices" were on full blast.
As I tuned out my inner voices and focussed JUST on breathing in and breathing out, this provided the ability instead to tune in to and listen to her words and I started to feel the muscles in my body respond.
My shoulders relaxed as the tension dropped away.
My breathing became the life for my body and the pressure valve for my mind.
Of course this meant my human eco-system was again starting to show signs of life - through positive joy for the efforts of my mind being able to STOP thinking - and be clear.
I tried to imagine my mind was a glass of water.
Fresh; clear; cool; and this "picture" I decided was going to be my home-base that I would use when I was noticing my thoughts start to drift.
It was empowering to regain the space inside myself.
By that I mean we often fill ourselves up with unimportant issues as we try to cram in even more though we are already overflowing with totally meaningless things.
As this was happening another amazing situation developed.
My body started to relax and move into poses that had been in recent sessions difficult for me to get into. For example there is a series of balance poses in my Yoga that I try to concentrate to achieve stillness in.
I use this example in my book under the heading "the impatient perfectionist" - he who wants to good at everything he tries which is really just another voice in my head (the ego) wanting me to try harder.
This point is about 45 minutes into the workout and it was at this moment in the class that I noticed that I was starting to "try again". I wasn't getting any of the poses how I would have liked and could start to feel the frustration building as my breathing became forced.
Then I recalled another instructor in a previous session mention that if you are feeling frustrated then just remember this "all you are doing is standing on one leg, so is it really that important that you get this pose today ?"
No it wasn't.
In fact I was giving myself grief over this.
I slowed down my breathing and thought of that glass of water. Still, clear and serene. In no time at all my breathing slowed and my body became still.
As I was leaving the instructor mentioned how in control I seemed during the workout and I had to smile and share with her all my frustrations and we both laughed at how all this was happening on the inside and outwardly I looked at peace.
My lesson today wasn't to learn how to be a great Yoga student.
My lesson today was to learn how to be a better ME.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Wednesday 21st November - Family based FUN
It seems an issue for most people is finding the time to be more active and get to the gym. This reminded me of the excuses that often come up when talking to clients over the years about why past attempts to lose bodyfat had failed them.
1. They had no time to spare.
2. They wanted to spend more time with their families.
I totally understand these issues but with obesity rolling along like an out of control freight train that we need to deal with here are simple facts you need to consider in relation to the Human E.C.O. Plan:
- There are 168 hours in each and every week.
- You only have to find 3 hours PER WEEK for activity on my plan.
- If you do 1 hour of activity each day of the weekend you only have to find 1 more during the week. Doesn't seem that hard does it ?
It's not but I have deliberately designed this to be a workable solution by minimizing / adjusting part of the current issue of the excessive intake of daily calories and then matching that up with an activity program to suit the goal.
Three hours per week can make a life changing difference !
Now to the issue of spending time with your family and not wanting to deprive you of that either here are some suggestions you could try.
- Enlist your family into your life changing goal which means that they will also improve their overall health.
- The three hours of activity can also include them. Your children could ride their bikes while you and your partner could walk / run.
- You could take a ball with you and play games in a park or beach.
- You could take some rope and teach your children to jump rope.
- You could take a backpack with some healthy food options, flavoured water and have a picnic halfway during the session.
Making life changing habits for ALL the family will not only ensure that there is minimal disruption to the family environment it will allow you to get healthy and provide "family time" together.
1. They had no time to spare.
2. They wanted to spend more time with their families.
I totally understand these issues but with obesity rolling along like an out of control freight train that we need to deal with here are simple facts you need to consider in relation to the Human E.C.O. Plan:
- There are 168 hours in each and every week.
- You only have to find 3 hours PER WEEK for activity on my plan.
- If you do 1 hour of activity each day of the weekend you only have to find 1 more during the week. Doesn't seem that hard does it ?
It's not but I have deliberately designed this to be a workable solution by minimizing / adjusting part of the current issue of the excessive intake of daily calories and then matching that up with an activity program to suit the goal.
Three hours per week can make a life changing difference !
Now to the issue of spending time with your family and not wanting to deprive you of that either here are some suggestions you could try.
- Enlist your family into your life changing goal which means that they will also improve their overall health.
- The three hours of activity can also include them. Your children could ride their bikes while you and your partner could walk / run.
- You could take a ball with you and play games in a park or beach.
- You could take some rope and teach your children to jump rope.
- You could take a backpack with some healthy food options, flavoured water and have a picnic halfway during the session.
Making life changing habits for ALL the family will not only ensure that there is minimal disruption to the family environment it will allow you to get healthy and provide "family time" together.
Tuesday 20th November - Stinking Thinking or Negative Thoughts
I had just finished a run this morning and was stretching in a local park. I overheard a father yelling at this son aged about 7 yrs old for doing something wrong and calling his son stupid (it wasn't hard to hear as the father was quite loud).
I felt for the boy as the park had quite a few people in it. Now you may say that there may have been a reason for his comments (note - I didn't say "good reason" as I see little benefit to bashing the boy's esteem with or without an audience).
Walking home it got me to thinking how easy it can be for us to hurt someone's feelings and esteem (whether intentionally or not) with words. I wondered if that young boy had a terrible day as a result. I am sure we have all done it, maybe not as disrespectfully as that father, but our words can hurt those we care about.
The point of Stinking Thinking (or negative thoughts) is that not only do we have the power to relive them but equally we also have the power to let them go.
They are only words and sometimes it is best to let them go which can often help us to relax and lose some of the stress from our lives.
How do we let go of this stress when these words often come from someone we love or whose opinion we value ?
Well first off, you should put as much weight in your own opinion as you do in others. You know that you are mostly a good person but this rarely has any currency or value in our esteem bank. IT SHOULD.
We should all try to make daily deposits into our own esteem bank account knowing that it can also improve our self perception. This is really important for children.
A lesson that is now taught to business managers is to try to catch your staff "doing something right" instead of just catching them doing something wrong. Equally we should try to do this with our friends and family.
Maybe if this happens we can try to change more negative thoughts into positive thoughts and lose the stinking thinking !
I felt for the boy as the park had quite a few people in it. Now you may say that there may have been a reason for his comments (note - I didn't say "good reason" as I see little benefit to bashing the boy's esteem with or without an audience).
Walking home it got me to thinking how easy it can be for us to hurt someone's feelings and esteem (whether intentionally or not) with words. I wondered if that young boy had a terrible day as a result. I am sure we have all done it, maybe not as disrespectfully as that father, but our words can hurt those we care about.
The point of Stinking Thinking (or negative thoughts) is that not only do we have the power to relive them but equally we also have the power to let them go.
They are only words and sometimes it is best to let them go which can often help us to relax and lose some of the stress from our lives.
How do we let go of this stress when these words often come from someone we love or whose opinion we value ?
Well first off, you should put as much weight in your own opinion as you do in others. You know that you are mostly a good person but this rarely has any currency or value in our esteem bank. IT SHOULD.
We should all try to make daily deposits into our own esteem bank account knowing that it can also improve our self perception. This is really important for children.
A lesson that is now taught to business managers is to try to catch your staff "doing something right" instead of just catching them doing something wrong. Equally we should try to do this with our friends and family.
Maybe if this happens we can try to change more negative thoughts into positive thoughts and lose the stinking thinking !
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Sunday 18th November - Feedback on the Human ECO Plan
As promised I have been sending out the 56 day plan to a range of health and fitness professionals who I wanted to independently give me feedback. This was not designed to pander my ego but rather assess if they thought in a real world scenario that it would work for anyone trying.
There are two parts -
1. Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan for 56 days to set you up for life changing results.
2. Afterburner Workouts are either 3 x 60 mins or 6 x 30 mins you choose it's your life.
Remember that this program is designed for the majority of the population but mostly those that are NOT currently doing something. This is like a "shot in the arm" or insert whatever bodypart you need to fix.
So far from five of the best it's come back 100% positive. I will continue to provide feedback as we finalize the "uploading process" to make this available very soon. Sorry for those that are getting impatient !
Here is one testimonial from Deb Dawson who is an Australian lady who recently (October 07) competed in the Womens National Bodybuilding Federation Championships (hope I got the translation right) and she placed 2nd - what an awesome effort !
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Deb says "I really had to step back and look at it from a "non competitive bodybuilder" perspective. Once I did this I could see that it would be very benefical to also most anyone willing to take up the challenge.
RAINBOW NUTRIENT RE-FUELLING PLAN
Excellent food variety and choices making it easier for one to obtain these foods throughout the day for meal times. Also the variety in the foods provides all the macronutrients needed for a healthy functioning body, once the body is in this state it will respond accordingly e.g. fat loss, muscle gains.
The food options are also a great way not to give one the excuse of not having the ingredients available, this is a key to keeping it simple and not complicated, if complicated then excuses are used to not follow the program.
I liked the way you eased into the Rainbow Nutrient Plan by starting at week 1 and slowly reducing fats, alcohol, dairy etc over the few weeks until week 5 of the Rainbow plan!
The more I go over it, the more I like it.
AFTERBURNER WORKOUT PLAN
My first reaction after reading this was "I would not do this"!
But that's because I am a competitive bodybuilder and need to train and do cardio differently to achieve as much muscle gains as possible!
So looking at it from a perspective of say a personal trainer who perhaps had a client who was interested in losing weight, being healthy and wanting to increase his/her fitness levels but had not worked out for a while.
Now would I recommend Afterburner Workout Plan?
Yes! And here's why:
It's broken down in every aspect from cardio to resistance training so it makes it easy to follow but more importantly, easier to stick with and follow through.
It focuses on fat burning during cardio and resistance training due to the high reps.
This combined with the Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan will definately produce results in the reduction of body fat.
You have a great package here Tony and I hope it becomes a success for you and for anyone who uses it. Trying to battle the obesity epidemic is one of the hardest challenges in this day and age, but if we can go back to basics and re educate people about food and how the body really works it would be a step in the right direction. The other important issue here is time, we are all so rushed these days, so keeping it simple is crucial, you have done this with offering many options with the meal plan.
Thank you for sharing this with me.
Deb
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Not sure I could ask for better than that.
There are two parts -
1. Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan for 56 days to set you up for life changing results.
2. Afterburner Workouts are either 3 x 60 mins or 6 x 30 mins you choose it's your life.
Remember that this program is designed for the majority of the population but mostly those that are NOT currently doing something. This is like a "shot in the arm" or insert whatever bodypart you need to fix.
So far from five of the best it's come back 100% positive. I will continue to provide feedback as we finalize the "uploading process" to make this available very soon. Sorry for those that are getting impatient !
Here is one testimonial from Deb Dawson who is an Australian lady who recently (October 07) competed in the Womens National Bodybuilding Federation Championships (hope I got the translation right) and she placed 2nd - what an awesome effort !
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Deb says "I really had to step back and look at it from a "non competitive bodybuilder" perspective. Once I did this I could see that it would be very benefical to also most anyone willing to take up the challenge.
RAINBOW NUTRIENT RE-FUELLING PLAN
Excellent food variety and choices making it easier for one to obtain these foods throughout the day for meal times. Also the variety in the foods provides all the macronutrients needed for a healthy functioning body, once the body is in this state it will respond accordingly e.g. fat loss, muscle gains.
The food options are also a great way not to give one the excuse of not having the ingredients available, this is a key to keeping it simple and not complicated, if complicated then excuses are used to not follow the program.
