Sheer Balance

If you are a person who despises going to the gym, someone who hates spending money on a monthly membership or an individual who would rather be alone when they workout, having a home-gym might be something you have considered.  However, many people try this and often find that the space never gets used or that it doesn’t meet their needs.  Before embarking on a project like this, it is important to ask yourself the following questions to know if a gym at home is a good idea.  As you answer these questions, make a spreadsheet or chart to track your answers:

1. Why Do I Want a Home Gym? Before you even start your spreadsheet, first ask yourself why you think this is a good idea.  Is it because you want to save money?  Do you prefer to workout alone?  Do you hate the gym scene?  For some, working out at home can end up boring, dull or unsocial.  Be sure that if you love being around people and the social aspect you aren’t being shortsighted by wanting to save money.
2. What Activities Motivate You? Now you need to start a spreadsheet or chart.  Make a list of your ideal activities…maybe it is yoga, maybe it is strength training, maybe it is cardio, maybe it is dance.  In the first column of your chart, list ALL of your favorite activities.  Then rank them in order of most enjoyed to least enjoyed.  Make sure they are activities that motivate you to exercise.
3. What Equipment Do You Need? Your next column should address the equipment you need for your different activities.  Some equipment you’ll need may include: a DVD player and television, free weights, a treadmill…etc.  Don’t forget some of the required “accessories” that go with each activity.  For instance, if yoga is on your list, remember to include a yoga mat, blocks, etc.  If you are interested in free weights, remember to include a bench.  For abdominal exercises, think about including stability balls, medicine balls and a mat.  Be as thorough as possible.
4. How Much Space Do You need? This is very important.  Underestimating how much space you will need for an ideal gym environment is one of the biggest mistakes people make.  If a space is too small or crowded, you will HATE using it.  As a result, the next column of your spreadsheet should address the space requirements for your activities.  This includes the equipment storage space, circulation space and the floor space required.  Here are a few examples of appropriate space allocations for various activities:
   1. Yoga: 8′ x6′ min. floor space per person + storage space for mat, blocks, etc.
   2. Dance/Aerobics: 12′ x 12′ min. floor space per person + space for TV and DVD player + storage for other equipment (e.g., steps
   3. Free Weight Training: 8′ x 8′ min. floor space per person + storage for weights + storage for bench and other equipment
   4. Cardio Equipment: Dimensions of equipment + 2′ extra space on each side
   5. Nautilus: Dimensions of the equipment + 2′ – 3′ minimum extra space on each side
5. How Much Does it All Cost? In the last column, approximate how much each activity will cost you to have in your home.  Factor in the equipment and the storage pieces you may use.

Once you have all of these pieces of information, you will then be ready to assess which activities are doable and which aren’t, how much space you’ll need for your home gym and how realistic it is from a cost perspective.  Further, having this information will also give you perspective on what it might cost to create and build your home gym.

Do you have a gym in your home?  Does it motivate you to exercise?

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Learn the secret to eating healthy today, tomorrow and always with the MOST simple plan: "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting!  BUY IT NOW!

Many of us like to think the best of people.  We like to think that they shoot straight and are forthright in their intentions.  We also like to believe that they will ask for what they want and not resort to crazy tactics to get it.  Unfortunately, however, there are times when we come across those who will do whatever it takes to get what they want…including manipulation.  Being manipulated never feels good, but the worst part of manipulation is that often, we don’t even realize that it is happening.  Here are a few tell-tale ways to know if you someone is trying to manipulate you and how to deal with it:

