Surprise! We're merely six weeks away from Christmas and seven weeks from New Year's Eve. Time seems to be sprinting forward each passing year, doesn't it? This realization prompted me to ponder your plans for wrapping up the final stretch of 2023. Are you feeling all set and scheduled, or is there a bit of uncertainty looming? Whether your response is a panicked "I have no idea" or a confident "I've got it all mapped out," take a moment to consider what you truly want to unfold in these next six weeks. It's not just about squeezing in more physical activity but also about shaping the upcoming days. Have you been postponing that aquacise class or that leisurely walk with a friend? Perhaps there's been a persistent discomfort in your right knee, and you're unsure of the next steps? It's time to focus on what you know, what you desire, and what you'll learn about yourself in the process. To make this easier for you, I've prepared a one-page roadmap, Active Pursuits Primer, that leads you through three simple steps:
Here is a quick example for you too! Why put in this effort now? Imagine the peace of mind of having your physical activity routine in order amidst the December rush and the start of the new year. Invest your efforts now, and you'll reap the benefits later! Stay well and happy moving, Lisa P.S. Did you miss my recent four-week series on Intro to Rest and Rejuvenation Sleep Meditation? No worries! I'm hosting a single drop-in session on Friday, November 24. It's a one-time opportunity with no long commitment. Join me in person or over Zoom, no matter where you are in the world! 💗
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I hope this post finds you well. Today, I wanted to delve into a transformative practice that I recently discovered in Kristin Neff's book, Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. In her book, Neff introduces the concept of Supportive Touch, which immediately resonated with me, particularly in the context of my yoga teachings. I often encourage individuals during yoga sessions to draw themselves in, to create a space of comfort and care within. This can be as simple as moving into child's pose or embracing oneself by drawing knees to the chest. Reflecting on this practice, I realized that the simple act of self-embrace - a self-hug, if you will - holds far more profound power than I previously understood. Neff's insights shed light on the psychological and physiological impact of this supportive touch. For instance, the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "cuddle chemical," fosters trust, relaxation, and a deeper connection with oneself. It's a gesture of self-welcome and comfort that can significantly influence our body, mind, and spirit. What struck me most was how I've been guiding individuals to connect with their bodies through touch, asking them to place their hand on specific areas to feel muscles or joints working. Little did I realize the broader implications and the inherent potential of such practices. I invite you to explore a snippet from Neff's book, where she discusses Supportive Touch, exemplifying it as a form of a self-hug. Click here to access this excerpt and consider incorporating a self-compassion hug into your pre, mid, or post-exercise routine this week. The act of self-compassion through a simple hug is a personal gift only you can give yourself. Consider how this practice might positively impact your well-being. Stay well and happy moving, Lisa 🌺 P.S., Curious about in person yoga with me? Next Thursday November 2 starts the next 8 week series of yoga classes at Grandview Heights Community Hall. Two times to choose from - 6:30 pm or 8 pm. Click here for the details. It would be a privilege to have you join our class. Hello! Last week, we talked about three unexpected ways to challenge your balance by playing around with your base of support. If you missed it, you can catch up now (video included!) And today, we're diving into a topic that might seem a bit "eye-opening," pun intended! It's all about the fascinating and often overlooked connection between your visual system and your balance. When we think about balance, most of us imagine standing on one leg with our eyes closed, wobbling like a weeble (they wobble but don't fall down, right?). But guess what? The eyes have you covered – and not just when they're shut! So, let’s open our eyes wide and explore how the visual system plays a pivotal role in our quest for better balance.
