Yoga. A strength exercise?

I haven't, in the past, been much of a yoga enthusiast.  I prefer full contact, full out team sports.  The kind where you limp home and nurse your body back to health so you can punish it again the next day.  Soccer and basketball have been my lifelong favorites - after rowing, of course!

But I can't play those sports any more - because of the injuries.  Mainly my feet and knees are done.  So I have been actively seeking other ways to extend my body to stay fit and strong.  My daughter convinced me to try yoga.

I have quite a few friends who only practice yoga for fitness, so I was really interested when this article presented itself.  What does the research show?  Yoga doesn't make you stronger or fitter.  There is some minor gain in leg strength, but that's it.  That doesn't mean yoga isn't great for all kinds of other reasons - like flexibility and relaxation - but it simply isn't a fitness activity.

So, if you're in your chair, have a read on this research supported article.  Then GET OUT OF YOUR CHAIR and do something for fitness.  Muscle and cardiovascular health will take you well into old age.


Does Yoga Build Strength?

Two Salads with One Fish

I really wanted fish tacos last night, so I got some fish and cooked it in the oven with lime juice, cilantro, diced hot chilis, salt and pepper on top.   Mmmmm on its own!

And I didn't want the tortilla, so I thought I'd make my favorite Chipotle Fish "Tacos" with Lettuce Tortillas.  But I was lazy and didn't want to deal with the mess of eating them.  So I deconstructed them and made a

Fish Taco in a Bowl

I used beet tops, cabbage, red peppers and avocado for the greens then mixed up a lemon juice vinaigrette with a touch of chili powder in it.  Delish!

AND there was fish left over for lunch today!  So I made

Red Green Salad with Fish

I used black kale, celery, and grated beets for the greens then topped them with Namprik Dressing.  The recipe I have is from a restaurant friend and makes a ton, so I guess when I make a smaller amount....

nearly equal parts of lime juice and fish sauce (a touch less) and light oil (I used almond oil today)

garlic

sambal oelek (normally I used finely diced jalapeños, but I had none)

a touch of something sweet (today I used honey)

Actual Namprik Recipe (lots and lots of Namprik)

1 tablespoon + 1 3/4 teaspoons jalapenos (1 cup)
1 tablespoon + 1 3/4 teaspoons garlic cloves (1 cup)
2 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar (1/2 cup)
3/4 cup + 2 1/2 teaspoons lime concentrate (8 cup)
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon + 1 3/4 teaspoons fish sauce (6 cup)
3/4 cup + 2 1/2 teaspoons canola oil (8 cup)