1. Buttering You Up: To get their way, manipulators will often make you feel good so that they can then ask you to do something that they want.  The person may first compliment you or tell you what a wonderful job you did on something.  Making you feel good will, in their mind, make it difficult for you to say no…after all, you wouldn’t want to disappoint them or give them reason to think you didn’t deserve the compliment in the first place. What you can do: Return the compliments and the niceties before saying no.
2. Guilt: This doesn’t only pertain to Catholics and Jewish Mothers; guilt trips have been a successful manipulation tactic for centuries.  The saddest part of this strategy is that the victims of this tactic succumb to the manipulators’ demands because they feel they HAVE to, not because they WANT to.  In personal relationships, this sets up a co-dependency that is extremely unhealthy.  What you can do: Ask the individual if they want you to do something because you have to or because you want to.  If they say they want you to want to do it, tell them that you don’t and that they are trying to force you into something you don’t feel comfortable with.
3. Broken Record: Probably the most obvious of formats is the broken record tactic.  If a person asks you enough or pushes their agenda enough…constantly repeating the question or request over and over again…in slightly different ways, the victim will inevitably give in and give them what they want.  Oye!  What you can do: Ask the individual what they don’t understand about the word “no.”  Tell them that asking you over and over again isn’t going to change anything and that they are inappropriately over-stepping boundaries.
4. Selective Memory: This one gets me the most.  You swear you have a conversation about a plan and everyone is on the same page, and then one day, the manipulator pretends to remember the conversation completely differently, if at all.  What you can do: Record your conversations…seriously!  Okay, maybe not.  At least have a witness that you can count on to back you up if the person pulls this shenanigan.  Call them out on the fact that they conveniently change the game to fit their needs.
5. Bullying: If a person doesn’t get their way, they make you out to look or feel like the bad guy…like you are the wrong one.  What you can do: Be firm and tell them that their bullying tactics are inappropriate and unacceptable.

Keep your eyes open for these behaviors and continue to stand your ground to ensure that you aren’t a victim of manipulation.  Have you seen any other types of manipulative behavior?

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Learn the secret to eating healthy today, tomorrow and always with the MOST simple plan: "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting!  BUY IT NOW!

What causes a relationship to deteriorate to the point of a separation or divorce?
The things that draw people together in a relationship are the same ones that drive them apart. People typically fall in love with partners who have the qualities they lack in themselves—their opposite—in an unconscious quest to feel complete. While they’re initially enamored by those differences, over time, they often become points of conflict and disdain. And since most people lack good communication and conflict management skills, the real issues never get addressed. Over time, resentment builds, trust is eroded, and the relationship becomes a constant battlefield.

It’s one thing not to get along, but in many relationships, things become downright ugly. What causes such intense anger and bitterness?
Intimate relationships tend to invoke our deepest wounds. We’re all the product of our life conditioning. And since most people come from families with some level of dysfunction, most of us carry emotional pain and dysfunctional patterns into our relationships. Many of these patterns are like viruses, infecting our self-esteem, our lives, and our relationships. Those closest to us know exactly how to invoke our deepest wounds, which is why people react so badly in the midst of divorce. They think it’s the other person who’s causing their pain, when, in fact, they’re both replicating the dysfunctional patterns learned in childhood in their own marriage.

How can people stop the cycle of anger and destructive behavior in the midst of a separation or divorce?
When a relationship deteriorates to the point where the partners become what I call “intimate enemies”, the best approach is to find a professional who can help them cut through the symptoms of their issues—which are often disguised as anger, resentment, jealousy, or infidelity—and  address the root causes of their problems. This is especially important when there are children involved, because they still have to interact as parents. Regardless of whether the couple stays together or divorces, the only way they can co-parent in an amicable and constructive manner is for them to become aware of the dysfunctional patterns they each brought into the relationship. Once they’ve identified what they are, they need to do the personal-development work needed to change them. If the destructive behavior continues, it will inevitably cause deep emotional and psychological damage to their children, and the legacy of dysfunction will pass on to the next generation.

Healthy eating starts with healthy grocery shopping.  If you don’t buy unhealthy food, it won’t be readily available and accessible when your day goes badly, you feel especially stressed or cravings kick-in.  When we arrive at the grocery store, however, and our kids (or we) are yammering for the newest sugared cereals, cookies or ice cream, it’s easy to get distracted and pulled off-course from even the best of intentions to keep your cart full of the good-stuff and devoid of the bad.  The solution?  It’s easy.  Follow these rules and you’ll be ready to fight off the unhealthy expenditures.

