THIRSTY FOR PADDLEBOARDING
By Rachel Werner
Looking for an activity that offers a quick surge of adrenaline to the body and mind, an opportunity for riveting self-exploration or a joyous party with friends? Try SUP—stand-up paddleboard- ing! Madison-based SUP yoga instructor Maureen Hebl says most paddleboard novices leave their first sessions “curious, energized, connected and thirsty to return for more.” The sport strengthens core muscles and improves balance and stability. And Hebl says students begin to think of their body as a whole, rather than separate parts making a certain pose.
“New depths of focus and creativity are accessed,” Hebl says, “allow- ing participants to laugh and unite in the lightness of their practice, reminded anew to not take all those salubrious yoga alignments so seriously.” Come try paddleboarding and SUP yoga with the BRAVA gals at our next BRAVA Night Out with Paddleboard Specialists, June 25, 5-8 p.m., Brittingham Boat House, Madison. Reserve early—this event sold out last year. paddleboardspecialists.com.
BOOST YOUR PROTECTION
Rachel Werner
Summer’s here and so is the sun! Protect your skin with SPF-15 or higher and consider taking a daily dose of Vitamins C and E, fern or green tea extract. These supplements can help prevent oxidative damage—which causes irreversible fine lines and wrinkles, especially in those with high-sun sensitivity, says dermatologist Dr. Harry Sharata, owner of Advanced Dermatology in Madison. Also remember to wear a broad-rimmed hat and avoid the midday sun altogether to seal
the deal.
A gentle kick in the rear
Rachel Werner
Your doctor says you need to change your lifestyle to manage a medical condition and get healthier. But saying and doing are two different things. Now, some insurers are offering patients a little motivation: health coaching.
“Coaching is not about telling or advising. It is about working with an individual to tap into their strengths, find out what they want to work on and draw out their ideas on what sort of action steps fit into their life,” says Kimberly Hein-Beardsley, a health coach for the UW Medical Foundation and in private practice.
Several local HMOS, such as Group Health Cooperative and Unity Health, offer coaching to plan members for little or no cost.
Health and wellness coaches are trained to know when a client is ready to make a change. Lori Devine, assistant director of UW-Madison’s recreational sports division, says signing on with a personal health coach can have long-term benefits, such as helping clients manage time, reduce stress, get proper nutrition, commit to regular exercise and manage chronic diseases.
Put me in coach. I’m ready to change!
