Tri Stories- SNOW!



FUN in the Snow!



Tri Stories- SNOW!

Well the city is in a tizzy regarding the forecasted snow storm……all day people are chatting about the snow…..Now, I’m sure not minimizing the fact that it’s predicted to be a HUGE storm……but……let’s relax…..it’s snow…..it will come in large or small amounts, it will annoy or delight you…..it will keep you home from work or school….then it will began to melt away…….SNOW! I’m looking forward to taking pictures and playing in the snow, granted I will not be out in prime storm time, but I will be out……Enjoying the winter season…..




Forearm Balance




In the past two weeks I’ve lost two gloves……each glove from the right hand, not sure where or when but  I'd  chuck them up as gone. This morning I was heading into the gym around 06:45, walking along, going over my day and BAM!! I glance down about twenty steps from the gym & there is one of my right hand gloves!! Yayyyy….it was covered in melting snow…..I’ve never found a lost glove, so I was super happy to find my glove, such a great start to the day!! I head into class and share the findings with my students, they think it’s pretty cool as well…….I mean really who finds a lost glove in melted snow two week later?! Blessings! Blessings!





Hand Stand

 After class I move into my personal practice for today……sun salutations, then I decide to spend time on my inversions…..Head, shoulder and hand stands as well as forearm balance, and wheel pose….I love inversions and backbends…..the inversions stir things up and my backbends open things up! I felt completely balanced for my spin class. As per usual Heather (spin teacher) ROCKED it! We moved through a lot of jumps today on the bike, jumps used to be my least favorite thing to do on the bike, but they’ve grown on me this time around…..I always love the sequences she puts together, we ride as a group and she’ll say things like “sweat is dripping“, “pass your neighbor” or “ride with your neighbor” another good one “you can see the top of the hill”…..It makes the energy in the class shift and we seem to ride together, I tend to focus on the person peddles in front of me and imagine I’m going to catch up and then pass them (throwing up the peace sign as I wiz by). Part of the ride was a five minuet hill seated hill climb! Oh yea! She turns off all the lights in the studio we each crank up or resistance and ride! I’ve got a lot going on this week and much depends on what I say and how I say it…..so when the lights went down and I heard Eminem *Loose yourself* blaring from the sound system, I grabbed my towel draped it over my head and ZONED……I mean a SERIOUS ZONE!


“You better lose yourself in the music, the moment
You own it, you better never let it go
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime “



I belted out along with Eminem, quads getting heavy each peddle seemed harder and harder, the sweat was P.O.U.R.I.N.G off me…Rahhhhhhhhh!! I needed that….focus, focus, focus……is what I say to myself….the lights come up and I’ve literally have small puddles around my bike……melikes!! Sometime I need that deep internal release, so I can just flow…..I felt cleansed and clear after that ride all the build up of decisions seemed to not be that big of a deal anymore…..I came home typed up and completed things that needed to be sent off, sealed the emails with air kisses & blessings……Que Sera, sera!!


Shoulder Stand




I'm really diggin’ this training…..yup, I’m diggin’ it…Releasing and letting go in a well rounded practice, my yoga practice coupled with all this tri training is doing wonders for me! I know I will not stop running, swimming, or spinning when this tri is complete! I may not do it with this much intensity but for sure I will do it. .I think I’m going to do a brick tomorrow, Oh and I’m going to give my Tuesday spin teacher Dewitt a suggested song list…tee-hee….wish me luck!







Peace & Love Y'all



Peace,

T

Tri Stories-Solo spin…




Solo

  Tri Stories-Solo spin…




As I headed out to teach my classes this morning I was still undecided on my training for the day…….I packed my bag for everything!!

I taught a great class today….in a small private location, and the students were men, who have practiced yoga maybe once or twice…..one guy looked really nervous! I spotted him peeking into the studio, so I zip right over and invite him in…."I'm a bit nervous", "my first time" he states….."no worries"  I say, as he enters the studio.....I share the words with him that I share with all that are new to the practice…..“have fun, listen to your body, ask questions at anytime, if it does not feel right speak up, oh….and, have fun!” he smiled and seemed to relax a bit……I ABSOLUTELY LOVE being a nurse/yoga teacher……I’m committed to helping others live healthier life styles, introducing them to Integrative Nursing and wellness (this is the NURSING I LOVE!).…..two of the students had previous injuries, so I adjusted the sequence to complement their injuries…..both men left class, stating they will definitely be practicing again “I had no idea it was this great” one states, I smile, “wow, I feel amazing” the other chimed in……..After they leave, as I’m gathering my things, I begin to smile within……I wish everyone would try a class once, it really is something pure and good for you, it may not lead you to practicing everyday, but it’s one of those things you deserve to try at least once,……I love to see people let go of the pictures, fears, & expectations of yoga,  come onto the mat, and let go....no expectations,  just have FUN!!  Ya know, like kids do....we get up in age and forget about the child that lives within......gotta honor that inner child! The inner child keeps the spirit alive!  Open to life and whatever it brings!!  I’m on a mission……YOGIS WANTED!!






