Eat, Breathe and Be Happy.

Fresh from a long Carnival weekend: many opted for the streets. A few chose to relax at home. Many more so headed for the coast.


Nothing beats spending time on any of our nation's many beaches. Sun, blue skies, bluer still the water and golden sands beneath our feet. Yet, there are many who don't see the beach the same way that I do.


The beach isn't usually an environment considered ideal for fitness, but once you stop and think about it, you'll be planning another visit soon enough.


As it turns out, a sandy beach can actually provide you with an ideal surface for a vigorous workout, making it an idea training ground on which one can stay fit, lean and toned.


As a 'Trini' living within close proximity to a beach, my very lifestyle is definitely defined by that harmonious zone where water touches Earth. The ocean waves provide the ideal soundtrack to workout, the damp sand is low impact on the joints and after heating up, what better way to cool off than a quick dip before heading home.


We have the fortunate luxury of living within a beach, on this twin island paradise, rivalled by a selected few. So, take advantage of the many health and fitness benefits the coast has to offer. But in order for you to truly achieve that tropical, healthy life, there are quite a few aspects to keep in mind.


Exercising on the beach for roughly an hour burns approximately 800-1000 calories, considering such activities as walking, swimming, running or playing sports such as cricket or football. Even gazing at the sun as it dips below the horizon burns a few, but the lull of the waves, the breeze and the sight is really what counts here, feel your tension, stress and worries fade with the bloodied moments of a dying day. Spend time with loved ones and relax even further; meditate while you're alone, reflecting on the positive virtues each moment brings.


We opt to pay exorbitant gym fees to run aimlessly on a treadmill. Consider instead a quick run along the beach. For additional benefits, throw in some lightweight cardio and resistance training by going for a mid-day swim and say goodbye to fat with each stroke. It can be tremendously beneficial spending a small amount of time on any beach.


My blog encourages good living. Next entry, we'll focus on what goes into the body, and what we can expect to get back from what we eat.