Issue 190

Women Vs the Scales:By Anthony Noud From Pure Health Clubs.

Why is it that women are constantly battling with the scales and weighing themselves? Cue the morning ritual at 6:32 am sharp, naked, after going to the bathroom, making sure the scales are facing east whilst "thinking light thoughts" every single day, with the result determining whether or not today will be a good day, a fat day, a committed day or the day you just give up on your dream of a lean, toned, healthy body. As I have come to discover, this is obviously important business.

As a part of any initial consultation whether it be for training or diet I always ask women what the number one goal for their body is. 95% of the time they say "I want to lose x kilos so I then weigh xxkg". My response is always the same, "why!?"

The conversation could then play out a number of ways but this is the general story:

"Ok so why do you want to lose 11 kilos Esmerelda?" "I'm not really sure I just think that's how much I have to lose as according to the BMI thing I should weigh xx kilos." "Have you ever weighed 11kg less than you do now?" "No"

Just quickly, BMI (body mass index) testing is outdated and has various deficiencies as a measure of bodyfat and obesity. BMI does not reflect changes that occur with aging, between sexes nor does it account for muscle mass. For example I am currently at 8.7% (caliper tested) bodyfat however according to the BMI equation I am on the cusp between overweight and obese.

So put very bluntly, whether or not you are working from a "magical number" in your head as a goal or have been given an inaccurate BMI target, you have no idea what BMI is and why it says you must weigh xx kilos, which, in turn means, you have no real idea why you want to weigh xxkg, nor do you even know if it is physically possible! (and if it is, it was back in high school, after you had a horrific flu, didn't eat or drink for 3 weeks and all the feng shui in the universe was working in your favour that day you stepped on the almighty scales of fortune).

Lets just stop and think for a moment, what does that number on the scale ACTUALLY mean? Does is really give us a good indication of how healthy, fat, thin or how fit or unfit you are? Your weight on the scales is obviously the combined total of all your bits; your bones, organs and organ systems- circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive organs just to name a few. There is also blood, connective tissues, cartilage, ligaments, fluids (h20 and all other), MUSCLE and FAT.

Out of all of the above the two that we, as everyday health conscious gym-goers really want to control, are muscle and you guessed it FAT. If I carry more fat am I going to weigh more? Yes, obviously. If I hold more muscle am I going to weigh more also? Well derr. And doesn't muscle weigh more than fat??

RUBBISH! Lets debunk that myth right now. The weight of muscle vs fat is of no real relevance whatsoever. 5kg of muscle is going to weigh the exact same amount as 5kg of fat….FIVE KILOGRAMS!! What IS different is the way you will look, feel and how healthy you will be, depending on which you choose to carry.

Muscle is heavier by VOLUME than fat. The way you LOOK carrying 5kg of muscle as opposed to carrying 5kg of fat is what actually matters.

 

 



A woman weighing 65kg with 19% bodyfat will look much smaller (and be much healthier) than a woman at 65kg with 35% bodyfat. They weigh the same, yet the composition is different. Because muscle is more dense than fat, the person with less fat and more muscle will look smaller.

Just this week Esmerelda and I did a re-assessment of her body composition, taking weights and measurements (cm's @ bust, waist, hip, thigh and arm) as well as a bodyfat pinch test (skinfold mm's @ tricep, suprailiac, abs and thigh). It had been a period of 3 months since our last "official" check in. The results were interesting to say the least.

Initially Esmerelda came in at 21% bodyfat, weighing 53.3kg, so she wasn't a big girl by any stretch, size 10 fairly lean without any really defining features. After 3 months of 2x weekly weights sessions with me, Esmerelda is now looking and feeling better than she ever has before. Her arms are lean and toned, she is shapely around the shoulders with taut triceps, her bum sits higher above leaner defined thighs and her midsection is flatter with the old love handles nowhere to be seen. Do you think it came as a shock to her when she got on the scales and the reading was 55.4kg! SHE HAD PUT ON OVER 2KGS!!

After laughing out loud, I figured I should try and calm my now hysterical client down a little. We took her measurements and sure enough they had gone down in all the right places - waist, hips, and arms. And up in the right places also; bum (this was a personal goal for Esmerelda) and her flexed arm reading. This didn't mean anything to the now distraught Ezzy, "cause the scales don't lie!"