Spin

 

I leave the yoga studio still undecided on my training today……I enter the gym locker room and without thought I change in to my spin shorts, so spin it is!! Back in 2003 I would solo spin all the time, I was taking regular classes and, on the day’s I could not make it to class I would solo spin. I loved it back then, and after solo spinning today, I will be solo spinning again!!……..I enter the spin studio, crank the heat, dim the lights and settle my water bottle & towel in place…..I pop my headphones on and put together a 60 minute ride…..seated climb, runs, standing climbs and of course sprints….I’m no spin teacher, but I think I did a’ight! I was in a serious zone, my heart rate went up nicely, (esp with my runs!), stayed as it should and them came down nicely, I was drenched!!…..mid way I turned the fans on because I was hot, hot, hot (don’t wanna get HIVES)..... I was feeling great! I love, to sweat hard when I do cardio (little odd fact ‘bout me ), Why?…..I love when my hair is wet from sweat (gross huh....lol)....BUT......only when I’m working out, because I usually wear my hair in twist, and when they get wet….I shake my head back in forth and just like Michael Jackson in Thriller……I scream out Ahhhhhhhhh!! and the sweat splashes everywhere…lol…(ewww, I know) I LOVE that feeling of working out with such intention that it makes ya wanna scream, ya just wanna let go! It’s that rush of endorphins…Tee-hee….



Music…..well, I don’t have a actual spin play list so I hit shuffle and rode….here are some of the songs that I spun to:

SWEAT....let the music take control!

- Off The Wall…Michael Jackson

-Crash…..Dave Matthews

-If Things Were Perfect….Moby

-Don’t Stop your Love….Keith Sweat

-My Weakness….Moby

-Dream…..Aero Smith

-Like a G6.…..Free Wired

-Ms. Jackson.....Outkast

-Adiemus….Adiemus & Karl Jenkins

-Crocodile…..Underworld

-Inner City Blues…..Marvin Gaye



Ok, not exactly flowing spin music…..but I made it work, I skipped a few songs and shortened others….moved through some yoga asanas, post ride and of course I hit the steam room to round things out….SWEET!

YIPPIE!!! Day off tomorrow……this was a LONG week of training, YIPPIE!!



Peace & Love



Peace,

T

Tri Stories-27th

Tri Stories-27th



Sunshine brings smiles!






The sun came out in Chi-city today!! Temps in 30’s……we needed this! I’m thankful that we’ve escaped the snow that’s been serving up the east coast, but these gloomy Chi-city day’s can dampen the spirit of the city, so the warmer temps and a little sunshine had folks smiling from cheek to cheek! NICE!

Up early today, 05:45....meditation....head out, to teach my 07:30 class, then  grab a bite to eat and head to the gym get my run in……..NICE run today!  At this gym I usually pick a treadmill that overlooks the swimming pool (so I can watch the swimmers). I was feeling good, strong and rested. I find the first 2-3 minutes of running are the worst…Lol…..I can feel everything, that’s how I adjust my feet landing on the belt, mindful of  protecting my knees….the beginning is kind of like the end, only you’ve a long way to go….Lol….I start of at a nice pace, after a minute I find my grove, two minutes after that things have loosened up, and  I run! I tend to run with really good alignment (yoga), my core is engaged my elbows are bent arms close by the side body, breath moving full and free, no gasping, actually feelin'  REAL GOOD…..that was not the case when I trained for the marathon, I always felt borderline sick after those runs, even on the good ones…….I ran for one hour straight today!! No, holding, or stopping, I'm borderline lovin' this running......I said borderline..... and working up a good sweat, feels very cleansing, and leaves me feelin' strong!  I was feeling like Flo Jo (in my head...tee-hee). I’m really pleased with myself!  YUP I am!







Flo-Jo

 I had a running partner for half of the run, but the truth is I was fixed on the swimmers (inspiration) that I forgot she was next to me. Knowing that I was getting in the water today without John, I wanted to pick up some quick tips...... four out of the five lanes were occupied so I watched some pretty good swimmers…..very comforting……Priority ONE this weekend , I must put a solid running play list together!! I had to fiddle with the Ipod again today, that interrupts the flow…….Not Good….After my run I move into my personal practice, I moved through a series of sun salutations and did some deep breathing exercises (prep for swim ), and moved into my fave pigeon pose, and my inversion of choice head stand (Sirsasana). I have a nice savasana, then I teach my noon class!





Love the water!



So I finally put the swim cap and goggle adjustments issues to rest……because I’m super concerned about the chlorine damaging my hair, I put a heavy conditioner in my hair before each swim (protection) , the Speedo swim cap didn’t initially like that, so I had to make some minor adjustments (MUST protect the hair). I slid the goggles on the right way and I’m off to swim!! I always hop in the shower before heading into the pool…..is that ol’ school?! I don’t know but I still do it…..Funny, I was not nervous at all, I jumped into the pool and moved through the entire sequence John and I have been working on….I did it TWICE!! kicking, breathing and blowing bubbles, I did the upper body swimming work and floating techniques…….I Sooooo love the water!! It’s nice to be in it……I found myself thinking that today, as I held my own in the deep end….water up to my chin, it felt so good, I was very aware of my breath movement, I could feel the calmness that it created within……I LOVE, the water, and I can only imagine what learning how to swim is going to lead me to next……I look forward to whatever it is, as long as my love for the water and swimming abilities continue to grow…..I was feeling all kinds of AMAZING when I got out of the pool, ready for my well deserved steam bath, but today, I’m distracted by the hot tub!! I saw the jets and thought…..Today is a perfect hot tub day…..so I got in!! Ahhhhhh….I chilled for 15 min…I hopped in the shower to get the chlorine off my skin and the it was STEAM BATH TIME!! Such a wonderful training day….by 3:00 I was in search of food!!




