As the torrential downpour of rain and gusty winds hit The Triangle and much of the south last week, I was keenly aware of behavior…my dog’s behavior. With the wetness of their paws, they would enter the house and immediately sit on a towel so we could dry them. Opportunity to
Our cardiovascular systems are "complex arrangements of hydraulic, yet living, components" (Swain, 2000). Just as water must constantly flow at varied rates through a water system in a city, blood must also circulate rhythmically throughout our bodies to keep us vibrant and healthy. The heart drives the entire system. We get more efficient at
Living in a society where the pressure to succeed is on as early as preschool and time moves so fast it sometimes feels hard to breathe, I’ve found meditation to be cheap therapy for my generally order-driven, perfectionist self. It’s during this time, I quiet the chatter, nurture my spirituality,
The New Year is one of my favorite times at the gym. Fresh, ambitious faces show up in their bright new workout clothes and fancy new shoes. There are gadgets – arm bands, Garmin watches, weight gloves, and the latest water bottles. Classes are full. The pool has a slight
Whenever I am feeling down, I can always guarantee that going for a run, horseback riding, hiking with friends, or teaching a group exercise class will instantly lift my mood. Can a few minutes on the treadmill make your emotional problems disappear? Most likely not. However, a regular exercise routine
As a fitness and health professional, I know better. But I still find myself splurging on my favorite comfort foods (burritos, pizza, pasta, etc). Okay, maybe splurge is too mild of a word. I admit it. I tend to go totally overboard at times! What I’m talking about is eating
The holiday countdown has begun. With less than 1 month until Thanksgiving and less than 2 months until Christmas, we are already beginning to plan out our holiday travel and family commitments. Often lost in the maze of planes, trains and automobiles (and feasts, gifts and holiday cheer), is physical
Music is the beat of my life! Ever since I was little I was dancing around the house and singing. Remember when you could go to an amusement park and do a video while lip syncing? That’s right – me at about 9 or 10 years old singing and dancing
Close your eyes…inhale deeply...now exhale fully. Absorb the smells, sounds, and sensations all around you. Connect with the ground under you; sense the sky above you. Now open your eyes and enjoy the fullness of the great outdoors! Oh wait! It is likely that you are inside while you are
While I was in college, perhaps the lecture that stood out most to me was on proper running form from a Strength & Conditioning class. It wasn’t something I ever really thought about before. My only focus had been getting through my runs without dying! However, whether you are a serious marathon
