Published on: 20 February 2019
Last Updated on: 31 October 2024
Not many people are aware of testosterone therapy and this story is about how Testosterone therapy can change your life and make you confident like never before.
The other day I was sitting with my friends and one of the friends told us about how he was undergoing testosterone therapy. It immediately intrigued all of us when he told us about how he is feeling the change in him with the therapy. I wanted to know more about it, so I googled it and figured out a few articles about it with some relevant information about testosterone therapy.
What are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Until that day I was not aware of the fact what implications of low testosterone are. I was ignorant of signs of low testosterone. It can adversely affect the mind and reduce self-confidence or make someone depressed, or one might find it difficult to concentrate or have disturbed sleep. There might be a case of declining muscle and bone mass or an increase in body fat, fatigue. One might also face lower sex drive, difficulty in sustaining erections, and fewer spontaneous erections. All this affect our day to day life and our sexual relationship, and our performance at work.
How to get Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
As per a urologist, Dr. Michael O’Leary at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital “In most men the testosterone level is normal and one must not have the prescription without lab test on the basis of general fatigue and malaise.” Having hormonal supplements can trap you and vouch for it as once men began to take testosterone replacement because they tend to feel better and the body stops making testosterone. However, it can pose some risks.
What are the Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
The risks involved with testosterone therapy are relatively low. However, some men might face immediate side effects of testosterone supplements such as acne, swelling in the ankles, disturbed breathing while sleeping. Besides, some doctors also watch for the high blood cell counts that might trigger the risk of clotting. In addition to that, there can be a higher risk of developing heart attacks, strokes and it can be fatal due to cardiovascular diseases.
Review:
I figured out from my further readings that most doctors do not recommend testosterone therapy until and unless there are chances of not avoiding it. Men can maintain energy easily without vouching on dietary supplements or drugs by following a healthy lifestyle such as having fiber and protein in snacks, walk as much as they can, or pacing up yourselves.
One needs to be cautious and mindful before approaching testosterone therapy. One needs to have an accurate assessment. Be cautious of various side effects of gels, injections, and patches. Don’t feel shy or frustrated and try to diagnose your symptoms and be aware of them before having any testosterone therapy or supplements talk to your doctor openly and discuss your symptoms. A lab test is a must for measuring testosterone deficiency. One needs to follow up with the physician and must consult an endocrinologist.
I have come to the conclusion that one cannot go ahead with testosterone therapy until and unless one is not sure of the symptoms and lab test. Low deficiency of testosterone needs to have therapy but with caution and keeping in mind the various side effects and not expecting any miracle out of it.
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To start your Pilates workout, all you need is a wall. With wall Pilates free workout, you can blend traditional Pilates with home exercise. This workout can be helpful for you whether you are a beginner in Pilates or have been practicing Pilates for a few years. Consider starting out with wall Pilates if you want to transform your fitness journey.
In this article, you will get a Wall Pilates workout plan. Apart from that, you will also get a general overview of what a wall Pilates exercise is as well as its benefits. Moreover, this article will also set a Wall Pilates free workout plan. Finally, you will also get essential tips to perform this exercise. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
What is Wall Pilates?
Wall Pilates is a form of Pilates training. It is a low-impact exercise where you have to use a wall for support and resistance. Basically, the wall provides support for your back, shoulder, and hips. Hence, you can use it as a resistance to perform exercise.
Generally, when you perform traditional Pilates, you have to exercise on a mat or a reformer machine. Here, you use your body weight or the machine for resistance. However, with wall Pilates, you press your body and its parts against a wall. You make movements by exerting force on the wall and by using it as a support.
Actually, in this exercise, you have to do the same repetitive movements that you practice during a mat. Some examples of wall Pilates are single-leg stretch, criss-cross, the hundred, etc.
Benefits of Wall Pilates Free Hand Exercises
The following are some of the major benefits of Wall Pilates that you must:
By performing wall Pilates daily, you can strengthen your core muscles. As a result, this will help you prevent injuries and maintain a good posture.
With time, you will improve your flexibility with wall Pilates. Additionally, it also helps you to improve your coordination and balance.
As you are using a wall for your support, the stable surface can help you maintain the right form. Thereby, with time, you will get a better spinal alignment, which will ensure a lower risk of injury.
With wall Pilates, you engage your full body for the exercise. This way, you can target all muscle areas of the body.