Here’s a Tri-Story FUN FACT…….I began my official tri training on  12/27.…Yesterday made ONE MONTH tri training!! The tri is held on 8/27.….7 months to go!!


Live ya life!



Peace,
T









Tri Stories-LISTEN..



Nice shoulder stretch

 Tri Stories-LISTEN..

I was a little bummed this morning…..I remembered John’s on a business trip, which means no swimming this week….Boooo!! I think I’m going to get in the pool tomorrow anyway, I’ll practice some of the techniques I’ve learned.......I sometimes like the comfort of home to flow through a practice, today was one of those days…..I focus on my upper body today……From a comfortable cross legged seated position I begin breathing exercises (abdominal, rib cage, complete ), grounding and quieting down the mind chatter……I’m feeling super tight in the neck, shoulders and upper back, the training, teaching and gym bag, have me TIGHT in the upper half……I move into head & neck rotation clockwise/counterclockwise…..next I lay on the front body and add in chest and shoulder openers, as well as back bends and spine lengthening asanas…..Cobra (Bhujangasana), Upward dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana), Bridge (Setu Banda Sarvangasa), and Wheel (Urdva Dhanurasana )….bringing it down with Knee to chest (Apanasana), Spinal twist ( Jathara Parivartanasana) and final resting pose (Savasana)



Bridge pose



Aaahhhhh! Yup, I so needed that sequence, I feel much more relaxed in my upper half….I love taking other teachers classes, but nothing can compare to my personal practice, I have this inner self connection that once I move, one pose effortlessly leads me into the next without thinking,….just listening, listening to what my body needs and honoring that…….not only on the yoga mat, but in life! I’ve got to lighten up on the gym bag, I pack so much stuff and never use half of it…..but, I never want to get caught out without something I need…..I guess I’ll pull out a bigger bag….Lol….problem solved!



Wheel with variation



After my practice I have some oatmeal grab my bag and I’m off to spin!! The class is pretty full today, I move up a row just to have a riding partner ( energy ). Julie (spin teacher) of course took us on a amazing ride!! We started off running flat and running on a hill, it took me a minute to adjust to the pace…..when running, you're standing up peddling but you're peddling at a running pace (really fast) and running on the hill, you’re still standing up but the resistance is much higher so it slows down the pace….I really enjoyed that, she added in some nice jumps….my favorite are the sprints ( I made my riding partner work it here…tee-hee), I get’s DOWN on the sprints…..today we add 10 seconds to each sprint with a 10 second recovery….60 sec highest 20 sec lowest……I was doin’ it! my neighbor shot me a couple quick glances, and I thought “yea buddy, keep up!” Lol……Gotta come to class ready to ride if you’re my partner!! I think I’m going to recommend some of her music to Dewitt…….is that wrong? Lol…..I’m gonna…..Michael Jackson started us off, and she kept it 80’s style pretty much the entire class, Jump by Van Halen!! Sooo LOVE IT!! Say It Isn’t So, by Hall & Oates….come on every 80’s girl had a CRUSH on them!! Again I think my bike partner thought I was insane, as I SANG the songs (at the top of my lungs), when not sprinting like a nut……I’ll see if he avoids me next week….



Spinal twist




Today’s spin music trivia was related to Brian Adams…she played a pop cover version of his song, Heaven….question, “who was the original artist?“, she asked.. There is a woman that rides up front every week (in my head I call her ol‘G) she ALWAYS answers the questions correct, but not today ol’G was slow to answer and a newbie beat her…..Lol…seriously, even the teacher mentioned that ol’G lost her winning streak….we all laughed! Oh, and why do I call her ol’G……well, she reminds me of a cool grandma who takes care of everyone, but only after she takes care of herself!! I like that.....and it shows all over her, I’d  guess she’s late 60’s early 70’s…..and just KILLIN’ IT on the spin bike! KILLIN” IT!!     
Never to late to put your health and yourself first! GOOD LOOK ol’G….GOOD LOOK!

Other than my swim, I’m not going to commit to a run or spin tomorrow.....I’ll just see what the body desires, also I may take a evening yoga class……not sure…..I’m going to decide in the moment……I’m going to LISTEN……



Listen







Peace,

T





Tri Stories- Let me try this again…

Tri Stories- Let me try this again…



Headstand




I’m not a fan of alarm clocks, such a ugly way to start the day….being jolted out of a peaceful sleep, thrusting the body up, waving the hands reaching for any button to make it stop…..only to be jolted again in five minutes, because of the snooze button…..I try to give my body proper rest so I can awake without the alarm…..I’ve been noticing that I’m regularly waking up without a alarm….Yaayyy! I love not using the alarm, I tend to flow on a good energized mellow, when my day begins with my entire body ready to get started, versus when the mind responds to the alarm and jolts me into action……Also it’s a great sign that I’m getting proper rest! I’ve been working on that one, its better, but lots of room to improve.



