Is slouching that bad for you? – part 2

In part 1, I introduced the concept of positive psychology. Positive psychologists say that it takes 21 days to re-program the brain. They also say that doing the following activities every day can allow you to see the positive in your life rather than looking for negatives, to reduce stress and anxiety.

1. Write down 3 things you are grateful for in your life.
2. Write a diary entry about 1 good thing that has happened to you over the last 24 hours.
3. Exercise - its boosts your mood and reduces stress.
4. Meditation helps you stop over thinking!
5. Random acts of kindness - do at least one kind act a week, even if its just sending a text to say thank you.
6. Share your joys and foibles with the ones you love.

High blood pressure is known as the silent killer becuase of its the link to heart attacks and strokes. The causes of high blood pressure are: Mental stress: Stress can have a severe impact on blood pressure, especially when it is chronic. It can occur as a result of both socioeconomic and psychosocial factors. Some aspects of sex: In general, high blood pressure is more common among adult men than adult women. However, after the age of 55 years, a woman's relative risk of hypertension increases. A recent study compared the impact of medication and exercise for reducing high systolic blood pressure.  The researchers reviewed 197 exercise randomised control trials and 194 randomised control trials looking at medication. While anti-hypertensive medications achived hight reductions in blood pressure that exercise.  Researches concluded that modest but consistent reductions in systolic blood pressure can be achieved with exercise. Reference

In part 1, I explained the importance of listening to your body when running.  I know want to build on this and focus on specific actions you can take. Flexibility The natural stress-recovery cycle of running can cause the muscle fibers to knot up and stick together, limiting their function and leaving you more susceptible to injury.  Breaking down these adhesions increases the muscles mobility which allows it to properly contract and lengthen.  Sports or Deep Tissue massage can break down any adhesions or you can use a foam roller. Strength When a strong body runs, the brain tells the muscles to brace for impact before the foot hits the ground.  The glutes and core contract to steady the pelvis and leg, and the foot and ankle muscles are activated to provide a solid foundation to land upon.  If there was one muscle group I would encourage you to target it is to strengthen your glutes.  The one leg squat is ideal for this. Shoes Please don't choose running shoes based on the brand.  The best running shoes for you tend to be the ones that fit your feet the best and are most suitable for the terrain on which you run.   For example, people with flat feet are best with motion control shoes while people like me with rigid, high arches need extra cushioning.  Remember a pair of running shoes should be worn for no longer than approximately 400 miles.