I have always been very fitness conscious. I have been practicing Yoga for the past 10 years now. I am the only Indian to have won in the Best Body competition at the Miss Universe competition. So, you see, fitness has become a way of life for me and over the years, I have seen my body transform. This truly encouraged me to help other women and inspire them to concentrate and make a commitment to their bodies and focus on overall fitness. The series of my fitness DVDs is called 'H.E.A.L with Lara' which stands for 'Health, Exercise And Longevity'. I have always believed that, more than a 2 month deadline or a set number of kilos that you want to drop, its essential to undertake a fitness plan that you can sustain. Such a plan that not only concentrates on toning or weight loss, but the one that focuses on all that, as well as nurturing your body, focusing on a healthy diet and various other elements with respect to 'your' body type.
The DVD contains 'Yoga-Recovery and Rejuvenation' which includes specific 'asanas' that are created and demonstrated to restore the central nervous system and also to create a sense of well-being in the body. The DVD also includes 'pranayam' that can be done anytime of the day to combat daily stress. It focuses on every muscle and aims at instilling a sense of calm and rejuvenation. I spent a lot of time researching, using my experience as a yoga practitioner as well as getting my trainers on board. So, the viewers should expect access to the newest innovations and exercises in the fitness arena.
I have collaborated with fitness experts Tonia Clark and Zareen Watson for 'Power Play' and 'Posture Play' as they have worked with me on my body and I have seen the results! So, I had to get them on board as a lot of research and expert knowledge was required and they are the best in their field! Tonia Clark is a certified 'Yoga Alliance' instructor and has worked with me for the last 2 years. The best thing I have learnt from Tonia is that it is essential to find a workout regime that best suits your body!
Well, it's targeted at my Yoga instructor Tonia Clark (who I have collaborated with), her 4 month old baby who practices yoga and a 98 year old man, who does the best headstands I know! So, as you can see, there are no boundaries! The entire series is for anyone who wants to look at a versatile routine that focuses on the overall wellbeing of an individual. I honestly believe that yoga transcends all age and gender barriers. So, this DVD is not restricted to anyone. I have tried to adapt universal routines as well as simple breathing exercises that you can do in between chores or in the office!
Not this DVD. But I do plan to expand and cover asanas for expecting moms as well. However, this DVD has basic breathing techniques that one can try at the convenience of your home or even in between work.
In the next four months. While 'Power Play' will focus on strength training and cardio element, 'Posture Perfect' will focus on strengthening the core and weight loss. Once all three DVDs are out, people will have the opportunity to choose according to the desired results and preferences.
I have always been dedicated to fitness. I work out 5 times a day combining cardio, strength training and yoga. Being a vegetarian, I eat a lot of vegetables, drink lots of water and meditate frequently. I find a combination of healthy eating and regular and sensible exercise that keeps me looking fit and feeling great!
I have always felt that your workout should focus on being healthy, and not on trying to pertain oneself to a particular size or body-type! I hope that answers your question!
Presently, I am shooting for my first home production called Chalo Dilli with Vinay Pathak and me. I am also in between schedules for Don 2 which will release in December 2011.
It's currently on hold on account of Ravi Chopra's health.
I have always been a huge Sholay fan. For me, 'Basanti' has been a favourite name associated with Hindi films and I felt 'Bheegi Basanti' had a kitsch and a cliched reference to the Hindi film heroine. I liked the way it sounded! That's why the name 'Bheegi Basanti'!