Celebrity Post: Hemalayaa - Taking Fitness to the Next Level
Hello Amazon readers! I’ve always wondered, how do we get our exercise programs to the next level? I received the answer to this question when I was dancing around for fun in my living room. I've now realized that I exercise to feel good about my body, and I am also, at the same time, transforming any negative feelings I'm experiencing into positive ones. My exercise time is my time to be healthy – in mind, body, and spirit. Then, in turn, I can take that out into the world with me. I have discovered in this complete approach to exercise that I feel better about myself in all ways, and I hope, most of all, that you feel this way too. Here's a few questions from my friends at Fit Bottomed Girls to help introduce myself to you. And hopefully you'll find a Bollywood workout that works for you! - Hemalayaa
1. How did you transition your dance training into fitness videos? How did you get started on the path to making Bollywood workout videos?
I taught myself dance by closing the curtains, playing music and going wild—letting myself be silly, play and dance. I wasn't into going to a gym to exercise. I couldn't do aerobics classes—I felt too goofy and uncoordinated. I wanted to find a workout that inspired me and made me feel really good. I continued to dance in my living room. It motivated me enough to get off the couch, so it was good enough for me. Bollywood music inspired me so much that I wanted to share it with everyone. I thought there must be others like me who want something fun in their own homes; that’s where the transition into making DVDs happened.
2. Do you plan on doing more yoga DVDs? Does yoga influence your dance-based workouts?
Yes, I have a new yoga DVD coming out in early 2009 called Yoga for Everyone. Yoga influences everything I do, so yes, it is infused in all my workouts. I believe yoga brings a balance to every aspect of us: body, mind, spirit. It is a perfect enhancement to dance and movement.
3. Any advice for dance-challenged women with no rhythm?
I will share with you that I was born very uncoordinated and clumsy. I learned to move the way my body wanted to and not try to look like someone else. That helped me get out of my head and into my body. Do what feels good, not what I think looks good. For those who are doing the DVDs, my advice is, try it over and over again. You will get it. I promise! And dance for fun by playing your favorite music and going for it! Right now I am hooked on “Single Ladies” by Beyoncé.
4. What other workouts do you do beyond dance? What's a typical week look like for you?
Walk, walk, walk. I try to walk every day, even if it’s only a few blocks. I hike about once a week. I stretch first thing in the morning, before I get out of bed, to get my body ready for the day. Then I go to about one to two yoga classes a week at the neighborhood studio. Or do my own practice of about 15 to 20 minutes every day. I go to a free-form dance evening or a dance class about twice a month.
5. What kinds of music do you like to work out to?
I love hip-hop. Bhangra—Punjabi folk music—especially mixed with hip-hop tracks. Pop—I don’t listen to the radio much, but I occasionally hear certain songs that catch me and I get hooked on. They inspire me to make up fun moves.
6. Any tips for staying fit on the go or when traveling?
I’ve had to incorporate and create a lot of traveling stretches on planes, cars, etc. Most importantly, remind yourself to breathe and drink lots of water. Then try to stretch while seated or at the airport. Neck stretches and twists are great ones that are almost un-noticeable to others. On my way to India and Thailand a few years ago, I brought my yoga mat, plopped it down in different waiting areas (airports, ferries, buses, etc.) and did some practice before taking off. I had a few strangers join me, and that was nice.
7. We saw you on Ellen DeGeneres. What was it like being on her show?
AMAZING!!! She is a beautiful ally for teaching people about health and wellness. And, she does it with such charisma and humor; what a gift! I had a wonderful time on the show, and everyone was really sweet.
Check out more from Hemalayaa to help in your quest for a New Year, New You!
Celebrity Gossip on January 22, 2009 at 06:43 PM
Thanks for the tips and for the right way that we should do..More article soon