Moreover, Wall Pilates free hand exercises are also effective in reducing blood pressure. Hence, if you do it regularly, you lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Wall Pilates also involves mindful movement, which can help you work on your mental health.
People of all ages and fitness levels can perform wall pilates. This is because it is a low-impact exercise.
Apart from all these benefits, one of the biggest factors to consider Wall Pilates is that it is a budget-friendly exercise. All you require here is a wall.
Who is Wall Pilates Good for?
Since Wall Pilates is a low-impact exercise, it will not be physically demanding and exhausting. Hence, this form of exercise is good for people of all ages and fitness levels. Moreover, this exercise is also good for pregnant and injured people. Furthermore, if you are someone who finds it difficult to lie on your back, you can even do Wall Pilates.
Generally, traditional Pilates, like mat or reformer Pilates, are difficult to perform. This is especially true for people who have physiological issues or injuries. Hence, if you want to perform a light exercise to stay fit, Wall Pilates is one of the best options to consider.
15-Minute Wall Pilates Free Hand Workout
To start a Wall Pilates workout, you need an open wall and a yoga mat. Here are the steps you must follow to perform your Wall Pilates workout:
Start your warmup with a Cat-Cow pose and Thread-the-Needle stretch. Warm up for 2-3 minutes.
Once you complete your warmup, start your wall Pilates exercise. Here, make sure to have consistency with the reps for each move. Once you complete the five Pilates exercises, repeat the circuit twice more.
The next section consists of 5 back-to-back exercises that you must perform in each circuit.
5 Wall Pilates Free Hand Exercises
Here are the Wall Pilates exercises you must perform to complete each circuit:
1. Single-Leg Knee Crunch
The following are the steps to follow if you want to perform a single-leg knee crunch:
Sit one foot away from the wall. Then, lie down on your back. After that, place your feet on the wall so that your legs look like a tabletop, horizontally.
Stretch your left leg diagonally so that your toes are just touching the wall. Then, extend your arms over your head. Meanwhile, be sure to press your lower back into the floor. This way, you can engage your core.
Pull your left knee toward your chest and curl your shoulders, hands, and your head towards your core. Then, slowly, go back to the initial position.
Repeat these fifteen times to complete one set.
2. Wall Bridge and Calf Raise
The following are the steps to follow if you want to perform the wall bridge and calf raise exercise:
Sit one foot away from the wall. Then, lie down on your back. After that, place your feet on the wall so that your legs look like a tabletop, horizontally.
Press your feet on the wall. This way, you can engage your glutes and your hamstring. Then, lift your hips off the floor. However, do not arch your back in the process.
Moreover, when your body makes a straight line from the knees to the shoulder, lift your heels for a calf raise. This will balance out the movement. Then, return to the starting position to complete one rep.
Repeat these fifteen times to complete one set.
3. Reach Backs
The following are the steps to follow if you want to perform reach-backs:
Start with a high plank by pressing your feet on the edge of the wall. Here, ensure to keep your feet apart by shoulder-width. Also, be sure to place your shoulders directly over your wrists. Moreover, your body must be in a straight line from your heels to your shoulder. Use it as your starting position.
Then, lift your hips up. When you are lifting up, touch your left foot with your right hand. Then, come back to the starting position. Do the same with your left hand by touching your right foot. Again, come back to the starting position.
Make sure to repeat this 10 times for one set.
4. Marching Bridge
The following are the steps to follow if you want to perform a marching bridge:
Sit one foot away from the wall. Then, lie down on your back. After that, place your feet on the wall so that your legs look like a tabletop, horizontally.
Then, press your feet to lift your hips off the floor. Here, make sure to form a straight line from your knees to your shoulder. However, make sure not to arch your back. Consider this as your starting position.
Then, lift your left foot and bring your knee toward your chest. Meanwhile, make sure to keep your hips still. Here, maintain the same bend in your knee and stop when your thigh is at a right angle to your torso.
Then, come back to your starting position by reversing the movement. This is one rep.
By performing 10 reps, you complete one set of the marching bridge.
5. Wall Sit and Calf Raise
The following are the steps to follow if you want to perform the wall sit and calf raise exercise:
Become a human chair: Stand with your back against a wall and take your feet about a foot forward. Then, lower your hips down to a position such that your knees are perpendicular to your hips. Also, make sure your ankle is perpendicular to your knees.