I then measured her bodyfat percentage using skinfold calipers and as expected, her bodyfat had dropped to 16.76%!! (picture a super athletic fit, strong woman, someone that you can tell works out alot J) Again, this didn't mean much to Esmerelda so I tried a different approach…

Do you feel stronger? "Yes definitely,"
Do you feel leaner? "Yes,"
Do you notice it in your clothes? "Yes, I had to get new work pants,"
Are other people commenting on your new body?
"Yes, people are always telling me how much better I look and my husband won't leave me alone,"
Ok, so how does this new (larger) number on the scale affect how you look and feel right now?
"Well, um I suppose it doesn't."

LADIES this is my call to you to STOP weighing yourselves religiously! Particularly if it has any sort of negative effect on your mindset or goals. Sure, for clients with +15kg of fat to lose a representation of weight will have some merit. However, weighing yourself daily will rarely serve any useful purpose. FACT: the weight of a large glass of water is 648grams. This alone will obviously alter your weight reading, yet has no part to play in how you look. Take into account your menstrual cycle (which again affects your weight), the food you eat, time of day, and so on and the number on the scale becomes more and more blurred.

Instead, go by how you feel and look in the mirror, take measurements, take fortnightly photos, use your clothes and how they fit and feel as a guide to how you are progressing with your goals. Body composition is the only really accurate guide when it comes to how you will look. This can be done by getting your bodyfat percentage tested, the only real viable option being skinfold calipers, with pinches taken by the same person each time.

When was the last time the assistant in your favourite clothing store asked how much you weigh when helping you choose something? Or when did you last hear someone comment "She's hot, she must be a 52kg girl"?. How much you WEIGH (within reason) plays no significant role in how you feel, look, what you wear or how you live on a day to day basis. My advice is to forget the scales, if you must, once a week at the ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM should you weigh yourself and even then this should only be used as a secondary indicator, following your clothing, mirror, and measurements. Not only will you have a clearer representation of yourself but you will no longer have to battle with the dreaded weigh in.

If you are currently battling with the scales and not seeing results come and see myself or one of our trainers at http://www.purehealthclubs.com.au

With specific meal plans and workout schedules tailored to you and your personal goals, as well as regular body fat caliper testing- measuring and tracking progress, I guarantee you can achieve your best body ever…a truly EXQUISITE PHYSIQUE.

Contact me: [email protected]

http://www.exquisitephysiques.blogspot.com

CITY LOCATION 07 3211 0060

COOPAROO LOCATION (07) 3324 1188

 


Sneezing Super Mum ( & Dad ): by Sue Lester from Growing Content.

No one would choose to be ill, would they? If you say, "I don't have time to be ill," are you also telling yourself you don't have time to exercise, cook healthy meals, rest, sleep, have time out, breathing space, Me Time etc?

When you are rushing around, feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed, your body is using its resources at a faster rate, and unfortunately it can also be the time when you aren't feeding your body the right or enough good fuel, including filtered water, to function effectively. Your body doesn't have the energy to fight off the flu and bugs. You will literally 'run down', like a poorly maintained engine.

So before this "Flu Season" takes hold of you, and you lose time, money and energy being sick, take stock of what you need to do to get yourself healthier. How much of the time you spend rushing around is for other people? Do you need to start setting and maintaining stronger boundaries? Are you thinking too many negative thoughts about the Future or the Past, and making yourself feel unhappy?

If you valued yourself more, felt happier about yourself and your life, you'd find it easier to make healthy food and drink choices, and build your body's resistance to bugs and viruses. Less stress, less weight means more self esteem and more happiness.

When you're ready to make the changes you want to see, book in to see Sue Lester, your Catalyst of Change. www.growingcontent.com.au . Sue will help you change your Mindset so you turn self sabotage into self motivation, and easily make those changes you want to see. (c) Sue Lester, Growing Content. www.growingcontent.com.au

 

Dr Oz Discusses Mangosteen: by Vitalxan.

Dr Oz on the Oprah Show In case you missed it, Oprah was discussing some important health matters on her show with Dr Oz. The topic of mangosteen came up.

As it turns out ,"America's Dr. Mehmet Oz, who regularly appears on Oprah's show, was back to reveal more of his anti-aging secrets and is a big fan of the mangosteen.

Dr. Oz said, "These are some examples that are very ancient healing tools... mangosteen, from Southeast Asia, work as very strong antioxidants and have been used in those societies for everything ranging from sexuality to vitality and longevity."

He went on to say that these ancient healing approaches really do work.

Already, our distributors are feeling the impact of that simple statement. Even though no product was mentioned by name, and even though the most current scientific research wasn't cited, people who before might have been sceptical, are now open to the idea of supplementing with mangosteen.

