Tanya Dutt

Follow These 3 Simple Rules For A Slimmer Waist

Achieving a slimmer waist isn’t just about vanity or fitting into your favorite jeans—it’s a matter of health and wellness. Excess fat around the midsection can increase the risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, with a realistic plan, patience, and consistent effort, you can work towards a healthier waistline. Here's how you can adopt a smarter approach to achieve your waist-slimming goals while maintaining overall well-being.

While the allure of an hourglass figure may be tempting, shrinking your waist isn’t just about appearances. Abdominal fat, especially visceral fat that surrounds your organs, poses significant health risks. Reducing this fat can improve metabolic health, boost energy levels, and lower the risk of chronic diseases. However, achieving a smaller waist is a process that demands commitment, combining a healthy diet, physical activity, and mindful lifestyle changes.

Water plays a pivotal role in supporting your <span>weight loss</span> journey. Staying hydrated not only helps your body function optimally but can also suppress appetite and boost metabolism. 

Research has shown that drinking adequate amounts of water can enhance fat-burning processes. For instance, a 2016 study found that increased water consumption can help your body metabolize fat more efficiently. Aim to drink at least three bottles (about 72 ounces) of water daily to stay hydrated and curb unnecessary snacking. 

<strong>Pro tip: </strong>Replace sugary beverages with water infused with fresh fruits or herbs for a refreshing twist that supports your goals.

Alcohol is often an overlooked culprit when it comes to weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Beyond the infamous "beer belly," alcohol consumption disrupts fat metabolism as your liver prioritizes breaking down alcohol over fat. 

Moreover, alcohol is calorie-dense and can lead to bloating and inflammation. By cutting back on cocktails, beer, and wine, you can significantly reduce bloating and support your waist-slimming efforts. Consider swapping your evening glass of wine with herbal tea or sparkling water to stay on track.

<h2>Rule 3: Maintain a Calorie Deficit Mindfully</h2> 

Achieving a calorie deficit doesn’t mean starving yourself. Drastically reducing calories can slow metabolism and stall weight loss. Instead, aim to consume slightly fewer calories than you burn daily. 

Focus on nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats that keep you satiated and energized. Balance your meals to include adequate fiber and protein, as they promote fullness and help control cravings. Incorporating foods like salmon, lentils, and quinoa into your diet can make it easier to sustain a healthy calorie deficit.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/fitness/working-out-in-the-evening-is-it-bad-for-sleep-and-health-article-151107636" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Working Out In The Evening: Is It Bad For Sleep And Health?</a>

<h2>Smart Food Choices for a Slimmer Waist</h2> 

<strong>Fruits: </strong>Fresh fruits like berries, apples, and oranges are naturally sweet and rich in fiber, making them ideal for curbing sugar cravings. 

<strong>Protein-Rich Foods:</strong> Greek yogurt, poultry, and beans are excellent sources of protein, helping to build muscle and burn fat. 

<strong>Fiber-Rich Options:</strong> Foods like oatmeal, leafy greens, and whole grains promote digestive health and help you feel full longer. 

<strong>Trans Fats: </strong>Found in fried foods, packaged snacks, and margarine, trans fats can increase belly fat and harm overall health. 

<strong>Added Sugars:</strong> Reduce consumption of sugary drinks and desserts, as they contribute empty calories without nutritional value. 

<strong>Fad Diet Foods:</strong> Crash diets and high-fat regimens may provide quick results but are unsustainable and potentially harmful in the long term. 

<h2>Effective Exercises for Waist Reduction </h2>

Yoga combines mindfulness with physical activity, targeting abdominal muscles while reducing stress. Poses like planks and downward dog strengthen the core and improve posture. 

Core-focused exercises such as crunches, leg raises, and Russian twists are effective in toning the waistline. For optimal results, incorporate these exercises into your routine two to three times a week. 