I liked the way you eased into the Rainbow Nutrient Plan by starting at week 1 and slowly reducing fats, alcohol, dairy etc over the few weeks until week 5 of the Rainbow plan!
The more I go over it, the more I like it.
AFTERBURNER WORKOUT PLAN
My first reaction after reading this was "I would not do this"!
But that's because I am a competitive bodybuilder and need to train and do cardio differently to achieve as much muscle gains as possible!
So looking at it from a perspective of say a personal trainer who perhaps had a client who was interested in losing weight, being healthy and wanting to increase his/her fitness levels but had not worked out for a while.
Now would I recommend Afterburner Workout Plan?
Yes! And here's why:
It's broken down in every aspect from cardio to resistance training so it makes it easy to follow but more importantly, easier to stick with and follow through.
It focuses on fat burning during cardio and resistance training due to the high reps.
This combined with the Rainbow Nutrient Refuelling Plan will definately produce results in the reduction of body fat.
You have a great package here Tony and I hope it becomes a success for you and for anyone who uses it. Trying to battle the obesity epidemic is one of the hardest challenges in this day and age, but if we can go back to basics and re educate people about food and how the body really works it would be a step in the right direction. The other important issue here is time, we are all so rushed these days, so keeping it simple is crucial, you have done this with offering many options with the meal plan.
Thank you for sharing this with me.
Deb
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Not sure I could ask for better than that.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Saturday 17th November - What is my E.C.O. plan going to contain ?
I was asked what the E.C.O. phases of my plan are going to contain so I want to share it with you here. The Human E.C.O. System is the book YOU need to read. Here is a description of what it contains:
1. Evolution - This is a section devoted to the past habits, patterns, trigger points that have impacted upon achieving success for weight loss. By being able to identify these errors we can move forward with clarity which then allows us to better comprehend this knowledge.
2. Comprehension - This section is to provide a level of understanding of your body and the key internal elements I will cover such as the Heart, the Liver, the Kidney's, Pancreas and Gastro-intestinal Tract, to show you that nutrition and activity can reduce and reverse the "internal pollution", so that YOU can become personally responsible with greater awareness and change the past.
3. Operation “GO” - This is the action phase which consists of the outline of the next fifty six (56) days or eight (8) weeks of life changing habits so YOU know what you are going to be doing; the RAINBOW Nutrient Refuelling plan is to maximize your fat loss results and ; and the Afterburner Workouts based around your weekly commitment of 3 hours of activity with either 3 x 60 minute or 6 x 30 minute workouts to give you a variety of options for your activity sessions.
I have sent the 56 Day Plan out to some friends and I will be posting their feedback in the next 48 hours so you can see if it as good as I am saying.
Remember this plan is designed for the majority of the World's population. It can assist anyone that completes the 56 days.
Are you ready for the challenge ?
1. Evolution - This is a section devoted to the past habits, patterns, trigger points that have impacted upon achieving success for weight loss. By being able to identify these errors we can move forward with clarity which then allows us to better comprehend this knowledge.
2. Comprehension - This section is to provide a level of understanding of your body and the key internal elements I will cover such as the Heart, the Liver, the Kidney's, Pancreas and Gastro-intestinal Tract, to show you that nutrition and activity can reduce and reverse the "internal pollution", so that YOU can become personally responsible with greater awareness and change the past.
3. Operation “GO” - This is the action phase which consists of the outline of the next fifty six (56) days or eight (8) weeks of life changing habits so YOU know what you are going to be doing; the RAINBOW Nutrient Refuelling plan is to maximize your fat loss results and ; and the Afterburner Workouts based around your weekly commitment of 3 hours of activity with either 3 x 60 minute or 6 x 30 minute workouts to give you a variety of options for your activity sessions.
I have sent the 56 Day Plan out to some friends and I will be posting their feedback in the next 48 hours so you can see if it as good as I am saying.
Remember this plan is designed for the majority of the World's population. It can assist anyone that completes the 56 days.
Are you ready for the challenge ?
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Thursday 15th November - What is an ECO System ?
I was doing my Yoga session this morning and trying to focus on my breathing when what I really wanted to do was to leave the class and come and write this blog. Of course I decided not to and proceeded to clear my mind and with that I found an even greater level of expression.
Why did I want to leave ?
It occurred to me that I have not at any time explained how or why I arrived at my book title "The Human E.C.O. System Anti Diet" and also why this is important for us all.
What is an ECO system and how does that relate to the human body ?
"An ECO system is the biological term used to describe two or more organisms living together in harmony. The study of how organisms interact in an environment is ecology and each environment is in itself termed an ecosystem."
Doesn't that sound like what we are learning more and more each day about the human body. For me it certainly resonated enough that I changed my book content to have this focus and really started to get more passionate about understanding this.
If you do any research on eco-systems, the human body is often described as one of the examples along with a rainforest and an aquarium.
Then with all the focus globally on "being green and saving the planet", I was writing and talking with people about what my book would be about when I "stumbled across this personal level of clarity" which really excited me.
The human body is an eco-system in peril so shouldn't we try to save it ?
Obesity is out of control.
Diabetes is rampant with adults and children.
Cancer is becoming as common as the cold.
Stress related illnesses are getting worse each day.
There just seemed to be a light go off in my head (eco-friendly globe of course) and everywhere I looked I was able to find examples of how human biology is like the earth's ecology (the bi-line for my book is "where biology meets ecology).
Now I want to be able to pass on this new level of understanding of how the body works and also to create a knowledge based relationship with your body.
There was an "aha" moment for me.
When I spoke to children about these similarities they understood straight away the importance of "taking action NOW". They are learning about the planet and it's issues everyday so if they could get it, was there hope for adults ?
I think there is.
So what does an Anti Diet mean ?
It is a strategic based plan (not just eating outline) that comes from a point of wanting you to be able to make more informed life choices about nutrition and activity with understanding.
You have all heard the saying "knowledge is Power".
I believe that when it comes to our own bodies in today's society - knowledge is essential !
Over the last five years I have learned a lot of information about really important things (education) that seemed to have been "glossed" over during my life. Such as how critical it is that I make certain life choices based upon what I know more, than what others tell me.
For anyone to act with personal responsibility there is a level of assumption that we understand right from wrong. To support this there are laws that tell us what we can and can't do in society.
When we get a job there are agreements and contracts we sign for employment to know what is expected of us.
Then there are moral and religious expectations that are "given" to us so that we can function as a human being within our society.
However there is little to no formal education given (except if you become a medical specialist) on the most important "treasure" that we have - OUR OWN BODY.
We get no Warranty;
We get no Instruction Manual;
So how do we operate this complex machine called the Human body if something goes wrong ?
What normally happens is that we react and our course of action is that we run to a medical expert who then "tries to ascertain" from what we tell them are our known symptoms. From this a diagnosis is given and a "treatment" prescribed.
In fact here is a does of reality.
From the moment you are born you start to die.
It is this time between birth and death that YOU get to ascertain the level of quality in your life. You get to make choices and this is best served with knowledge but most people ignore even the most blatant warnings.
This is an example that I use in my book.
Imagine that you are driving along in your vehicle and there is a RED light flashing. You would most likely ignore it for a while and then you take action realizing that something is definitely not right.
Let's imagine that you had an instrumental panel for your body.
What red light alarm is flashing for YOU right now ?
What are you going to do about it - ignore it or act ?
The Human E.C.O. System is like any other environment.
When something is wrong there will be warning signs (symptoms) that you need to recognize and change or else something much worse will happen.
Do it now - act today !!
It's your BODY - It's your LIFE.
Why did I want to leave ?
It occurred to me that I have not at any time explained how or why I arrived at my book title "The Human E.C.O. System Anti Diet" and also why this is important for us all.
What is an ECO system and how does that relate to the human body ?
"An ECO system is the biological term used to describe two or more organisms living together in harmony. The study of how organisms interact in an environment is ecology and each environment is in itself termed an ecosystem."
Doesn't that sound like what we are learning more and more each day about the human body. For me it certainly resonated enough that I changed my book content to have this focus and really started to get more passionate about understanding this.
If you do any research on eco-systems, the human body is often described as one of the examples along with a rainforest and an aquarium.
Then with all the focus globally on "being green and saving the planet", I was writing and talking with people about what my book would be about when I "stumbled across this personal level of clarity" which really excited me.
The human body is an eco-system in peril so shouldn't we try to save it ?
Obesity is out of control.
Diabetes is rampant with adults and children.
Cancer is becoming as common as the cold.
Stress related illnesses are getting worse each day.
There just seemed to be a light go off in my head (eco-friendly globe of course) and everywhere I looked I was able to find examples of how human biology is like the earth's ecology (the bi-line for my book is "where biology meets ecology).
Now I want to be able to pass on this new level of understanding of how the body works and also to create a knowledge based relationship with your body.
There was an "aha" moment for me.
When I spoke to children about these similarities they understood straight away the importance of "taking action NOW". They are learning about the planet and it's issues everyday so if they could get it, was there hope for adults ?
I think there is.
So what does an Anti Diet mean ?
It is a strategic based plan (not just eating outline) that comes from a point of wanting you to be able to make more informed life choices about nutrition and activity with understanding.
You have all heard the saying "knowledge is Power".
I believe that when it comes to our own bodies in today's society - knowledge is essential !
Over the last five years I have learned a lot of information about really important things (education) that seemed to have been "glossed" over during my life. Such as how critical it is that I make certain life choices based upon what I know more, than what others tell me.
For anyone to act with personal responsibility there is a level of assumption that we understand right from wrong. To support this there are laws that tell us what we can and can't do in society.
When we get a job there are agreements and contracts we sign for employment to know what is expected of us.
Then there are moral and religious expectations that are "given" to us so that we can function as a human being within our society.
However there is little to no formal education given (except if you become a medical specialist) on the most important "treasure" that we have - OUR OWN BODY.
We get no Warranty;
We get no Instruction Manual;
So how do we operate this complex machine called the Human body if something goes wrong ?
What normally happens is that we react and our course of action is that we run to a medical expert who then "tries to ascertain" from what we tell them are our known symptoms. From this a diagnosis is given and a "treatment" prescribed.
In fact here is a does of reality.
From the moment you are born you start to die.
It is this time between birth and death that YOU get to ascertain the level of quality in your life. You get to make choices and this is best served with knowledge but most people ignore even the most blatant warnings.
This is an example that I use in my book.
Imagine that you are driving along in your vehicle and there is a RED light flashing. You would most likely ignore it for a while and then you take action realizing that something is definitely not right.
Let's imagine that you had an instrumental panel for your body.
What red light alarm is flashing for YOU right now ?
What are you going to do about it - ignore it or act ?
The Human E.C.O. System is like any other environment.
When something is wrong there will be warning signs (symptoms) that you need to recognize and change or else something much worse will happen.
Do it now - act today !!
It's your BODY - It's your LIFE.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Wednesday 14th November - Diabetes - be afraid !
What is Diabetes ?
Now I am going to keep this simple because "the understanding" is very important for the level of information that I want to pass on to you.
Overview.
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin (type 1), which is not reversible and mostly hereditary or cannot make proper use of the insulin it does produce, a condition called insulin resistance (type 2) which is impacted upon by lifestyle choices.
