Healthy Bodies, Inside and Out

This winter, as Spring is (hopefully) around the corner, you might be having a hard time holding onto those New Years Resolutions or even trying to stay healthy or active as a part of your regular lifestyle. I know for me, February is my “ugh” month, I often find myself with a case of the winter blues and really just “done” with the gray and the cold. I find it hardest to be motivated in February, and not just grab a bag of chips and pop on the Netflix. What to do? Try something new, a little change can often be just the thing you need, a little bump to get you moving.

DIY kits

Have you ever heard of Purple Carrot? You have probably  heard of similar ideas, pre-ordered meal kits delivered to your home that you cook yourself. This is the ONLY 100% plant-based meal kit company of the kind, where you can get pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step instructions for cooking healthy, vegan meals at home. As we are learning, eating plant-based meals even if only one day or a few times a week, has a positive impact on people’s health, the environment, and animal welfare. The food is very good, but it definitely takes time to make, so prepare to spend some time in the kitchen. While not difficult, some of the items made were challenging and to me very unnecessarily time consuming, like making my own veggie burgers. But we learned new things, so that was something. I can honestly say, even as vegetarians, we had never made any of these recipes before, so they were interesting and new.  Find out more here-

Trying to get yourself moving? It can be challenging in this weather. One of the fitness groups I belong to recently posted a meme which said “I was sad, then I bought some new workout clothes and now I’m running!” I was clearly amused, but it’s also true. Sometimes a new pair of leggings or shirt or sneakers makes you feel good, and then when you feel good, you move. Also, you of course need to show them off, right? Your couch will not be impressed. You however will be impressed with the Brooks Running Ghost Tight. I can’t say enough good things about it. I thought they were going to feel like shrink wrap when I saw them, but they are wildly comfortable. It’s ultralight fabric keeps  you cool and wicks sweat and the color options (3 total) are fun. Price $120 at  https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/brooks-ghost-tight-womens/221347.html

Winter can be rough on the skin, rough all over. The new Limited-Edition NIVEA Creme City Tins from NIVEA® Creme are easy to carry around. They are tiny- easy to toss in your purse, backpack, or pocket, and give you a “protective layer of care that prevents the loss of moisture throughout the day” as per the brand. Smooth and soft, it has provitamin B5, which helps it last longer. You can use it on your face, hands, lips, and body- it’s good all over. These limited-edition tins are now available for $.99, get yours at www.NIVEAusa.com.

give back

For your love, no matter if they are one or a hundred and one, take a look at these. Not only are they amazingly adorable, but each toy funds 10 meals for a hungry person. These ethically produced, hand-knit dolls and stuffed animals give 10 meals to hungry children around the world for every item sold. Hand made by artisan knitters in Peru, these handcrafted, heirloom-quality dolls are great for anyone who loves stuffed cuddles. There are 27 toys to choose from currently, and two sizes are available in most cases.

“cuddle+kind has partnerships with several respected humanitarian agencies including World Food Program USA, Children’s Hunger Fund, Breakfast Club of Canada and WE Charity to guarantee that every purchase directly benefits children in need.” (Information given by the brand)

Choose your favorites here- https://cuddleandkind.com/collections/hand-knit-dolls.

GIFT OF LIFE MARROW REGISTRY STEPS FOR LIFE 5K RUN & WALK AT BATTERY PARK – THIS SUNDAY

WHAT: Gift of Life Marrow Registry helps children and adults suffering from leukemia, lymphoma, other cancers and genetic disorders find donors for bone marrow transplants.
Event is dedicated to raising awareness on the importance of joining the marrow registry.
Certified and timed 5K with awards given to the top finishers.
At the event, a life-saving marrow donor and their transplant recipient will meet for the first time.
WHEN: Sunday, October 14, 2018 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Check-in Time: 8:00 am
WHERE: Battery Park- Robert F. Wagner, Jr. New York, NY
REGISTRATION: Please register today here and help us get everyone involved, swabbed and cured!
Invite friends, family, and co-workers to run as a group; Volunteer at the event to earn community service hours; Students $15 when registering online (includes shirt)- $20 on the day of the event; Adults $30 when registering online (includes shirt)- $35 on the day of the event; Kids (6 and under) FREE- Superhero Sprint includes a cape and medal.
About Gift of Life Marrow Registry:
Gift of Life Marrow Registry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Boca Raton, Fla. The organization, established in 1991, is dedicated to saving lives and facilitating bone marrow and blood stem cell transplants for patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood-related diseases. To learn more about Gift of Life Marrow Registry, visit www.giftoflife.org.

