We hear much talk of diet and how exercise burns calories. Yet many people starve themselves on low calorie diets and exercise like maniacs_and the weight refuses to come off. Obviously there must be more to the picture….
A calorie is simply a measure of heat that is released when something is burned.
The amount of energy, or heat, that is released from the foods we eat is the measurement of how many calories those foods contain.
To extract the energy from food, the body breaks it down and sends it to our cells where it combusts with oxygen, releasing the energy.
Our digestive system is like a fire: it needs food for fuel and the right amount of air to maintain its power. Without oxygen we are unable to utilize the energy in the foods we eat. In simple words: Calories need oxygen to burn. With food, quality is vital; with oxygen, quantity is what counts most.
Relaxed breathing during meals strengthens metabolism. If you eat when feeling tense, eat too fast, or are distracted by work, your breathing is shallow and your metabolism weak. The breath is a fundamental ingredient to our meal.
• Work towards a deeper breath that still feels natural and unforced.
• Have meals in an area richer in air when possible, such as in a room with an open window as opposed to one with circulated air, like a sealed office building.
• If dining out, choose a restaurant that has a relaxed atmosphere rather than large and noisy dining area.
• Dine with people who inspire you and keep conversation positive.
• Sitting up straight allows a fuller breath capacity.