As a result of both conditions, there are wild fluctuations of glucose levels in the bloodstream (following your intake of carbohydrate type fuels or food). You would know these as fruit (including juice), grains, vegetables, legumes, some dairy and includes the non-traditional but heavily consumed forms from soda or soft drink, sweets, fast food etc. From these foods your body gets these "sugars" and they enter the bloodstream as glucose for energy.
The problems arise when there is a build up of excess glucose. There may be resulting problems with your artery walls which can become thicker increasing blood pressure. This then impacts on other conditions. The implications of these can eventually lead to blindness, coronary heart disease, amputations or kidney failure.
What does that mean to you as an individual ?
I can tell you one thing that people have died from this disease. Diabetes is fast becoming a major health concern as it gets more and more common. The world is becoming more overweight / obese and this means an unhealthy population. It is not limited to one country, one race or one gender. It is rampant everywhere.
Is this a result of us living longer and our bodies aging or is it a result of the lifestyle choices we make ?
It seems to be a function of both of these situations but the most common form of Diabetes (type 2) can be a preventable condition. Yes I said PREVENTABLE. Type 2 Diabetes or as it used to be called Adult Onset Diabetes has now had to revert to it's correct title as the incidence of the disease is now presenting in children all over the world.
How can children get an "adult onset disease" condition ?
It really isn't all that hard to understand. There is far more processed food being eaten then 10-20 years ago. The availability of low quality nutrient, high density calorific fuel is everywhere. Our use of this fuel (movement in any kind) has been markedly reduced.
Bottom line is that we have become 'UNDER-ACTIVE AND OVER-FED" !!
Is there any likelihood that this situation will get worse in the coming years ?
Absolutely. They call Diabetes the silent killer for a reason.
You could have it now and not know. The symptoms may not be presenting so as a result you continue with your "unhealthy" lifestyle that is by your standards all about "balance and moderation".
Sure you may be carrying a few extra kilo's but so is everyone.
You probably use the words of balance and moderation for justification when you are doing something that you know is not in your best health interests but "you have to have a life - right ?".
It is just a few extra glasses of wine.
And who can enjoy that wine without a nice cheese platter ??
Doing this every so often can't really do us harm - can it ?
Yes it can if in the rest of your daily life you do not practice your Human ECO plan.
All of your poor lifestyle choices add up.
If you don't make exercise a regular part of your life on a regular basis then you are adding to all of the other health errors you are making.
Just so we are clear, I am not talking about your walk on a Saturday to the nearest drinking hole or your weekly shopping trips when you walk miles from shop to shop. They are not getting your heart healthy.
You have the ability to reduce / reverse the implications of this disease.
Type 2 diabetes, the more common of the two types, results mainly from an unhealthy diet and inactivity and is becoming epidemic in scale in many developed or fast-developing countries.
Are you a statistic or are you going to change your life ?
Be a Health Warrior NOT a Health Worrior !
Now I am going to keep this simple because "the understanding" is very important for the level of information that I want to pass on to you.
Overview.
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin (type 1), which is not reversible and mostly hereditary or cannot make proper use of the insulin it does produce, a condition called insulin resistance (type 2) which is impacted upon by lifestyle choices.
As a result of both conditions, there are wild fluctuations of glucose levels in the bloodstream (following your intake of carbohydrate type fuels or food). You would know these as fruit (including juice), grains, vegetables, legumes, some dairy and includes the non-traditional but heavily consumed forms from soda or soft drink, sweets, fast food etc. From these foods your body gets these "sugars" and they enter the bloodstream as glucose for energy.
The problems arise when there is a build up of excess glucose. There may be resulting problems with your artery walls which can become thicker increasing blood pressure. This then impacts on other conditions. The implications of these can eventually lead to blindness, coronary heart disease, amputations or kidney failure.
What does that mean to you as an individual ?
I can tell you one thing that people have died from this disease. Diabetes is fast becoming a major health concern as it gets more and more common. The world is becoming more overweight / obese and this means an unhealthy population. It is not limited to one country, one race or one gender. It is rampant everywhere.
Is this a result of us living longer and our bodies aging or is it a result of the lifestyle choices we make ?
It seems to be a function of both of these situations but the most common form of Diabetes (type 2) can be a preventable condition. Yes I said PREVENTABLE. Type 2 Diabetes or as it used to be called Adult Onset Diabetes has now had to revert to it's correct title as the incidence of the disease is now presenting in children all over the world.
How can children get an "adult onset disease" condition ?
It really isn't all that hard to understand. There is far more processed food being eaten then 10-20 years ago. The availability of low quality nutrient, high density calorific fuel is everywhere. Our use of this fuel (movement in any kind) has been markedly reduced.
Bottom line is that we have become 'UNDER-ACTIVE AND OVER-FED" !!
Is there any likelihood that this situation will get worse in the coming years ?
Absolutely. They call Diabetes the silent killer for a reason.
You could have it now and not know. The symptoms may not be presenting so as a result you continue with your "unhealthy" lifestyle that is by your standards all about "balance and moderation".
Sure you may be carrying a few extra kilo's but so is everyone.
You probably use the words of balance and moderation for justification when you are doing something that you know is not in your best health interests but "you have to have a life - right ?".
It is just a few extra glasses of wine.
And who can enjoy that wine without a nice cheese platter ??
Doing this every so often can't really do us harm - can it ?
Yes it can if in the rest of your daily life you do not practice your Human ECO plan.
All of your poor lifestyle choices add up.
If you don't make exercise a regular part of your life on a regular basis then you are adding to all of the other health errors you are making.
Just so we are clear, I am not talking about your walk on a Saturday to the nearest drinking hole or your weekly shopping trips when you walk miles from shop to shop. They are not getting your heart healthy.
You have the ability to reduce / reverse the implications of this disease.
Type 2 diabetes, the more common of the two types, results mainly from an unhealthy diet and inactivity and is becoming epidemic in scale in many developed or fast-developing countries.
Are you a statistic or are you going to change your life ?
Be a Health Warrior NOT a Health Worrior !
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Tuesday 13th November - My 3 Life Principles
When I was creating both the Global Health Warrior brand and Warrior Media business I was asked by my designer to think of a few words that I felt described my life's intention.
I came up with Strength / Compassion / Integrity.
From that he then created the symbol of the "Warrior" that I use. I have decided to make these three words into my life principles.
1. Strength of Mind - this is the belief that when your mind is strong it allows you to truly focus on achieving physical wellness which is displayed through your body by creating a mind / body connection.
It also means that you must work towards being pro-active (the warrior) and allow yourself to be less re-active (the worrior).
I use this point a lot in seminars, when I ask people are you a Health Warrior or a Health Worrior. Your life - your choice.
2. Compassion of Heart - this is the belief that if you open yourself up to allow others (and the Universe) you get to truly see who you are, and it can give you a sense of fullness. I find that when I do this I "feel more".
We often get caught up in our own "small" world that we fail to see that life isn't really that bad and the world is a big place. We add drama's when in fact there need not be so many but by being true to yourself you have less doubt.
3. Integrity of Soul - this is the belief that YOU are a product of the life you live. There is an old saying that others will treat you the way you let them.
As I learn more about life and myself I see that we would all like to be treated well and in order for that to happen "we have to first start being kind to yourself and others", then it will come back.
I came up with Strength / Compassion / Integrity.
From that he then created the symbol of the "Warrior" that I use. I have decided to make these three words into my life principles.
1. Strength of Mind - this is the belief that when your mind is strong it allows you to truly focus on achieving physical wellness which is displayed through your body by creating a mind / body connection.
It also means that you must work towards being pro-active (the warrior) and allow yourself to be less re-active (the worrior).
I use this point a lot in seminars, when I ask people are you a Health Warrior or a Health Worrior. Your life - your choice.
2. Compassion of Heart - this is the belief that if you open yourself up to allow others (and the Universe) you get to truly see who you are, and it can give you a sense of fullness. I find that when I do this I "feel more".
We often get caught up in our own "small" world that we fail to see that life isn't really that bad and the world is a big place. We add drama's when in fact there need not be so many but by being true to yourself you have less doubt.
3. Integrity of Soul - this is the belief that YOU are a product of the life you live. There is an old saying that others will treat you the way you let them.
As I learn more about life and myself I see that we would all like to be treated well and in order for that to happen "we have to first start being kind to yourself and others", then it will come back.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Monday 12th November - Little things can make a HUGE difference
I know that it seems like I am stating the obvious with this blog title but it truly can be the way to see significant changes.
Make the little things count.
I was thinking about all the amazing things that I had found out and also remembered during the writing of my book and there is one point that comes up time and time again.
Reduce your intake of total calories by 100 each day and at the end of a week you have taken in 700 calories LESS. I know that doesn't really sound like much to most people but it is and you should know that 3,500 cals is a kilogram (2 lbs) of fat. That means in 5 weeks with JUST DOING THIS small change you can impact and limit your "bottom line".
Now let's reverse that and see how easy it is to put weight on.
If you consume an additional 100 calories per day in 5 weeks you can add a kilogram or two lbs of fat. It is that easy.
Now with our life policy of "balance and mderation" justifying our excesses, let's say that you are not eating correctly and are consuming 200-500 cals over your required daily intake. Quite easy to do with today's food portion sizes. Let's say that you also consume a few glasses of wine each night (which is worth about 200-250 cals).
That means each week you are adding about an additional 3,500 calories. That means you could be adding the equivalent of a kilogram (2lbs) of fat calories.
Now with this fact we can see the importance of the calories in (total) vs calories out (total) scenario and how it becomes significant.
To meet this additional intake of calories you would need to be working out everyday just so you don't add to your weight and subsequent health problems. Yeah who is doing that ?
I always have to smile when someone starts learning that they should be limiting alcohol intake. As trainers we get this little bit of research thrown at us all the time "alcohol contains anti-oxidants which assist heart health".
Sure there is no fat in alcohol and you get some anti-oxidant values BUT becomes of little to no value with your body being laden down with excess bodyfat.
In fact it will directly impact this "bottom line" as you try to justify your drinking habits and of course you can do this as much as you want. This is your life. But I guarantee that you will be doing it from a position of defeat because it will only be a matter of time until you realize that "life choices" have been poor.
So we are clear. The research actually says a glass a day may assist heart health - one glass. So when you consume half a bottle a night it's not heart healthy it's alcoholism. Also there is new research that indicates that alcohol may be a contributing factor to breast cancer.
(From Womens Health News Sept 2007)
"It is the alcohol itself (ethyl alcohol) and the quantity consumed that increases breast cancer risk. In fact, the increased breast cancer risk from drinking three or more alcoholic drinks a day is similar to the increased breast cancer risk from smoking a packet of cigarettes or more a day, according to Kaiser Permanente researchers Yan Li, MD, PhD and Arthur Klatsky, MD."
This is incredibly scary. Having had a close friend go through breast cancer this year I am not the bearer of bad news but I want you all to know what the potential dangers are for your Human ECO system.
From time to time with this Blog you may think that I am being harsh.
I don't ever intentionally mean to be harsh but for most preventable conditions YOU could be right. I do care and sometimes this presents as "black and white". But I want you to be responsible for your own health and more importantly get healthy NOW and don't wait until something goes wrong.
Make the little things count.
I was thinking about all the amazing things that I had found out and also remembered during the writing of my book and there is one point that comes up time and time again.