I began my day with a HUGE bowl of oatmeal….YUM!! I have taken to the instant packs of oatmeal (saves time), but I jazz it up with black and golden rasins, cranberries, raw honey and gluten free granola (I try to eat gluten free foods when possible, helps with the eczema ). Today I decide to do a brick (spin & run )…..I decided to go to the gym that I like running at, which meant that I would give the spin teacher (Dewitt) a second chance. I really enjoyed his sequence last time, but his constant chatter on the mic and his poor music selection left me searching for a backup teacher ( I’m SERIOUS about my spinning teacher)…Lol…….I need them to bring it! Last week I went to a different location and found a excellent teacher, so this week I give dude another chance…..At this gym I choose the same spin bike all the time (near the door ), not sure why, but I do…..


Headstand variation



I walk in and begin to set up my bike and Dewitt, comes back to adjust the fans and ask if I need any help setting up my bike, “no I’m good “ I respond, then Dewitt adds “you left my class early last time, my feelings were hurt”, I could tell he was just busting me for leaving at the stretch….”don’t feel bad I leave all classes at the stretch” I say, we both chuckle……I really do, usually because I’m heading to the studio to stretch afterwards and then steam room. Dewitt, has  figured out how to turn the mic down, because his deep drill sergeant voice was much more pleasing to the ears this week, I could actually understand every word. The music still needs some work, but this dudes sequencing is CRAZY!! He took us up seated climbs, guiding us to use the quads and hamstrings, laying out the mental picture, adding in wind gust….just CRAZY!! Creativity at its best!! I have to admit that the song for our first climb, was a awesome selection!! Try a Little Tenderness By Otis Redding….WHEW!! OH YES HE DID…..we begin with a seated climb, turning up the resistance at least twice seated, then we stand and climb, turning up the resistance some more….at the top of the song we're standing and peddling like were in THICK, THICK, THICK, MUDDDD!!! Yea!!! Then we head down that steep hill addin' in  running and jumps as the song picks up in beats…..Well, done Dewitt, well done!! A few songs later he, comes out with another goodie….Shower The People You Love With Love!! By James Taylor, who I happen to LOVE!! We were on a flat rode ride here…..Love, love, James Taylor…..Dewitt got maddd kudos for this one…melikealot!! Since Dewitt called me out on leaving early last time, I stay until the end…..After classI head up and officially introduce myself to Dewitt, I tell him I teach yoga there as well a, student of mine was in class and suggested he check out my class…..”oh, no, I’m afraid of yoga” he says as he is demonstrating a original pose….we all laugh, I say ‘give it a chance, it will help your spinning”….I don’t expect to see Dewitt in a yoga class anytime soon…Lol…..BUT!!!! He did make a announcement "If you hae any songs ya want to hear, let me know" Dewitt, will be hearing from me....Lol...well, he asked....



Headstand variation




I was feeling GREAT after the spinning class, but fatigued all the same……That class was on point and he worked us hard! I didn’t realize how hard until I began thinking about my upcoming run……Awww, geesh….I was not feelin’ it. I head into the yoga studio and move through a few asanas to post stretch and pre stretch before the run. I held pigeon pose, down dog, bound angle, to lengthen and open ( hamstrings, knees, quads..) the lower half of the body, adding in, bridge and cobra pose (chest & shoulders post ride ) and a headstand (with variations ) to balance me out. I step on the treadmill and stand there, “I’m so not feelin’ this” I think to myself….uggh…..I was feeling awesome from the spin and yoga and really just wanted a steam bath……I start the treadmill….one minute in, I stop the treadmill……thirty seconds later, I start the tredmill…..I walk, I run, I walk, this went on for five minutes, then I stop the tredmill and head down to the locker room. I’m starting to feel guilty, I started out with a training plan, and here I was breaking it……I was not exhausted, I was at a good place……I look at the steam room….Ugggghhhh! I know there is no way I’m going to really enjoy that steam room if I don’t run! The plan was a brick then steam room……Uggghhhhh! I sit down, I stand up……I open my locker…..just as I bend down to unlace my kicks, I suck my teeth, stand up and literally stomp my feet…..reaching for my water bottle and Ipod, I head back up to the treadmill………Once on I commit to run for 30 minutes……I began running attached to not wanting to run……before I know it I’m feeling really good, I grabbed on to the handles and stopped once because my shoe strings were coming undone, but once I got past the first 3 minutes I was feeling really good! My Ipod let me down, the new Ipod did not synch my new play list, so I had to fiddle with it a bit during the run, which I don’t like doing…..other than that I really enjoyed the run! Forty minutes later I was CHILLIN’ in a well deserved steam room……feeling like I earned it!!


Headstand variation



Yup, I’m my worst critic, but I’m my best critic…..I stayed committed to my training plan, honoring my fatigue and laziness……I gently found a happy medium where the mind, body and spirit received what was needed! & desired!!


Lotus



Peace,

T

Roll with the VIBE

Tri Stories: Roll with the VIBE



Peace




What a quiet Monday……I feel the low energy in the city today. My Monday am class had half the people in it, and the gym in general was quiet. I had such a nice relaxing Sunday, that I was looking forward to revving it up today, but I found I was on low energy as well……I move through my personal practice and immediately notice the body is asking for restorative poses…..I listen to what the body desires, after moving through a series of sun salutations, I move into a sequence of, holding down dog for 12 breaths moving into child’s pose for 4 breaths, creating some length in the entire body, as well as a slight inversion, next, moving into triangle (Trikonasana ) holding for a few breaths (great way to strengthen the core)…..I then move into some seated work, seated forward bend (Paschimottanasana), legs straight and crossed leg variations, closing things up with a bridge pose (Setu Banda ), and a few spinal twist…..I had a nice savasana.....a very beautiful practice I gave myself today.....I needed that! Feeling relaxed but strong I  head for my spin class.



