Following in the idea of bringing new features to the blog, Tuesdays are now Tuesday Links. I know that's not very clever, so suggestions for something a little more catchy than Tuesday Links. For now, I leave you with Tuesday's links!
What is a Calorie?
Fantastic article that tells you exactly what a calorie is (it's an intangible idea) and how it contributes to weight loss. Demystify the bizarre numbers on a nutrition label!
The Importance of Numbers
This article is a bit more technical, but if the numbers you see at the gym--your weight, BMI, etc. confuse you, this is a good article that breaks it all down for you.
Have You Ever Seen a Double Banana?
Sorry, this just cracked me up. Maybe I need more coffee. Fruit mutation!
Will Power and the "Slacker" Brain
Oh man do I love Robert Krulwich so hard. But this is actually a great little blip from the radio. It's about memory and making decisions. People trying to balance more on their brains often times reach for the more unhealthy choice. Clear your brain! It'll give you a bit more balance. Listen to this, even if only to listen to funny little quipy NPR and Robert Krulwich. Ahaha just wait for the little voice in the back of your head. Team emotion versus team reason!
Got some good links of your own? Share them!
Showing posts with label Links. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Links. Show all posts
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Tuesday Links!
Alright, before we get to a day in the life of the Realist, let's do some Tuesday links!
First, I'm making this tomorrow night:
Moroccan Pita Sandwich; at 370 calories, that's a nice, big dinner. It'll make great leftovers, too.
I recommend to everyone embarking on a weightloss/healthy change journey to roll up their sleeves and try one new recipe a week from something like Cooking Light. My parents gave me the Cooking Light massive binder cookbook and it basically is the best thing since Splenda. All calories, fat, carbs, protein, etc. is listed. If you have issues that require you to be aware of any part of your dietary intake, switch to recipes that let you know their total ahead of time.
This is a great article from my Pact Buddy, B.
Put "I" Into Your Workout
This article talks about making yourself responsible for your own well being. The knife cuts both ways. Consider this in terms of excuses and praise:
Excuse: It's too cold to go to the gym today.
I statement Excuse: I am letting the cold stop me from going to the gym today.
oooooh. Suddenly it's not the cold, but YOU deterring yourself from the gym.
Praise: Man, my cycle instructor is great. She's made me work really hard lately.
I statement Praise: Man, I am awesome at cycle. I listened to my instructor and I really pushed myself.
Is the scale making you sad? IT'S JUST A MACHINE.
Take the Stress Out of Weighing-In
Part two in a three part article from the same guy above. This is a great way to remind yourself that it's not all about weight. It's about your health. I'm guilty of feeling caught by a lot of the feelings in this article. It's a nice perspective check.
And for a little inspiration:
Notes from the Universe
My mom told me about this site and honestly, I love it. I signed up to receive the daily Notes from the Universe. They're a little weird, but never in a way that actually weirded me out. It actually, honestly, makes me feel special. I look forward to this email every morning. One from the other day that has stuck with me:
If you knew how much you have in common with every single person now living in time and space Mia - in terms of your greatest hopes and dreams, and your deepest fears and worries - you'd wonder how I manage to tell you all apart.
And from this day forward you'd likely think of every single one of them as "dearest," just as I do.
Tallyho,
The Universe
P.S. Yeah, like twins, to the power of 7 billion. But not to worry, dearest Mia, I can always tell it's you by your saunter.
I couldn't tell you why, but that, for some reason, has stayed with me. It's like a hug from the universe every morning.
And with that, you have your second issue of Tuesday Links! Please let me know if anyone is interested in becoming a guest blogger for next Monday! Don't worry, you don't have to ID yourself. You can be Jane or John Guest Blogger!
Prepare for the day in the life coming up later today!
First, I'm making this tomorrow night:
Moroccan Pita Sandwich; at 370 calories, that's a nice, big dinner. It'll make great leftovers, too.
I recommend to everyone embarking on a weightloss/healthy change journey to roll up their sleeves and try one new recipe a week from something like Cooking Light. My parents gave me the Cooking Light massive binder cookbook and it basically is the best thing since Splenda. All calories, fat, carbs, protein, etc. is listed. If you have issues that require you to be aware of any part of your dietary intake, switch to recipes that let you know their total ahead of time.
This is a great article from my Pact Buddy, B.
Put "I" Into Your Workout
This article talks about making yourself responsible for your own well being. The knife cuts both ways. Consider this in terms of excuses and praise:
Excuse: It's too cold to go to the gym today.
I statement Excuse: I am letting the cold stop me from going to the gym today.
oooooh. Suddenly it's not the cold, but YOU deterring yourself from the gym.
Praise: Man, my cycle instructor is great. She's made me work really hard lately.
I statement Praise: Man, I am awesome at cycle. I listened to my instructor and I really pushed myself.
Is the scale making you sad? IT'S JUST A MACHINE.
Take the Stress Out of Weighing-In
Part two in a three part article from the same guy above. This is a great way to remind yourself that it's not all about weight. It's about your health. I'm guilty of feeling caught by a lot of the feelings in this article. It's a nice perspective check.
And for a little inspiration:
Notes from the Universe
My mom told me about this site and honestly, I love it. I signed up to receive the daily Notes from the Universe. They're a little weird, but never in a way that actually weirded me out. It actually, honestly, makes me feel special. I look forward to this email every morning. One from the other day that has stuck with me:
If you knew how much you have in common with every single person now living in time and space Mia - in terms of your greatest hopes and dreams, and your deepest fears and worries - you'd wonder how I manage to tell you all apart.
And from this day forward you'd likely think of every single one of them as "dearest," just as I do.
Tallyho,
The Universe
P.S. Yeah, like twins, to the power of 7 billion. But not to worry, dearest Mia, I can always tell it's you by your saunter.