1. Make a List. I’m sure you already figured this one out.  However, it is important to reiterate.  There are times when I run to the store without a list, and when I get there, I “add” things I might not necessarily need…like ice cream.  Make your list and categorize your foods by the aisles they are in.  When you get to the store, make sure you stick with the list.
2. Eat a Pre-Shopping Snack. Studies have shown that people who grocery shop on an empty stomach are more likely to buy more food and foods that are less healthy than if they go shopping on a full or half-full stomach.  You don’t need to eat a whole meal beforehand, but definitely eat something so that you don’t feel hungry.
3. Leave the Kids at Home. I understand that this isn’t always possible, but if it IS possible, leave your kids at home, with your spouse or their grandparents while you do the grocery shopping.  Kids, unfortunately, don’t always appreciate your attempts to keep the household healthy.  I’ve seen many parents succumb to their child’s demands to spare an embarrassing scene in the grocery store, only to find their cart filled with unhealthy foods.
4. Stick to the Perimeter. Avoid aisles that contain “junk” or unhealthy foods.  Many of these foods tend to be located in the center or inner aisles of the grocery store.   Most healthier or “whole” foods are located in the perimeter aisles.
5. Keep it Fresh. Each grocery gets deliveries at different times.  When it comes to purchasing meats, eggs, produce and fish, it is best to get them as fresh as possible.  Unfortunately, delivery times may vary, depending on the food.  Prioritize purchasing fresh produce, as produce is most likely to lose nutrients over time.  Also, look at the expiration dates of the foods you buy.  Often, the freshest foods are located on the bottom or in the back of the shelf.

Do you have any tricks to make your grocery shopping experience as healthy as possible?

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Learn the secret to eating healthy today, tomorrow and always with the MOST simple plan: "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting!  BUY IT NOW!

Starting with Thanksgiving, the holiday season gives us reason (or an excuse) to celebrate and indulge.  Some of us are great at managing the amount of celebrating we do, and some of us are not so good.  The worst, however, is waking up the day after New Year’s, dumbfounded as to how we gained ten pounds in a month and a half.  If you are hoping to avoid this scenario, be proactive!  Here’s a plan to help you enjoy, while not overdoing it:

1. 6:1 Weekly Calendar. Create a holiday event calendar where non-event days are color-coded light blue and event days are color-coded bright red and weeks with multiple events bright yellow.  Events include extended family dinners, work and social parties, and happy hours.  When possible, aim to have no more than one “event” a week…or a 6:1 ratio of healthy days to indulgent days.
2. Plan for the 5:2 or more Weeks: Weeks that are at higher ratios than the 6:1, can cause us to “blend” one celebration into another, and before you know it, we eat as though every day is a  holiday…with or without an event to attend.  When you have these weeks do the following:
   • Exercise: Exercise an extra 20 minutes each day you exercise and add in an extra day of activity.  Also, walk as much as possible to get where you are going.  This will help burn off extra calories consumed.
   • Non-Event Day Nutrition: On non-event days, drink protein shakes for breakfast and lunch (try the apple banana and the berry shake recipes).  They are high in fiber and other nutrients, but will help you keep your digestive tract in working order to keep waste moving through your system.  Have a sensible dinner of salad and some lean protein.  And, when eating snacks between meals, stick with vegetables and fruit.
   • Event Day Nutrition: Do the same as on non-event days, but skip snacks.  Right before your event, however, drink two glasses of water (16 oz) and eat a snack that is well-balanced with healthy fat, fiber and protein (E.g., an apple and a quarter cup of nuts).  This will help you avoid extreme hunger at the event.
3. At Events. Indulge with purpose and in the things that are worth it.  Decide want you want to indulge in before the party – alcohol…dessert…chips – so that you can keep yourself in check from over-indulging.  Meanwhile, fill-up on things you know to be healthy, leaving little room for unhealthier foods.  Here is a good order in which to eat:
   
   • Fibrous Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, cucumber, peppers, celery, onions, etc.): High in fiber and low in calories.  The more you eat before consuming other food, the better.
   • Lean Protein (turkey, fish, chicken, ham, lean red meat): Protein helps fill you up so that you aren’t left feeling hungry later.  Further, lean proteins aren’t as high in fat as those that aren’t lean.
   • Starchy Vegetables (potatoes, yams, corn, peas): These are higher in calories than fibrous vegetables.  So eat in small amounts.  Avoid creamed starches (such as creamed corn) or those that contain butter (such as mashed potatoes).  Opt for baked instead.
   • Fruit: For dessert, look for those that are made with real-fruit which has tons of vitamins and minerals, and fiber…all good for you!
   • Snacks, Sweets and Alcohol: These are highest in empty calories…so aim to eat these last or in the smallest amounts!  Try splitting pieces of cake with another person.  Stand away from the foods you know are bad.  And, aim to drink alcohol in moderation (one to two drinks per event or day).

