Our Best Tips for Beating Winter Sads
Winter months can leave us feeling down for a number of reasons, but West Coast Fitness is filled with secret weapons to kick those feelings to the frosty curb.
With shorter daylight, our body's vitamin D production drops, but we've got just the cure.
Have you seen the mood improving daylight lamp next to the massage area? Just a few minutes in front of this will instantly give the body a boost, and with consistent use, can actually shape your overall mood!
Another trick to improve mental health is to join a group class.
Social interaction does wonders for mental health and when you add the benefit of working out, you get an extra dose of endorphins to the mix, doubling the results.
Want to take it one step further? Try one of our classes in the Hot Movement Studio and stack the benefits on top of each other.
Here's what you can expect from these supercharged workouts:
Hot Yoga
Yoga practiced at around 80–100 degrees Fahrenheit has a number of health benefits:
Increased Flexibility: The heat helps to loosen muscles and joints, allowing for deeper stretches and potentially greater flexibility over time.
Detoxification: Sweating in the hot environment is thought to help flush toxins from the skin, though the body primarily detoxifies through the liver and kidneys.
Improved Circulation: The heat can enhance blood flow throughout the body, which may aid in muscle recovery and overall cardiovascular health.
Stress Relief: Like other forms of yoga, hot yoga can reduce stress and promote relaxation, with the heat adding an element of physical intensity that some find mentally calming.
Weight Management: The intense environment can increase heart rate and metabolism, potentially aiding in weight management when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection: The challenging environment requires focus and breathing control, which can enhance the mind-body connection.
Barre
Barre workouts, inspired by ballet, yoga, and Pilates, are all about small, controlled movements. Here are some benefits:
Muscle Toning and Strengthening: Barre focuses on high repetitions of small range movements, which is great for toning and strengthening muscles without increasing bulk.
Improved Posture: Many barre exercises focus on the core, back, and shoulders, which can help improve posture over time.
Enhanced Flexibility: Though less intense than yoga, barre still incorporates stretching, which can improve flexibility.
Low Impact: Barre is generally low impact, making it a good choice for people with joint issues or those who are pregnant.
Core Strengthening: A strong emphasis on core strength helps with balance, posture, and overall fitness.
Mind-Body Awareness: Similar to yoga, barre requires concentration and body awareness, which can translate to better mind-body connection.
See our class schedule here and talk to the front desk to see if you have access to the Hot Movement Studio as part of your membership, upgrading is easy!
Take it easy on yourself during the holidays, and remember that it's okay to not be okay. We always want to provide a safe space where our members can take excellent care of themselves.
You've got this,
Your West Coast Fitness Family (AKA Your Number One Fans)