Reduce your intake of total calories by 100 each day and at the end of a week you have taken in 700 calories LESS. I know that doesn't really sound like much to most people but it is and you should know that 3,500 cals is a kilogram (2 lbs) of fat. That means in 5 weeks with JUST DOING THIS small change you can impact and limit your "bottom line".
Now let's reverse that and see how easy it is to put weight on.
If you consume an additional 100 calories per day in 5 weeks you can add a kilogram or two lbs of fat. It is that easy.
Now with our life policy of "balance and mderation" justifying our excesses, let's say that you are not eating correctly and are consuming 200-500 cals over your required daily intake. Quite easy to do with today's food portion sizes. Let's say that you also consume a few glasses of wine each night (which is worth about 200-250 cals).
That means each week you are adding about an additional 3,500 calories. That means you could be adding the equivalent of a kilogram (2lbs) of fat calories.
Now with this fact we can see the importance of the calories in (total) vs calories out (total) scenario and how it becomes significant.
To meet this additional intake of calories you would need to be working out everyday just so you don't add to your weight and subsequent health problems. Yeah who is doing that ?
I always have to smile when someone starts learning that they should be limiting alcohol intake. As trainers we get this little bit of research thrown at us all the time "alcohol contains anti-oxidants which assist heart health".
Sure there is no fat in alcohol and you get some anti-oxidant values BUT becomes of little to no value with your body being laden down with excess bodyfat.
In fact it will directly impact this "bottom line" as you try to justify your drinking habits and of course you can do this as much as you want. This is your life. But I guarantee that you will be doing it from a position of defeat because it will only be a matter of time until you realize that "life choices" have been poor.
So we are clear. The research actually says a glass a day may assist heart health - one glass. So when you consume half a bottle a night it's not heart healthy it's alcoholism. Also there is new research that indicates that alcohol may be a contributing factor to breast cancer.
(From Womens Health News Sept 2007)
"It is the alcohol itself (ethyl alcohol) and the quantity consumed that increases breast cancer risk. In fact, the increased breast cancer risk from drinking three or more alcoholic drinks a day is similar to the increased breast cancer risk from smoking a packet of cigarettes or more a day, according to Kaiser Permanente researchers Yan Li, MD, PhD and Arthur Klatsky, MD."
This is incredibly scary. Having had a close friend go through breast cancer this year I am not the bearer of bad news but I want you all to know what the potential dangers are for your Human ECO system.
From time to time with this Blog you may think that I am being harsh.
I don't ever intentionally mean to be harsh but for most preventable conditions YOU could be right. I do care and sometimes this presents as "black and white". But I want you to be responsible for your own health and more importantly get healthy NOW and don't wait until something goes wrong.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Sunday 11th November - We Need Good Fats
There is clear evidence from recent research that there is a direct benefit for our health to consume "good fats" from natural food sources. Modern science has discovered that essential fatty acids (EFAs) do indeed profoundly influence human health and as we can't produce these in the body we need to source them externally.
As we move away from the fat phobia of the 90's that so affected our lives and we now move toward influencing our health through more informed choice, it is starting to resonate on most people's personal radar to embrace this beneficial nutrient of Omega 3 fatty acids that provide the following.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid (EPA and DHA), these two difficult to pronounce fatty acids are responsible for the beneficial effects of Fish Oils. These good fats provide us with not only an energy source but also assist to protect our hearts. Even everyday foods such as bread and cereals are now having these fats added which is a good thing.
My personal favorite is Salmon and I try to consume it two to three times per week as it is a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids. We know that EFAs control or modulate an amazing number of cellular processes and each EFA plays a specific role in the body from assisting to combat heart disease and improve brain functioning plus assisting other health conditions.
If you still find eating "fat" a personal issue then look for quality supplementation. Daily intake for individuals can vary to the individual from about 300mg to 400mg of these EFA's and most commercial products that I have found seem to be a blended oil product that combines a balance of these essential fats in one 1000mg convenient capsule which provides the following ratio of 180mg EPA and 120mg of DHA = Total of 300mg EFA's.
There are a number of natural sources of essential fats including several plants and some species of fish such as salmon, mackeral and tuna. Oils from these sources are often used for dietary supplementation. Natural sources of essential fats include Evening Primrose, Black Currant, Flaxseed and cold water Fish. Fish Oil is prepared mainly from salmon, cod liver, and tuna.
As we move away from the fat phobia of the 90's that so affected our lives and we now move toward influencing our health through more informed choice, it is starting to resonate on most people's personal radar to embrace this beneficial nutrient of Omega 3 fatty acids that provide the following.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid (EPA and DHA), these two difficult to pronounce fatty acids are responsible for the beneficial effects of Fish Oils. These good fats provide us with not only an energy source but also assist to protect our hearts. Even everyday foods such as bread and cereals are now having these fats added which is a good thing.
My personal favorite is Salmon and I try to consume it two to three times per week as it is a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids. We know that EFAs control or modulate an amazing number of cellular processes and each EFA plays a specific role in the body from assisting to combat heart disease and improve brain functioning plus assisting other health conditions.
If you still find eating "fat" a personal issue then look for quality supplementation. Daily intake for individuals can vary to the individual from about 300mg to 400mg of these EFA's and most commercial products that I have found seem to be a blended oil product that combines a balance of these essential fats in one 1000mg convenient capsule which provides the following ratio of 180mg EPA and 120mg of DHA = Total of 300mg EFA's.
There are a number of natural sources of essential fats including several plants and some species of fish such as salmon, mackeral and tuna. Oils from these sources are often used for dietary supplementation. Natural sources of essential fats include Evening Primrose, Black Currant, Flaxseed and cold water Fish. Fish Oil is prepared mainly from salmon, cod liver, and tuna.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Saturday 10th November - What do I have for breakfast ?
It seems that the Blog from yesterday illicited some visceral responses from the emails I received. To the gentleman who wished to remain anonymous your email address came up so it's all good. For the record I don't get offended if you don't agree with me, and in fact if you can prove me wrong all the better as that means I can learn more - which I love to do.
To be clear - telling me that by providing options you are answering what the public wants is not justification for giving them low quality products. I recall my mother telling my brothers, sisters and I that just because you want it doesn't mean you should have it as it may not be good for you. Equally you should also undertake a certain moral compass when you are dealing with other less informed people who rely on your integrity to be part of the selling process. But hey that might just be the way that I was brought up.
Your reply might be - sure that would work in a perfect world that wasn't driven by the almighty $$$ but even so, there comes a time when it should be just as much about your consumer, as it is about your stockholders.
TONY STEPS DOWN OFF HIS SOAPBOX. (well it is my Blog)
So do I consume cereal for breakfast.
No I don't consume anywhere near as much as I used to.
I used to eat a lot of it and recommend it to my clients but now I feel that I should be giving them as much assistance to decypher the "marketing hype" as I can.
For me it was a moment when something went off in my head that asked me this question. What are you going to be doing for the next three hours ?
At the time I was writing the manuscript for the first animated movie that I developed so I replied to the question - just sitting at my desk. Sure I would be working out later in the day but for most of this day I would be just typing. At best I would be getting up occassionally to refill my water bottle and stretch my legs. Little activity for my body.
It occurred to me that I would be better served assessing what my "needs" would be. So I realized that I would need a little energy for serving my body to function but mostly it was all about nutrients for the brain to function optimally.
I would need vitamins and minerals, some amino acids, some good fats but NOT need a lot of sugar laden energy. I wasn't going to be active so I didn't need to eat like an athlete. Had I just finished a workout there could be benefit but I hadn't so I needed to assess on a daily basis what was optimal for my functioning. Do not just grab the same option everyday if your day is different. THINK.
So what do I have. Here it is - recipe for Tony’s Energy Shake.
This is a great way to meet the goal of getting in nutrients and feeling energetic for up to three hours. I also take a vitamin / mineral complex and Omega 3 capsules.
Shake ingredients:
- 100ml of water
- 250ml (or 4oz) of low fat / no fat milk
- ½ cup of Blueberries (or any other berry you like)
- Two scoops of Whey Protein Powder to meet my 30-40g needs
(pick a brand whose taste YOU like. Vanilla can be mixed with any fruit for taste)
+
- I also add "greens" with a product called Kamut Powder. The ultimate wheatgrass juice from the ancient kamut plant, blended with other valuable cereal grasses like barley greens, oatgrass, and alfalfa. One serving is equal to one ounce of fresh wheatgrass juice. It is an organice product that I order from the U.S.
NOTE - Adding ice will increase the consistency and make it thicker if that is your preference.
There it is. Blend and Drink !
To be clear - telling me that by providing options you are answering what the public wants is not justification for giving them low quality products. I recall my mother telling my brothers, sisters and I that just because you want it doesn't mean you should have it as it may not be good for you. Equally you should also undertake a certain moral compass when you are dealing with other less informed people who rely on your integrity to be part of the selling process. But hey that might just be the way that I was brought up.
Your reply might be - sure that would work in a perfect world that wasn't driven by the almighty $$$ but even so, there comes a time when it should be just as much about your consumer, as it is about your stockholders.
TONY STEPS DOWN OFF HIS SOAPBOX. (well it is my Blog)
So do I consume cereal for breakfast.
No I don't consume anywhere near as much as I used to.
I used to eat a lot of it and recommend it to my clients but now I feel that I should be giving them as much assistance to decypher the "marketing hype" as I can.
For me it was a moment when something went off in my head that asked me this question. What are you going to be doing for the next three hours ?
At the time I was writing the manuscript for the first animated movie that I developed so I replied to the question - just sitting at my desk. Sure I would be working out later in the day but for most of this day I would be just typing. At best I would be getting up occassionally to refill my water bottle and stretch my legs. Little activity for my body.
It occurred to me that I would be better served assessing what my "needs" would be. So I realized that I would need a little energy for serving my body to function but mostly it was all about nutrients for the brain to function optimally.
I would need vitamins and minerals, some amino acids, some good fats but NOT need a lot of sugar laden energy. I wasn't going to be active so I didn't need to eat like an athlete. Had I just finished a workout there could be benefit but I hadn't so I needed to assess on a daily basis what was optimal for my functioning. Do not just grab the same option everyday if your day is different. THINK.
So what do I have. Here it is - recipe for Tony’s Energy Shake.
This is a great way to meet the goal of getting in nutrients and feeling energetic for up to three hours. I also take a vitamin / mineral complex and Omega 3 capsules.
Shake ingredients:
- 100ml of water
- 250ml (or 4oz) of low fat / no fat milk
- ½ cup of Blueberries (or any other berry you like)
- Two scoops of Whey Protein Powder to meet my 30-40g needs
(pick a brand whose taste YOU like. Vanilla can be mixed with any fruit for taste)
+
- I also add "greens" with a product called Kamut Powder. The ultimate wheatgrass juice from the ancient kamut plant, blended with other valuable cereal grasses like barley greens, oatgrass, and alfalfa. One serving is equal to one ounce of fresh wheatgrass juice. It is an organice product that I order from the U.S.
NOTE - Adding ice will increase the consistency and make it thicker if that is your preference.
There it is. Blend and Drink !
Friday 9th November - Who Hijacked Breakfast ?
The answer to this question shows us one of the greatest marketing coups of all time - the breakfast cereal companies.
Breakfast used to be about "breaking the fast" from sleeping and taking in food to start the day. Then over the years the new players (other companies) entering the cereal game started to take some market share away from the established food companies that had had a monopoly on this area for years.