Since that showing on Oprah various Mangosteen products have appeared widely on health store shelves all over America.


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Leading researchers believe it could take up to 10 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables daily to deliver the daily requirement of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and minerals which we are lacking.

A daily antioxidant intake of around 5000 units daily is recommended for maintaining vibrant health.

A daily glass of Vitalxan Mangosteen juice Boosts your daily requirement of antioxidants by 3500 units.

The Australian Government certified ORAC rating for VitalXan is 69000 units per 20gm packet.

Do you feel tired and listless in the morning and wake with those aches and pains?

The Answer
Just drink Vitalxan and feel alive and refreshed with energy all day!

Also a great energy boost for gym workouts!

Every concentrated sachet of VitalXan will make up to 3 litres of Mangosteen juice.

No preservatives, chemicals, additives or heavy metals.

Whats New

Vitalxan mangosteen tablets.

Just 3 tabs a day gives you 6000+ ORAC units.

Convenient and super strong.

Great value – Take advantage of our discounted prices.

Vitalxan is Australian owned.

The following web sites are worth a look because they will give you an insight whether Mangosteen is what you are looking for.

www.vitalxan.com.au

www.insidemangosteen.com/mcgrath

 


Eliminate Stress and Tension: With A Float!

 

So you can eliminate stress, tension & muscle in a simple effortless way.....by floating.

"Floating compensates for lack of sleep ... 2 hours in a Float Tank can be more restful & restorative than a full night of sound sleep"

Floating is successfully used by athletes to improve performance signficantly & to speed recovery"

How does it work?

A floatation tank is a special lightweight floatarium designed to remove the effect of gravity. No Noise, No Light, No Feeling of Weight.

Entry to the tank is through a light sliding door which you can close or leave partly or completely open. Once inside the tank you rest upon an extremely dense solution of sterile warm water and Epsom salts - a velvety mixture just 10 inches deep,yet so tremendously buoyant, you have no choice but to float - you cannot sink. During this process your muscles relax to a degree not possible under any other circumstance & relief flows through your entire body.

Throughout this process stress, tension & fatigue are rapidly released. The benefits include feeling calm & clear headed, physically relaxed & refreshed.

AFTER WARDS

You will feel so calm & contented you won't feel like rushing back to the real world straight away. Allow yourself an extra 10 minutes to sit & enjoy the experience in our lounge.

REASSURING FACTS

Complete Privacy is assured. You float in your own private Float room, in your own tank. You are in total control of this tank and can leave it at anytime you like during the float. Floating in a tank does not feel claustophobic. Tanks are very roomy, lightweight & well-ventilated.

The door of the tank can be left open while you're getting used to the process & a soft light may also be left on if you are not comfortable with total darkness. Rest assured you will feel perfectly comfortable.

SAFE & HYGIENIC

The high salt concentration in the tank makes the water so dense it's like the DEAD SEA and anyone, no matter how heavy they are, will float. The salt content also keeps the water sterile, along with an automatic filtration cycle after each session.

FLOATAGE

Our most popular service is a 'Floatage' which is a combination of a float and a massage. Floatage combines of either a 30 minute massage or a one hour massage with a regular 50 min float. A Floatage is best described as a 'Mini Holiday'. Two hours of pure relaxation and recuperation.

Established in 1995, the Fountain of Youth have friendly, experienced staff ready to pamper you, family or friends and provide personalised service... guaranteed!

We pamper you and help you enjoy the art of relaxation. Let us help you to achieve radiance from the inside out.

126 Banks Street Alderley

3856 4087

www.fountainofyouth.com.au

 

 

Living Valley Springs: The Absolute Health Retreat!

 

Absolute Health Retreat
Living Valley Springs is definitely the first choice for a Unique Health Holiday or Health Care program. Staffed by 30 amazing people, this retreat is ready to give you a level of care and support that is second to none.


Personal Development
Daily lectures will bring you up to date on the latest studies on lifestyle and nutrition. Our presenters regularly study and lecture in Australia and overseas.


Medical Support
Naturopaths and Counsellors with decades of experience will set you on a path to wellness and longevity. Attention is given to every detail. A series of consultations will cover diagnostics, lifestyle planning and solutions. Then we continue to manage your case.


Cleanse and Detox
Organic juices, superb meals, daily steam baths, clay wraps, liver cleansing, lymphatic drainage, hydrotherapy and more will produce crystal-clear eyes, glowing skin and shiny hair representing a clean healthy system.