As you experience the holiday season, enjoy! Don’t obsess about weight gain, just be smart about your habits and choices!

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Learn the secret to eating healthy today, tomorrow and always with the MOST simple plan: "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting!  BUY IT NOW!

Over the last month or so, I’ve been in a funk.  I hadn’t an idea as to why, however, until this past weekend.  On a long and beautiful walk, it hit me:  Having just released my book, I’ve been frantically in promotion mode, wearing an infinite number of hats and going in many different directions…all without knowing what, exactly, I’m trying to achieve.  As a result, I’ve felt as though I’ve been running 100 miles a minute, but not really getting anywhere.

Ironically, my attempt to do everything has counteracted my ability to actually focus on a goal and achieve it.  My walk gave me the down-time necessary to set a couple of goals for the next month or two and, within minutes, I found my funk slowly dissipate, my mood begin to lift and new-found energy percolate.

Although I fully admit that I’m a bit of…okay, a lot of…a type-A personality, the reality is that the simple act of goal-setting is very important to each and everyone of us and our overall well-being and happiness.  Here are some reasons why:

1. Direction: Without even the smallest of goals, it is easy to feel as though we lack direction or are lost.  Having goals focuses our energy, and enables us to work towards something we value.  When we feel as though we are floundering or aren’t quite sure where life is going, setting goals can help us get back on course.
2. Individual Purpose: Goals, whether big or small, are vitally important to giving us individuality and purpose.  Goals can be personal, social, political…anything that you find important to you and your life. Goals are individual to you and your needs, wishes, desires and dreams, and so, YOU drive what they should be.  They make you who you are and allow you to be who and what you want to be.  No one can take that away from you.
3. Boosting Self-Esteem: Without goals we don’t have accomplishments.  Every time you set a goal and reach it, you prove to yourself that you are capable of achieving what you set out to achieve.  This results in a natural boost to our self-esteem and a deeper belief in oneself.
4. Positive Reinforcement: When we accomplish our goals, we reinforce our belief in ourselves to set and accomplish new ones.   This helps to muffle negativity, doubt and fear, making way for a “can do” attitude that helps us continue to strive.
5. To Reach our Full Potential: Goals enable us to move beyond our comfort zone and become the best we can be.  They allow us to take-on new and exciting challenges and help us grow as individuals.

Are you a goal setter?  Do you feel “lost” or in a “funk” when you aren’t working towards a goal? What positives do you see or feel from setting goals?

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Learn the secret to eating healthy today, tomorrow and always with the MOST simple plan: "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting!  BUY IT NOW!

In 1991, British medical journal the Lancet published a paper that gave wine lovers everywhere a reason to rejoice. In searching for the cause of the so-called “French paradox” (French people were thought to experience a far lower incidence of heart disease, though their diet was rich in butter and fat), researchers theorized that a liquid lunch was what did the trick. Despite eating all the croissants their whittled waistlines desired, the French stayed healthy because their diet regularly included red wine.

People have extolled the benefits of red wine for centuries, but since the 1990s, it has been shown to be a “superfood” many times over, protecting the body from heart disease, stroke, cancer, and countless other chronic maladies. A diet that includes moderate amounts of red wine can reduce mortality from these afflictions by 30 to 50 percent, according to some studies. But one group of people isn’t so thrilled by the good news about red wine—people who prefer white wine and feel that their beverage of choice has been unfairly maligned.

It’s in the Skin
The reason red wine gets so much credit is that it’s full of a potent blend of some of the strongest antioxidant chemicals found in nature—even more potent than vitamins C and E, which are considered some of the most powerful. Besides polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds, red wine contains resveratrol, a chemical that has shown remarkable promise in protecting the heart and brain from damage, reducing inflammation, and reversing harmful health conditions. These helpful compounds, found in the skins of grapes, appear more abundantly in red wine than in white, because red wine grapes stay in contact with their skins for much longer in the winemaking process, while white wine grapes are separated from their skins early on. So naturally, much of the published research shows that when it comes to preventing colon cancer, stroke, diabetes, and heart disease, red wine should be people’s beverage of choice.