Come Support “Gift of Life Marrow Registry” 5K

Join the Gift of Life Marrow Registry Steps for Life 5K Run & Walk at Battery Park.

Come and support “Gift of Life Marrow Registry”, an incredible organization dedicated to helping children and adults suffering from leukemia, lymphoma, and other cancers and genetic disorders find donors for bone marrow transplants, by signing up for the “Steps for Life 5K Run & Walk”. This event is open to professional runners and families alike, and is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of joining the marrow registry. The race will also be the first ever meeting place of one marrow donor and their recipient.

Certified and timed 5K with awards given to the top finishers.

Please register today and help us get everyone involved, swabbed and cured!

Date:
Sunday, October 14, 2018 from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. Check-in Time: 8:00 am

Location:
Battery Park- Robert F. Wagner, Jr. New York, NY/ 20 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280

Right off of the 4/5 Bowling Green Train Station, and the 1 South Ferry Train Station.

Ticket Price:
Students- 15$ when you sign up online. 20$ at the event.
Adults- 30$ when you sign up online, 35$ at the event.
Kids- 6 and under FREE, and will receive a Superhero Sprint cape and medal.

About the 5K

The purpose of this race is to raise awareness for the “Gift of Life Marrow Registry”, and also provide a venue for the very first meeting of a donor and their recipient. The donor, a 28-year-old New York medical resident will meet the 54-year-old New Jersey mother and wife whose life he saved through the Gift of Life Marrow Registry. The New Jersey woman had been battling the potentially fatal Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), until the New York man donated his stem cells, via Gift of Life.

And this is not the first time this New York man saved a life: as a university student, he was shot while defending a woman during an attack in New Orleans.

Due to federal law, donors and recipients must remain anonymous for at least one year. But the New York resident and his recipient will finally learn one another’s identities at the Gift of Life Steps For Life 5K Run & Walk in New York City Oct. 14, starting at 8 am in Battery Park.

Tips for a Fit and Healthy Summer

By Samantha Clayton, AFAA, ISSA, Olympic runner & VP Worldwide Sports Performance & Fitness for Herbalife

Summer is just around the corner and summer body preparation should start now.  With proper planning, and an early start, you can avoid crash diets that do little for you waistline and even less for your mood. By focusing now on an exercise routine and a balanced nutrition program, you can get your body ready for summer and beyond.  Avoid the extreme crash diets and replace them with a sensible balanced diet and exercise to set yourself up for long-term success.

 

Below are my top tips to getting fit for summer.

 

  • Commit to a Fit and Healthy Summer!  Think about increasing the types of activities that work for your lifestyle and that can easily be built into your day. Make it a point to read up on fitness news and information.
  • Perform Simple Stretches.  Ensure you’re moving your muscles and joints through their full range of motion each day.
  • Get Moving!  Increase your daily activity level by taking the stairs, parking in the furthest space from the store, gardening, dancing or playing with your children. If you become more active in your everyday life you’ll get fit faster.
  • Add Regular Walks to Your Day.  You can slowly increase your time until 30-minutes feels comfortable. Then, increase your intensity level by walking faster. Start including varied terrain such as hills, then progress to a jogging or running pace.
  • Perform Body Weight Resistance Exercises. Try simple squats, lunges, push-ups and then progress to using weights. Ideally, you need both resistance exercise and aerobic exercise to keep your body operating at its peak.
  • Engage in Aerobic Exercise.  Repetitive motion, such as running, swimming or cycling, is important for the cardiovascular system. It can also tone muscles. Incorporating a little of both aerobic and resistance training is best for your daily routine.
  • Eat More Mindfully.  Eating snacks that contain carbs and protein before a workout can provide you with energy, keep you focused and give your body what it needs to build muscle once the workout is over. Consistently pay attention to the foods you choose in order to properly fuel your body.
  • Keep Hydrated.  Consume at least two liters of water each day. It is even more important to drink water before, during and after exercise. Even low-intensity exercise requires you to be well-hydrated.