<h4>Aerobic and Resistance Training</h4> 

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training are powerful tools for <span>fat loss</span>. Combining aerobic exercises with resistance training can help <span>reduce belly fat</span> while improving muscle tone and endurance.

Measuring your waistline weekly can provide tangible evidence of your progress. Use a flexible measuring tape and record measurements at the same time each week. Alternatively, monitor how your clothes fit over time to gauge success. 

Staying consistent with your efforts and celebrating small victories along the way can keep you motivated throughout your journey.

<em><strong>Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new diet or exercise program.</strong></em>

<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25893719/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Immediate pre-meal water ingestion decreases voluntary food intake in lean young males</a>. Eur J Nutr. 2016

<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24179891/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Effect of 'water induced thermogenesis' on body weight, body mass index and body composition of overweight subjects</a>. J Clin Diagn Res. 2013

<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4901052/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Increased Hydration Can Be Associated with Weight Loss</a>. Front Nutr. 2016

Health Conditions A-Z

health

weight loss

fat loss

slim waist tips

reduce belly fat

healthy waistline

weight loss strategies

calorie deficit diet

best exercises for waist

mindful eating habits

Alcohol-Linked Liver Disease Deaths On Rise Among Women And Young Adults

World Blood Donor Day 2025: Theme, Significance, And History

These Six Common Foods Can Increase Your Cancer Risks, Says Harvard Doctor

Fitness

Common Mistakes You May Be Making While Working Out

Ways You Are Runing Your Weight Loss Journey

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

You Are Hurting Your Gut Health With These Habits

Avoid The Heat With These Indoor Exercises

Stay Sharp! Activities That Keep Cognitive Diseases At Bay

Protect Your Cardiovascular Health With These Heart Healthy Foods

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Low Fat Foods That Are Actually Unhealthy

All Suryanamaskar Poses And How To Do Them

Do Changing Seasons Affect Your Weight?

Can Heatwave Affect Your Diet?

Heatwave To Monsoon: Health Concerns With Seasonal Changes

Standing Exercises That Help You Burn Calories

Reasons To Do Dancing As A Workout

Why Summer Fruits Are A Great Addition To Your Diet?

What Should You Avoid For Your Bladder?

Lower-Body Exercises For Strong Foundation

Healthy Drinks That Improve Your Digestion

World Tobacco Day: Unexpected Ways Smoking Can Affect You

Seasonal Mood Swings? How Weather Affects Mental Health

Is Calorie Counting Healthy? Dos And Don’ts

Heat-Related Illnesses That You Should Know

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips On Period Hygiene

​Add These High Protein Vegetarian Meals To Your Diet​

Top 10 Workouts That Burn Most Calorie

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Leg Exercises You Can Do At Home To Build Strength

Foods That Promote Skin Elasticity

Must-Do Chest Exercises You Can Try At Home

What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1 COVID-19 Strain?

Why Does Sleeping Become Harder As You Age?

