Celebrate National Fitness Day

Find Your Zen: Yoga and Meditation for National Fitness Day

National Fitness Day, celebrated on May 4th, is a day dedicated to promoting fitness and encouraging individuals to prioritize their health and well-being. Kim Bielak founded National Fitness Day to foster a healthier lifestyle.

It aims to inspire people to incorporate regular exercise into their daily routines. It is an opportunity for individuals to embark on their fitness journey during the most active day of the year, set personal fitness goals, and challenge themselves to lead a fulfilling life.

The Importance of Physical Activity for Mental and Physical Health

Physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining and improving both mental and physical health.

Engaging in regular exercise has been proven to release endorphins, also known as the “feel-good” hormones, which can enhance mood and reduce stress and anxiety.

Physical activities whether done individually or as a group, such as running, swimming, or cycling can also increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles, and improve overall physical well-being. Outdoor activities where one can also explore nature, like hiking, trekking, bike ride with friends or family can be fun while promoting better health.

Moreover, physical activity can have a positive impact on mental health by boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Regular exercise can help individuals develop a sense of achievement as they reach their fitness goals, leading to increased self-worth and better health.

Additionally, participating in National Fitness Day activities can provide a sense of community and social interaction, reducing feelings of isolation or loneliness.

Setting Personal Fitness Goals for National Fitness Day

Whether it’s committing to a certain number of workouts per week, increasing the duration of exercise sessions, or trying new fitness challenges, setting personal fitness goals can provide focus and direction.

To ensure success in achieving these goals, it is crucial to make them specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

For example, instead of setting a general goal like “being more active,” a SMART goal would be “participating in three fitness classes per week for the next three months.”

By making goals specific and measurable, individuals can track their progress and stay motivated throughout their fitness journey.

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation for Physical and Mental Healthier Lifestyle

In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, mental health issues have become increasingly prevalent. Yoga and meditation offer a holistic approach to addressing these issues, providing individuals with the tools they need to find inner peace and balance.

Regular practice of yoga and meditation has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

These practices help individuals cultivate mindfulness, allowing them to live in the present moment and let go of negative thoughts and emotions.

Furthermore, yoga and meditation promote physical activity, self-care and self-compassion. Through the practice of asanas (yoga postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), individuals develop a deeper connection with their bodies and learn to listen to their inner selves.

Below is a detailed list of the benefits of yoga:

Mental Clarity and Calmness

• Yoga’s incorporation of meditation and breathing techniques promotes mental clarity and calmness.

• Raise awareness, relieve chronic stress patterns, and sharpen concentration.

Improved Brain Function

• Regular yoga practice stimulates brain cells, leading to new connections and structural changes.

• MRI scans show that yoga practitioners have a thicker cerebral cortex (responsible for information processing) and hippocampus (involved in learning and memory) compared to nonpractitioners.

• Yoga may counteract age-related declines in memory and cognitive skills.

Elevated Mood

• Yoga lowers stress hormones and increases feel-good chemicals (endorphins).

• It elevates gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), associated with better mood and reduced anxiety.

• Meditation reduces emotional reactivity, helping you respond calmly to stress.

Complementary Approach for Mental Health

• Yoga complements traditional therapies for depression and anxiety.

• A review of 15 studies found that relaxation techniques, including yoga, positively impact mental health in older adults.

Stress Management and Quality Sleep

• Yoga supports stress management, mindfulness, and healthy eating.

• It contributes to better sleep quality.

National Fitness Day Activities

Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Let’s explore health clubs, leisure centres and local offerings happening in May:

1. Urban Ashram

Locations :Urban Ashram has studios in both BGC (Bonifacio Global City) in Taguig and Kapitolyo in Pasig.

Variety of Classes:

From Yoga ABC for beginners to Pranayama and Meditation for breath work, Urban Ashram offers a diverse range of classes. You can also explore Vinyasa for fluid flows, Birthlight Prenatal for expecting moms, and even classes for kids.

Booking Options:

Booking a class is easy—choose between in-person studio passes or online options via Zoom. Plus, you can pay for your classes using GCash.

2. YogaPlus

Location: Situated in Makati, YogaPlus is known not only for its classes but also for its specialized non-toxic flooring (made of recycled materials) that enhances traction during practice.

Class Offerings:

• Hot Flow: Utilizes special infrared UV light that kills bacteria and replicates the warmth and benefits of natural sunlight.

• HIIT Yoga: A high-intensity hybrid version of yoga.

• Ashtanga: Features a dynamic set of poses that build strength.

• Jivamukti: Allows your spine to move in all directions.

3. Yoga Manila

Location: Alabang

Classes Offerings:

Offering classes via Zoom, Yoga Manila provides an array of sessions.

Ashtanga Led

A traditional method of teaching yoga that unfolds the series to each practitioner on an individual basis. This practice combines breathwork, meditation, and intentional poses.

4. Free Meditation Classes on Meetup

Location : Manila

Description:

Join these free meditation sessions organized by Meetup. It’s a great opportunity to explore different meditation practices and connect with like-minded individuals

Dates: Apr 6, Apr 13, Apr 20, Apr 27, and May 4, 2024, at 9:45 PM EDT

5. Reiki I & II Certification Workshop

Location: Manila Prince Hotel

Description:

While not strictly meditation, Reiki workshops often include mindfulness practices and energy healing techniques. Consider attending if you’re interested in holistic well-being

Date: Sun, 26 May 2024

Remember, these yoga and meditation experiences are not just about physical fitness; they’re about finding balance, and inner peace, and connecting with like-minded souls.

Whether you’re stretching into a downward dog or meditating under swaying palm trees, May is the perfect time to embrace wellness through yoga and meditation.

Conclusion

National Fitness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of physical activity in promoting physical activity and taking care of one’s mental health.

Celebrate National Fitness Day by joining local fitness classes, trying out new physical activities, or incorporating yoga and meditation into your fitness routine.

Take this opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being, and start your journey towards a more active and fulfilling life.