23 May 2011 -Summer is arriving and most of us look in the mirror when try on a new swimsuit and think, “Wow! I have fat here and cellulite there that I did not have last year. How can I get rid of this stuff before I have to walk around in a swimsuit?”
Believe me, I know how that feels. It seems that the older I get, the more my body changes and my bumps are in areas that are difficult to control. In addition, most of us work hard every day and do not have the time or money to go to the gym or take a long awaited Yoga class.
I have discovered a few tricks to help get my body back in shape without costing a penny and I can do this without taking up my precious time. (However, I must add, that taking care of yourself, is precious and that time in reality is worth it!) I also have maintained this habit, not only for the summer season, but all year long.
Tighten your buttocks, hips and rear upper thighs!
1) In the morning after washing your face, use whatever routine you use normally. If it is putting on your creams and make-up, then brushing your teeth (for 2 minutes!)
Do squats!
2) Okay, I know that you are supposed to put your arms out in front of you…but after you have practiced doing squats for a bit, you will know how to keep your balance.
3) Squat up and down while brushing your teeth for 2minutes!
4) Squat up and down while rubbing your glorious face cream!
5) Squat up and down while you are waiting for the water to get hot!
Do this in the morning and at night.
Firm your buttocks, thighs, belly!
While you are standing around waiting for someone, just about doing nothing but staring at the air in front of you, you can do an exercise that no one will know you are doing.
1) Stand with good posture, back straight like you are pulling your shoulder blades together, head straight and your belly tucked in.
2) Imagine that you are squeezing a penny between your buttocks!
3) Squeeze and release, squeeze and release.
4) While you squeeze, feel the tension in your upper thighs, tighten your buttocks and your upper thighs. Repeat for as long as you want. Go for 100 reps!
5) Do this exercise a few times a day during a “down” and waiting moment!
Hint: You may want to have your back to a wall, or wear your long sweater, coat, or shirt! Just look around and make sure that no one can see you flexing your muscles!