In came the alternatives, the copy-cats, the healthier ones and now starting to get a piece of this action are the organic companies.
So the older more established and traditional companies had to begin to use more strategic methods and employ the best marketing minds to regain their profit share. That is really what breakfast is about to them. If you don't purchase and consume their product they don't make money.
And don't be fooled ITS ALL ABOUT MAKING MONEY.
They play on heart strings by telling mothers that research shows that children having breakfast are less likely to have trouble learning - This can be true but is not true when they product is laden with sugar and low quality nutrients as this can impact upon learning.
They play on the power of "want" by adding children's movie and TV identities on the outside of packets so that to stop the screaming war in public most mother's give in and are forced to purchase under pressure - This is not only unfair it is immoral. If your product needs a cartoon superhero to sell it's worth then it is likely to be filled with sugar.
They play on the male ego by getting sports heroes to promote their product and asking us how much of that product do you consume - Clever marketing as you try to consume more to "meet or beat the challenge issued by your hero".
They play on our guilt by telling us that it is low fat and with today's obesity crisis who isn't concerned by that - Again this can be true if it is not also calorie laden or filled with empty calories of sugar as most are.
The latest "breakthrough" is the use of WHOLEGRAINS.
This one annoys me the most.
Nearly all cereals start out as a whole grain but through the "manufacturing process" they remove the benefit for increased fibre which by the way can also lower the GI score (another benefit) and also improve bowel health. So to compete with the lastest research pointing out the benefit of having it included they are now adding it back to counter their competitors who have only ever had the natural product.
Compounding this annoying fact is that they are also not removing the original lower quality product that they have "now improved" but sit it right there alongside each other.
Breakfast should be about taking in quality nutrients to meet your next few hours expediture needs. Notice I never said daily needs because you are going to be having another refuelling stop in a few hours. Most people consume enough total calories in this first setting then go and reduce their levels of activity which means that most of that nutrient intake is stockpiled.
This is another part of OUR obesity problem.
Eating too much and then doing too little.
Think about what you consume for breakfast and which marketing genius' idea for his employer did you buy into, to add to the food company's bottom line (profits). Instead let's start to remove a little off our bottom (line).
Eat Less and Move More !!
Breakfast used to be about "breaking the fast" from sleeping and taking in food to start the day. Then over the years the new players (other companies) entering the cereal game started to take some market share away from the established food companies that had had a monopoly on this area for years.
In came the alternatives, the copy-cats, the healthier ones and now starting to get a piece of this action are the organic companies.
So the older more established and traditional companies had to begin to use more strategic methods and employ the best marketing minds to regain their profit share. That is really what breakfast is about to them. If you don't purchase and consume their product they don't make money.
And don't be fooled ITS ALL ABOUT MAKING MONEY.
They play on heart strings by telling mothers that research shows that children having breakfast are less likely to have trouble learning - This can be true but is not true when they product is laden with sugar and low quality nutrients as this can impact upon learning.
They play on the power of "want" by adding children's movie and TV identities on the outside of packets so that to stop the screaming war in public most mother's give in and are forced to purchase under pressure - This is not only unfair it is immoral. If your product needs a cartoon superhero to sell it's worth then it is likely to be filled with sugar.
They play on the male ego by getting sports heroes to promote their product and asking us how much of that product do you consume - Clever marketing as you try to consume more to "meet or beat the challenge issued by your hero".
They play on our guilt by telling us that it is low fat and with today's obesity crisis who isn't concerned by that - Again this can be true if it is not also calorie laden or filled with empty calories of sugar as most are.
The latest "breakthrough" is the use of WHOLEGRAINS.
This one annoys me the most.
Nearly all cereals start out as a whole grain but through the "manufacturing process" they remove the benefit for increased fibre which by the way can also lower the GI score (another benefit) and also improve bowel health. So to compete with the lastest research pointing out the benefit of having it included they are now adding it back to counter their competitors who have only ever had the natural product.
Compounding this annoying fact is that they are also not removing the original lower quality product that they have "now improved" but sit it right there alongside each other.
Breakfast should be about taking in quality nutrients to meet your next few hours expediture needs. Notice I never said daily needs because you are going to be having another refuelling stop in a few hours. Most people consume enough total calories in this first setting then go and reduce their levels of activity which means that most of that nutrient intake is stockpiled.
This is another part of OUR obesity problem.
Eating too much and then doing too little.
Think about what you consume for breakfast and which marketing genius' idea for his employer did you buy into, to add to the food company's bottom line (profits). Instead let's start to remove a little off our bottom (line).
Eat Less and Move More !!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Thursday 8th November - Thoughts for YOU
I have looked at these on the wall of my office for the last few months and decided that they are more powerful when they are shared. They came from Mother Theresa.
People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centred.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful you will win some false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat on you.
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the end, it is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.
People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centred.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful you will win some false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat on you.
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the end, it is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Wednesday 7th November - Supplements = Good or Bad ?
There appears to be more questions / confusion over this point than seems to make sense. I do understand that with OBESITY raging out of control everyone is looking "for an edge". However I find that most people are looking for a quick fix or a way to cut corners.
To be healthy and lean (in a good way) there are NO SHORTCUTS !
I think of people taking supplements of any kind APART FROM A DAILY MULTI VITAMIN / MINERAL combination whose eating habits are poor and activity levels are low as taking part in the weekly Lotto draw. You might win but it's more likely you will just waste your money.
So are they any good ? Like most things in life they can be. I rate them as being of assistance for what I term nutritional support IF and I say IF - YOU DO WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR OPTIMIZING YOUR HEALTH GOALS of eating well and being active. Sure this seems like less fun and more hard work to most people which is why we have this obesity crisis.
Now supplement companies are smart. They know that you will believe what they tell you in their promotions. I want you to take a look at the next advertising campaign that you see and you say to yourself "wow, I want to have abs / or a butt like that person" then look through the magazine and see if that "person" is also recommending any other product. You will probably find they have been enlisted to promote multiple products from a companies range.
Look at the "fitness model" or "elite level athlete" that you admire, as this is their normal profession and ask yourself these questions.
1. Do you have the same lifestyle as this person ?
2. Do you have the same activity levels as this person ?
3. Do you think that this is the only product they are promoting ?
4. Do you think that if you take this product you will look like them ?
If you answered NO to any part of that little survey then the chances of getting that same result from that product is slim. If you think it will give you the same result you should rush right out and buy lotto tickets.
Now what would I recommend for the average person that has no pre-existing health conditions ?
I have been involved fitness for over 20+ years and so have developed this list from what I have learned over those many years of personal research and also through consultation with other subject matter experts.
THE A TEAM.
A. Eating Clean: There is nothing higher on my list than having great eating habits. With preventable diseases running out of control we need to being to protect our "cells". This has been a lession that I have had to modify with new research as the benefit of macro-nutrients vs micro-nutrients has changed. Which is why I developed the evolutionary eating plan titled "RAINBOW NUTRIENT REFUELLING". If you are not eating clean you could be wasting your money on supplements. School is in and the lessons start here!
B. Multi-vitamin & mineral: My number 1 on the charts with a bullet (means gaining value everyday). The more I learn the more I place a high value on ensuring that you get all your vitamins & minerals. Double this need when are being active (or breathing in today's pollution levels - bottom line get yourself a good one).
C. Protein powder (Whey): My number 2 and staying steady. Getting the necessary intake of protein through eating foods is difficult (contrary to what "experts" say about the amount we need - ask to see their abs). Taking it in powdered make it much easier. Powders seem to be absorbed faster by the body making them ideal after workouts or after sleep (start the day with my Energy Shake - recipe tomorrow).
D. Water: My other personal favourite. So little value is given to this essential element of your body that like the term "health" it is taken for granted that we will be getting enough. I find that most people all over the world are guilty of over-estimating and under-consuming "enough" water. Get 8 glasses every day. More is required on days that you are active.
E. Omega 3 (good fat): This little favourite is starting to make a big comeback. After dropping off the charts in the nineties when we all became fat phobic and carb paranoid there is more and more research to indicate that for brain health in later life this one is a good strategic partner. There is also some research that this could be beneficial for children to cope with developmental and behavioural issues. Pictures at 11.
THE B TEAM.
The more specialized supplements for very active individuals.
(Note I said very active individuals):
A. Creatine: This is definitely for those that are doing harder workouts. It can assist workout recovery as well as increasing muscle size as it increases the water held inside the muscle cell.
B. Amino Acid support with L-glutamine: This has been shown to be an effective nutrient for supporting the immune system and aids in muscle recovery.
C. Fat Loss Thermogenics: Can be harmful if you are taking medications. These are making a huge amount of money for companies by getting promoted heavily in print media with before and after shots. You see them less on TV as the advertising guidelines are stricter. Proven research has them at about a "possible" rating although they will have little to know benefit if you are eating bad. Save your money on them for your next SuperSize meal if you think they will solve your bodyfat issues as you chow down on fast food.
To be healthy and lean (in a good way) there are NO SHORTCUTS !
I think of people taking supplements of any kind APART FROM A DAILY MULTI VITAMIN / MINERAL combination whose eating habits are poor and activity levels are low as taking part in the weekly Lotto draw. You might win but it's more likely you will just waste your money.
So are they any good ? Like most things in life they can be. I rate them as being of assistance for what I term nutritional support IF and I say IF - YOU DO WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR OPTIMIZING YOUR HEALTH GOALS of eating well and being active. Sure this seems like less fun and more hard work to most people which is why we have this obesity crisis.
Now supplement companies are smart. They know that you will believe what they tell you in their promotions. I want you to take a look at the next advertising campaign that you see and you say to yourself "wow, I want to have abs / or a butt like that person" then look through the magazine and see if that "person" is also recommending any other product. You will probably find they have been enlisted to promote multiple products from a companies range.
Look at the "fitness model" or "elite level athlete" that you admire, as this is their normal profession and ask yourself these questions.
1. Do you have the same lifestyle as this person ?
2. Do you have the same activity levels as this person ?
3. Do you think that this is the only product they are promoting ?
4. Do you think that if you take this product you will look like them ?
If you answered NO to any part of that little survey then the chances of getting that same result from that product is slim. If you think it will give you the same result you should rush right out and buy lotto tickets.
Now what would I recommend for the average person that has no pre-existing health conditions ?
I have been involved fitness for over 20+ years and so have developed this list from what I have learned over those many years of personal research and also through consultation with other subject matter experts.
THE A TEAM.
A. Eating Clean: There is nothing higher on my list than having great eating habits. With preventable diseases running out of control we need to being to protect our "cells". This has been a lession that I have had to modify with new research as the benefit of macro-nutrients vs micro-nutrients has changed. Which is why I developed the evolutionary eating plan titled "RAINBOW NUTRIENT REFUELLING". If you are not eating clean you could be wasting your money on supplements. School is in and the lessons start here!
B. Multi-vitamin & mineral: My number 1 on the charts with a bullet (means gaining value everyday). The more I learn the more I place a high value on ensuring that you get all your vitamins & minerals. Double this need when are being active (or breathing in today's pollution levels - bottom line get yourself a good one).
C. Protein powder (Whey): My number 2 and staying steady. Getting the necessary intake of protein through eating foods is difficult (contrary to what "experts" say about the amount we need - ask to see their abs). Taking it in powdered make it much easier. Powders seem to be absorbed faster by the body making them ideal after workouts or after sleep (start the day with my Energy Shake - recipe tomorrow).