White or Red … or Both?
Not all researchers believe in the power of cabernet over chardonnay, however. Some studies have found no discernible difference between the health benefits of drinking white wine versus red. Besides the chemicals that are unique to wine, alcohol itself can be a powerful and beneficial compound (in moderation, of course); it increases the absorption of other antioxidants, boosts the level of good (LDL) cholesterol, thins the blood to prevent heart clots, and promotes relaxation, which can help avert stress-induced illnesses. Since white and red wines contain similar levels of alcohol, in this respect, they have the same positive effects on the body.

People tend to focus on nutrition and dieting when they want to be healthy, but eating well is only one part of the equation.  Healthy living encompasses many aspects of life and addressing all of them is what makes you healthy and balanced.  Incorporating small, yet effective changes can make a big impact. Add one of each of the changes below per week, and you will start to see a difference in how you feel and how you look in no time!

1. Hydrate. Approximately 65 percent water, our bodies require substantial replenishment of H2O to function properly.   Proper hydration flushes toxins, ensures proper digestive and body functions, curbs hunger and helps fight aging.   Opt to drink water (you can add lemon, cucumber or a splash of juice for flavor), unsweetened green tea or club soda.  To approximate how much your body needs, divide your weight (in pounds) by two.  The result equals the ounces of fluid you should drink each day. * This hydration formula doesn’t work for people who are obese.  As a result, if you are 50 – 100 percent above your ideal body weight, consult your physician on this subject.
2. Get Your Zzz’s. Adequate sleep is highly beneficial to your health as well as your waistline.  Those who get seven to eight hours of sleep each night tend to weigh less than individuals who are sleep deprived.  Try to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up the same time every morning.  Also, promote sound sleep by avoiding caffeine after noon, eating at least two to three hours before bedtime and limiting alcohol intake.
3. Strength Train and Exercise. Strength, cardio and flexibility training are all important to keep bones and heart strong, metabolisms high and bodies free from injury.  Find a variety of activities you enjoy and get in one or more (for approximately one hour) at least three times a week.  This should include two 20 to 30 minute sessions of strength training weekly.  Instead of weight lifting, you can enjoy Yoga and Pilates (both incorporate strength training) as well as other forms of exercise that require muscular strength.
4. Drink Moderately. Alcohol has seven calories per gram of alcohol, as compared to nine calories per gram of fat and four calories per gram of protein and/or gram of carbohydrates.  Alcohol in moderation, however, can help raise HDL, the good cholesterol.  Recent research suggests that the heart-health benefit of alcohol is increased if moderate consumption is consistent: three-to-seven times a week, as opposed to sporadic consumption. To balance the benefits with the calories, women should limit themselves to no more than one drink a day; men, no more than two. One drink is 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer (a bottle or can) or 1 ounce of hard liquor.
5. Manage Stress. Stress is part of life.  Managing stress, so it isn’t overwhelming, is critical in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  When we are over-stressed, we find reasons to soothe ourselves and, often, we do so with food.  Exercising, getting enough sleep and spending down-time alone or with loved ones, are all ways to help diminish the impact of stress on our lives.

Don’t forget to eat healthy too, but remember that other healthy habits are just as important!

Adapted from “GET REAL” and STOP Dieting! Copyright © 2009 by Brett Blumenthal. All rights reserved.

Tired of dieting?  Just in time for the holidays! Learn the 5 simple principles that will help you naturally shed excess-pounds and eat healthy for life...without another day of dieting!

BUY "GET REAL" and STOP Dieting! NOW!

With obesity rates surging not only in North America but the UK, nearly everyone is on the lookout for an easy way to cut calories without giving up sugary foods and drinks.

Too many sweets can increase your chances of gaining weight which in turn can lead to type 2 diabetes. An acceptable sugar substitute in food would lessen that risk but are we trading one problem for another?

What’s the Latest?
Last December 2008, FDA approved a sweetener marketed under the names Truvia and PureVia. Rebaudioside A, one of the components of the stevia plant is extracted and used as a sugar substitute. The stevia plant grows in Paraguay and Brazil and has been used for centuries in South America.

Although Truvia and PureVia are now deemed to be safe for human consumption many experts feel that it’s premature and more studies should be conducted before allowing Truvia and PurVia to be added to food and beverages.

History
Artificial sweeteners have been available since 1870 when saccharin was discovered and used in chewing gum, soda, and breath mints. However, subsequent studies revealed that saccharin caused cancer in rats and in 1970s the substance was banned.