Down Dog



Upon entering the studio I felt the low, vibe…..now this is my favorite spinning teacher, she usually brings it HARD…..nope, not today. The music was not as loud, it seemed extra cold and the class was missing at least 7 regulars…..“oh, I gotta muster up something” I think to myself….I was part of this low vibe, contributing my share too, it was like a lazy Sunday……only it was let’s get it movin’ Monday but we all were not movin' so fast. I began peddling and my mind began wandering onto things I needed to do after class…..as the Beastie Boy’s warmed us up…….I snapped back when I heard Lil John yell “shots shots shots shots shots shots shots shots shots shots shots everybody” Lol, that song is FUN! So I was feeling the jumps and runs on this one, next up was a Timberland song ( all teachers seem to love his music for class ), I can’t recall which one, I was beginning to zone again….The last song was the best of all The Hotel California in Spanish…..uplifting and soothing all at the same time…….I felt like the universe was saying it’s ok to have a low energy day just move with it….and that’s EXACTLY what I did with the Gypsy Kings & Hotel California my fellow spinners and teacher!!



Child's pose




After class I head to the steam room and chill out…….Leaving the gym I noticed my vibe remained low, I was feeling great, my low ......its a good low…..a peaceful low, a balanced low, not giving out so much today…….I like that!! Low energy days are needed, and feel awesome when the vibe is in the air creating a sense of balance, where we all seem to be moving at the same pace….NICE!!



Not sure what I’m training tomorrow, or where, just going to see where the vibe takes me…..




Seated cross leg fold forward



Peace,

T

Tri Stories: Wine…..

 

WORD!

 Tri Stories: Wine…..



Well, I mentioned that I had a conversation with Pablo on Monday, and as we spoke about my training schedule, I asked his thoughts about wine consumption……Truth is I’ve noticed a difference in my training on day’s where I did not drink wine the night before…..so, the reality of giving up the wine crossed my mind……Pablo mentioned that he gave up alcohol the first three months of training, and suggested that I do the same. At first I was like, uggghhh, even though I know its best, I dislike restrictions……..after talking to Pablo I came home Monday eve and decided.....yup...... I’m giving up the wine for at least three months…..It’s not difficult and I actually feel it’s necessary, not because I consume large amounts, but because my overall training and myself will benefit greatly. I’m not going to pretend that I didn’t ho & hum about it….I mean I like wine night with friends, I like having a nice glass of wine at the end of the day or the end of the week….I like wine period! BUT, I quickly remind myself that this triathlon is not all about me…..its about more than me……I like these self challenges, they make me STRONGER!! As I thought about not drinking for a least three months, confrimation came as I recall Pablo saying, “you should give up drinking for at least three months, if you can”……..SKREEEEECH!!! What?!, “IF I CAN”……“OH, I CAN & I WILL’ ……Lol…Pablo snickered a bit…..almost, like he knew the “if you can” was going to crawl up my nerves……Yea, maybe the ego is involved in my decision, but not more than my real desire…..Its my intention to remain healthy mentally, physically, and  & spiritually during this whole training journey and beyond......Last night I would of for sure had a glass or two of wine……NOTHING……..No problem, I got this!





Today’s training was uneventful, my yoga practice pretty much mirrored my practice from yesterday….opening hips, groins, hamstrings & quadriceps……I ran one hour, no stopping, no holding on, just running……..This whole regular training has me feeling really, really, good and healthy! I’m so happy I started this training……My entire self is changing, the choices I make in regards to food, rest and play have changed…..my physical self is alive and energetic, my mental self is very alert, and my spiritual self is so grounded. I’m not one to tell people what they should or should not be doing, but I do recommend that EVERYONE get out and do something to improve your health daily. There is no need for sudden big changes, but small changes that make you feel good….taking the stairs daily, parking the car further away from your actual destination and walk, jog in place while you watch your favorite TV program…….for every fatty food item you eat double up on the fresh fruit and vegetables……Ya, know small changes, I guarantee if you allow yourself to stick to one thing, it will become part of your everyday life…..like brushing your teeth……Creating a healthier you mind, body & spirit, one day at a time!!


Open heart



I mentioned I have eczema (Google it) I stopped all meds about six year ago, I now notice with the increased training my skin has been great! I think all the sweating, releasing of toxic build up, coupled with the steam baths and healthier food choices, my body is like, WELL HEY NOW!! I thought I was living a rather healthy life style pre triathlon training, but since I've  been training I see significant changes, I know there is much more healthy living ahead. I’m a firm believer that just because each year the calendar say’s we go up in numbers, WE don’t have to act & live like our bodies should automatically break down with age…….I feel AMAZING at 43, better than I felt at 23 & 33.….back then having a “hot body” was all I cared about, I walked around, insecure, full of fear wondering what others may think of me, which kept me from living  the life I really desired….“that’s not cool or normal” I would say to myself…..“what will he/she think of me” ….all of those unhealthy words I'd  feed myself daily! I know you can have the hottest body, the prettiest, face and the best clothes…….but if that interior is unhealthy….well….that makes you unhealthy within, (it shows and you can't even see it) and holds up personal growth ( I‘m speaking about myself & my realizations ). I’ve found taking care of my interior as much as my exterior allows me to grow mind, body, and spirit, with no concerns of others judgments of me…..and present myself and others with the best of me.