D. Water: My other personal favourite. So little value is given to this essential element of your body that like the term "health" it is taken for granted that we will be getting enough. I find that most people all over the world are guilty of over-estimating and under-consuming "enough" water. Get 8 glasses every day. More is required on days that you are active.
E. Omega 3 (good fat): This little favourite is starting to make a big comeback. After dropping off the charts in the nineties when we all became fat phobic and carb paranoid there is more and more research to indicate that for brain health in later life this one is a good strategic partner. There is also some research that this could be beneficial for children to cope with developmental and behavioural issues. Pictures at 11.
THE B TEAM.
The more specialized supplements for very active individuals.
(Note I said very active individuals):
A. Creatine: This is definitely for those that are doing harder workouts. It can assist workout recovery as well as increasing muscle size as it increases the water held inside the muscle cell.
B. Amino Acid support with L-glutamine: This has been shown to be an effective nutrient for supporting the immune system and aids in muscle recovery.
C. Fat Loss Thermogenics: Can be harmful if you are taking medications. These are making a huge amount of money for companies by getting promoted heavily in print media with before and after shots. You see them less on TV as the advertising guidelines are stricter. Proven research has them at about a "possible" rating although they will have little to know benefit if you are eating bad. Save your money on them for your next SuperSize meal if you think they will solve your bodyfat issues as you chow down on fast food.
Tuesday 6th November - Eating Out Tips - Sauces
I got an interesting email from a friend who asked me when I go out for dinner do I get various sauces for the meal on the side of my plate. Normally I get them on the side as I am never quite sure what is in them.
While this may seem an unusual question it reminded me that you may also not what is in various sauces so I did some research and thought that I would share this with you all.
NOTE - some restaurants may thicken various sauces with wheat or cornflour so if you are on a particular diet this is good to know.
Bearnaise Sauce - white wine vinegar, white wine, shallots, tarragon, sald and pepper, egg yolk, butter, lemon juice, parsley
Hollandaise Sauce - egg yolk, lemon juice, butter
Pesto Sauce - basil, olive oil, hard cheese, pine nuts
White Sauce - butter, wheat flour, milk, black pepper
Cheese Sauce - butter, wheat flour, milk, black pepper, hard cheese
Gravy - meat juices (fat run-off) or meat stock, wheat flour, butter, pepper
Red Wine Jus - red wine, meat stock or juices, shallots, butter
BBQ Sauce - onion, olive oil, garlic, chilli, brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato sauce, pepper
Prawn Cocktail Sauce - prawns, lemon, tomato sauce, yoghurt, worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire Sauce - tamarind, chilli, anchovies, wine vinegar, molasses, cloves, garlic, onion
Now there may be variations of these sauces that individuals have but I just wanted to give you an idea of what the more common ones that I had encountered were. Hope it helps to provide you with some insight when next you are out.
While this may seem an unusual question it reminded me that you may also not what is in various sauces so I did some research and thought that I would share this with you all.
NOTE - some restaurants may thicken various sauces with wheat or cornflour so if you are on a particular diet this is good to know.
Bearnaise Sauce - white wine vinegar, white wine, shallots, tarragon, sald and pepper, egg yolk, butter, lemon juice, parsley
Hollandaise Sauce - egg yolk, lemon juice, butter
Pesto Sauce - basil, olive oil, hard cheese, pine nuts
White Sauce - butter, wheat flour, milk, black pepper
Cheese Sauce - butter, wheat flour, milk, black pepper, hard cheese
Gravy - meat juices (fat run-off) or meat stock, wheat flour, butter, pepper
Red Wine Jus - red wine, meat stock or juices, shallots, butter
BBQ Sauce - onion, olive oil, garlic, chilli, brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato sauce, pepper
Prawn Cocktail Sauce - prawns, lemon, tomato sauce, yoghurt, worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire Sauce - tamarind, chilli, anchovies, wine vinegar, molasses, cloves, garlic, onion
Now there may be variations of these sauces that individuals have but I just wanted to give you an idea of what the more common ones that I had encountered were. Hope it helps to provide you with some insight when next you are out.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Monday 6th November - How things happen
I have always been a fan of finding time out for yourself as I believe that this helps you to remember the importance of downtime and reward for hard work.
My personal favourite is to go and do Yoga.
Now I use this less as a physical workout and more as a mental de-stress. I am relatively new to Yoga, having only been doing it for this year with my preference being POWERYOGA. From what I have learnt it is a more physically challenging activity than other forms of traditional Yoga and also not having loud music while I workout has often led me to places that I have not been.
I find that at the end of a session I feel recharged, and often inspired to question my long held beliefs of traditional workouts and the benefit for others. I see that as a good thing.
Yesterday I was taking a "coffee break" from writing the story for my next animated movie project when a friend asked me to look after her two boys (ages 2 and 5) as she had some errands to run.
Sure I said. I was looking forward to it and began a journey I am sure that many parents run into. Now I am not a parent (yet god willing), but there are many traps that an unsuspecting adult will walk into as I will describe.
I picked up the boys and got the usual set of necessary instructions.
There was a loose plan to go to a park and play games and use the equipment which as a personal trainer suited me right down to the ground. This was going to be easy I thought as we headed off.
First challenge was finding them a song on the radio that didnt have "adult overtones" because as we were driving along a song was playing (I hadn't even thought they were listening) came a question "Uncle Tony what does that mean?" asked the five year old. His question was about adult behaviours and as I wasn't the parent (or having any kids of my own) I did what any smart uncle or auntie would do I replied "it doesn't mean anything ...... who wants a drink ?". There was unanimous chorus of "me, me, me, me!!!!"
Pulling over we went into the store. First though we had to "unload" them both as I wasn't for a minute going to let them out of my sight. This exercise took a few minutes while we first laid down the "rules of engagement" (I'm also ex-military) for entry into the store, defining our target and strategy for purchase.
Feeling pretty confident so far (little did I know) we headed into the store. Upon entry all semblance of calm was eliminated as "chaos" broke out. Now these two boys are gorgeous and well mannered so I was stunned when little hands were grabbing anything they could reach. As I replaced one grabbed item I turned around to see that the elder boy was not in my line of vision. Panic broke out as I picked up the little one and with a voice that has commanded over a hundred people on a parade ground boomed loudly and clearly "Where are you ?". This "voice" sent fear and horror in the hearts of all the elderly people in the store. (Not my intent).
At the end of the aisle and from around the corner appears the little face. "Here I am Uncle Tony" he replied with a smile that could melt ice.
As my heart beat slowed down from panic to fear to anger to peace to joy I raced to his side and asked "why did you run off like that?". He looked at me like I was from Mars as he held up his newly acquired drink saying "I was getting my drink Uncle Tony". From the mouths of babes.
I nodded in defeat as my heart rate started to return to below 100 as the younger one now resembling a greased up pig struggled to get to the floor with cries of "down, down, down" and as I put him down he was off like that the before mentioned pig. Thinking that I had learnt my lesson I was off in hot pursuit with the five year old secured to me getting a piggy back ride.
Lesson for the uninitiated and Tip One - do not wear white when playing with children !!!
As I ran I noticed not only the sweat starting to build up on my forehead but the cool sensation of apple juice dripping down my back which leads us to Tip Two - they put stoppers on juice bottles for a reason. However not all children are savvy with this fact so before taking off in pursuit of child two, I should have secured the stopper.
The little one's legs were not able to get him far and my eyes had never left him the whole time I stopped, secured the stopper, reloaded the five year old and pursued. Now I know that there will be smiles from those that are parents because you not only know what I am talking about but you also realize that we have only just begun this trip and not even reached the park yet.
Finally we left the store after a "little heated discussion" over the benefits of water vs juice vs flavoured milk vs soft drink (soda). I can't help it I care about their little bodies and what goes into it. There was a small negotation that would have made the United Nations proud as we agreed on an Apple Juice for the elder one and a flavoured milk for the young one (because it had Spiderman on it - thanks you Marketing morons whom I bet don't have children or look after them !!!).
I settled on a large bottle of water for myself as I had a plan forming.
We reloaded the car and I'm sure that there have been trips to outer space that didn't involve so many safety checks. Seatbelts on and secured - check. Child safety locks on the backdoors - check. Drinks within reach - check. Radio off - check. Seatbelts on and secured - rechecked. Hey what can I say I was a little paranoid. These were someone else's children entrusted to my care.
Driving well within the speed limits we arrived at the designated park. From the back I hear "this is not the park that Mom takes us to". As I looked in the rear view mirror at the boys I noticed that my eyeballs looked like those of a cartoon character. (please stop laughing this was not in my carefully scripted plan)
Quickly I regained control of the situation and applied an often well used stratgic military metaphor of Improvise, Adapt, Overcome and replied "I know but this is a special park that I found for us". "Oh" he smiled back at me.
Parking the car we then went through the routine of disembarking. Everthing was unloaded including the bikes to ride. Now any Mother will tell you that you unload in stages but no I hadn't attended that strategy brief and so looked like a "loaded up pack sherpa from the Himalayas" with two children in tow. At the park there were a group of Mothers sitting talking while their children played on the equipment or hung in groups. They all watched my approach with knowing yet supportive smiles.
As I selected an appropriate location for "base camp" there was the sound of running footsteps closely followed by a second set moving away from our designated location. I turned to see them both heading for the equipment and keeping one eye peeled on their location set about to act out my earlier conceived plan. The milk was long since gone, either drunk or part of my floor covering in my "newly child marked car". The juice container was half full so I topped it up with water and shook it. Hydration Plan - tick.
Dropping the remainder of my load to the ground I set off after them. For about 30 minutes of continuous play we climbed, ran, jumped, rode, swung, chased, rode again, then finally they got thirsty. As we headed back to our "spot" we were all very sweaty so I was feeling very righteous about my earlier hydration plan.
Then World War 7.5 broke out. The little one got back first and grabbed the juice bottle and started drinking. The scream of anger went up to a decibel that could cause blood to leave my ears "that's my drink" he oldest child screamed at this brother.
My eyes rolled back in my head and I thought to myself "you idiot !!!!".
The sharing rule is mixed up with siblings and I should remember because I was one of six children.
This "distrubance" hadn't been in the little script of events I had planned so I quickly grabbed the juice bottle and froze as two little sets of eyes looked up at me and started to fill with tears. Now where was my brilliant military mind - come on I thought they are waiting.
I scanned the park looking for some possible scenario that could prevail. Time stood still as I turned back and forth to each child knowing that there was no winner here and I had failed.
Just when all seemed lost and I wished that the earth would swallow me up so that I didn't have to break someones heart, to my rescue came what appeared a saving angel. It was of course one of the other Mothers who had witnessed my disaster and appearing with two cups said "just pour some of the juice into each cup" which I did. She then handed them to the boys who took their cups and drank like they would never see liquid again.
She smiled at me and said "first time huh?"
Of course there was no point in even trying to deny it as I nodded in resolution.
She patted me on the back and said "you have had them laughing and playing for the whole time - all the Mothers are thinking of hiring you out" she winked and walked off. And like that the issue of sharing drinks was solved. I slumped to the ground and watched them drink as the water bottle made it's way to my mouth.
We finished our drinks and again played until the yawns started.
