I'm not always smiling while I do this!
This past Spring my family and I got exposed to toxic mold and got quite sick. I had 'exercise intolerance,' as they say in the mold world. Meanwhile I was hosting our Hormone Summit, which was a load of work. I still ate pretty well, but my belly was expanding.
I started the summer on a mission to get fit! I wasn't sure how it would go. But I am pleased to report that in one month's time, my body transformed. I will always share every health secret I discover with you, my dear one!
1. Reformer Class
I knew I wanted to get back into Pilates this summer to work my core . But I got 'Pilates on steroids' at Reformed in Phoenix, Arizona.
The reformer is a piece of resistance exercise equipment designed by Joesph Pilates. It consists of a platform that moves back and forth along a carriage. Resistance is provided by the exerciser's body weight and by springs attached to the carriage and platform.
German-born Joseph Pilates was living in England, working as a circus performer and boxer, when he was placed in forced internment in England at the outbreak of WWI. While in the internment camp, he began to develop the floor exercises that evolved into what we now know as Pilates mat work.
Pilates began to work with rehabilitating detainees who were suffering from diseases and injuries. Amazingly, he developed his first pieces of exercise equipment from bed springs and whatever he could find around. Joseph Pilates went on to teach in New York from 1926 to 1966.
This was my first time on a Pilates reformer machine, and it rocked my world. My body responded so quickly to this type of workout. I got toned all over right away, my body carriage improved, and my back pain reduced.
You can seek a small group or private reformer training in your town, or check out Reformed in Phoenix.
Plank it out!
2. No Snacking
I used to be a really bad snacker. I was hungry every two hours, and I would eat that often! I couldn't picture that changing. I have gotten better over time, and this summer I got really focused on it, thanks to Cate Stillman and her Body Thrive book and program.
I interviewed Cate about Body Thrive, which is ten habits, based on Ayurveda, that she has taught to thousands of women. I am loving these habits for myself, and Cate says that she has witnessed many, many women lose weight and decrease anxiety with this simple habit.
3. Earlier, Lighter Dinner
This habit is also courtesy of Cate, and I was really resistant to this one! Dinner is usually when I cook and enjoy a big meal. But I gave it a try, and it did feel good. This habit is supposed to increase our ability to digest in the daytime, when our digestive activity is still a-happening.
That's it! Not too complicated, right?! It feels sooo good to tone up, and a summer tan doesn't hurt either! When you feel good in your body, it really shifts your confidence about life.
If you'd like to hear more about these ten habits of Body Thrive, Cate and I recorded a video about it last month.
Hope that helps, and feel free to leave your comments on this topic below!