I couldn't tell you why, but that, for some reason, has stayed with me. It's like a hug from the universe every morning.
And with that, you have your second issue of Tuesday Links! Please let me know if anyone is interested in becoming a guest blogger for next Monday! Don't worry, you don't have to ID yourself. You can be Jane or John Guest Blogger!
Prepare for the day in the life coming up later today!
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Tuesday Links (A Bit Late)
This sno"vacation" has put my mind on deep freeze and I've been a little slow to thaw, so while I get back into the fluidity of my normal routine, bear with me. Like how I used a few water/snow metaphors there? That's the kind of week it's been.
Anyway, here is your weekly round up of links:
Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders
I really enjoy reading articles by people who suffer from eating disorders. Not because I want them to have a disorder, but because I think it makes the larger problem more real, more understandable, and hopefully blazes the path to recovery. Kelly Zentgraf writes a very real article about her struggle and the lack of understand from the world at large about eating disorders. Most insightful, I thought, was her discussion of why people develop disorders--it's not just "oh the media said I was fat." Sadly, she says that she's heard people say "I don't know why, it just felt natural."
Fitness as a Full Time Pursuit
This is a great article that one of my participants sent to me (Thanks, Manny!) For anyone interested in how to pursue something off beat (and along the fitness path) this is a great boost for morale. It's also a well written, interesting article. Check it out.
Spicy Red Lentil Dal with Winter Veggies
My aunt gave me a fabulous birthday gift--a subscription to Fine Cooking. If that wasn't already awesome, what's even better is that Fine Cooking posts their nutritional facts in the back of their magazines. Without the lamb, you're looking at something around 320 calories for a cup and a half of the dal. Please ignore what the reviews say, I thought this was an amazing recipe, and very filling. I recommend making jasmine rice (easy to do, especially in the microwave) to pour this over. Now, if only I could manage to make naan...
Sweetgreen Has a New Location
Hurray for clean, local food, green business, and entrepreneurial endeavors! Stop by Sweetgreen in Logan Circle if you've never been to see what I rave about. My recommendation: The Guacamole Greens (with Chicken) and of course, sweetflow.
That's the round up! If you have links, post them before or feel free to shoot me an email!
Anyway, here is your weekly round up of links:
Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders
I really enjoy reading articles by people who suffer from eating disorders. Not because I want them to have a disorder, but because I think it makes the larger problem more real, more understandable, and hopefully blazes the path to recovery. Kelly Zentgraf writes a very real article about her struggle and the lack of understand from the world at large about eating disorders. Most insightful, I thought, was her discussion of why people develop disorders--it's not just "oh the media said I was fat." Sadly, she says that she's heard people say "I don't know why, it just felt natural."
Fitness as a Full Time Pursuit
This is a great article that one of my participants sent to me (Thanks, Manny!) For anyone interested in how to pursue something off beat (and along the fitness path) this is a great boost for morale. It's also a well written, interesting article. Check it out.
Spicy Red Lentil Dal with Winter Veggies
My aunt gave me a fabulous birthday gift--a subscription to Fine Cooking. If that wasn't already awesome, what's even better is that Fine Cooking posts their nutritional facts in the back of their magazines. Without the lamb, you're looking at something around 320 calories for a cup and a half of the dal. Please ignore what the reviews say, I thought this was an amazing recipe, and very filling. I recommend making jasmine rice (easy to do, especially in the microwave) to pour this over. Now, if only I could manage to make naan...
Sweetgreen Has a New Location
Hurray for clean, local food, green business, and entrepreneurial endeavors! Stop by Sweetgreen in Logan Circle if you've never been to see what I rave about. My recommendation: The Guacamole Greens (with Chicken) and of course, sweetflow.
That's the round up! If you have links, post them before or feel free to shoot me an email!
Tuesday Linkage
It's Tuesday, so you know what that means! Linkage!
1) Thanks to my friend over at Running for the Carbs you can now figure out how to alleviate some of that IT Band soreness: Tight IT Band?
Don't know what your IT band is? Oh yes you do. You've certainly felt it before if you're over 18 years old.
1) Thanks to my friend over at Running for the Carbs you can now figure out how to alleviate some of that IT Band soreness: Tight IT Band?
Don't know what your IT band is? Oh yes you do. You've certainly felt it before if you're over 18 years old.
That bastard puts a real wrench in morning running sometimes. Related, I think I've finally found what is causing my mom's hip pain (Hi Mom!), related to the IT Band:
2) What is Trochanteric Bursitis? Scary name...for a not so scary problem. Stretching is the answer.
And related to stretching...and in honor of my Tuesday morning yoga:
3) Yoga in the Office - I wish there were pictures for this, but the stretches are pretty self explanatory and won't have your officemates giving you strange looks. Whether you know it or not, a lot of these moves are natural reactions that we have.
Unrelated, one of my Sunday morning participants sent me this article about Zumba:
4) Finding Fitness in Rhythm and Movement - Talks a little bit about how zumba started, profiles a woman who loves this particular workout, and has a great piece of advice--do the workout that isn't a workout for you--it should be fun (I don't mean easy), but you should look forward to going! This article's from the WSJ, so it's only available for a few days before you need to pay for it--click now!
Tired? Me too. But not tired enough for one of these:
5) 10 of the Worst/Most Fat Filled Starbucks Drinks - yes, granted, these are for the Venti, but oh spare me.
Final link, it's about food too (sorry, no recipe this week, I've been too tired to experiment).
6) How Restaurant Menus Make You Spend More - And spending more often means more than just money....think about the calories, too!
Alright, that's it for the Tuesday links. Remember to send me links that you think others should see!
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Tuesday Links
Well Happy Tuesday. This week is already moving right along, especially considering that today is my Wednesday since I'm taking Friday off work for the fitness conference.