High-Fiber Healthy Drinks You Should Try

Achieving a slimmer waist isn’t just about vanity or fitting into your favorite jeans—it’s a matter of health and wellness. Excess fat around the midsection can increase the risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, with a realistic plan, patience, and consistent effort, you can work towards a healthier waistline. Here's how you can adopt a smarter approach to achieve your waist-slimming goals while maintaining overall well-being.While the allure of an hourglass figure may be tempting, shrinking your waist isn’t just about appearances. Abdominal fat, especially visceral fat that surrounds your organs, poses significant health risks. Reducing this fat can improve metabolic health, boost energy levels, and lower the risk of chronic diseases. However, achieving a smaller waist is a process that demands commitment, combining a healthy diet, physical activity, and mindful lifestyle changes.Rule 1: Hydration is KeyWater plays a pivotal role in supporting your weight loss journey. Staying hydrated not only helps your body function optimally but can also suppress appetite and boost metabolism. Research has shown that drinking adequate amounts of water can enhance fat-burning processes. For instance, a 2016 study found that increased water consumption can help your body metabolize fat more efficiently. Aim to drink at least three bottles (about 72 ounces) of water daily to stay hydrated and curb unnecessary snacking. Pro tip: Replace sugary beverages with water infused with fresh fruits or herbs for a refreshing twist that supports your goals.Rule 2: Reduce Alcohol Intake Alcohol is often an overlooked culprit when it comes to weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Beyond the infamous "beer belly," alcohol consumption disrupts fat metabolism as your liver prioritizes breaking down alcohol over fat. Moreover, alcohol is calorie-dense and can lead to bloating and inflammation. By cutting back on cocktails, beer, and wine, you can significantly reduce bloating and support your waist-slimming efforts. Consider swapping your evening glass of wine with herbal tea or sparkling water to stay on track.Rule 3: Maintain a Calorie Deficit Mindfully Achieving a calorie deficit doesn’t mean starving yourself. Drastically reducing calories can slow metabolism and stall weight loss. Instead, aim to consume slightly fewer calories than you burn daily. Focus on nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats that keep you satiated and energized. Balance your meals to include adequate fiber and protein, as they promote fullness and help control cravings. Incorporating foods like salmon, lentils, and quinoa into your diet can make it easier to sustain a healthy calorie deficit.Also Read: Working Out In The Evening: Is It Bad For Sleep And Health?Smart Food Choices for a Slimmer Waist Foods to Include Fruits: Fresh fruits like berries, apples, and oranges are naturally sweet and rich in fiber, making them ideal for curbing sugar cravings. Protein-Rich Foods: Greek yogurt, poultry, and beans are excellent sources of protein, helping to build muscle and burn fat. Fiber-Rich Options: Foods like oatmeal, leafy greens, and whole grains promote digestive health and help you feel full longer. Foods to Avoid Trans Fats: Found in fried foods, packaged snacks, and margarine, trans fats can increase belly fat and harm overall health. Added Sugars: Reduce consumption of sugary drinks and desserts, as they contribute empty calories without nutritional value. Fad Diet Foods: Crash diets and high-fat regimens may provide quick results but are unsustainable and potentially harmful in the long term. Effective Exercises for Waist Reduction Yoga for Core Strength Yoga combines mindfulness with physical activity, targeting abdominal muscles while reducing stress. Poses like planks and downward dog strengthen the core and improve posture. Abdominal Workouts Core-focused exercises such as crunches, leg raises, and Russian twists are effective in toning the waistline. For optimal results, incorporate these exercises into your routine two to three times a week. Aerobic and Resistance Training High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training are powerful tools for fat loss. Combining aerobic exercises with resistance training can help reduce belly fat while improving muscle tone and endurance.Measuring your waistline weekly can provide tangible evidence of your progress. Use a flexible measuring tape and record measurements at the same time each week. Alternatively, monitor how your clothes fit over time to gauge success. Staying consistent with your efforts and celebrating small victories along the way can keep you motivated throughout your journey.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new diet or exercise program.Immediate pre-meal water ingestion decreases voluntary food intake in lean young males. Eur J Nutr. 2016Effect of 'water induced thermogenesis' on body weight, body mass index and body composition of overweight subjects. J Clin Diagn Res. 2013Increased Hydration Can Be Associated with Weight Loss. Front Nutr. 2016

follow these 3 simple rules for a slimmer waist

Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Can Yoga Help Your Thyroid Issues?

