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Showing posts with the label energy level

5 Ways to Physically Prepare Yourself for Pregnancy

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

3 Beneficial Pregnancy Stretches

  Pregnancy is an incredible journey that brings about numerous physical changes.  With these changes often come discomforts and challenges. Thankfully, incorporating gentle stretches into your daily routine can provide immense relief.  Let's dive in and discover how a few strategic stretches can help you find comfort, relaxation, and a deeper connection with your changing body. Stretch #1: Cat-Cow:   During pregnancy, the spine undergoes significant changes to accommodate your growing baby. The Cat-Cow Stretch is a gentle flowing movement that helps release low back tension, promotes flexibility and helps you increase mobility in your lumbo pelvic region which is also prone to take on extra strain and postural changes during pregnancy.  It can provide a gentle massage to the abdominal area, stimulating blood circulation and promoting digestion and can also help alleviate discomfort caused by gas and bloating. As you move through the Cat-Cow Stretch, focus on syncing your

Are You Exercising at the Right Time? How to Optimize Your Workout Based on Your Body's Circadian Rhythms

Are you a morning person, an afternoon warrior, or an evening exerciser? Regardless of when you prefer to break a sweat, it's important to consider our body's circadian rhythms when determining the best time and types of exercise to do. Morning Exercise: For those of you who love to wake up early and get moving,  (I'm up by 5:30am most mornings.  This is my absolute favorite time of day!)  morning exercise can be an energizing way to start your day. Cardiovascular exercise, such as running, cycling, or swimming, can help get your heart rate up and kickstart your metabolism. Plus, you'll feel more alert and focused throughout the day! If you prefer a gentler start to your morning, try a yoga routine to increase your flexibility, strength, and focus. Afternoon Exercise: If you're someone who finds that mid-day slump hitting hard, instead of reaching for a coffee, an afternoon workout can help you power through. Our body temperature is at its highest during the afterno

Exercising In Sync With Your Cycle

    We all know our menstrual cycle affects our body.  Have you ever thought about how it can affect your workouts?   Where we are in our cycle can impact our energy levels, mood, and performance during exercise. Here are some tips on how you can make the most of it and tailor your workouts accordingly! Week 1: Embrace the Fresh Start As you bid farewell to your period and enter the follicular phase, you may notice a surge in energy levels. This is the perfect time to kickstart your exercise routine with enthusiasm! Try incorporating high-intensity workouts like cardio, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), or power yoga into your routine. You'll feel like you have a fresh start and can tackle any challenge that comes your way. Plus, the endorphins released during exercise will boost your mood, making you feel even more invigorated! Week 2: Ride the Hormonal Wave As you approach ovulation, your estrogen levels peak, and you may experience a surge in strength and endurance. This