Read our articles by clicking on the links below:

Weight Training
by Ana Paula
05/18/2002


 


Slow Down, Take a Deep Breath and Smell the Roses
by: Lorna Lattitudes

How many times have we heard that phrase, “Stop and Smell the Roses”.

Today, we want to encourage you to keep moving, but, to slow down a bit. How about slowing down just enough to smell the Roses, enjoy the moment and at the same time improve your health and well being.

Some outdoor activities we undertake, in the name of Recreation, are high energy, adrenal generators. Today, we are focused on an Outdoor Activity that will improve your mental and physical health while providing hours of low budget entertainment.

You may have done it as a kid and still may have the basic tools around the house. But, with this new commitment and with new technology along with lower prices this decision may deserve a minimal investment, in equipment, to get you started in the right direction, LITERALLY!

Suppose we could offer you a Recreational Activity that makes good use of your time, while having fun and relaxing? What if you could increase your strength and stamina, without exertion and strain, at your own pace? How about a fun way to enjoy the outdoors while you shed weight and reduce stress?

Need a hint? What if we say the word … BIKE.

What comes to mind? You as a kid pedaling like mad down the street with your friends, or maybe that old rusty model tucked away in the corner of your garage.

More importantly, when you hear and think the word BIKE, what is your reaction and what do you feel? Is it one of rejection or resistance to something that doesn’t fit your personal image or that you see and feel is kids’ stuff?

If that is the case maybe it is a good time to change the way you think. Biking or Cycling has become one of the most popular Recreational activities, around the world, helping people to get out, get some good exercise and to get back in touch with the world!

What’s funny is that studies show 70 per cent of all car trips are less than five miles. This is the IDEAL distance for a quick spin on your BIKE. How simple and practical it would be if we rode to the corner market for milk or took those videos back to Blockbuster on a BIKE and got bought some good exercise at the same time.

How much money will folks spend each month to join a Health Club in hopes of getting some exercise, stepping a stair climber or yes even riding a stationary BIKE?

It is amazing that all of this time, money and effort are spent in pursuit of what is easily available at virtually no cost, by riding a BIKE each day. Each day with a little commitment, if we slow our pace, take a breath and reframe our thinking we can enjoy the moment and improve our health.

There are a couple of questions we should first ask and answer, to make the most of your experience. First, what kind of BIKE is best for you? The best thing to do is go to the Internet or your neighborhood BIKE shop and get familiar with the types of BIKES available and the options you may want to consider. BIKES can be configured or built to accommodate your personal needs at most shops, or maybe you prefer to start with the least expensive route by purchasing something off of the rack. Try WALMART, TARGET or KMART. They all have nice selections in MOUNTAIN and TRAIL BIKES.

These are GREAT starter models to ride the trails in your area parks or through your neighborhood and to the store. Most U.S. Government and Safety Agencies recommend Helmets. Although, the British have issued several studies saying that Helmets don’t make a big difference in overall safety. The choice is your. What’s the Old Saying … “better safe than sorry…” Helmets are relatively inexpensive and may provide as much peace of mind as actual protection.

There are other BIKE Models available to the novice. There are the Street Bikes, and the Cruisers. For most of us, the traditional Trail/Mountain Bike available for sale are ideal and inexpensive for starters. But, you can always head over to the BIKE Shop and take a test drive. It doesn’t cost anything and this will serve you well in setting you at ease about your selection.

Spring is here while Summer is FAST approaching. There is NO BETTER time than now, to make your resolution and commit to riding with those you love. It’s always better with a friend or someone you love, isn’t it?

Remember you can find us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ONLINE, for FUN and Entertainment, at our “Worldwide Infotainment Web Site”, www.GayHomesandGardens.com!

Until next time … get ready, get set and get pedaling…
Yours … Lorna

To read more articles by Lorna Lattitudes, visit the Gay Homes and Gardens Online Magazine web site at http://www.gayhomesandgardens.com/mag


Home - Recipes - Healthy Tips - Exercise Tips - Women's Health - Healing Foods - Herbs & Vitamins - Contact Us