Monday evening I went to try out a yoga class at Yoga to the People. They have studios in New York and San Francisco and there is no contract or even registration. Just show up to a class and donate what you can. Great concept! Although the class was packed Monday, it was still pleasant. I had planned on going back tonight after work. I got there 30 minutes before class and there was a line-up practically down the block. I had no desire to be in a hot and humid studio, packed in like a bunch of sardines. I am currently researching new yoga studios in my area.
My desire to eat healthier and exercise (in an attempt to shed some of this winter weight) sparked an interest to research foods and their health benefits. Not just disease prevention, which is certainly important, but I mean more along the lines of foods that improve our appearance. Our skin, hair, etc. Here are some of my favorite foods and their "beautifying" benefits.
I love, love, love salmon. If it's on the menu, I am ordering it. It's loaded with iron, vitamin B-12 and, of course, omega-3 fatty acids. The nutrients in salmon help promote a healthy scalp and everyone knows that a healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Salmon does double duty and gives you great skin, too.
Legumes are chock-full of protein, zinc, iron and biotin. These nutrients help promote hair growth. Make a three-bean salad for a quick health boost. And add some spinach. Full of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium, spinach or any dark green leafy vegetable will prevent your hair from being dry and brittle.
I love eating berries in the summer, especially blueberries. Blueberries are full of antioxidants. We all know how important antioxidants are in preventing the deterioration of skin cells. Add some to yogurt or your morning smoothie.
The most important thing to remember is to drink lots of water. For properly hydrated skin, meaning skin that is healthy and youthful-looking, get in about two liters of water every day.