Then, extend your arms horizontally so that it is perpendicular to your torso. This is your starting position.
Hold the squat position to raise your arms, and reverse the movement to the starting position. Simultaneously, raise your heels to do a calf raise and reverse the movement. This is one rep.
Perform 12 reps to complete one set of Wall Sit and Calf Raise.
Tips for Effective Wall Pilates Practice
Here are some useful tips if you want to perform Wall Pilates free hand exercises effectively:
Don’t over-exert yourself with your exercises. Basically, start with simple exercises and gradually increase your intensity.
Make sure to breathe steadily and have control of your breathing.
Use good-quality mats to support your back and hips.
There is no substitute for a professional instructor. Hence, consult with an instructor to perform your exercises correctly.
Do you have more suggestions on how to perform Wall Pilates free hand exercises? Please share your experiences and opinions in the comments section below.
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There are points in our life where we feel nothing can get better, that we’ve exhausted our options, and we’re just stuck. But the truth is, the only way we stay stuck is if we believe that’s all we can be. Getting help may seem impossible or not even worth our time, but seeking it out is taking a step forward and actually taking the initiative to live a life we deserve.
Many addicts exist in an eternal state of hopeless and despair. You’ve been under the influence of drugs and alcohol for so long - what makes you think there’s the possibility of change? Honestly, we are the ones who prevent ourselves from changing or seeking help, no matter who many times we try to make excuses or convince ourselves otherwise.
No matter who you are, where you come from, how old you are, or what your circumstances are, these are five reasons to convince you why it’s not too late to get help:
1. You control your actions - not substances, a person, or even anything in the outside world:
Outside elements can definitely influence your choices, but at the end of the day, you ultimately make the choice itself. Think of it this way: you have the power to do anything you want in life - anything. That’s an incredible concept. Trust yourself to make the best choices even if they scare and embarrass you, or even trigger self-consciousness and insecurity.
2. Resources are always readily available:
Resources, such as helplines, rehab centers, and support groups, are always readily available to help you; what’s more, new treatments are expanding and being utilized constantly! There are even organizations specifically created to guide you towards achieving goals and living a fulfilling life. Subsequently, your friends and family are also people who can support you. They’re a genuine support system who believes in you and will encourage you to keep moving forward - especially, in those moments of weakness.
3. You can always start over if things don’t work out the first time:
Don’t focus on feeling your adversities need to be overcome within a certain amount of time. There are no perfect moments to start helping yourself. You decide when that moment will happen. There have been so many instances where an addict suffered relapses after long periods of sobriety and felt like a failure who took one hundred steps back. But despite the fact, they realized that giving up was always worse than the actual failure itself. Drugs and alcohol are the only substances. Your personal situation is only a situation. It doesn’t define who you are - your actions do. Lastly, lessons are never painless because they equip you with better emotional tools and strategies to handle the same events in a more mature and understanding way.
4. Life does get better:
Tomorrow, the next day, and the future, in general, is always uncertain. While that may sound like an intimidating concept at first, it can actually be a catalyst for taking the initiative to help yourself. The world is full of possibilities, some of which you will never experience unless you have the courage to discover them. You can expect the world to open up when you allow yourself to stop being dictated by fear and doubt.
5. You have more strength than you think:
We are always stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Strength comes from our will to be strong in the first place. You always end up surprising yourself when you take the leap to surpass mental and emotional boundaries. The moment you overcome one obstacle, it turns into two, then three, and so on. Emotional resilience becomes a never-ending domino effect when we face fears despite being afraid over and over again.
All may seem hopeless in the world, but that doesn’t mean that’s the truth. You always have the ability to change your life and get the help you need. Turning your life around will take hard work, and the path may not always be clear, but remember - you get to choose how this life will be lived. You have the power to make it whatever you want it to be, and you can do it.
You really can.
Good news ladies, pregnant women need to eat an extra 350 to 500 calories each day. Finally, a valid excuse to eat more!
With that statistic in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to reveal to you the best foods to eat in early pregnancy. That way, you'll be able to use this surplus of calories to both you and your babies advantage.
So, without further ado, let's dive in!
1. Beans and Lentils :
If you're looking to nurture your 14 weeks pregnant belly, we recommend eating plenty of beans and lentils.
These foods are a fabulous source and protein, and pregnant women need an extra 10 grams of protein each day.