Here are your Tuesday links:
(quick note--the first three articles are from the association that does the gold standard personal training certification--NASM and their health fitness professional network site (HFPN), so they're directed to wards the trainer audience)
1) Stretching Yoga into the OPT Model: FYI, OPT is a training reference for a type of program that is used for most clients. This article gives a more technical view into why Yoga might be a good addition to any training routine. After my yoga class this morning, I was certainly aware of where I have an imbalance--I'm not talking lack of balance, but where I'm weaker/stronger and where I'm compensating.
2) Group Fitness Breakdown: Following the post I did on appropriate behavior in a group fitness class, here's an article talking a little about different classes and what they entail. It's not a comprehensive list, but it's a good reference for learning more about Cross Fit and the various types of Yoga.
3) Anatomy of an Exercise: Cable Row: Oh man one of my favorites. I love my back and it has a lot to do with a ton of these puppies--or the upright row done with weights. Biggest two tips? Keep your shoulders down and squeeze your shoulder blades together. The shoulders down keeps your neck from straining (if your neck is straining, take the weight down) and the shoulder blades squeezing together works your entire back.
4) Spa (Weight Loss) Secrets: The first paragraph of this article is EXACTLY why I'm going to start seeing a nutritionist (tomorrow, in fact!). Do I really need 1500 calories? If not, how should I structure my caloric breakdown between different nutrients? The one thing I disagree with in this article is that chocolate torte. Worst recipe ever. I promise.
5) Grilled Chicken with Roasted Tomato and Oregano Salsa: I am very excited about making this tonight, especially at 312 calories a serving, this is perfect with a serving of rice. Review to come!
6) Angel Food Cake: Alright, I know this says Chocolate glazed, blah blah blah, but I'm not having 300+ calories for 1 inch of cake. I am going to make this tonight, sans glaze. I think I'll likely wind up having this with strawberries before bed at night. Again, review to come-just trying to make up for my lack of recipe posting!
7) America's Worst French Fries: Don't worry--you can still have them! In fact, the golden arches make a surprise showing here in the category of "best" fries in America. Man, I am craving some of those right now...must eat grapes...
8) What the World's Healthiest People Eat: As a foodie and fitness person, I love this article big time. Also, turmeric, one of my new favorite spices gets a little shout out. I'm not saying that any of us should adopt wholly any of these diets, but we should be a lot more willing to do what they do--they take their time, they are gentle with their food and allow it to have flavor on its own with the use of calorie free spices. Step outside your normal cooking path and try a little something new!
And that's all for right now. Post coming this afternoon with a frozen food review.
Here are your Tuesday links:
(quick note--the first three articles are from the association that does the gold standard personal training certification--NASM and their health fitness professional network site (HFPN), so they're directed to wards the trainer audience)
1) Stretching Yoga into the OPT Model: FYI, OPT is a training reference for a type of program that is used for most clients. This article gives a more technical view into why Yoga might be a good addition to any training routine. After my yoga class this morning, I was certainly aware of where I have an imbalance--I'm not talking lack of balance, but where I'm weaker/stronger and where I'm compensating.
2) Group Fitness Breakdown: Following the post I did on appropriate behavior in a group fitness class, here's an article talking a little about different classes and what they entail. It's not a comprehensive list, but it's a good reference for learning more about Cross Fit and the various types of Yoga.
3) Anatomy of an Exercise: Cable Row: Oh man one of my favorites. I love my back and it has a lot to do with a ton of these puppies--or the upright row done with weights. Biggest two tips? Keep your shoulders down and squeeze your shoulder blades together. The shoulders down keeps your neck from straining (if your neck is straining, take the weight down) and the shoulder blades squeezing together works your entire back.
4) Spa (Weight Loss) Secrets: The first paragraph of this article is EXACTLY why I'm going to start seeing a nutritionist (tomorrow, in fact!). Do I really need 1500 calories? If not, how should I structure my caloric breakdown between different nutrients? The one thing I disagree with in this article is that chocolate torte. Worst recipe ever. I promise.
5) Grilled Chicken with Roasted Tomato and Oregano Salsa: I am very excited about making this tonight, especially at 312 calories a serving, this is perfect with a serving of rice. Review to come!
6) Angel Food Cake: Alright, I know this says Chocolate glazed, blah blah blah, but I'm not having 300+ calories for 1 inch of cake. I am going to make this tonight, sans glaze. I think I'll likely wind up having this with strawberries before bed at night. Again, review to come-just trying to make up for my lack of recipe posting!
7) America's Worst French Fries: Don't worry--you can still have them! In fact, the golden arches make a surprise showing here in the category of "best" fries in America. Man, I am craving some of those right now...must eat grapes...
8) What the World's Healthiest People Eat: As a foodie and fitness person, I love this article big time. Also, turmeric, one of my new favorite spices gets a little shout out. I'm not saying that any of us should adopt wholly any of these diets, but we should be a lot more willing to do what they do--they take their time, they are gentle with their food and allow it to have flavor on its own with the use of calorie free spices. Step outside your normal cooking path and try a little something new!
And that's all for right now. Post coming this afternoon with a frozen food review.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Tuesday Links
Tuesday Linkage!
I've got a bunch for everyone this week, so here we go...
1) McDonald's Signs Weight Watchers Deal: I literally cannot even talk about this one without doing a headdesk. One of the items they mention as being a part of the new Weight Watchers is chicken mcnuggets. I'm not even kidding you. This where, personally, I think we're failing to see the point of health. It really ISN'T about weight loss, it's about changing your eating habits and recognizing that if you have McDonald's one day, you're probably going to want to stick to something you know, not frozen then deep fried the next. Just because it has x number of points doesn't mean it's a good idea.
