If you've made the decision to embark on the journey of pregnancy, you probably have a million questions and concerns running through your head as you move into this phase of planning and trying. And as a busy, parent-to-be who values fitness and well-being, you may be wondering about how this is all going to affect and change you body. I know for me, personally, it was the reason I got into this work. I spent 10 years in NYC as a professional modern dancer and the changes my body was going to go through during pregnancy was a big concern. That may sound vain, but my body was my business. I had spent my entire life training and strengthening it to be able to rehearse and perform. I wasn’t willing to risk injury or not being able to return to dancing in postpartum. And here’s the most important thing I learned: PREVENTION IS KEY. If you are thinking of becoming pregnant or already trying, now is the time to start taking some proactive steps to physically prepare your body f
Being a busy career professional and mom during pregnancy and postpartum can be overwhelming. We have been conditioned by society to think we “can have it all”. I’m not here to burst your bubble but I often find that “having it all” means that our personal health and wellness tends to suffer. To the world, we look like we are all put together but secretly suffering inside. Juggling multiple responsibilities often leaves little time for self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I don’t have a magic fix for you, but I do have a few #lifehacks that my clients and I have picked up along the way. To simply sum it up, it’s all about simplifying your daily routine and reducing stress (note the bold highlight on that one). Let’s start with one of my favs… NUTRITION Nutrition Tip #1: Plan 5 meals I know what you are thinking, “Joanie, please don’t tell me I have to make a meal plan.” I’m sorry to say it, but streamlining your grocery shopping and meal prep by planning your meals in a