The boys even got tired too hahaha. Reloading was much easier and heading back to their home I felt that sense of joy that "playing brings you". Sometimes as aduls we forget that playing is what brought us the most joy as children and as adult we try to limit that in our lives because that is what children do.
Forget that - let's beat this OBESITY CRISIS old school style so go outside and run around, spin till you fall over, jump rope, try hopscotch, jump in puddles (wear old shoes and pants). It is time that we went back to our childhood because all the answers are there!
Having had support from the "group of mothers" was a huge benefit and made me realize that sometimes life is more about living and being involved in that process then it has ever been about the way we look.
Listen to anyone who is a new parent and their eyes seem to be "glazed over by the wonder of life and all that it holds" and yesterday I had a taste of this and it was amazing. I haven't giggled and laughed so much in a long time but I bet you I will be doing it a lot more now.
I am sure that there were two little people (plus one big person) who went to bed early last night and slept like they had just taken part in the New York City marathon - and didnt move until the light came up this morning !!
To all the mothers and fathers out there - I both envy and admire you.
It was a totally tiring and exhausting day both physically and emotionally for me but one that I would do again in a heart beat. I will be posting my child minding fees in the coming weeks hahahahahaha.
My personal favourite is to go and do Yoga.
Now I use this less as a physical workout and more as a mental de-stress. I am relatively new to Yoga, having only been doing it for this year with my preference being POWERYOGA. From what I have learnt it is a more physically challenging activity than other forms of traditional Yoga and also not having loud music while I workout has often led me to places that I have not been.
I find that at the end of a session I feel recharged, and often inspired to question my long held beliefs of traditional workouts and the benefit for others. I see that as a good thing.
Yesterday I was taking a "coffee break" from writing the story for my next animated movie project when a friend asked me to look after her two boys (ages 2 and 5) as she had some errands to run.
Sure I said. I was looking forward to it and began a journey I am sure that many parents run into. Now I am not a parent (yet god willing), but there are many traps that an unsuspecting adult will walk into as I will describe.
I picked up the boys and got the usual set of necessary instructions.
There was a loose plan to go to a park and play games and use the equipment which as a personal trainer suited me right down to the ground. This was going to be easy I thought as we headed off.
First challenge was finding them a song on the radio that didnt have "adult overtones" because as we were driving along a song was playing (I hadn't even thought they were listening) came a question "Uncle Tony what does that mean?" asked the five year old. His question was about adult behaviours and as I wasn't the parent (or having any kids of my own) I did what any smart uncle or auntie would do I replied "it doesn't mean anything ...... who wants a drink ?". There was unanimous chorus of "me, me, me, me!!!!"
Pulling over we went into the store. First though we had to "unload" them both as I wasn't for a minute going to let them out of my sight. This exercise took a few minutes while we first laid down the "rules of engagement" (I'm also ex-military) for entry into the store, defining our target and strategy for purchase.
Feeling pretty confident so far (little did I know) we headed into the store. Upon entry all semblance of calm was eliminated as "chaos" broke out. Now these two boys are gorgeous and well mannered so I was stunned when little hands were grabbing anything they could reach. As I replaced one grabbed item I turned around to see that the elder boy was not in my line of vision. Panic broke out as I picked up the little one and with a voice that has commanded over a hundred people on a parade ground boomed loudly and clearly "Where are you ?". This "voice" sent fear and horror in the hearts of all the elderly people in the store. (Not my intent).
At the end of the aisle and from around the corner appears the little face. "Here I am Uncle Tony" he replied with a smile that could melt ice.
As my heart beat slowed down from panic to fear to anger to peace to joy I raced to his side and asked "why did you run off like that?". He looked at me like I was from Mars as he held up his newly acquired drink saying "I was getting my drink Uncle Tony". From the mouths of babes.
I nodded in defeat as my heart rate started to return to below 100 as the younger one now resembling a greased up pig struggled to get to the floor with cries of "down, down, down" and as I put him down he was off like that the before mentioned pig. Thinking that I had learnt my lesson I was off in hot pursuit with the five year old secured to me getting a piggy back ride.
Lesson for the uninitiated and Tip One - do not wear white when playing with children !!!
As I ran I noticed not only the sweat starting to build up on my forehead but the cool sensation of apple juice dripping down my back which leads us to Tip Two - they put stoppers on juice bottles for a reason. However not all children are savvy with this fact so before taking off in pursuit of child two, I should have secured the stopper.
The little one's legs were not able to get him far and my eyes had never left him the whole time I stopped, secured the stopper, reloaded the five year old and pursued. Now I know that there will be smiles from those that are parents because you not only know what I am talking about but you also realize that we have only just begun this trip and not even reached the park yet.
Finally we left the store after a "little heated discussion" over the benefits of water vs juice vs flavoured milk vs soft drink (soda). I can't help it I care about their little bodies and what goes into it. There was a small negotation that would have made the United Nations proud as we agreed on an Apple Juice for the elder one and a flavoured milk for the young one (because it had Spiderman on it - thanks you Marketing morons whom I bet don't have children or look after them !!!).
I settled on a large bottle of water for myself as I had a plan forming.
We reloaded the car and I'm sure that there have been trips to outer space that didn't involve so many safety checks. Seatbelts on and secured - check. Child safety locks on the backdoors - check. Drinks within reach - check. Radio off - check. Seatbelts on and secured - rechecked. Hey what can I say I was a little paranoid. These were someone else's children entrusted to my care.
Driving well within the speed limits we arrived at the designated park. From the back I hear "this is not the park that Mom takes us to". As I looked in the rear view mirror at the boys I noticed that my eyeballs looked like those of a cartoon character. (please stop laughing this was not in my carefully scripted plan)
Quickly I regained control of the situation and applied an often well used stratgic military metaphor of Improvise, Adapt, Overcome and replied "I know but this is a special park that I found for us". "Oh" he smiled back at me.
Parking the car we then went through the routine of disembarking. Everthing was unloaded including the bikes to ride. Now any Mother will tell you that you unload in stages but no I hadn't attended that strategy brief and so looked like a "loaded up pack sherpa from the Himalayas" with two children in tow. At the park there were a group of Mothers sitting talking while their children played on the equipment or hung in groups. They all watched my approach with knowing yet supportive smiles.
As I selected an appropriate location for "base camp" there was the sound of running footsteps closely followed by a second set moving away from our designated location. I turned to see them both heading for the equipment and keeping one eye peeled on their location set about to act out my earlier conceived plan. The milk was long since gone, either drunk or part of my floor covering in my "newly child marked car". The juice container was half full so I topped it up with water and shook it. Hydration Plan - tick.
Dropping the remainder of my load to the ground I set off after them. For about 30 minutes of continuous play we climbed, ran, jumped, rode, swung, chased, rode again, then finally they got thirsty. As we headed back to our "spot" we were all very sweaty so I was feeling very righteous about my earlier hydration plan.
Then World War 7.5 broke out. The little one got back first and grabbed the juice bottle and started drinking. The scream of anger went up to a decibel that could cause blood to leave my ears "that's my drink" he oldest child screamed at this brother.
My eyes rolled back in my head and I thought to myself "you idiot !!!!".
The sharing rule is mixed up with siblings and I should remember because I was one of six children.
This "distrubance" hadn't been in the little script of events I had planned so I quickly grabbed the juice bottle and froze as two little sets of eyes looked up at me and started to fill with tears. Now where was my brilliant military mind - come on I thought they are waiting.
I scanned the park looking for some possible scenario that could prevail. Time stood still as I turned back and forth to each child knowing that there was no winner here and I had failed.
Just when all seemed lost and I wished that the earth would swallow me up so that I didn't have to break someones heart, to my rescue came what appeared a saving angel. It was of course one of the other Mothers who had witnessed my disaster and appearing with two cups said "just pour some of the juice into each cup" which I did. She then handed them to the boys who took their cups and drank like they would never see liquid again.
She smiled at me and said "first time huh?"
Of course there was no point in even trying to deny it as I nodded in resolution.
She patted me on the back and said "you have had them laughing and playing for the whole time - all the Mothers are thinking of hiring you out" she winked and walked off. And like that the issue of sharing drinks was solved. I slumped to the ground and watched them drink as the water bottle made it's way to my mouth.
We finished our drinks and again played until the yawns started.
The boys even got tired too hahaha. Reloading was much easier and heading back to their home I felt that sense of joy that "playing brings you". Sometimes as aduls we forget that playing is what brought us the most joy as children and as adult we try to limit that in our lives because that is what children do.
Forget that - let's beat this OBESITY CRISIS old school style so go outside and run around, spin till you fall over, jump rope, try hopscotch, jump in puddles (wear old shoes and pants). It is time that we went back to our childhood because all the answers are there!
Having had support from the "group of mothers" was a huge benefit and made me realize that sometimes life is more about living and being involved in that process then it has ever been about the way we look.
Listen to anyone who is a new parent and their eyes seem to be "glazed over by the wonder of life and all that it holds" and yesterday I had a taste of this and it was amazing. I haven't giggled and laughed so much in a long time but I bet you I will be doing it a lot more now.
I am sure that there were two little people (plus one big person) who went to bed early last night and slept like they had just taken part in the New York City marathon - and didnt move until the light came up this morning !!
To all the mothers and fathers out there - I both envy and admire you.
It was a totally tiring and exhausting day both physically and emotionally for me but one that I would do again in a heart beat. I will be posting my child minding fees in the coming weeks hahahahahaha.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Sunday 4th November - Summer of Salads
I was attending (and presenting) at Matt O'Neill's Nutrition Conference here in Sydney two weekends ago and I was impressed by the little ways that we can start to influence the eating habits of others just by changing their perception.
One of the event sponsors had supplied a giveaway book which was full of great easy salad ideas. Matt was mentioning that down here in the Southern Hemisphere it is rapidly approaching the warmest time of the year (for most people that means swimwear and Beach time) and how the salads were again going to become a staple part of everyone's eating habits.
He spoke of the "Summer of Salads" and for me it brought about memories of days when I was a child of the family all munching and crunching on large crispy lettuce leaves and big ripe tomatoes. Then I recalled more recent times of BBQ's and plates piled high with delicious salads.
The power of this "word association" example was proven this week when I had friends over for dinner and had cooked up lamb kebabs on the BBQ then prepared a salad that I had seen on one of the shows on the Food Network channel. It was relatively simple with Baby Spinach leaves, chunky tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and cubed pear pieces.
Simple dressing of olive oil, lemon and herbs. And presto - tasty salad.
They all commented on how good the food was and loved eating salad with Summer coming on. I was also complimented on this combination which was really tasty (of course I failed to mention that I had seen it on a cooking show - a man has to take praise wherever he can get it).
I then asked them who was going to give this meal a go and they all said they would.
The Summer of Salads is upon us so don't wait - get some on your plate now.
The bonus is that with all those fibre filled nutrients you can load up your plate without feeling bad about solving your hunger issues and still be able to meet your daily goal to be healthier.
One of the event sponsors had supplied a giveaway book which was full of great easy salad ideas. Matt was mentioning that down here in the Southern Hemisphere it is rapidly approaching the warmest time of the year (for most people that means swimwear and Beach time) and how the salads were again going to become a staple part of everyone's eating habits.
He spoke of the "Summer of Salads" and for me it brought about memories of days when I was a child of the family all munching and crunching on large crispy lettuce leaves and big ripe tomatoes. Then I recalled more recent times of BBQ's and plates piled high with delicious salads.
