As aerialists, we rely on our body to do a lot. We’re constantly lifting ourselves up against gravity and contorting ourselves into different shapes. Our body truly is capable of amazing things, but we need to take good care of it to keep it functioning well. Here are a few habits that you can use to keep your body feeling healthy and strong.

Eat Well

Making healthy food choices can influence how our body feels. When we eat well and in line with what our body needs, we generally feel pretty good. When possible, choose fresh, whole foods and minimize your intake of processed foods. Processed foods tend to have a lot of unhealthy additives or are generally high in calories, salt, sugars, etc. Of course, there are times when you can (and should!) enjoy treats, but remember that moderation is key. 

In addition to what you eat, how you eat can also make a difference. As you eat, try to do so slowly and mindfully. Really enjoy your meals and savor the textures, flavors, and scents. Not only can it create a more pleasurable dining experience, slowing down your pace can help you realize when you are full sooner. 

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help you feel your best. Our bodies need water to function. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average woman needs about 11.5 cups of fluids per day. Of course, this can vary quite a bit and also is influenced by lifestyle and environment. In general, to stay hydrated simply take a drink of water whenever you feel thirsty. How can you tell if you are dehydrated? Signs include dry skin, fatigue, headaches, dark urine, muscle cramps and increased thirst. 

Catch Your Zzzzs

A full night of sleep can make a huge difference in how we feel. Not getting enough sleep can make us feel sluggish, moody, and even physically ill. It can be easy to push off going to bed, especially with our busy schedules and never-ending to do lists. However, this is at a detriment to us since sleep is so important to our bodies for so many reasons. 

Getting enough sleep helps to support brain function and can improve focus and attention. In addition, our body needs sleep to help repair itself and support growth, to balance hormones, and to keep our immune system functioning at its best. 

Here are a few things you can try to help improve your sleep:

• Avoid caffeine in the afternoon or later in the day. Caffeine can stay in our system for a while and can make it harder to fall asleep.
• Sleep in a cool, dark room. 
• Try meditation or another relaxation technique right before bed.
• Limit the use of screens before bed. The light emitted from screens can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps our body know when it’s time to sleep, and keep us up longer.

Get Active

Finding movement in your everyday life is so important. Being physically active is good for us. Our bodies need to be active to help reduce inflammation and to keep ourselves functioning for the daily activities of living. Many of us in modern society sit for a large part of the day, so it is especially important to take breaks to get up and move around or do some stretching to help counteract all of the sitting. Even small things like parking further away from an entrance or choosing to take the stairs instead of an elevator can add up. 

In addition to the physical benefits, exercising can help to relieve stress and boost our moods. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity. Find a type of exercise that you enjoy doing and can incorporate into your routine. When an exercise is fun, you’re much more likely to continue doing it.

Another thing to keep in mind is the importance of cross training. Incorporating multiple types of exercise can help balance out the body, reduce risk of injury, and improve strength, endurance, and flexibility. Plus, sometimes trying out a new type of exercise can offer a fun and refreshing change!

If you’re looking for a fun way to be active, check out our class schedule. We offer a variety of pole fitness and aerial classes as well as cardio, hula hoop, yoga, barre, and much more!