Self Reflection

It is said that our yoga mat acts as a mirror for our life.  So how we act on our mats is often how we act in life. This is often true of how we do anything. This week, notice your reactions. Do you react without even knowing you are doing it? Do you react without having compassion for yourself and others? When our life turns to auto pilot, it’s important to reflect and re-group on the parts of ourselves that could use a little extra love and attention during the upcoming months. So explore your edge, push your limits, and go beyond what you think you already know. For example, if you are not already a yoga practitioner, try a class. Let go of your ego and expectations and do something proven to be good for the body and soul. You may even like it. If you are a beginner to yoga, try a new teacher or a more advanced class. And if you already have a regular practice, try being your own teacher and color in the lines of your practice just using the teacher as a guide. 

Self reflection is crucial to find balance in a world of distraction. So take a look at your own mirror and thrive to be your best self. For 10 thoughts on being successful in your life, visit: http://www.wholeliving.com/photogallery/10-thoughts-on-success#slide_1

Bethany Borger is a yoga teacher at The Studio Cleveland, located in Cleveland’s warehouse district (www.thestudiocleveland.com) 

Sports Nutrition Tips From Ben Hartman

Below is a great article written by a friend who attended Kent State University with me.  He is an amateur bodybuilder and is currently a Master of Nutrition Student.

SPORTS NUTRITION TIPS

By SUMMER MONTABONE, CSCS AND BEN HARTMAN, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST AND MASTER OF NUTRITION STUDENT

 

Use the Sports Nutrition Food Selection Sheet to construct your meals & snacks.

 

Eat Breakfast

• Choose a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats

 

Eat 5-6 Meals a day

• Eat every 2-3 hours
• Choose Fresh, Whole Food First
  • Limit Packaged Foods
• Have Snacks available
• Good Snacks to take to school:
  • Protein Bar (check sugar content)
  • Apple & Tuna
  • Trail Mix: Fruit & Nuts

Cultivating Awarenes

As warm summer nights begin to fade, I zip up my jacket and walk out into the brisk evening air. The fallen leaves dance around my feet and I am quickly reminded of the beauty and nostalgia that fall brings. As a yoga teacher and student, I’ve learned that cultivating awareness is essential if we want to be present and grounded in our lives. How often does beauty go unnoticed because we are not present or just too busy to slow down? So explore the vitality that comes with self-awareness and try some grounding poses this week such as; Vrkasana (Tree Pose) http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/496  or Virabhadrasana (Warrior poses) http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/495.
Calming the mind can also help the body slow down and relax. So try meditation. Find a quiet place, void of any distractions, sit in a comfortable seated position with the spine tall, allow the eyes to close, and the mind to relax. Sit for as long as you have time for. Every moment counts. For more information on meditation, go to:www.yogajournal.com.

Bethany Borger is a yoga teacher at The Studio Cleveland, located in Cleveland’s warehouse district (www.thestudiocleveland.com)