The power of this "word association" example was proven this week when I had friends over for dinner and had cooked up lamb kebabs on the BBQ then prepared a salad that I had seen on one of the shows on the Food Network channel. It was relatively simple with Baby Spinach leaves, chunky tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and cubed pear pieces.
Simple dressing of olive oil, lemon and herbs. And presto - tasty salad.
They all commented on how good the food was and loved eating salad with Summer coming on. I was also complimented on this combination which was really tasty (of course I failed to mention that I had seen it on a cooking show - a man has to take praise wherever he can get it).
I then asked them who was going to give this meal a go and they all said they would.
The Summer of Salads is upon us so don't wait - get some on your plate now.
The bonus is that with all those fibre filled nutrients you can load up your plate without feeling bad about solving your hunger issues and still be able to meet your daily goal to be healthier.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Saturday 3rd November - FIVE strategic tips and a reality check
These are five (5) strategic tips to help you make your plan (and commitment) for getting the kind of body you want.
I say kind of body you want because after being involved in this field for so many years I have never met anyone that is "happy with their body". When you get close to the original goal you will move the goal posts meaning that most people think, if I got this close to my goal, I could probably get a little further if I put in more effort. Not always the case.
Very few people get up in the morning and like what they see.
I have heard it called "stranger in the mirror" syndrome. You do not see what others see and rarely will you truly believe what you have been told by others. Surely my own eyes can't lie so I must be that person with the (insert bad bodypart here) that I see.
This "negative self image" includes the models you see on magazine covers (before they are air-brushed), the fitness models that market you fat loss products and equipment for companies and the athletes at the top of their game. So don't be hard on yourself. There is no perfect body and there is no one with it.
We should all aspire to be the best we can be. But let us all take a reality check. If you are not Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie you never will be, so it is not respectful to yourself to ask a trainer to make you into them (which he/she can't).
Only Jennifer or Angelina can be themselves.
You can only be a better YOU and that should be good enough.
Rarely have I met anyone when I was a fitness trainer that came to see me and said that they want to be a better them which really should be our goal. Then maybe we might learn to like not only who we are but what we are.
So let's take a look at these top 5 tips :
1. Try to focus on the positive.
2. Let go of the past.
3. Organize your life.
4. Don't just do it - do it well.
5. Practice LIFE with enthusiasm and passion !
I say kind of body you want because after being involved in this field for so many years I have never met anyone that is "happy with their body". When you get close to the original goal you will move the goal posts meaning that most people think, if I got this close to my goal, I could probably get a little further if I put in more effort. Not always the case.
Very few people get up in the morning and like what they see.
I have heard it called "stranger in the mirror" syndrome. You do not see what others see and rarely will you truly believe what you have been told by others. Surely my own eyes can't lie so I must be that person with the (insert bad bodypart here) that I see.
This "negative self image" includes the models you see on magazine covers (before they are air-brushed), the fitness models that market you fat loss products and equipment for companies and the athletes at the top of their game. So don't be hard on yourself. There is no perfect body and there is no one with it.
We should all aspire to be the best we can be. But let us all take a reality check. If you are not Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie you never will be, so it is not respectful to yourself to ask a trainer to make you into them (which he/she can't).
Only Jennifer or Angelina can be themselves.
You can only be a better YOU and that should be good enough.
Rarely have I met anyone when I was a fitness trainer that came to see me and said that they want to be a better them which really should be our goal. Then maybe we might learn to like not only who we are but what we are.
So let's take a look at these top 5 tips :
1. Try to focus on the positive.
2. Let go of the past.
3. Organize your life.
4. Don't just do it - do it well.
5. Practice LIFE with enthusiasm and passion !
Friday 2nd November - Do fat loss supplements work ?
I got an email yesterday askiing me if fat loss supplements really work.
This question leaves me challenged to answer it as there are so many variables that are actually involved with this but I want to state the obvious first.
No product, pill or potion is going to be of assistance in your efforts to lose bodyfat if you are not eating the correct range of foods in the right amounts at the right times. They also will be of little to no value if you are not exercising to utilize the "excess calories" that you are consuming.
I say excess because you actually need a certain amount of "good calories" to ensure that you body and brain are working at their optimal. It is the "excess" of this requirement that you will need to get rid of with an active lifestyle that will allow you to show definition.
Okay now to the pills on the market.
Most tablets, capsules, pills etc that are being marketed as fat metabolisers are really not designed to increase calorie expenditure.
Their goal is to influence your metabolism so that your body is using more calories then just through eating well or exercise alone. Most of the better products encourage a "different eating plan" to what you were on increasing the chances of improvement. The ingredients in them are mostly herbal and not pharmaceutical grade as Ephedra, the one major ingredient that was in most products in the late 90's was linked to some deaths and has since been banned from over the counter supplement products.
Do they work ?
The scientific community is still out on this one although each company has their own testing to prove efficacy and there are no end to the "before" and "after" shots of people who have used these products. Whether it was the product in isolation is questionable as most people also underwent major lifestyle changes increasing their result. I guess you will have to make your own decision but read my cautions below.
Would I recommend them to everyone - NO !
Who would I definitely NOT tell to use them ?
Anyone that is taking blood pressure medication.
Anyone that is taking medications that are listed on the various products.
Anyone that is on taking prescription medication and hasn't checked with their GP.
Anyone that is on the "pill" as certain ingredients in these products may interact with and reduce the efficacy of the "pill".
Who can take these products ?
Most people that are not listed above THAT are eating healthy and regularly active.
Note that most product companies appear to influence the amount of product being taken so that when you are finished your product your adrenal systems go into recovery from the excess work that they have been doing. As a result you will start to feel tired as your body goes through a normal period where it tries to regain a level of "balance". This normally triggers an increased desire to regain the heightened state while you were on the product.
Result = More sales for them. Be careful as it could mean adrenal fatigue for you.
This question leaves me challenged to answer it as there are so many variables that are actually involved with this but I want to state the obvious first.
No product, pill or potion is going to be of assistance in your efforts to lose bodyfat if you are not eating the correct range of foods in the right amounts at the right times. They also will be of little to no value if you are not exercising to utilize the "excess calories" that you are consuming.
I say excess because you actually need a certain amount of "good calories" to ensure that you body and brain are working at their optimal. It is the "excess" of this requirement that you will need to get rid of with an active lifestyle that will allow you to show definition.
Okay now to the pills on the market.
Most tablets, capsules, pills etc that are being marketed as fat metabolisers are really not designed to increase calorie expenditure.
Their goal is to influence your metabolism so that your body is using more calories then just through eating well or exercise alone. Most of the better products encourage a "different eating plan" to what you were on increasing the chances of improvement. The ingredients in them are mostly herbal and not pharmaceutical grade as Ephedra, the one major ingredient that was in most products in the late 90's was linked to some deaths and has since been banned from over the counter supplement products.
Do they work ?
The scientific community is still out on this one although each company has their own testing to prove efficacy and there are no end to the "before" and "after" shots of people who have used these products. Whether it was the product in isolation is questionable as most people also underwent major lifestyle changes increasing their result. I guess you will have to make your own decision but read my cautions below.
Would I recommend them to everyone - NO !
Who would I definitely NOT tell to use them ?
Anyone that is taking blood pressure medication.
Anyone that is taking medications that are listed on the various products.
Anyone that is on taking prescription medication and hasn't checked with their GP.
Anyone that is on the "pill" as certain ingredients in these products may interact with and reduce the efficacy of the "pill".
Who can take these products ?
Most people that are not listed above THAT are eating healthy and regularly active.
Note that most product companies appear to influence the amount of product being taken so that when you are finished your product your adrenal systems go into recovery from the excess work that they have been doing. As a result you will start to feel tired as your body goes through a normal period where it tries to regain a level of "balance". This normally triggers an increased desire to regain the heightened state while you were on the product.
Result = More sales for them. Be careful as it could mean adrenal fatigue for you.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Thursday 1st November - Sound the ALARM !!!!
Even people of a healthy weight should be slim if they want to reduce their risk of developing cancer, a landmark study advised today. Everyone should aim to be as slim as possible without being underweight, said the World Cancer Research Fund.
This "ground-breaking report" that was released today and has been picked up by every news outlet around the world, supports what I have been saying for the last few years. If you read back over my Blogs you will get a sense this and why I think we can make a difference.
These experts have now confirmed what I have been promoting with my book content that is in the "Human E.C.O. System Anti Diet". YOU need to get lean and be healthy. That is why I am planning to give away for FREE my book which contains the 56 Day E.C.O. Plan. This will help to offset "preventable health risks associated with being overweight.
Why would I do this ?
Because I can. I want to create a healthier place for you to live. Sure while others are focussed on cleaning up the planet, I want you to be responsible for cleaning up your body.
This is where your Biology meets your Ecology !!
MORE FROM THE REPORT
The researchers found "convincing" evidence that excess body fat can cause six different types of common cancers, including those of the breast, bowel and pancreas.
They said that to enjoy maximum protection against cancer everyone should be at the lower end of the healthy weight range.
Sir Michael Marmot, who chaired the expert panel, said: "We are recommending that people aim to be as lean as possible within the healthy range, and that they avoid weight gain throughout adulthood.
"This might sound difficult, but this is what the science is telling us more clearly than ever before. The fact is that putting on weight can increase your cancer risk, even if you are still within the healthy range.
"So the best advice for cancer prevention is to avoid weight gain, and if you are already overweight then you should aim to lose weight."
The report is based on an analysis of 7,000 cancer studies published since the 1960s, and includes recommendations from a panel of 21 world-renowned scientists.
So there you have it from these 21 world experts. Let's not add to the statistical problem, let's ALL be personally responsible for being part of the solution.
This "ground-breaking report" that was released today and has been picked up by every news outlet around the world, supports what I have been saying for the last few years. If you read back over my Blogs you will get a sense this and why I think we can make a difference.
These experts have now confirmed what I have been promoting with my book content that is in the "Human E.C.O. System Anti Diet". YOU need to get lean and be healthy. That is why I am planning to give away for FREE my book which contains the 56 Day E.C.O. Plan. This will help to offset "preventable health risks associated with being overweight.
Why would I do this ?
Because I can. I want to create a healthier place for you to live. Sure while others are focussed on cleaning up the planet, I want you to be responsible for cleaning up your body.
This is where your Biology meets your Ecology !!
MORE FROM THE REPORT
The researchers found "convincing" evidence that excess body fat can cause six different types of common cancers, including those of the breast, bowel and pancreas.
They said that to enjoy maximum protection against cancer everyone should be at the lower end of the healthy weight range.
Sir Michael Marmot, who chaired the expert panel, said: "We are recommending that people aim to be as lean as possible within the healthy range, and that they avoid weight gain throughout adulthood.
"This might sound difficult, but this is what the science is telling us more clearly than ever before. The fact is that putting on weight can increase your cancer risk, even if you are still within the healthy range.
"So the best advice for cancer prevention is to avoid weight gain, and if you are already overweight then you should aim to lose weight."
The report is based on an analysis of 7,000 cancer studies published since the 1960s, and includes recommendations from a panel of 21 world-renowned scientists.
So there you have it from these 21 world experts. Let's not add to the statistical problem, let's ALL be personally responsible for being part of the solution.
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