Health & Wellness

Alarming Signs of Heart Blockages You Can Spot At Home, Cardiologist Shares Life Saving Tips

alarming signs of heart blockages you can spot at home, cardiologist shares life saving tips

Air India Crash May Have Triggered Flight Anxiety In Millions, Expert Shares How To Overcome Aerophobia

air india crash may have triggered flight anxiety in millions, expert shares how to overcome aerophobia

Is Regrowing Human Limbs A Possibility Now? Sea Salamanders Study Could Be The Medical Future

is regrowing human limbs a possibility now? sea salamanders study could be the medical future

Fighting The Urge To Pee When You See The Bathroom? 'Latchkey Incontinence' Is Real And Now We  Have A Treatment

fighting the urge to pee when you see the bathroom - study finds treatment for 'latchkey incontinence'

Yoga is a great exercise known for reducing stress and improving overall well-being. But can it also help with <span>thyroid</span> problems? The thyroid is a small gland in your throat that makes hormones vital for your metabolism, body temperature, growth, and even brain development in children. When your thyroid isn't working right, it can affect both your physical and mental health. This article explores how yoga can be a helpful addition to traditional thyroid treatments. 

While yoga generally promotes overall health, some poses specifically target the neck and throat area, where the thyroid is located. Stretching and strengthening this region might improve blood flow, though there's no definite proof that these specific poses benefit the thyroid more than others. 

It's important to only hold poses as long as you feel comfortable. Many of the poses described below are for those with some yoga experience. You can make them easier with props or by practicing under the guidance of a certified yoga instructor. You can try each of these poses at home with a yoga mat. 

<h4>Supported Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana) </h4>

This advanced pose puts you upside down. Avoid it if you are new to yoga, have high blood pressure, heart issues, glaucoma, or are pregnant. Lie on your back, lift your legs straight up, and push onto your shoulders, supporting your hips with your hands. Keep your body straight and core strong. 

This advanced pose builds core and arm strength, plus spine flexibility. Start like the shoulder stand. Bring your legs over your head to rest your toes on the floor behind you, keeping your lower back supported. If breathing gets hard, slowly stop. A prop under shoulders can make it safer.

This advanced pose stretches your body in the opposite direction after other poses. Don't do it if you have high blood pressure, neck injuries, or glaucoma. Sit, place hands under buttocks, lean back on elbows, and gently drop your head back, lifting your chest. 

<h4>Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) </h4>

This pose is great for strengthening your back. Lie on your back, bring feet close to hips. Press palms into the floor and lift your hips toward the ceiling. You can use your hands on your lower back for support if needed. 

This pose helps make your back and neck more flexible. Lie on your stomach with palms under shoulders. Press into your palms and lift your head and chest off the mat, arching your back. Drop your head back if comfortable. 

Sit with legs out. Lean back slowly, keeping your core strong and back straight. Lift your bent knees, then straighten legs to form a V-shape. Raise arms in line with shoulders. Hold, breathing deeply. Slowly lower arms and legs. 

<h4>Upward Bow Pose / Wheel Pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana) </h4>

This pose deeply stretches your chest, back, and neck. Lie on your back, bend knees, and place hands by your head. Press feet and hands, lifting hips and then your head until arms are straight. Hold and breathe. 

<h4>Supported Headstand Pose (Sirshasana) </h4>

This is a very advanced pose for experienced yoga practitioners, always do it with a teacher at first. Kneel, interlace fingers, and place head on mat. Lift knees, walk feet closer, then slowly lift both feet up, balancing on forearms. 

