I admit it. I'm hooked on belly dancing. I began attending classes about 8 weeks ago and am into it…really into it. What grabbed me wasn't the lively music that ranges from Middle Eastern to rock, or the movements that tone muscles I never knew I had. I was moved by the unconditional acceptance of every individual who participates.
Beginning dancers at my South Beach studio range from teens to early 70's and their figures run from healthy to quite overweight. You don't have to look perfect as you begin your quest for a healthier body here. You actually need a bit of jiggle, to look better when you wiggle! But as you progress, you will meet your personal goals. All in all, belly dancing is pure fun, a great way to burn calories, and a darned good workout.
Is it worthwhile to search for a physical activity that you enjoy? You bet it is. Regular exercise offers an almost endless list of physical and emotional benefits:
- Improves blood sugar control
- Helps you meet your weight goals
- Lowers your blood pressure
- Reduces risk of heart disease
- Strengthens your bones, heart and cardiovascular system
- Improves strength, flexibility, and endurance
- Improves circulation and flexibility
- Improves your sleep
- Helps you feel relaxed, fit and healthy
- Heightens self-esteem
- Reduces feelings of depression, stress and anxiety
You may never turn an exercise choice into a new passion, but you can make it much more pleasant to do. First ask your physician about any physical conditions that may prohibit you from doing certain activities. Then try the following:
- Look for something you've always wanted to do. Did you have a childhood sports dream? Always want to be Dorothy Hamill? Enroll in ice skating classes. Want to complete a marathon? Sign up for a charitable walk/run event. Many organizations will help you find workout partners in your area and assist you in setting realistic weekly goals.
- Find a buddy. Having a partner adds to the fun. You can push each other to do the activity then share a diet beverage afterwards. A friend can turn a boring activity into a social event that you won't want to miss. If no one can join you, attend classes anyway. Most people come alone and are open to making new friends.
- Phone a pal. Your exercise partner does not need to be nearby:
Suzanne was in a slump. She has had type 2 diabetes for about four months and was starting to lose her desire to wake up and complete her workout before leaving for work. She phoned her sister, Lisa. They don't live in the same city, but they push each other to stick to their respective exercise schedules. Most conversations are filled with family gossip, but today Suzanne really needed Lisa's help. Fortunately, the call did the trick. Lisa charged her sister up by challenging her to set a new goal. Suzanne loved the idea, put on her walking shoes, and headed out the door.
Physical activity is not a hobby- it is a form of "medication" that helps you meet your health goals. So take your New Year's resolutions to heart and give yourself permission to exercise regularly.
For more positive ways to deal with diabetes in your life, enjoy the personal stories, quizzes, discussion topics, advice and humor in The Secrets of Living and Loving with Diabetes-Three Experts Answer Questions You've Always Wanted to Ask, by Janis Roszler, RD, CDE, LD/N, William Polonsky, PhD., CDE, and Steven V. Edelman, MD.
(Originally published in the eDiets.com Living With Diabetes newsletter.)