About Samantha Clayton, AFAA, ISSA
Samantha Clayton is a former Olympic runner, personal trainer, and vice president of Worldwide Sports Performance and Fitness at Herbalife, where she is responsible for all activities relating to exercise and fitness education for Herbalife Nutrition Independent distributors and employees. Before joining the corporate ranks, Samantha, a native of Liverpool, England, was a professional athlete. She represented Great Britain in the 2000 Sydney Olympics in both the 200m and the 4x100m relay events. Samantha is a personal trainer and group exercise coach through the American Fitness and Aerobics Association (AFAA) and International Sports Science Association (ISSA).

Spring into Fitness with this Gear

Now that the weather is starting to warm up, we are excited to be headed back outside more often. Here are some of our favorites for ready-for-Spring fitness wear.

Ready to hit the trails? Us too! This has been a long winter (thanks, Phil) and we are more then enthusiastic about warmer weather and more outside time. If you are a runner, walker, or hiker, you will love these new sneakers from Brooks Running. The Launch 5 is a lightweight shoe with a mesh outer layer that keeps things airy. It has a “BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning and rebounding rubber create a springy feel underfoot”. (What does that mean? It’s basically providing adaptive cushioning throughout the midsole as well instead of just the usual support only in the heel and forefoot. The more you know.) It’s a truly comfortable shoe for everyday wear as well as for running. It works well for the gym (even if the treadmill you get stuck on is a bit shoddy), trails, and sidewalks- we’ve had no complaints over here. $100 at http://www.brooksrunning.com

Another option is the Adrenaline GTS 18, which is extremely supportive and well cushioned. These shoes are known and trusted for their amazing fit, and we completely agree.  One of their features that helps with this is an “asymmetrical 3D Fit Print and TPU saddle pulls from the heel and wraps around your midfoot for a secure fit”.  It also has the BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning that we had mentioned above, as well as an integrated Segmented Crash Pad that cushions your feet as they land.  If you are all about support and soft landings, this is the shoe for you. We’ve used these on about every terrain you can think of, both running and as casual wear, and they have been holding up extremely well and have become the favorite sneaker of a very, very picky runner.  $120 at http://www.brooksrunning.com

For ladies’ support without the underwire, check out the Fiona Bra. This bra is easy to get on and off, comes in a multitude of colors, and is easy to wear for a long day. It has molded cups, velcro adjustable straps (which actually stay in place, surprisingly) and a padded back hook-and-loop closure. The sides come up high enough so there is no leakage, and it will hold you in place as you move about. The compression is excellent. These run from $30-$50 depending on size and color preference on http://www.brooksrunning.com
 
 The Insect Shield Albany Pant by Craghoppers are great for year round travel and outdoor activities, and now that the weather is more agreeable to more time outdoors, we are making the most of them.  These  chino-looking pants are easy to wear to any occasion, they they are a true trail pant. Very lightweight, quick drying, they have both an Insect Shield as well as Solar Shield to keep your days out as pleasant and ouch-free as possible.  The material makes it easy to brush of water, mud, dirt (etc) and keep moving comfortably. Easy wash and dry (we prefer to hang them to keep the insect and solar shields lasting longer) and wear again and again. These are pants you will find yourself reaching for all the time, and wondering what you did without. $80 https://www.craghoppers.com/us/
 
