A little change can make a big difference.

Written by Lycored Yoga Ambassador Kristin McGee

Did you know November is also Movember? Most of us don’t consider being as active in the colder months, but now all of that is about to change. The Movember Foundation, a global charity committed to men living longer, healthier lives, is providing a new opportunity for raising awareness this year by holding its “move every day” challenge. Participants sign up and pledge to move every day for 30 days to help raise funds for programs focusing on prostrate cancer, poor mental health, and physical inactivity.

Lycored’s mission is to “cultivate wellness,” and that idea goes far beyond their men’s health supplement Lyc-O-Pro. Many team members are currently in the process of growing their own mustaches for the cause (check them out here!) and others have committed to an active lifestyle overhaul for the month.

Of course, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the thought of “moving more” especially with the busy holiday season just around the corner; however, Movember and Lycored show that even small steps, in conjunction with supplements and a balanced diet, can be the key to establishing your own brand of wellness. All you really need to do is one thing a day to see the results in your mood, energy, and health.

Yoga is such an easy exercise system to learn and incorporate into your life because it can be done anywhere, anytime, and requires no special equipment. (Even if you don’t have a yoga mat, you can practice!) Better still? You can feel the effects immediately. Just a few deep breaths, a simple stretch, a strengthening posture, and you’re well on your way.

Many people are intimidated by yoga, especially men. However, Movember is the perfect time to give it a go. Here’s a simple guide to trying Down Dog, a posture that strengthens your leg and arm muscles while also relieving spinal tension:

• Come on to all fours with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips.
• Tuck your toes under and lift your body up to form a triangle shape.
• Walk your hands slightly forward and press firmly into your palms with fingers spread wide.
• Engage your abdominals and legs and try and bring your weight back towards your thighs. Don’t worry about “getting it right”—your knees can stay bent and your heels don’t need to touch the floor.
• Stay and hold for 5 to 8 slow, even breaths.
• Walk your feet forward and round up to stand.

When you begin your morning with a little movement, you set the tone for more healthful activity throughout the day. Give Down Dog a few tries this Movember, and see how you feel!

Read Kristen’s previous post on the beneficial effects of lycopene in your diet here.