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Healthy Reflections
IN THIS ISSUE
 Can
you remember?I was watching one of my favorite television shows the other night, an uplifting, warm and somewhat inspiring medical flick which always seems to leave me wanting a little more and thinking about various aspects of my life. Anyway this particular show ended with the thought "if you knew this was your last day of your life, how would you choose to spend it". I thought this was a truly inspiring thought for us to STOP and reflect on for just a moment. Can you remember the last time you laughed out loud? Stopped to stare at the blue sky…watched squirrels play…or even noticed your heart beating. I ask these questions because it’s already the middle of February, spring will soon be here and a quarter of the year will have passed unnoticed. I don’t know about you, but at the beginning of each year I like to take some time to reflect on the year that has just passed. Some of the questions I ponder are: For what am I grateful? What do I need to reach new goals while remaining engaged and valuable to the important people in my life? I feel complete and balanced when I? Often by just taking a few minutes to think, listen and reflect on your life, you may be amazed as to what you might do differently to make your life richer and more rewarding.
Recently our entire staff did just this. Aerobodies Fitness team members got together to share a few thoughts, memories and laughs during our annual kickoff meeting. (This is us here cheezing it up for a group photo.) It was just what we needed to get on track for the New Year while also taking a moment to acknowledge one another’s contributions during 2005. Altogether it was terrific opportunity to stop and remember why I started this great business in the first place and why I am so thankful for the work we get to do! In the weeks to come I’ll be profiling some of our wonderful staff in the Healthy Reflections spotlight! Enjoy your month and remember to....slow down....reflect...and remember! Love and success,
Fran Dean Bishop, award winning coach and creator of “Reboot your Body – The Ultimate Bootcamp” franb@aerobodiesfitness.com Featured Article Three Secrets to Great Abs & A Healthy Back Last month, we brought up the statistic that 80% of us suffer from back pain at some time in our lives. One way to avoid pain and keep our backs healthy is to improve the strength of your abs and to practice good posture. Have you practiced the posture tips from the last issue? If you consistently do so, you are a long way toward building a better back. (Maintaining proper posture seems challenging, but is actually quite simple. The real challenge is to remain aware of our posture throughout each day so that we can make any necessary adjustments.) Another way to keep your back healthy and to improve your abs is to exercise your core muscles (the muscles of your abdomen and lower back that support your spine and affect posture).  I call this exercise "Supermans." Lie face down with legs and arms resting on the ground. Slowly lift your right arm and left leg just a few inches off the floor. Hold for a couple of seconds then return to your starting position. Repeat using the opposite arm and leg.  This particular exercise uses your core muscles to stabilize your position on the ball while you alternately straighten your legs.  This exercise works your back with an extension movement. If at first this feels too difficult, rest your hands at your side to lessen the "weight" being lifted during the extension. To build a better back and improve abdominal strength, put a plan in place for periodic posture checks throughout your day, and incorporate these strengthening exercises into your routine several times a week. These simple things, once they become habit, will keep your core healthy and strong. Fran's Favorites
Here’s another wonderful smoothie recipe you can use for breakfast. Vanilla Nutri-Burn California Smoothie • 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice Put everything in a blender, blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Trainer
Spotlight
Kate was recently named the Aerobodies, Inc. Fitness Professional of the Year. Kate is a certified pilates and step instructor and has been with Aerobodies for over three years. "Her warm, endearing personality makes her a real pleasure to work with and learn from," comments one of her students. Kate is a consummate professional who represents excellence in every aspect of her role as a trainer and instructor. Kate we celebrate your contribution and passion as a valuable member of the Aerobodies Fitness organization. Has Your Treadmill Become a Clothes Hanger? |
Hoodia
Volume 2, Issue 2: February 2006 |