2) Dannon Settles False Advertising Lawsuit: I don't really take 100% stock in a lot of the healthy benefits claims of packaged foods anyway, but I do think that the questions in the article are good ones to keep in mind when you feel enchanted by the claims of food at the store.
3) FDA Warns Companies on Food Claims: Lots of articles this week on food and consumerism. Must be something in the air. This article actually makes me a little defensive of food companies. Here's an excerpt:
The FDA also chastised companies for implying that consumption of their products can help treat disease, akin to taking a drug. For example, the FDA said POM Wonderful, of Los Angeles, implies on its Web site that its popular pomegranate drinks can help reduce blood pressure, clogged arteries and the progress of prostate cancer.
Look, I'm not saying that POM is going to cure your blood pressure or that you'll avoid that triple bypass next month, but I do believe that if you put good things into your body, you'll likely see an improvement. Example: if I feed my cat food with corn in it (cats can't digest corn), he's sick...and we all suffer. If I feed him high quality food (no corn or additives), his coat is shiny, we avoid hairballs, and I don't buy out Febreez supplies at Target. I don't think that anyone expect someone to pop the top off of a POM juice bottle, down it, and find that they're suddenly healthier. But I would bet that there are some benefits to laying off the coke and trying some antioxidant fruit juice instead. Just sayin. Are we really that dumb/health dumb? It's not magic, it's science...and common sense.
4) Student Lunch Contest: This is a wonderful article with the results of the student lunch contest. This blog set out the challenge to create a healthy and delicious snack for students at the cost of $5. The results are inspiring and will definitely find their way into my lunch.
5) Humans Found to Have Sixth Taste: Fat: Well well well. Unami, now fat! We're certainly up a few from when I was in elementary school and tested my taste buds with lemon juice, salt water, sugar water, and cranberry juice. Interesting study on the sensitivity of people to the actual chemical make up of fat. We actually "taste" it's chemical makeup, not just its texture. People who can taste fat acutely are less likely to eat it. Who knew.
6) How Much Caffeine Is In that?: A good list of common beverages/foods that have caffeine in them. If you count those sorts of things....admittedly, I don't. I do keep my caffeine consumption to about 2-3 drinks a day, max. Just out of habit, never something I plan.
7) Pizza Pronto: I'm trying this sometime this week. Looks delicious. Review to come!
I've got a bunch for everyone this week, so here we go...
1) McDonald's Signs Weight Watchers Deal: I literally cannot even talk about this one without doing a headdesk. One of the items they mention as being a part of the new Weight Watchers is chicken mcnuggets. I'm not even kidding you. This where, personally, I think we're failing to see the point of health. It really ISN'T about weight loss, it's about changing your eating habits and recognizing that if you have McDonald's one day, you're probably going to want to stick to something you know, not frozen then deep fried the next. Just because it has x number of points doesn't mean it's a good idea.
2) Dannon Settles False Advertising Lawsuit: I don't really take 100% stock in a lot of the healthy benefits claims of packaged foods anyway, but I do think that the questions in the article are good ones to keep in mind when you feel enchanted by the claims of food at the store.
3) FDA Warns Companies on Food Claims: Lots of articles this week on food and consumerism. Must be something in the air. This article actually makes me a little defensive of food companies. Here's an excerpt:
The FDA also chastised companies for implying that consumption of their products can help treat disease, akin to taking a drug. For example, the FDA said POM Wonderful, of Los Angeles, implies on its Web site that its popular pomegranate drinks can help reduce blood pressure, clogged arteries and the progress of prostate cancer.
Look, I'm not saying that POM is going to cure your blood pressure or that you'll avoid that triple bypass next month, but I do believe that if you put good things into your body, you'll likely see an improvement. Example: if I feed my cat food with corn in it (cats can't digest corn), he's sick...and we all suffer. If I feed him high quality food (no corn or additives), his coat is shiny, we avoid hairballs, and I don't buy out Febreez supplies at Target. I don't think that anyone expect someone to pop the top off of a POM juice bottle, down it, and find that they're suddenly healthier. But I would bet that there are some benefits to laying off the coke and trying some antioxidant fruit juice instead. Just sayin. Are we really that dumb/health dumb? It's not magic, it's science...and common sense.
4) Student Lunch Contest: This is a wonderful article with the results of the student lunch contest. This blog set out the challenge to create a healthy and delicious snack for students at the cost of $5. The results are inspiring and will definitely find their way into my lunch.
5) Humans Found to Have Sixth Taste: Fat: Well well well. Unami, now fat! We're certainly up a few from when I was in elementary school and tested my taste buds with lemon juice, salt water, sugar water, and cranberry juice. Interesting study on the sensitivity of people to the actual chemical make up of fat. We actually "taste" it's chemical makeup, not just its texture. People who can taste fat acutely are less likely to eat it. Who knew.
6) How Much Caffeine Is In that?: A good list of common beverages/foods that have caffeine in them. If you count those sorts of things....admittedly, I don't. I do keep my caffeine consumption to about 2-3 drinks a day, max. Just out of habit, never something I plan.
7) Pizza Pronto: I'm trying this sometime this week. Looks delicious. Review to come!
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Tuesday Linkage!
Fun stuff today! I came up with a system of collecting links through the week (a handy old school internet browser tool called "Bookmarks"....)
So we have a ton of links, which will hopefully give you all something to do while I'm gone until next Tuesday. Again, just to rub it in, I'm going to Copper Mountain in Colorado. I'll be TRYING NEW THINGS and learning to snowboard for real this time. I already have plans to have an all day lesson this Thursday. My bro assures me that it's basically the best place to learn ever. If I come back in a neck brace, we'll talk.
Here are your Tuesday links!
