Yoga is both strenuous and peaceful; an old way of seeking the quiet place inside us that seems startlingly new. It has become so popular because it combines physical exercise with mental focus.

In this age of moving fast, eating fast, and doing everything at breakneck speed, people need ways of slowing down enough to hear that inner guidance. Yoga is one of the best slowing-down workouts.

Make sure you dress appropriately when you exercise outdoors. Always wear clothing that has been designed for the activity you’re doing and is suitable for any weather conditions you might encounter.

The principles of a good workout program are exactly the same outdoors as they are in the health club. Start slowly, build gradually, and keep challenging yourself. Seek help with a new sport.

You can make your workout more intense by finding some hills, increasing your pace, or exercising with a very fit walking or hiking partner who will push you harder. Exercising with someone often boosts motivation.

When exercising outdoors in nature, such as hiking or walking at the beach or a local park or flower garden, the time passes more quickly, which makes it easier to do a longer workout.

We all need to find some type of vigorous physical activity that fits into our lifestyle and that exercises not only our body, but also our mind and spirit. Exercising out in nature fuels our soul and happiness.

If you can’t carve out an hour each day to exercise, or even 30 minutes, then break the time up into 10- or 15-minute allotments. You must make fitness a priority—a non-negotiable part of your day.

There’s compelling evidence that exercise adds years to your life. A Stanford study showed that participants who expended 2,000 calories a week in vigorous exercise lived two years longer than inactive people.

Visualizing your fitness goals as already completed will increase your motivation, keep you on course, and hasten your success. Take a few minutes daily to see your body strong, fit, and healthy.