New products thought to be safe soon entered the market and became increasingly popular. “Sugar-Free” became synonymous with “no calories” encouraging guilt-free consumption.

Here is a review of the best-known sugar alternatives currently in use:

• Aspartame is sold under the brand names Equal and NutraSweet. Numerous studies have shown a link to a variety of cancers. One study pointed to a higher risk of developing brain tumours, lymphoma and leukemia.
• Sucralose is marketed under the name Splenda. Some studies have suggested that although it is used as a sugar substitute it may actually promote weight gain. There is also some evidence that sucralose could have a harmful effect on the digestive system.
• Cyclamate is also known as sodium cyclamate and calcium cyclamate. Sweet ‘N Low is a brand name for one artificial sweetener that contains cyclamate. Numerous studies have linked cyclamate to cancer in animals.

Many years ago, the famous film star Gloria Swanson was reputed to have said” I wouldn’t put sugar in my cupboard, let alone in my body.” Before jumping to diet sodas and artificial sweeteners, perhaps we should consider moderation.

By Natasha Morgan of Not Just The Kitchen

Stress is a common thing.  We all experience it from time to time but unfortunately some of us have stress as an every day, every minute occurrence.  Given how technology never allows us to truly shut down, the economy having most of us worried about our futures (or at least our kids’ futures), and having too many things on our to-do lists, what can we do about it?  There are common ways to combat the constant state of the fight or flight syndrome.  Eating a good diet, getting adequate sleep, exercising, and prioritizing are all very important ways to beat stress.  There are also times when medical intervention and talk therapy might be justified.  But is it possible that mind-body fitness can help a stress victim overcome negative side effects such as tension, insomnia, and excessive and persistent anxiety?  For many people, their experience is that, yes, it can!

When you take a mind-body movement class you are instructed to be present and aware of your mind-body connection.  As you purposefully breathe while moving or holding a posture, each part of your body should be awakened and thought about.  Form becomes key as you move…turning your hip out…pulling your abdominal muscles in…lengthening your leg…or rounding your back.  Breathing and mindful movement become the focus and your stressors take a back seat.  You simply cannot continue to dwell on negative things when you have to focus on form and breath. Instead, you become present as you think about and honor your body from the top of your head to the tips of your toes.  With gentle persistence the initial challenges of being “present” can be overcome and embraced and a release from negative stressors is highly possible.

One friend told me that if it had not been for her daily practice of yoga she might have gone over the edge when her husband lost his job.  Her practice helped her stay grounded and know that they would get through their trial. Clients tell me that at the end of class they often feel like crying because emotions have been allowed to surface.  Crying is a release.  I encourage them to let it out!  Others say class feels like they have received a massage. They might have come into class in a mad hurry only to leave relaxed and better able to conquer their tasks in a balanced way.

The studies are growing on how mind-body fitness affects stress.  One study from March 2008 documented in the Annuals of Behavioral Medicine found that Hatha Yoga, an type of mind-body fitness,  reduced perceived stress and also decreased cortisol levels.  Cortisol, a useful and necessary hormone released by the adrenal glands, aids in glucose metabolism and blood pressure control among other things.  But, in our high stress culture cortisol release can become constant thus shutting down the body’s ability to relax.  High levels of cortisol can cause hypertension, suppressed thyroid and immune functions, and increased abdominal fat among others.  We have to do something to counter this constant state of stress so that we can relax and allow the body to function properly.  When compared with African Dance (cardiovascular movement) Hatha Yoga was much more successful in reducing cortisol levels.

There are obvious fitness benefits to adding mind-body exercise to your regime.  Increased strength and flexibility, balance between muscle groups, and learning proper mind body techniques to apply to other parts of your fitness training are all acquired.  But, I think for most, the best part of choosing to engage in mind-body fitness is the new perspective on life that is likely gained after each and every session.

If you have tried a yoga class only to leave in haste because it was too boring or not your style, I highly encourage you to give it another try!  There are so many forms of functional mind-body fitness that there is bound to be one that will fit your needs and one that you might even grow to adore!  Further, you can engage in mind-body fitness in any number of ways:  From attending classes in a local private studio to trying your local group fitness yoga class to buying a DVD!  Mind-body fitness is available to fit all budgets.

Give it a try.  You owe it to yourself!