1) Mindfulness May Change Your Health: In keeping with my belief that Yoga is good for you, here's a little bit on mindfulness. If you really take the new-age stuff out of it, being aware of your body (mindfulness) and being aware of how you eat (mindful eating) really make sense. Common sense at that. Your body talks to you a lot more than you're aware of.
2) Marathoning + Grammar = I Win!: It's just funny. That's all you need to know.
3) Learn the Right Way to Tie Your Shoes: It's interesting how something so small can change the way your shoes fit.
4) Today's Training Tip: Don't Worry, Be Happy: While it applies to how runners often times stress over the thing that actually destresses them the most (...running), it's all about perspective. Read the article (it's quick!) and apply it to whatever it is that you love to do that stresses you out. Then, re-enjoy!
5) The Runner's Pantry List: It's not just for runners. When you're doing your spring cleaning and chucking whatever that weird sauce you thought might be good with asian noodles out of your pantry, refresh by checking through these basics. Not to mention, it'll make cooking a LOT easier. My staple foods?
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Bell Peppers
- Mushrooms
- Cheddar Cheese
- Diet Peach Snapple Tea (weakness)
- Fresh herbs on overload (I ALWAYS seem to need them...particularly thyme and parsley)
- Plus Pasta
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Quinoa
- Sparkly water
- 0% Fayge Greek Yogurt
- Pirate's Booty Popcorn
- 100 Calorie packs of almost anything
6) Mark Bittman's 8 Rules For Healthy Eating: The first five of these rules, I said to myself "this summarizes my blog...oh wait, no this one does too." The last three, while I agree with them, don't really apply to my life. I try to get the right nutrients, I love beef, and energy bars? Who'd rather eat one of those?? Blech. The first five, amen brother, amen. Read the article, but in summary:
- Eat whatever you want...in moderation
- Plants first (fill up on low cal, nutrient rich, fruit and veggies)
- Start shopping and start cooking: KNOW WHAT GOES INTO YOUR FOOD
- Buy and Make Extra: I am the queen of reheats and left overs. Avoid office lunches. Hidden calories galore.
7) Free Jillian Michaels Mini Workouts: I have a serious girl crush on Jillian. And a trainer crush. I recommend downloading and watching (and doing).
And that's it for me today--I'm saving some of my links for next week since I won't be collecting them throughout this one. Stay active while I'm gone!
Also, do me a little favor and shoot my blog out to your friends, family, coworkers, gym buddies, whoever. Or...follow me on Twitter. It's good to know how many people out there are reading!
So we have a ton of links, which will hopefully give you all something to do while I'm gone until next Tuesday. Again, just to rub it in, I'm going to Copper Mountain in Colorado. I'll be TRYING NEW THINGS and learning to snowboard for real this time. I already have plans to have an all day lesson this Thursday. My bro assures me that it's basically the best place to learn ever. If I come back in a neck brace, we'll talk.
Here are your Tuesday links!
1) Mindfulness May Change Your Health: In keeping with my belief that Yoga is good for you, here's a little bit on mindfulness. If you really take the new-age stuff out of it, being aware of your body (mindfulness) and being aware of how you eat (mindful eating) really make sense. Common sense at that. Your body talks to you a lot more than you're aware of.
2) Marathoning + Grammar = I Win!: It's just funny. That's all you need to know.
3) Learn the Right Way to Tie Your Shoes: It's interesting how something so small can change the way your shoes fit.
4) Today's Training Tip: Don't Worry, Be Happy: While it applies to how runners often times stress over the thing that actually destresses them the most (...running), it's all about perspective. Read the article (it's quick!) and apply it to whatever it is that you love to do that stresses you out. Then, re-enjoy!
5) The Runner's Pantry List: It's not just for runners. When you're doing your spring cleaning and chucking whatever that weird sauce you thought might be good with asian noodles out of your pantry, refresh by checking through these basics. Not to mention, it'll make cooking a LOT easier. My staple foods?
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Bell Peppers
- Mushrooms
- Cheddar Cheese
- Diet Peach Snapple Tea (weakness)
- Fresh herbs on overload (I ALWAYS seem to need them...particularly thyme and parsley)
- Plus Pasta
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Quinoa
- Sparkly water
- 0% Fayge Greek Yogurt
- Pirate's Booty Popcorn
- 100 Calorie packs of almost anything
6) Mark Bittman's 8 Rules For Healthy Eating: The first five of these rules, I said to myself "this summarizes my blog...oh wait, no this one does too." The last three, while I agree with them, don't really apply to my life. I try to get the right nutrients, I love beef, and energy bars? Who'd rather eat one of those?? Blech. The first five, amen brother, amen. Read the article, but in summary:
- Eat whatever you want...in moderation
- Plants first (fill up on low cal, nutrient rich, fruit and veggies)
- Start shopping and start cooking: KNOW WHAT GOES INTO YOUR FOOD
- Buy and Make Extra: I am the queen of reheats and left overs. Avoid office lunches. Hidden calories galore.
7) Free Jillian Michaels Mini Workouts: I have a serious girl crush on Jillian. And a trainer crush. I recommend downloading and watching (and doing).
And that's it for me today--I'm saving some of my links for next week since I won't be collecting them throughout this one. Stay active while I'm gone!
Also, do me a little favor and shoot my blog out to your friends, family, coworkers, gym buddies, whoever. Or...follow me on Twitter. It's good to know how many people out there are reading!
Tuesday Links...a bit late and Colorado--Why You Should Never Quit
Okay, here are the weekly links entirely too late for my taste or reputation as a good blogger.
Fun and Effective Group Youth Programming Strategies: For my friends out there with children. I really think that fitness should start young. I'm not really talking about starting 5 year olds with weight lifting, but every child should be playing sports, running around with their friends, and burning off excess energy with active play. This article, from the perspective of the fitness professional, talks about strategies for keeping kids moving in a fun, game oriented way.
