Shape up as you sit, stand, walk is a small self-help fitness guide that includes an amazing way to gain energy, flexibility, strength and even self-confidence by improving your posture, no matter the age of the reader. It describes A MIRACLE DIAMOND, an instant slouch-to-stretch posture reminder that our muscles can remember! It includes a composite of sound advice relating to factors that are within our control and influence our achieving a healthy and long life. It also includes wisdom that can make a positive impact on our lives. The format of the book is easily readable and many illustrations help to make the text more cognitive. Imagery is used throughout the book to enhance better understanding of some of the text. The book focuses on three of the most critical elements that help us to live well and live longer; attitude, lifestyle and the ability to relax tension when we are under stress. The first chapter contains an overview of all elements and levels of fitness such as diet, exercise and stress management. Explains how and why we need to include in an exercise regime, specific techniques that will keep our heart strong, muscles toned and spine flexible. We can do this at home and can fit comfortably into our daily lifestyle. The information is basic, simplified and appropriate for the average readers' needs and skills. It explains why physical and mental activities influence longevity and why, as we age, we need to stretch and tone muscles that will help us to maintain balance, flexibility and agility so that we can remain active and self-reliant, even into our senior years. Spine alignment, or posture, is the theme of the second chapter called The Miracle Exercise. This chapter is what makes this book so unique. The author explains and illustrates why, without proper posture, we can't be physically fit, as it influences our health and fitness level and every move we make. Since we all have a problem focusing on our posture; remembering to sit and stand tall without slouching; in this chapter the reader will learn how and why one amazing image, called the miracle diamond will do it for us! The image describes and explains the one simple exercise, based on the principles of Yoga and Pilates that can not only eliminate slouching, but strengthen core muscles and align the spine. The Miracle Exercise image page can be cut apart and posted in places should as the car, bathroom mirror or computer as a posture-reminder. Within weeks, as posture improves, the result gained will be increased energy, vitality and flexibility. It will prove to be a gift that keeps on giving. The third chapter, called Shower Power, illustrates how the readers can include as many as eighteen simple but powerful stretching exercises while showering or after a shower with a towel. Each exercise is illustrated and can be even more effective when rhythmic breathing is included. It demonstrates how, when muscles are warm and resilient we can relax, realign and revitalize our body, preparing it for the day's activities. The book includes two meditation exercises that can be done lying down or sitting in a chair. As deep rhythmic breathing is not only used in meditation but makes every stretching exercise more powerful, the author uses imagery to describe how to deep breathe as an exercise. This book was written to help the reader understand that it's what we do consistently, as part of our lifestyle, that is the secret to successfully becoming fit and able to live a full and active life.
About the Author: Helen Fleder, a former ballet dancer, professional sculptor and published author has been involved in the arts for over 70 years. She was chosen to be in the original production of the Broadway show, Oklahoma, but turned it down to follow her dream of marriage and motherhood. She performed at the World's Fair, in many retirement facilities and choreographed and performed in local theater. Her training with George Balanchine taught her the art of achieving perfect posture and gave her the discipline and determination to write about it. Her first book Shower Power was published in 1978. As fitness consultant for the Gillette Company, new product development, her book was featured in Glamour and McCalls magazines and promoted on television, radio and in newspapers. She wrote The Miracle Diamond in 1997, an updated version of Shower Power in the year 2000, and combined the two in her latest book Shape Up!! as you sit, stand and walk which includes a simple an easy way to maintain better posture. Her career as a professional sculptor began as a hobby and evolved as a compatible art form to dance. Her sculptures have been on exhibit at Lincoln Center and in the homes of many collectors. She was honored by the Alvin Ailey company for her wood carving of their oldest dancer, Dudley Williams. She was given an award in 2005 by the Sarasota Community Foundation for 60 years of volunteer service; teaching dance therapy and body movement to psychiatric patients, physically handicapped children and the blind. More recently she did art/collage with Alzheimer patients, worked for the Sarasota Arts Council and developed arts programs at Lakewood Ranch High School. Now, age 92, she lives in a retirement home where she gives fitness lectures to the residents and does acrylic painting as a hobby.