The Insect Shield Luna Tights by Craghoppes are a go-to favorite now the the weather is starting to warm up. Soft, lightweight (but not see through, blarg!) the new Luna Tight is activewear you can wear on the trails, to yoga, or just running around. They don’t slide down or ride up, which means you aren’t tugging on them all day (and no one will see any more skin then you intended while in yoga class). These are truly comfortable, and the Insect Shield as well as Solar Shield gives you double protection while you are exploring the great ourdoors.  These come in dark navy and charcoal/white print.  $60 at https://www.craghoppers.com/us/
 
NuuMuu activewear sports dress goes from yoga to running to running errands effortlessly, and you feel good while wearing it. I love this dress, I always feel pretty when I wear it, and receive compliments and “where can I get that?” questions. It’s just “one of those” things. 

While it’s a dress you can wear to the gym, to yoga, on a hike- you can wear it to the PTA meeting or anywhere else you’d like as well, it’s super versatile. The colors are both vibrant and beautiful, and there are quite a few options available as well as new neckline options.

Designed to flatter women’s bodies and made from fabric that feels as good as it looks, Nuu-Muu is an easy option for exercise, travel and everyday life. Designed to cover most sports and regular bras completely for maximum versatility and made in the U.S.A. You can wear it alone or with leggings or shorts for more coverage (or for class), and that also makes it even easier to transition.  In sizes “0” to 3LX and in child sizes as well, prices vary depending on item. The sizing is different then other garments, so read the chart before you order- but the fit itself is fantastic. You can pick yours out at https://nuu-muu.com

 

2018 World Health Run – Run With Us or Follow Along on Social! #GlobalHealth #Running #HealthForAll #PeaceCorps @WorldHealthRun

Follow us on social media tomorrow as we participate in the very first World Health Run!

In order to raise awareness of health equity, health as a human right, the many challenges some people face in seeking health care, and the challenges that health systems face in trying to provide comprehensive care, we are gathering stories and reflections from individuals around the world. We will highlight responses to questions on social media in the hopes of encouraging an open conversation that represents everyone.

Please go to www.RealVoices.World to participate!

We are very proud that this event offers the opportunity for individuals and groups to support some pretty terrific organizations and their high-quality work.

We are all proud, of course, to be a part of the Consortium of Universities for Global Health. The 2018 conference was inspiring and we were thrilled to be a part of it. In addition, the Rotary Club of ChicagoNational Peace Corps Association, and Peace Care are collaborators in this effort. Take a look at their websites to see what kind of work they do. We’ll be telling you more about them through social media, as well.

In addition, this run supports many local organizations and the communities with whom they partner around the world. We will distribute a report several weeks after the run to let you know about these groups, and we will distribute a follow-up report later in the year to let you know about the impact of our collective effort.

Our principal goal is to raise awareness about health equity in the U.S. and Globally. If you are keen to learn a bit about the topic, the World HealthOrganization is a great place to start.

Did you know that:

  • In the U.S., “Native Americans and Alaska Natives have an infant mortality rate that is 60 percent higher than the rate for their white counterparts. 1 In 2013, infants born to African American mothers experienced the highest rates of infant mortality (11.11 infant deaths per 1,000 births), and infants born to Asian or Pacific Islander mothers experienced the lowest rates (3.90 infant deaths per 1,000 births).2” 3
  • Globally, every day, about 800 women die due to complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Maternal mortality is a health indicator that shows very wide gaps between rich and poor, both between countries and within them.4

(these are quoted directly from Baciu 2017 – referenced below)

We believe that by bringing broader communities together to advocate for better health.

Check out our 2018 World Health Run Music Mix!

We are thrilled that this event is gaining traction as being a premier opportunity for committed individuals and organizations around the world to come together to raise awareness about health equity.

Virtual World Health Run

Date: April 7, 2018

For World Health Day 2018, as stated during registration, there isn’t a physical run near you. Therefore, you will be participating in the VIRTUAL RUN. (We are working diligently to organize a physical run near you year. We’ve made a lot of connections this year and we are already making some terrific plans for moving forward).