How I Went from New York Chic to Fitness Professional: Cute article on one woman's wardrobe change from corporate life to a fitness professional. One day, my friends, one day!
Mileage Inflation: Sigh. Not so long ago, running a marathon was a big deal. Now, it seems like everyone does it....
Why Core Strength Workouts Work: LOVE this article. You can just ask my participant, Manny (Thanks again!) who sent this in what I say in class...every...week. It's not just about your abs. It's about your entire "pillar." I call it your core and then break it down--your butt, your quads, your hams, your abs, your lower back, it's all your core and it's what keeps you upright, healthy, and aligned. Trust me on this one (and the author of the article)...core training is amazing for you. Make time for it!
In other news! I am back from Colorado where I learned to snowboard. This is a little story about what it means to have mind over matter.
I tried to snowboard about a year ago and ate it pretty hard (on my tailbone) and have been pretty gun shy about going back out there after that experience. After a few false starts on getting out to the east coast slopes this year, we packed our bags and flew to Denver to see my brother. We picked him up, rented our gear at an awesome place called Christy Rental (I guess they're everywhere in Colorado) and headed to Frisco.
This is the type of thing you see on the drive out there:
Fun and Effective Group Youth Programming Strategies: For my friends out there with children. I really think that fitness should start young. I'm not really talking about starting 5 year olds with weight lifting, but every child should be playing sports, running around with their friends, and burning off excess energy with active play. This article, from the perspective of the fitness professional, talks about strategies for keeping kids moving in a fun, game oriented way.
How I Went from New York Chic to Fitness Professional: Cute article on one woman's wardrobe change from corporate life to a fitness professional. One day, my friends, one day!
Mileage Inflation: Sigh. Not so long ago, running a marathon was a big deal. Now, it seems like everyone does it....
Why Core Strength Workouts Work: LOVE this article. You can just ask my participant, Manny (Thanks again!) who sent this in what I say in class...every...week. It's not just about your abs. It's about your entire "pillar." I call it your core and then break it down--your butt, your quads, your hams, your abs, your lower back, it's all your core and it's what keeps you upright, healthy, and aligned. Trust me on this one (and the author of the article)...core training is amazing for you. Make time for it!
In other news! I am back from Colorado where I learned to snowboard. This is a little story about what it means to have mind over matter.
I tried to snowboard about a year ago and ate it pretty hard (on my tailbone) and have been pretty gun shy about going back out there after that experience. After a few false starts on getting out to the east coast slopes this year, we packed our bags and flew to Denver to see my brother. We picked him up, rented our gear at an awesome place called Christy Rental (I guess they're everywhere in Colorado) and headed to Frisco.
This is the type of thing you see on the drive out there:
Now, you tell me why I shouldn't start packing my bags.
So anyway, we got out there and then next morning headed to Copper Mountain. Will and Chadd dropped me off at the Ski/Board school and waved goodbye. I was a fit of nervousness. The first half of the day aws extrodinarily frustrating. I basically had an epic meltdown at lunch and cried. Talk about losing my mind. Everyone says it takes three days to learn how to snowboard, or at least feel comfortable enough to get yourself up and down a mountain. Let me tell you, I had originally felt a lot better after just one hour of a lesson on the East Coast than I did out there.
But when I got back from lunch, my snowboard instructor, Phil, said that he thought it would be a good idea to get me up on the mountain. I'd probably have more luck up there. I told him that I appreciated his faith in my ability, but there was no way that was going to go well, but I might as well go...otherwise I'd be stuck down there all day.
So, off we went. Amazingly, my first time off a ski lift, I didn't eat it. I fell later, but I didn't totally crash. The first...quarter of the way down the mountain, I was a falling disaster. Then, with the help of my speakers on my iPhone, it all clicked. Phil had said over and over again "stop thinking and just relax." Let me tell you, to someone who is used to teaching, who knows what things should feel like and how to explain them, this made zippo sense to me. But one of my favorite songs came on and that was the end of that. All of a sudden, I was crashing at Phil's feet, scrambling up, then slowly edging my way down, then crashing.
The second day, I was elated to go back and even more so when I realized that it would be just me, Phil, and Chuck (a first time snowboarder and multi marathoner and Ironman). It was like my dream day. I had near private intruction, I was feeling pretty good being strapped into a board, and MAN was I loving the fresh powder. Falling was more like...falling into fluffy. I did have a load of trouble with the ski lift, mostly falling the second I tried to get off. They did have to stop the lift at least once for me, but I made it up Kokomo, down a little to get on to the Lumberjack lift and up we went. At least twice down from there. Chuck, my co lesson taker, got it a lot faster than I did. Thankfully, I had a wonderful instructor. I really value when I meet someone who teaches well. It reminds me that I need to be equally as dedicated to my clients and my participants. Phil helped me start to get my toe side turn (which is a hell of a lot harder than my heel side) and while I was more apt to stay on my heel side and ride switch (less dominant foot forward) every other zig zag, I felt like at the end of the day, I was prepared to get back on that mountain the next day all by myself. And I did! I made it down the run without falling once the last time on the second day.
Thanks, Phil!!
Let me tell you, though, Saturday morning, I'd strained my neck so badly that rolling over, I had to wrap a pillow around my head to stabilize my neck. Chadd had to lift me out of bed. Once I warmed up, I was still sore, but nothing I couldn't handle, thank you BodyPump training.
We spent a half day on the slopes on Saturday where I managed to fall off the lift chair at the end and get whacked in the back of the head with it (glad I had a helmet). Will went down the mountain with me the last time and once we were done, I honestly felt like I was dragging my heels away from the slopes.
