Strategies for shaping the body and mind

If the curves on your hips are starting to look a little too lush, it

may be time for some shape up strategies. Find many in some of the

newest resources at Newport Beach Public Libraries.

Looking for permanent results without permanent dieting? Consider

the program espoused by Gary Heavin in “Curves.” In his companion

volume to fitness centers that have popped up around the country,

Heavin outlines a 30-minute, three-time-a-week exercise plan designed

to boost metabolism to absorb up to 3,000 calories per day. Also

included are questionnaires to help you determine if you’re calorie

sensitive or carbohydrate sensitive--handy for developing an

individualized weight-loss strategy.

You can increase fitness in even less time per week according to

Jay Williams, trainer to the stars at her exclusive Mauna Lani Resort

in Hawaii. Beginning with motivational tools to keep you focused, the

author of “The 24-Hour Turnaround” provides jump-start techniques, a

workout routine and an eating plan aimed at reducing fat and mood

swings.

Whittle your time expenditure even further with Adam Zickerman’s

“Power of 10.” With workouts for every major muscle group, this

resistance-training advocate describes how to stimulate lean muscle

formation in as little as one 20-minute workout per week.

With similar enthusiasm for weightlifting, exercise guru Frederick

Hahn reveals secrets for building muscle and burning calories in “The

Slow Burn Fitness Revolution.” In his new work, discover how to

strengthen heart and bones, and improve athletic performance through

slow lifting to the point of exhaustion.

For those interested in a gentler path to fitness, Christy

Turlington explores yoga’s appeal in “Living Yoga.” With personal

anecdotes and historical background, the luminous supermodel presents

a persuasive case for using an art that’s been around for centuries

to calm, heal and find inner peace.

Beyond the gym and exercise mat, there are many ways to insure a

longer, more fulfilling life according to Norman Anderson, author of

“Emotional Longevity.” Using a definition of health that links

biology, beliefs and emotions, the CEO of the American Psychological

Association provides a compelling argument for optimism, openness and

purpose.

Even if you’re physically fit, with optimal blood pressure and

cholesterol, you’re at increased risk for health problems if you’re

angry, alienated or spiritually bereft, Anderson maintains. By

attending to issues that can’t be measured by scales or labs, you can

enhance the quality and quantity of your years.

Through an awareness of gender differences, you can further hone

the production of healthy brain chemicals says John Gray. Check out

“The Mars & Venus Diet & Exercise Solution” to explore the unique

needs of men and women for weight loss and emotional well-being.

* CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public

Library. This week’s column is by Melissa Adams in collaboration with

Andrea Jason. All titles may be reserved from home or office

computers by accessing the catalog at www.newportbeachlibrary.org.