yoga & Asanas

Can Yoga Help Your Thyroid Issues

Yoga for thyroid issues

thyroid issues

thyroid

Thyroid Disease

Yoga is a great exercise known for reducing stress and improving overall well-being. But can it also help with thyroid problems? The thyroid is a small gland in your throat that makes hormones vital for your metabolism, body temperature, growth, and even brain development in children. When your thyroid isn't working right, it can affect both your physical and mental health. This article explores how yoga can be a helpful addition to traditional thyroid treatments. Poses You Can Do While yoga generally promotes overall health, some poses specifically target the neck and throat area, where the thyroid is located. Stretching and strengthening this region might improve blood flow, though there's no definite proof that these specific poses benefit the thyroid more than others. It's important to only hold poses as long as you feel comfortable. Many of the poses described below are for those with some yoga experience. You can make them easier with props or by practicing under the guidance of a certified yoga instructor. You can try each of these poses at home with a yoga mat. Supported Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana) This advanced pose puts you upside down. Avoid it if you are new to yoga, have high blood pressure, heart issues, glaucoma, or are pregnant. Lie on your back, lift your legs straight up, and push onto your shoulders, supporting your hips with your hands. Keep your body straight and core strong. Plow Pose (Halasana) This advanced pose builds core and arm strength, plus spine flexibility. Start like the shoulder stand. Bring your legs over your head to rest your toes on the floor behind you, keeping your lower back supported. If breathing gets hard, slowly stop. A prop under shoulders can make it safer. Fish Pose (Matsyasana) This advanced pose stretches your body in the opposite direction after other poses. Don't do it if you have high blood pressure, neck injuries, or glaucoma. Sit, place hands under buttocks, lean back on elbows, and gently drop your head back, lifting your chest. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) This pose is great for strengthening your back. Lie on your back, bring feet close to hips. Press palms into the floor and lift your hips toward the ceiling. You can use your hands on your lower back for support if needed. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) This pose helps make your back and neck more flexible. Lie on your stomach with palms under shoulders. Press into your palms and lift your head and chest off the mat, arching your back. Drop your head back if comfortable. Boat Pose (Navasana) Sit with legs out. Lean back slowly, keeping your core strong and back straight. Lift your bent knees, then straighten legs to form a V-shape. Raise arms in line with shoulders. Hold, breathing deeply. Slowly lower arms and legs. Upward Bow Pose / Wheel Pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana) This pose deeply stretches your chest, back, and neck. Lie on your back, bend knees, and place hands by your head. Press feet and hands, lifting hips and then your head until arms are straight. Hold and breathe. Supported Headstand Pose (Sirshasana) This is a very advanced pose for experienced yoga practitioners, always do it with a teacher at first. Kneel, interlace fingers, and place head on mat. Lift knees, walk feet closer, then slowly lift both feet up, balancing on forearms. 

can yoga help your thyroid issues?

Biking Can Help Your Brain Stay Young - Study Finds Biking To Reduce Risk Of Dementia

Study Finds Biking To Reduce Risk Of Dementia

Accelerated Biological Aging Could Make You At Risk For Dementia: Study

accelerated biological aging could make you at risk for dementia: study

Nutrition

What Is The 'Meal Memory' Cell That Leads To Overeating?

what is the 'meal memory' cell that leads to overeating?

Can Low Calorie Diet Impact Your Mental Health?

can low calorie diet impact your mental health?

Smartphone Tool Can Now Detect Early Warning Signs Of Huntington’s Disease In 5 Minutes, Finds Study

smartphone tool can now detect early warning signs of huntington’s disease in 5 minutes, finds study

Memory loss is an issue many people believe they will only have to face when they are older. However, diseases like <span>dementia</span> can happen to anyone, while it happens very rarely to people at a young age, the choices you make at these formative years have a great impact on your mind. Studies have shown how people who eat too much processed foods, do not engage in social activities and many other unhealthy habits, increase their chances of dementia and other cognitive degenerative diseases. 

Just as some choices can increase the chances, there are also habits that can decrease the chances of you getting these diseases. 

One of the best ways to decrease your chances of cognitive decline at an early age is by incorporating healthy habits into your life, like eating more plant-based and unprocessed foods, fixing your sleeping habits as well as exercising 

A new study published in the JAMA Network Open suggests that regularly riding a bicycle could be a key factor. Research published recently indicates that using a bike for getting around might reduce the risk of dementia by 19% and Alzheimer's disease by 22%. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">How Cycling Helps Your Brain</span> </h2>

The study also hinted that cycling might even help increase the size of a brain area crucial for memory. Experts explain that cycling is a moderately intense workout that also requires balance. This need for more complex brain activity, compared to simply walking, might be why it's more effective in lowering dementia risk. It's not just about adding exercise to your routine; it's about making active travel part of your daily life. Choosing to bike instead of drive for short trips can significantly contribute to your well-being. 