It took a lot of guts and a lot of humility to learn to snowboard. No one looks good doing it their first trip. 4 year olds were flying by me while I was doing the "floating leaf" down the mountain.
All in all though, I would go back any day of the week and one day, I'll be going down bigger and better slopes. Try something that scares you, you might wind up loving it, listening to Tim McGraw's "Telluride" and dreaming of moving to the Rockies.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Tuesday Links!
I'm back! I have links for you!
15 Things You Wouldn't Want to See While Running a Marathon: This is true. So very very true.
How to Run Injury Free: On a more serious note, this is a great article about common running mistake (training too much, training too little, speed work mistakes, ignoring injuries) that if you've ever started to hurt while starting a running program, you're likely to find your mistake in this article.
Weekend Calories May be Wrecking Your Diet: SOOOO true. I duno about you guys, but I'm a big fan of my wine on the weekends. I've decided to be strong and go without alcohol Sunday-Thursday because it's useless calories. This, of course, is likely to be negotiated through happy hours...but I digress. Weekend calories. We have time for breakfast, we have time to sit and talk over a nice dinner (appetizers, dinner, dessert, drinks), we get bored on Sunday afternoon and snack...the only things I don't like on their list are the "get up the same time you do during the week" bit because I'm a major catch-up sleeper and the one about weighing yourself frequently. It's my personal belief that you can't really see weight loss over the course of a couple days, a week is about the right time to measure weight loss/gain since we can go between +/- 3 pounds in a day.
Weight Loss Quiz: Very very very interesting. I didn't do terribly, but the nutrition questions were hit or miss on my answers. The only question I disagree with is if it matters what time you finish eating dinner. I don't think it matters, it just matters that you're not eating more than you normally would. Calories in calories out. What was your score?
I don't have recipes for this week, but I do have a link for you to this amazing cookbook:
Cooking Light: Cooking Through the Seasons
all I can say is that it's the most amazing cookbook ever. Last night (and today's lunch) was the cavatappi pasta with arugula (subbed watercress since I got that at the market) pesto and cherry tomatoes. Hello amazing. The four recipes I've made out of this book in the past few days have been 100% amazing.
And that's it! Enjoy you're Tuesday. Update on my new job tomorrow. Hint: it's pretty awesome.
15 Things You Wouldn't Want to See While Running a Marathon: This is true. So very very true.
How to Run Injury Free: On a more serious note, this is a great article about common running mistake (training too much, training too little, speed work mistakes, ignoring injuries) that if you've ever started to hurt while starting a running program, you're likely to find your mistake in this article.
Weekend Calories May be Wrecking Your Diet: SOOOO true. I duno about you guys, but I'm a big fan of my wine on the weekends. I've decided to be strong and go without alcohol Sunday-Thursday because it's useless calories. This, of course, is likely to be negotiated through happy hours...but I digress. Weekend calories. We have time for breakfast, we have time to sit and talk over a nice dinner (appetizers, dinner, dessert, drinks), we get bored on Sunday afternoon and snack...the only things I don't like on their list are the "get up the same time you do during the week" bit because I'm a major catch-up sleeper and the one about weighing yourself frequently. It's my personal belief that you can't really see weight loss over the course of a couple days, a week is about the right time to measure weight loss/gain since we can go between +/- 3 pounds in a day.
Weight Loss Quiz: Very very very interesting. I didn't do terribly, but the nutrition questions were hit or miss on my answers. The only question I disagree with is if it matters what time you finish eating dinner. I don't think it matters, it just matters that you're not eating more than you normally would. Calories in calories out. What was your score?
I don't have recipes for this week, but I do have a link for you to this amazing cookbook:
Cooking Light: Cooking Through the Seasons
all I can say is that it's the most amazing cookbook ever. Last night (and today's lunch) was the cavatappi pasta with arugula (subbed watercress since I got that at the market) pesto and cherry tomatoes. Hello amazing. The four recipes I've made out of this book in the past few days have been 100% amazing.
And that's it! Enjoy you're Tuesday. Update on my new job tomorrow. Hint: it's pretty awesome.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Tuesday Links!
Woohoo! Tuesday Link Day! I've got a lot of awesome stuff since I signed up for the SmartBrief nutritionist email blast. Here ya go!
1) Gut Check time: Interesting, you can't spot train (lose weight in a determined place) but you CAN spot gain. This article references studies showing that beer is literally the cause of that beer belly (beer more than wine!). There's a bunch of common sense stuff in here--you know, don't eat the bar food, if you must drink, drink light beer, blah blah. I was just interested to see that the beer belly is aptly named! Who knew!
2) Your Chance to Tell the FDA What you Think of Food Labels: Ever wanted to influence public policy? Well, now is your chance. You have the opportunity to weigh in on new regulations for food packaging, including health labels, etc. on the front of food packages. This article also links to another article which argues against labeling food in the front. All of it, worth a read.
3) Food Deserts: Yes, deserts. Now, I have to say, I have mixed feelings on this article because part of me sees the economics of the whole thing. Okay, I lied, my whole brain sees the economics of the whole thing. This is a case of chicken and egg. Who changed the demand? The consumer. If beautiful produce is rotting in the stands, you bet that the stockers are gonna go "send the best produce to places where it'll be purchased." And to be frank with you, all of this talk about inner cities, I'm not seeing prejudice within the cities--I live in a big city and to be frank with you, I get crap produce even though I live in a wealthy neighborhood...which is why I go to the farmer's market. It's not planned to be mean to poor people, it's part of the supply chain issue here. It takes longer to get into a city with traffic, parking issues, and weird delivery schedules. Not to mention, fresh produce goes bad in poor areas because, let's be frank here, ever been to a grocery in a slum? Yes, they're gross and stuff goes bad when it's not kept in a clean area. Hell, in the Safeway in the Watergate there used to be rats. THE WATERGATE! Oh city life, how I love thee.