Nurture
Individualised treatments include Remedial and Swedish massage, facials, colon hydrotherapy, foot massage, poultices, reflex therapy, counselling, life coaching, personal training and genuine tender loving care.


Country Estate
The feeling of safety, the beauty, the flora, the views, the kangaroos and other wildlife on 160 acres make Living Valley Springs the most beautiful health destination in Australia.


Activities
Lots of fun, bush walks, bike rides, a mountain climb, exercises, swimming and games.


Conclusion
The thing that really makes the Living Valley Springs experience totally different from any other holiday is our commitment to you! Our team is trained, not just to pamper you, but to give you a level of personal care that is not available elsewhere.


We commence a new program every second Sunday for 20 people. Treat yourself to a Living Valley Springs experience. You will be amazed at the level of service that you will receive for the price.

CALL NOW ON 1800 644 733 FOR A COMPLETE INFORMATION PACK.

Located in Kin Kin on the Sunshine Coast

http://www.lvs.com.au


Vitaleblog:Check it Out!

 

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Vitaleblog.org is a blog (weblog) website aimed at those interested in Natural and organic skin and body care. You will find: * A repository of useful articles for education about how to choose the best organic and natural skin care. These articles are aimed to help you with all aspects of understanding the ingredients and making the right choices for your skin and the environment. * A collection of videos about natural skin care. You can listen to the recordings at any time through your computer speakers rather than having to read through pages of content. * Fresh content is added regularly including vidoes on ingredients, interviews with other skin experts, how-to instructional articles dealing with current hot topics like greenwashing and effecitve ingredients, as well as news and information from the natural beauty world.

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Short and Sweet:Moroccan Lemon Chicken!


Serves 6

2 cloves fresh garlic, peeled 2 tsp paprika 2 tsp ground cumin ½ tsp black pepper 4 Tbsp olive oil 6 chicken thighs (on the bone) 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 tsp saffron threads 125g pitted green olives 2 large lemons 1 preserved lemon 200ml cold water

1. Crush garlic cloves to a paste with a little salt. Mix with paprika, cumin, black pepper and half the olive oil. Toss with the chicken and leave as long as you can to marinate.

2. Heat a small amount of oil in a shallow pan. Add chicken pieces and cook on all sides until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3. Add the onion to the pan and cook until golden, then add saffron and olives. Cook over a medium heat for 2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan.

4. Add the juice of 1 lemon and cold water. Slice a second lemon and add to the pan. Bring to the boil, cover with a lid, and simmer until the chicken is cooked (about 15 minutes), basting regularly.

5. Add a quartered preserved lemon, just to heat through, before serving. If sauce is not thick enough, remove chicken and boil hard to reduce. Check seasoning. Serve chicken on rice with sauce spooned over.

Brought to you by Mass Attack.

http://www.massattack.com.au

Laughter is the best medicine!

A woman walked into the kitchen to find her husband stalking a round with a fly swatter.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"Hunting flies," He responded. "Oh, killing any?" She asked.

"Yep, three males, two females," he replied.

Intrigued, she asked, How can you tell?

He responded, "Three were on a beer can, two were on the phone."

.Quote of the Month!

Don't live in the past, thinking about mistakes or changes you made. Think of your life as a book, move forward, close one chapter and open another. Learn from your mistakes, but focus on your future, not on your past.

 

For a Good Cause: Why Support The Sporting Wheelies?

The mission of The Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Sport and Recreation Association of Queensland Inc. is to enhance the lives of people with a disability through community engagement and education, sport and healthy activity.

In 2007, the Association celebrated 30 years of service to the Queensland community.

From our early beginnings as a Brisbane based wheelchair sports club, we have evolved to become an organisation recognised as a leader, both in Queensland and Australia, in providing state-wide sport, recreation and fitness programs to our members who have physical disabilities, including: amputation, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, acquired brain injury or vision impairment.

The Association is a self-supporting, not for profit disability service providing organisation that raises funds through its own business enterprises, the Gold Choice Art Union and Beeline Sales Support. The Association also receives funding from the Queensland Government and key sponsors which is a much needed source of financial support.

http://www.sportingwheelies.org.au/

 

 

BACK ISSUES OF NATURALLY HAPPY

In the next issue of "Naturally Happy"

 

  • My Health Sanctuary!
  • Fitness Equipment!
  • In Balance
  • Aqua Man!
  • Clinic Aesthetic!
  • All Body Care!
  • Short and sweet!
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