Therefore, beans and lentils make an excellent addition to your diet because they contain as much as 15 grams of protein per cup!
If you're unsure how to use them, we suggest adding cooked lentils and beans to your salads and rice dishes. These are sure to be a tasty addition!
2. Broccoli :
Now, broccoli isn't always everyone's favorite food. However, it's worth bearing with because it's packed full of nutrients such as calcium and folate.
In addition to this, it's high in fiber and vitamin C which is essential for helping your body absorb iron. Therefore, the best time to eat broccoli is when you accompany it with iron-rich food like lean red meat or wholegrain pasta.
Plus, broccoli is rich in antioxidants, which promote healthy digestion and strengthen your immune system (which is obviously even more critical when you're pregnant).
Also, if you're struggling with constipation (which is exceptionally common among pregnant women), broccoli is a must because of its high fiber content.
Really and truly, broccoli is the perfect pregnancy food!
3. Bananas :
Bananas are a brilliant snack for pregnant women.
Not only does the potassium help combat fatigue, but they're also kind on the stomach if you're suffering from morning sickness.
4. Lean Meat :
Just like protein levels, pregnant women also need to increase their iron intake. The volume of their blood increases, which causes them to need double the amount of iron.
Therefore we suggest eating plenty of lean meat as this provides a form of iron that's quickly absorbed by the body. Good examples of these include:
Beef
Pork
Chicken
In addition to iron, these meats typically contain choline and vitamin B, both of which pregnant women need more of.
5. Oatmeal :
There's no better to start your day than by eating a bowl of nutritious cereal. The complex carbohydrates in oatmeal will leave you feeling fuller for longer, and this breakfast will help lower your cholesterol levels--win-win!
Top Tip: Don't buy processed oatmeals that are full of sugars and additives. Instead, cook yourself the plain variety and add a dollop of jelly. Yummy!
6. Leafy Greens :
When you cook the following greens:
Spinach
Kale
Turnip greens
You release higher levels of iron and folate. In addition to this, they're also a fabulous source of calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium.
We suggest sprinkling a few of these leafy greens in your pasta dishes, adding them to soups, or substituting iceberg lettuce for them in your salads.
7. Whole-Grain Bread :
The simple swap from white to whole grain can make a massive difference when you're pregnant. By doing this, you ensure you get your daily intake of fiber.
Ideally, you want to ensure that each slice contains at least two grams of fiber before you commit to purchasing the loaf.
Plus, wholemeal bread also provides you with both iron and zinc, which are both essential nutrients for pregnant women!
8. Oranges :
Oranges are an excellent fruit to eat while you're pregnant. They're full of the following goodies:
Vitamin C
Folate
Fiber
Water
Now the water might not sound like a massive deal, but these fruits are almost 90% liquid, which is excellent for keeping you hydrated and combatting fatigue.
9. Nuts and Nut Butters :
Healthy fats are critical for your baby's brain development, so we suggest eating one ounce of nuts a day and two tablespoons of nut butter. Plus, these snacks will help keep you full!
Top Tip: if you suffer from any kind of allergy, we suggest steering clear of highly allergenic foods such as nuts while you're pregnant.
Some scientists believe that exposing the baby to foods like this during pregnancy could increase their risk of developing a more severe allergy during childhood.
10. Sweet Potatoes :
Sweet potatoes are full of a nutrient called beta-carotene. When we digest it, we transform it into vitamin A. This is fabulous for mothers to be because Vitamin A helps the fetus' cells grow and differentiate from one another.
Top Tip: pregnant women are usually advised to stay away from high levels of animal-based vitamin A because these can sometimes be dangerous when eaten to excess.
This is another reason why foods that contain beta-carotene are essential to include in your pregnancy diet.
Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy: Final Thoughts
It's important for women to swot up on the best foods to eat in early pregnancy because your dietary requirements change a little. However, by sticking to diets high in protein, iron, and fiber, you shouldn't go too far wrong!
If you enjoyed this article, we're confident you'll love the other features published on our family and parenting blog. Over there we discuss everything from pregnancy care tips to family leave.
Enjoy!
Alternatively, if you have any questions about this subject, please feel free to drop us a line. We love to hear from our readers! Just fill out the simple contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Speak soon!
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9 Tips For Staying Fit And Healthy During Pregnancy