Back to delivering the food...The harder it is to do something (i.e. deliver to the safeway outside my apartment) the more expensive it will be (ridiculously priced tomatoes) versus if it's easier (a massive backlot and loading dock behind the Albertson's by my parent's house in the 'burbs in Florida) it becomes cheaper. Also, talk about taxes in the city. HOLY MOLY. Just go across the bridge into Virginia and watch your prices drop like bricks in the ocean. If city planners made it easier for food to be delivered to grocery stores, I'm gonna bet prices are going to drop. Okay, done rant.
4) Childhood Obesity and Diabetes: This is a great article for parents...and everyone else. The examples that the doctor puts out for substitutes are great.
5) Fibromyalgia: No Thanks: Okay, maybe that isn't the title of the article. But doesn't extreme muscle and joint pain sound like a drag? Thought so. Excess weight and lack of activity can nudge you that much closer to it. Avoid.
6) Living by the Food Pyramid: Interesting, look at all those politics surrounding food! Curse you lobbyists! (terrifying, isn't it?) regardless. An interesting history on the food pyramid and a link for a food "pedia" that gives you calorie counts of what you're ingesting.
Today got a bit out of hand at work, so I didn't get to share with you my Marathon Kickoff, but I will tomorrow.
1) Gut Check time: Interesting, you can't spot train (lose weight in a determined place) but you CAN spot gain. This article references studies showing that beer is literally the cause of that beer belly (beer more than wine!). There's a bunch of common sense stuff in here--you know, don't eat the bar food, if you must drink, drink light beer, blah blah. I was just interested to see that the beer belly is aptly named! Who knew!
2) Your Chance to Tell the FDA What you Think of Food Labels: Ever wanted to influence public policy? Well, now is your chance. You have the opportunity to weigh in on new regulations for food packaging, including health labels, etc. on the front of food packages. This article also links to another article which argues against labeling food in the front. All of it, worth a read.
3) Food Deserts: Yes, deserts. Now, I have to say, I have mixed feelings on this article because part of me sees the economics of the whole thing. Okay, I lied, my whole brain sees the economics of the whole thing. This is a case of chicken and egg. Who changed the demand? The consumer. If beautiful produce is rotting in the stands, you bet that the stockers are gonna go "send the best produce to places where it'll be purchased." And to be frank with you, all of this talk about inner cities, I'm not seeing prejudice within the cities--I live in a big city and to be frank with you, I get crap produce even though I live in a wealthy neighborhood...which is why I go to the farmer's market. It's not planned to be mean to poor people, it's part of the supply chain issue here. It takes longer to get into a city with traffic, parking issues, and weird delivery schedules. Not to mention, fresh produce goes bad in poor areas because, let's be frank here, ever been to a grocery in a slum? Yes, they're gross and stuff goes bad when it's not kept in a clean area. Hell, in the Safeway in the Watergate there used to be rats. THE WATERGATE! Oh city life, how I love thee.
Back to delivering the food...The harder it is to do something (i.e. deliver to the safeway outside my apartment) the more expensive it will be (ridiculously priced tomatoes) versus if it's easier (a massive backlot and loading dock behind the Albertson's by my parent's house in the 'burbs in Florida) it becomes cheaper. Also, talk about taxes in the city. HOLY MOLY. Just go across the bridge into Virginia and watch your prices drop like bricks in the ocean. If city planners made it easier for food to be delivered to grocery stores, I'm gonna bet prices are going to drop. Okay, done rant.
4) Childhood Obesity and Diabetes: This is a great article for parents...and everyone else. The examples that the doctor puts out for substitutes are great.
5) Fibromyalgia: No Thanks: Okay, maybe that isn't the title of the article. But doesn't extreme muscle and joint pain sound like a drag? Thought so. Excess weight and lack of activity can nudge you that much closer to it. Avoid.
6) Living by the Food Pyramid: Interesting, look at all those politics surrounding food! Curse you lobbyists! (terrifying, isn't it?) regardless. An interesting history on the food pyramid and a link for a food "pedia" that gives you calorie counts of what you're ingesting.
Today got a bit out of hand at work, so I didn't get to share with you my Marathon Kickoff, but I will tomorrow.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Required Reading - This Week's Links
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| Links. Lynx. Get it? |
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| Gaining Ground |
To that end, here is an article written by Forrest Prichard called "How TV Has Made Us Stupid About Farming" which is worth a read. I mentioned Forrest's book in my gift guide for paleo lovers. I strongly recommend reading that book and seeing what it takes to have a farm...and why it's so important to continue and increase our support of local farms.
This recent article by Forrest talks about the intersection of my two worlds: marketing and food/health. My day job doesn't do very polite things to the farming industry and I'm ashamed to have fallen into the trap of making the very stupid assumption that farming is "simple." Some of my family members farm and I can assure you that it is neither simple nor easy.
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Chadd teases me because I say that I won't eat eggs from birds that aren't organic, free range and all of that nonsense because I don't want the egg from a chicken that is forced to eat filth (which can include itself and other [live] chickens). If I made a loaf of bread from garbage and some random stuff I found sitting around, with a couple ounces of human flesh thrown in, would you eat it? No. Neither would I. Please apply this concept to the food you do eat.
I certainly hope the changes the FDA is enacting move toward making our food more clean...and that larger operations don't find a way to work around this.
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Finally, this was passed around my office today. When a 102-Year Old Lady Talks Like This, You Can't Believe Your Ears. What a joy is she?? My own grandmother is currently very sick and it's sitting heavily on my mind. When I watched this video this morning, it made me a little teary. Her humor, excitement for life, and above all HER FITNESS LEVEL, HELLO, are inspiring.
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What did I miss in the media this week?
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