I’m heading out to dinner this eve with a dear friend…..this will be my second time dinning out with no wine(I only drink wine )….No worries I’m going to make me a mock tail before I head out….fresh mint, pomegranate juice a splash of seltzer and a few ice cubes, in a nice glass…..YUM!! This week has been very eventful for me, great changes are ahead and I’m looking forward to them as well as  tri training, living my dream, and tapping deeper into myself, learning more, loving more, living more, from the AUTHENTIC ME!




The more you know....do, do, do, do.....



Peace,

T

Tri Stories: Run day….fun day!



Triangle



Tri Stories: Run day….fun day!

Such a change of events in one week! Training was awesome today, I sat for meditation, then moving into my practice…..with my upcoming run in mind, I move into poses for the legs and hips….beginning with cobbler’s pose (Baddha konasana), followed by seated wide angle forward fold (Upavistha konasana), added in triangle pose (Trikonasana) and added a few others in between and closing it down with splits (Hanuman ). After a beautiful savasana (final pose) I feel, relaxed, open and ready to run!



 Seated wide angle forward fold (Upavistha konasana),

 I ran for one hour STRAIGHT!! No stopping, no holding on, just straight out RUNNING!! Woot, wooooooT! I hoped on the treadmill feeling  good, not great, just good…..I see one of my friends Sativa and she was also getting on the tredmill so I call her over (energy ), I can focus better when people are on either side of me….walking, running, whatever……I just like the energy people can bring it sets the tone of my run……Savita’s entire personality is chill, so I knew her vibe would be relaxed…..we exchange quick catch up chatter, then we both pop in our Ipods...... she does her thang and I do mine. I quickly found my pace, turn up Q-Tip and start running, my breath is smooth and I’m hitting the belt nice, no noise from my knee…I’m feelin’ pretty good! I usually run about 40 minutes, and I’ve been known to stop every now and then…..but not today, not even a desire! My knee, was pretty quiet, I did feel fatigue set in the knees and hamstring as soon as I was done…..during the run, I remained mindfully aware of my breath, gaze, proper body alignment and music pumping! I’ve been downloading some of the songs from spin class, mixing up a new running play list.

I can’t believe I’m running, better yet, that I’m enjoying it…..I like that! I felt amazing after the run, as I headed into the studio to stretch my legs and get in a inversion…… Savita was cooling down as I was done, “nice run , you had a great pace, & form“ she said, ‘thanks, great energy” I say to her…..I always find running near someone helps me tremendously, the tone they set, is what I run off of........my way of course but with a mixture of energies. After teaching my noon class I contemplate going into the steam bath, I decide not to go, good thing because I found out it was being repaired……..So, I head out!




Splits (Hanuman pose)




Monday evening, I had to decide between me and my Ipod who would take the hardest fall…..I choose my I pod, as it crashed on the cement, I knew the chance of survival was thin…..I picked it up, and the busted screen is looking back at me….Arrrrrgggghhhh! I take a breath I’m on my way to teach a class and really can’t deal with this right now, I think to myself. I take a good look at the Ipod when I get home, and its busted pretty bad, I make a note to get to Apple store this week…..Today I enter the Apple Store,  I’m immediately greeted by a handsome young man…..This place is insane, high, high, energy……almost animated energy......I felt like I walked into a movie scene……so,this very handsome young  man asks what's up, I explaine what happened, he tells me that its $99 to repair,  I let out a audible “dayyyummm“, but with laughter…..he laughed, we both laughed, then he  said “well, why don’t you speak to a representative from service” , “you never no maybe they can work something out for you…..“a blessing” he says, I look at him and say “thanks, I will”….I’m whisked off to the check in representative, she reminded me of the lady from the Progressive car insurance commercials…..Lol…the skirt, the glasses, the hair, everything (too cute)…she mad me smile. I waited all of 30 seconds and a young fella walks up, introduces himself , i repeat my problem and 10 minutes later I’m walking out the store with a BRAND NEW Ipod….FREE!! Dude, explained that the cracked screen is not covered under the warranty, and mentions the price to fix it……”can you fix it today ?” I ask, he say’s “I can just give you a new one” “at no cost” he adds! “WoW, thanks, oh, my gosh…..thanks!” I say, I’m feeling so blessed……I was not expecting to walk out of the Apple store with my old Ipod, not to mention a new one.



I’m going to run again tomorrow, I like the running for duration, I like zoning out like that, thinking of nothing, just hearing the music…..NICE! I was pretty pumped that I ran the entire sixty minutes without stopping…..I feel really good about that!!




Yogatones


Peace,



T






Tri Stories: Life happens!

Tri Stories: Life happens!





I enjoyed my day off yesterday! I sat for meditation and did some breathing exercises and  sun salutations…..I tell ya, I’m soooo glad I practice yoga, it makes training better… it balances things out nicely, I couldn’t imagine training without it…….I get tight, from all the running, biking and swimming  and I practice yoga daily…….I’m telling ya, YOGA, that’s some good stuff!