To reach these conclusions, researchers analyzed health data from almost 480,000 people in a long-term health study in the UK. Participants shared how they most often traveled, excluding commutes to and from work. Over an average of 13 years, more than 8,800 participants developed dementia, and nearly 4,000 developed Alzheimer’s. 

The findings showed a lower risk for both dementia and Alzheimer’s among those who cycled or who combined cycling with other forms of travel like walking, driving, or public transportation. The research team noted that promoting active travel, especially cycling, could significantly benefit public health by offering an accessible and sustainable way to maintain brain health in middle-aged and older adults. 

<h2>Cycling's Impact on Brain Structure and Genetics </h2>

Brain scans (MRIs) further supported the findings, showing that cycling was linked to a larger hippocampus, which is a part of the brain important for forming memories and learning. 

However, the benefits of cycling seemed to be strongest for people without a specific genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's (the APOE E4 genetic variant). For these individuals, cycling was associated with a 26% lower risk of dementia and a 25% lower risk of Alzheimer's. The protective effect of cycling was less clear for those with the APOE E4 gene. 

Interestingly, the study also hinted that driving a car offered some protection against dementia when compared to using public transportation like buses or subways. This suggests that even less active forms of travel might have some brain health benefits over passive modes. 

<h2>Important Considerations and Future Advice </h2>

It's important to remember that this study observed a connection, but it doesn't directly prove that cycling causes healthy brain aging. Still, the message is clear: anything that gets you outdoors and active is beneficial for your brain. It's not just the physical movement, but also the balance and the way it engages different parts of your brain. If you're able to ride a bike, it's recommended. If not, walking is still highly encouraged. The key takeaway is to choose an active way to move your body whenever possible. 

Dementia

alzheimers

Biking for Brain health

Reduce Risk Of Dementia

Biking To Reduce Risk Of Dementia

How Cycling Helps Your Brain

Fitness & Health

brain structure and genetics brain

Memory loss is an issue many people believe they will only have to face when they are older. However, diseases like dementia can happen to anyone, while it happens very rarely to people at a young age, the choices you make at these formative years have a great impact on your mind. Studies have shown how people who eat too much processed foods, do not engage in social activities and many other unhealthy habits, increase their chances of dementia and other cognitive degenerative diseases. Just as some choices can increase the chances, there are also habits that can decrease the chances of you getting these diseases. One of the best ways to decrease your chances of cognitive decline at an early age is by incorporating healthy habits into your life, like eating more plant-based and unprocessed foods, fixing your sleeping habits as well as exercising A new study published in the JAMA Network Open suggests that regularly riding a bicycle could be a key factor. Research published recently indicates that using a bike for getting around might reduce the risk of dementia by 19% and Alzheimer's disease by 22%. How Cycling Helps Your Brain The study also hinted that cycling might even help increase the size of a brain area crucial for memory. Experts explain that cycling is a moderately intense workout that also requires balance. This need for more complex brain activity, compared to simply walking, might be why it's more effective in lowering dementia risk. It's not just about adding exercise to your routine; it's about making active travel part of your daily life. Choosing to bike instead of drive for short trips can significantly contribute to your well-being. Large Study Shows the Link To reach these conclusions, researchers analyzed health data from almost 480,000 people in a long-term health study in the UK. Participants shared how they most often traveled, excluding commutes to and from work. Over an average of 13 years, more than 8,800 participants developed dementia, and nearly 4,000 developed Alzheimer’s. The findings showed a lower risk for both dementia and Alzheimer’s among those who cycled or who combined cycling with other forms of travel like walking, driving, or public transportation. The research team noted that promoting active travel, especially cycling, could significantly benefit public health by offering an accessible and sustainable way to maintain brain health in middle-aged and older adults. Cycling's Impact on Brain Structure and Genetics Brain scans (MRIs) further supported the findings, showing that cycling was linked to a larger hippocampus, which is a part of the brain important for forming memories and learning. However, the benefits of cycling seemed to be strongest for people without a specific genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's (the APOE E4 genetic variant). For these individuals, cycling was associated with a 26% lower risk of dementia and a 25% lower risk of Alzheimer's. The protective effect of cycling was less clear for those with the APOE E4 gene. Interestingly, the study also hinted that driving a car offered some protection against dementia when compared to using public transportation like buses or subways. This suggests that even less active forms of travel might have some brain health benefits over passive modes. Important Considerations and Future Advice It's important to remember that this study observed a connection, but it doesn't directly prove that cycling causes healthy brain aging. Still, the message is clear: anything that gets you outdoors and active is beneficial for your brain. It's not just the physical movement, but also the balance and the way it engages different parts of your brain. If you're able to ride a bike, it's recommended. If not, walking is still highly encouraged. The key takeaway is to choose an active way to move your body whenever possible. 