DIRECTIONS:
As a VIRTUAL runner, you have a terrific opportunity to plan out a terrific route and raise awareness. We encourage you to get a group together if possible.  If you need some help planning a route, www.plotaroute.com is a terrific resource. Not only can you plan your own route, but you can locate previously planned routes near you.  Please let us know if you find a route that would be a great location for a physical run for next year!

We recommend that you go for your run on April 7, World Health Day, so that we can unite around the world on that day. With that being said, the virtual run does afford a degree of flexibility that can be convenient for those that are traveling or experiencing other challenges with their schedule.

We would love for you to engage with us on social media when you do run. Help us show the world that we care about health equity.

Above all, go have a great time, wear your shirt with pride, and feel good about this event. We are making an impact together.

Listen along to the Official World Health Run Music Mix! Let us know what we should add.

TO WRITE LOVE ON HER ARMS HOSTS 5K FUNDRAISER

to write love on her arms
On SaturdayApril 14, 2018, To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) will host its 6th Annual Run For It 5k at the David R. Schechter Center in Satellite Beach, FL. The Run For It 5k started in 2013 as a chance to reach the local community and share a message of hope and help in a new way. Since then, TWLOHA has witnessed hundreds of people running for health, recovery, or in memory of a loved one. Additionally, the Run For It 5k has evolved from several hundred people in Satellite Beach, Florida, to thousands running in all 50 states, and over 10 different countries across the globe.
“I am always in awe of the dedication and passion so many bring to the Run For It 5k every year, from rallying people to create a team to fundraising for hope and help. Whether you’re participating for the first time or the sixth time, we invite you to move for something that matters.” said Elizabeth Wilder, Race Director and TWLOHA staff member.
This year’s local event will offer a delicious pancake breakfast for all registered runners served by Backwater, Downtown Melbourne’s hottest restaurant! TWLOHA will also be presenting awards, supplying family-friendly activities, and offering dozens of raffle prizes to all registered participants as well.
To register for the Run For It 5k, sign up online at RunForIt5k.com.
Individual registration costs $27 ($32 on race day). For teams (four runners or more), registration costs $24 per individual-team registration will be unavailable on race day. Children 11 years and under are $17 ($22 on race day). Pancake breakfast is included for all registered runners but meals can be purchased for $5 by friends and family.
For more information about the Run For It 5k, or if you are interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteer, please contact RunForIt5k@twloha.com.
About TWLOHA

TWLOHA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA has donated more than $2 million directly into treatment and recovery and responded to more than 200,000 messages from people in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit twloha.com.

Run For It 5k Details
●TWLOHA is hosting its 6th Annual Run For It 5k fundraiser on Saturday, April 14, 2018, at the David R. Schechter Center in Satellite Beach, FL.
● Race begins at 8:00 a.m.
● There is a virtual component to the race, which means people can participate in their own communities.
● Early registration costs $27 for individuals and ends April 13. After, registration is $32. Team registration costs $24 per runner on or before April 13. There must be a minimum of four runners per team. Team sign-up is not available on race day.
●  Maintaining physical health is integral to maintaining positive mental health.
●  TWLOHA is a nonprofit that presents hope and finds help for people struggling with mental illnesses.

Win an Awesome FlipBelt Running Belt

Disclosure: The FlipBelt was provided for me in order to facilitate my review. All opinions are my own and honest. I am disclosing this in accordance to FTC Guidelines. Please see “Disclose” tab for more information. 
photo (79)

I am always on the go. A lot of the time my girls are with me, but there are times that I get to go out for a run or walk by myself. I must admit that I typically take my phone with me everywhere but really hate holding onto it and my house key while I’m out and about. FlipBelt is the perfect solution for this problem.

About FlipBelt:

Everyone has something that they need to carry, but not always the hand to hold it. FlipBelt is the solution for this problem. FlipBelt is designed to carry your on-the-go essentials without tying up your hands. It is made of moisture-wicking, spandex-lycra blend, FlipBelt slides right on and sits snug on your hip. There is no bulk or no bounce. FlipBelt is also machine washable and machine dryable.

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