Today I was walking with my head in the clouds and my heart open to whatever training brought, I chose my classes at random, so I took a 7:30am yoga class, I enjoyed the class it was a nice sequence for a early morning class, sort of  restorative class, great way to get movin'….I headed over to a different gym to take spinning, I really enjoy this teachers class....last week was my first time  I loved it, and today was even better than last week, so that puts her fer sure on my Thursday spin schedule…..Ok, she starts us off running to The Cataracs, DEV (mybadd!) Party Like A G6.…..Heyyyyy!!! I never paid this song much attention but when your running on peddles, beginning to work that sweat up……Ohhhh Yeaaaa! This is the song to spin to, everyone was feelin’ it……the NEXT song was Come On Eileen By Dexy's Midnight Runners….I know it sounds crazy but it worked! Near the end of the ride (fourth time around the course ) she played…….Jessie’s Girl!!! YES Rick Springfield!! Oh, my gosh…..Yes, I was up running, I can’t recall the actual peddles I was running and so was EVERYONE else!! FUN!!.....two things I HIGHLY recommend, YOGA & SPINNING!! You will want to go to the gym! In this spin class she actually lays out the bike course for you during the ride, that keeps it fun & interesting……. I love that each teacher brings their own unique self……I really needed that class today, it’s so much fun, free energy!
 It’s so important to be yourself, because if not, your just cheating yourself out of living a beautiful authentic life …….


Good stuff!



Today’s training was NICE, I needed the restorative of the early morning class and the high energy, fun, spirit lifting yoga class was just awesome!! I’m going to run tomorrow and Saturday, I didn’t do a brick but I did a spin and swim this week…..I need to get some running in. I was talking with Pablo on Monday about my running, he gave me some great suggestions…..I’m going to focus on duration, to really build endurance…..I like that…..Thanks Pablo!! I tell ya, this guy is EXCELLENT at what he does, I mean full of knowledge, sincere suggestions (even if its not what you wanna hear ), and he listens to you….I mean really listens, he takes a few to think about his response and then speaks! That’s someone that has your best interest a heart in that moment……EXCELLENT at what he does!!

I've found the organization that I will be raising money for!!! It came in the most karmic way ever, and Blessed by GOD…….I will share the details with all soon, but I gotta hold on to this happy for a minute……I’m humbled, blessed & happy!! This is a dream coming to life……..Blessings, blessings, blessings…..I’m aware of the power of letting go and letting life happen…..I’m aware of the power of meditation, prayer, focusing and grounding…….I know if you send it out with peaceful mind, body, and spirit, it will come to you…….I wanted things to happen quickly,(they were happening quickly), I was so attached  that I may have missed out on this blessing……..When I let go of my attachment to the desire, there it was waiting for me! Let it go…….Let life happen!


Peace,

T



Yogatones



Tri Stories: NICE!!

Tri Stories: NICE!!

Today was just what I needed…..I had a good sleep and awoke READY! I head out to take, a yoga class with a teacher new to me........ I arrived at the club and head into the studio, it was so inviting, dim lights soothing music , it felt like you were stepping out of the club, into a room of peaceful energy…..like your not in a very hopping area of Chi-city….It felt good!! The class was me and one other woman……I like that!! The teacher (Jim) was wonderful!! I really enjoyed his style, it was almost like a Mysore class, yea, it was nice……We moved hip opening asanas, also a nice selection of twist.....and balancing asanas.....such a nice way to start the day. Jim and I chatted for a few after class, he mentioned that he has taken a class with me at one of the sister clubs. I left the class feeling great before my spin class…..I really love spinning, I mean really, really, love spinning……makes me wonder why I ever stopped before……when I moved here that’s what I did, spin all the time. it’s a great cardio workout and you can go all out or fall back and chill a little…..it all your ride.

I’ll say it again…..a good teacher of ANYTHING is one who is creative and true to themselves, sharing their creativity……I, can vibe with that and  that’s how I learn.......Fran, the spin teacher today  was on FIRE!!  First the studio….it was ecked out with strobe lights, flashing red & purple Iridescent lights, it was crazy….they pulled this thick black curtain over the front window, cranked the music and got the lights going….it was ON!!  Jumps, runs a very, very, high endurance ride, but smooth well put together......Love it!


Balance



I was drenched after leaving that class, it felt good, I change up after class head out to get some food and head to my swim class. We begin with John’s yoga practice, then we head down to the pool……I’m enjoying the swimming lessons, John is a good teacher. I feel great in the water, and John’s teaching style completely works well for me. We begin with breathing and blowing bubbles under water, then moved through the kick off’s and then some one arm swims, floating on my back and for the very FIRST time, I was in the 5ft section of the POOL!! It was such a awesome feeling the water so high up on my neck for the first time in my life where I’m NOT panicking, not even a ting of fear was to be found…..It was more like curiosity and the dare to challenge myself to go that far in….I really felt a cleansing in that pool….I know it’s a health club pool, without all the bells and whistles, but I really felt cleansed, free of fear and proud of myself…….I’ve taken to the water from the heart and it feels much better than fear…..I’m SWIMMING!!



I hit the steam room for like five minutes….I was DONE! I’m loving these training for many reasons, and one it forces you to get proper sleep and food, because there is no way to function without both……You can try but it will for sure getcha!! I sooo needed the balance of today, that yoga class was the perfect start….I’m going to put these two classes on my regular Tues training schedule, and anytime Tuesday works for both John and I, we’ll meet for yoga and swim…..I feel such a great peace within today, returned some calls, clarity and peace, is what I feel……I love this feeling, every now and again ya gotta re-evaluate and just be……I’m off to teach a class and have a full day tomorrow……I’ll sleep well tonight….