biking can help your brain stay young - study finds biking to reduce risk of dementia

Strong Ankles, Less Injuries: Yoga Poses That Can Help Strengthen Your Ankle

Yoga Poses That Can Help Strengthen Your Ankle

Do you often worry about twisting your ankle? Are you experiencing foot pain, balance issues, or decreased mobility as you get older? These could all be signs that your ankles are weak. While you may not notice it as much, ankles are a big part of our balance and strength foundation. They support our movements, whether it is walking, running, stretching, or even simple flexing. 

When our ankles grow weak, things and situations start changing, however you may not realize it may be due to your weak ankles. You may be getting into situations like twisting your ankles more often, experiencing pain during normal movements, etc. The Cleveland Clinic explains that weak ankles have a great effect on your knees and hips. They explained that deficient ankles cause more strain on your knees as well as the internal rotation of your hips, ultimately making it difficult to walk. However, it can be improved. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Yoga</span> Poses for Strong Ankles </h2>

The good news is that you can actively work to strengthen these crucial ankle muscles and the connective tissues around them. This effort will not only help prevent injuries but also significantly improve your balance and overall movement. Here are some yoga poses you can do to improve your ankle health. 

This pose involves kneeling and arching your back, reaching for your heels. It strengthens the front of the ankles and feet while also improving overall stability and flexibility in the lower body. As you press your shins and tops of your feet into the ground, your ankles engage to support the pose. 

Imagine sitting in an invisible chair. This pose deeply engages the muscles in your calves and ankles as you lower your hips. It builds strength in the entire foot and ankle complex, improving stability and endurance, which are crucial for preventing ankle rolling during daily activities or sports. 

While primarily a resting pose, Child's Pose can gently stretch the top of your feet and ankles, especially if you sit back on your heels. It helps to release tension and improve flexibility in the ankle joint, which is important for overall ankle health and reducing stiffness. 

This seated pose involves stacking your knees. While the main focus is on the hips, the feet and ankles are gently stretched and aligned. It encourages external rotation in the ankles and can help release tension, improving overall ankle mobility and preventing common stiffness that can lead to injury. 

Standing on one leg while wrapping the other around it, Eagle Pose is a powerful balance pose that significantly challenges and strengthens the stabilizing muscles around your standing ankle. It builds incredible ankle stability, proprioception (your body's awareness in space), and improves overall balance, making your ankles more resilient against twists and sprains. 

A simple cross-legged seated pose, Easy Pose might seem basic, but it's foundational for ankle flexibility. It gently stretches the ankles and feet, improving comfort in seated positions and maintaining mobility in the joint. This consistent gentle stretching helps prevent stiffness that can contribute to weak ankles.

