Fitness for the Mind and Body

Commitment to a change in lifestyle, complete with new healthy eating habits and routine exercise, is a vital part of any weight loss plan. This is especially important for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. Surgery provides a physical change in the digestive system, helping to speed weight loss. The dedication and motivation to maintain a healthy lifestyle requires emotional and mental changes. This can be accomplished with the help of stress management techniques that use mind-body fitness regimens. Talk with your weight loss program staff to help locate mind-body fitness classes in the Troy area.

Yoga is one of the oldest forms of mind-body exercise. Yoga uses specific postures and breathing in combination with meditation to help connect the mind and body. Studies have shown that yoga increases strength and flexibility while it helps calm the mind. It is a stress management technique that incorporates benefits for the entire self. Hatha yoga is the best choice for beginners, as it provides a basic foundation in postures and breathing techniques. Beginners learn simple postures that create strength, flexibility and promote relaxation. As yoga enthusiasts continue with the practice, more difficult postures can be achieved.

Pilates is another low-impact mind-body fitness regimen and focuses on strengthening the core of the body. It uses deep awareness of the body while performing movements. Rather than bulking up muscles, it creates a longer, stronger musculature. This helps with balance, body alignment and healthy breathing. As with yoga, continued practice leads to greater self-awareness, strength and increased stress management.

Many suffer from a stress disorder that leads to emotional eating. This can be a contributing factor in obesity and the inability to lose weight. Using mind-body relaxation and fitness techniques may help support those who eat to relieve stress.