Peace & Om



Peace,

T

Tri Stories: Overachiever

Tri Stories: Overachiever



Its all about the Ying & Yang






Yup, that’s what I am…….You’d think I’d be happy to admit to that (at one point I was)…..Nope.



I’ve let myself get all caught up in myself and let things I have absolutely no control of play in my head ……This tri training has unleashed my creativity into overdrive, I can't seem to catch up with myself or stop grasping for results to things in life that I know only time will bring…..Uggghhhh…….Back before I took up yoga & meditation I would have periods of racing thoughts, I mean actual racing thoughts like there was a marathon going on in my mind and I was just a vehicle not the actual runner…..it left me anxious, fearful and moody. My practice of yoga and meditation got me so in tuned with myself that the racing completely stopped, once I let go of fear and the constant  need to control. Always being one to operate from within, creating the next thing or leading others in the right direction, I grew to expect nothing but the best from myself and anyone I’m completing a task with. I became known for “getting it done’ and being a leader, dependable, committed ……I like that reputation…..But like with anything in life to much of anything is never a good thing, and I’ve put such high expectations on myself lately, that I’m feeling a bit mindfully overwhelmed…..Ugghhh…





Meditation



Yesterday being my day off from the gym, I awoke and sat for my meditation….I could immediately feel the disconnect with myself….I never became truly grounded within, I began thinking of all the projects, dedlines and expectations I had placed onto myself (I tried to let go) ……I didn’t sit very long because I began to feel weepy emotions creep up and thought to myself “not today, you don’t have time for tears today, so get up!“ I got up from my meditation and dug into task at hand. I noticed I was not giving my best to any of them, and begin thinking that things that I want to come to life are not coming quick enough, and wooo is me, and so on and so on…….I was on a roll! I worked until 1:00 am….doing what….I wish I knew….just doing and not even aware of what I was really trying to do. Well I blew my sleep habits for sure as I got into bed around 1:30, attached to all the thoughts going on. Nevertheless I jumped out of bed before time this morning and began my day ( I don’t like this feeling).

As I sat for meditation this morning, I began to internally battle with myself, “I will not move through today so attached to what I cant control” I say to myself , as my eyes close I find my breath, I connect with it then I immediately loose contact with it…..sigh….I swallow hard then inhale once again….I find my breath, my internal gaze begins to rest in my third eye center and I feel a rush of calm take over…..as soon as the calm settles in, I slip into a deep meditation, I chant, I breath I feel, the release of my attachment…..I'm  brought out of my meditation by a steady stream of tears running down my face, cold as they hit my shoulders and chest, yet medicinal as I feel the heaviness lift from within…..”I’ve got to chill out” I say to myself once I’m out….I move to the mirror and take a good look at myself…..Pink tinged swollen eyes, runny nose and the look of defeat is what stares back at me….I walk away……Moving into a headstand, I hold the pose with ease, I let all thoughts melt away and I breath….I could feel my blood rushing from my feet to my head, my body seemed to get lighter and lighter and my breath was flowing with such ease….12 minutes later I move out of the headstand into child’s pose. Lying in my final resting pose, I notice I’ve let go of the mind chatter completely, my heart felt a bit lighter and I say to myself again “ya gotta chill out” I inhale……exhale……“put it out and let it go, follow the path and watch life flow” I say. I get up and head down to my spinning class.



Opening the chakras



As per usual the class was pumping, there were a lot of people in class today, I always choose the same bike, so as I begin to peddle I get a surge of energy in my body, Heather (the teacher) begins things with a nice climb to Sade’s Solider of Love ( I begin to slip into a zone) then we pick it up with some runs and the sweat begins to pour off my body, I look down and I see big drops of sweat hitting the floor beneath me, I keep moving….we enter a 4 minute ride up the hill in pure darkness (all lights in studio are off) I ride, I sweat, I let go……When the lights come back up and I hear Beyonce belting out “a little sweat never hurt nobody” I peddle harder and faster, and as we come back to the onto saddle I look down and the drops of sweat have now created a full out puddle of water beneath me…..I inhale, exhale, towel off take a gulp of water and smile within……"See ya mind chatter" I think to myself……Pablo and I chill for a minute after class, I begin talking to him about my training, my business and my need to be the VERY BEST at anything I take on, but I also talk to him about knowing how unhealthy that can be and ultimately how it will lead to negative out comes. Pablo shares some of his personal journey with me, just talking to him and saying things out loud left me feeling a bit of clarity and peace re-enter me.

Oh, I’m learning so much about myself…..I’m a leader, I’m a teacher, I’m a lover of peace and love….I’m driven to be the very best I can be……I’m a loner, and a doer….I want it done my way so there is no one to look at when things don’t work out……I’m a overachiever within……I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, but like with anything else I’ve got to really let go of things I can’t control…..I’ve got to work on my need to control things I put into action……Meditation this morning told me that, my strong headstand told me that, the puddle of sweat beneath my feet told me that and Pablo told me that…..I never said I was perfect…..NOPE……I’m a work in progress……and this training and unleashing of creativity is definitely teaching me a lot about myself……..exhaling……I’m on this journey and through awareness, sweat and tears, I will grow more and more each day………I’m taking a emotional BREAK!


Gotta let go...



Peace,

T