<h2>Eight-Angle Pose (Astavakrasana) </h2>

This advanced arm balance requires significant core and arm strength, but it also heavily relies on strong and flexible ankles to hook around the arm and support the body's weight. It dramatically builds strength and control in the entire ankle joint, demanding high levels of stability and engagement. 

<h2>Extended Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana) </h2>

This standing balance pose involves extending one leg forward or to the side. It greatly challenges the stabilizing muscles of your standing ankle. Holding this pose strengthens the ankle's ability to maintain balance and withstand shifts in weight, crucial for preventing common ankle injuries during movement. 

Yoga for Strong Ankles

Yoga

Yoga Asanas

Yoga Poses to Strengthen Your Ankle

Strengthen Your Ankle

Exercising for ankle strength

Yoga & Asanas

Yoga and health

Do you often worry about twisting your ankle? Are you experiencing foot pain, balance issues, or decreased mobility as you get older? These could all be signs that your ankles are weak. While you may not notice it as much, ankles are a big part of our balance and strength foundation. They support our movements, whether it is walking, running, stretching, or even simple flexing. When our ankles grow weak, things and situations start changing, however you may not realize it may be due to your weak ankles. You may be getting into situations like twisting your ankles more often, experiencing pain during normal movements, etc. The Cleveland Clinic explains that weak ankles have a great effect on your knees and hips. They explained that deficient ankles cause more strain on your knees as well as the internal rotation of your hips, ultimately making it difficult to walk. However, it can be improved. Yoga Poses for Strong Ankles The good news is that you can actively work to strengthen these crucial ankle muscles and the connective tissues around them. This effort will not only help prevent injuries but also significantly improve your balance and overall movement. Here are some yoga poses you can do to improve your ankle health. Camel Pose (Ustrasana) This pose involves kneeling and arching your back, reaching for your heels. It strengthens the front of the ankles and feet while also improving overall stability and flexibility in the lower body. As you press your shins and tops of your feet into the ground, your ankles engage to support the pose. Chair Pose (Utkatasana) Imagine sitting in an invisible chair. This pose deeply engages the muscles in your calves and ankles as you lower your hips. It builds strength in the entire foot and ankle complex, improving stability and endurance, which are crucial for preventing ankle rolling during daily activities or sports. Child's Pose (Balasana) While primarily a resting pose, Child's Pose can gently stretch the top of your feet and ankles, especially if you sit back on your heels. It helps to release tension and improve flexibility in the ankle joint, which is important for overall ankle health and reducing stiffness. Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana) This seated pose involves stacking your knees. While the main focus is on the hips, the feet and ankles are gently stretched and aligned. It encourages external rotation in the ankles and can help release tension, improving overall ankle mobility and preventing common stiffness that can lead to injury. Eagle Pose (Garudasana) Standing on one leg while wrapping the other around it, Eagle Pose is a powerful balance pose that significantly challenges and strengthens the stabilizing muscles around your standing ankle. It builds incredible ankle stability, proprioception (your body's awareness in space), and improves overall balance, making your ankles more resilient against twists and sprains. Easy Pose (Sukhasana) A simple cross-legged seated pose, Easy Pose might seem basic, but it's foundational for ankle flexibility. It gently stretches the ankles and feet, improving comfort in seated positions and maintaining mobility in the joint. This consistent gentle stretching helps prevent stiffness that can contribute to weak ankles. Eight-Angle Pose (Astavakrasana) This advanced arm balance requires significant core and arm strength, but it also heavily relies on strong and flexible ankles to hook around the arm and support the body's weight. It dramatically builds strength and control in the entire ankle joint, demanding high levels of stability and engagement. Extended Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana) This standing balance pose involves extending one leg forward or to the side. It greatly challenges the stabilizing muscles of your standing ankle. Holding this pose strengthens the ankle's ability to maintain balance and withstand shifts in weight, crucial for preventing common ankle injuries during movement. 

strong ankles, less injuries: yoga poses that can help strengthen your ankle

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.