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Get some stress relief...without the nasty hangover |
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When times get tough, we all have different ways of coping with stress. Some of us hit the pub for a couple of pints after a long day at the office, while others choose to browse the mall in the quest for a little retail therapy. Problem is, the first can lead to nasty hangovers and losing your stuff (your keys/wallet/dignity), while the second can really hurt your bank balance and leave you with buyer’s remorse, which in turn leads to more stress.
At Virgin Active, we have everything you need to beat stress, without the nasty hangover or the empty wallet. After all, life’s more fun when you move! And when you’re having fun, the stress seems to just melt away...
There is good evidence that physically fit people have less extreme physiological responses when under pressure than those who are not. This means that fit people are more able to handle the long-term effects of stress, without suffering ill health or burnout.
Sweating it out on the gym floor or participating in a
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high-energy group class are fantastic ways to blow off some steam. But if you are looking for alternative exercises and treatments with a calming effect, the following are among those you’ll find at Virgin Active health clubs.
Yoga
Breathe...Yoga is a great way to quiet your mind and relax your body. It’s about creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. There are many different forms of yoga, most of which are Hatha. Some, such as Astanga, are more physically challenging than others and you will work up a sweat. At Virgin Active, we offer several different types of yoga, including Dynamic Yoga, Astanga Yoga and Hatha Yoga. Choose one that suits your abilities and fitness level. If you are attending a yoga class for the first time, ask your fitness instructor to explain the movements before doing them, and describe which muscles are being used.
Pilates
Named after Joseph H. Pilates, a carpenter who developed this unique exercise system in 1920s for injured dancers, Pilates is fast reaching the same popularity level as yoga. Pilates creates strength without bulk and lengthens and stretches your muscles as it creates postural awareness. Focusing on the ‘powerhouse’ muscles including abs, back, buttocks and thighs, it restores balance in the body. This, in turn, can radically improve your posture and realign your body, leaving you feeling healthier and more relaxed. No more hunched back and tight shoulders!
Massage
Gentle massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural 'feel good’ chemicals by affecting the nervous system through nerve endings in the skin. That’s why massage leaves us feeling relaxed, with a sense of well-being. It can also relieve pain and reduce levels of stress chemicals such as cortisol and noradrenaline. By slowing heart rate, respiration and metabolism and lowering raised blood pressure, it helps reverse the damaging effects of stress. Visit the HeavenV spa at Virgin Active, where you’ll find the latest transformational beauty treatments and indulging massage treatments. For more information on available treatments, go to the HeavenV website.
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