1. Look Left and Right (Side to Side Sway) 🛒 Imagine this: you’re in the grocery store, and you spot the chocolate aisle. You turn your head, eyes locked on the prize, and start heading toward it. What’s happening here is your visual system guiding your balance. Your brain processes the visual cues, helping you stay upright as you navigate the treacherous terrain of the supermarket. Now, try this at home – stand up and pretend to be a shopping cart. Turn your head left and right. Then try to move just the eyes left and right, and voila! You’re training your balance system. 2. Look Up and Down (Vertically Challenged) 🌆 Think of your visual system as your personal GPS. When you look up, your brain registers the change in perspective and helps you stay upright. Conversely, when you glance down, it adjusts your balance to accommodate the new angle. So, channel your inner giraffe and engage in some vertical eye movement exercises. Looking up and down like you’re admiring a skyscraper can give your balance system a little workout. 3. Circular Motion – Clockwise and Counterclockwise (Twist and Shout) 🌪 Ever tried spinning around like a human fidget spinner? Well, it’s not only fun but also a balance-booster. Circular eye movements stimulate the balance sensors in your inner ear. Try standing still while moving only your eyes in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and you’ll discover a challenging exercise that’s like a dance for your visual system! Alternatively, try spinning in place while keeping your eyes on a fixed point – it’s a real challenge, and you might end up feeling like a human tornado. 4. One Eye Open, One Eye Closed (Pirate Chic) 🏴☠️ Ahoy, matey! If you’ve ever pretended to be a pirate with one eye covered, you’ve unknowingly challenged your balance. Closing one eye alters your visual input, forcing your brain to rely more on other senses, like your inner ear and proprioception (your body’s sense of where it is in space). Give it a try – but don’t go looking for buried treasure just yet! Now, you might be wondering, why does all this matter? Well, because your visual system is your balance's best buddy. It provides vital feedback to your brain, helping it make real-time adjustments to keep you upright. It's like having a personal trainer for your equilibrium. Plus, these eye movements aren't just for fun – they can have practical benefits. They can improve your balance, stability, and coordination, which is essential for everyday activities and sports. You'll find that tasks like climbing stairs, dancing, or even playing recreational sports become easier and more enjoyable when your visual system is finely tuned. So, the next time you work on your balance, don't just close your eyes and hope for the best. Instead, open your eyes and play with your vision. Challenge your balance with these eye-popping exercises, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a balance guru. And for all you eager readers who are keen to take your balance game to the next level, it's time to get creative and layer on these four visual tools to the base of support exercises we covered in the last post. Incorporating visual challenges into your balance routine not only adds an extra layer of fun but also boosts the effectiveness of your workouts. Picture yourself swaying side to side with your feet in a tandem position while looking left and right, or standing with a narrow stance and sending your eyes in a clockwise motion while maintaining your balance – these combinations can be a game-changer for your balance training regimen. So go ahead, experiment, and watch your balance skills soar to new heights. Remember, balance is a skill that can be honed and improved. It's not just about preventing falls; it's about enhancing your overall quality of life. So, why not have a little fun while doing it? Your visual system will thank you, and you might just discover a newfound appreciation for the magic of balance. Stay balanced, stay safe, and keep your eyes on the prize – and the chocolate aisle! Until next time, keep wobbling like a weeble (but with style). Stay well and happy moving, Lisa P.S., Just for fun! 😄 Balance is a fundamental aspect of our daily lives, often taken for granted until it's put to the test. Eek. Maintaining good balance is crucial, especially when weather conditions change at a drop of a hat and surfaces become slippery due to ice and snow. And let's be honest, this could be your situation soon as we move into the last part of 2023. While standing on one foot is a classic exercise for balance, there are several unexpected and effective ways to challenge your equilibrium. Let's connect to your foundation (your feet) and play with your base of support. In this instalment of Real Moves for Real Life, I curated three specific movements not only to enhance your stability but also prepare you for the unpredictable challenges that arise when navigating tricky terrain. The extent to which you're connected to your movements and spatial awareness will determine the quality of your balance. Click to watch now! Balancing on one foot is not the only way to challenge your equilibrium. By incorporating unexpected exercises and techniques you can significantly improve your stability. These exercises help you better prepare for navigating slippery surfaces during winter and reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Remember, good balance is not just about maintaining stability; it's about maintaining safety and health in all aspects of your life. So, start incorporating these unexpected balance challenges into your routine today and stay safe, no matter the weather! Stay well and happy moving, Lisa Picture a moment when you unexpectedly crossed paths with someone you hadn't seen in ages. Remember that warm, fuzzy feeling that welled up inside you? Perhaps it manifested as goosebumps and an inner sense of excitement and joy. As we arrive at Canadian Thanksgiving weekend, I'd like to invite you to reflect on these feelings. This time of year often brings us together with people we don't see regularly, be it for a shared meal, a drink, or simply spending quality time with loved ones. These physical and emotional responses you experience are a beautiful demonstration of connection—the sense of belonging with others, whether they're family or friends. There's something undeniably nourishing and grounding about it. We humans are inherently wired for connection, but have you ever considered what life would be like without those cherished connections? It might feel like a somber, empty state—a profound sense of missing out. Here's the intriguing part: many of us are not fully connected to ourselves. We often live in our minds, unaware of what's transpiring in the rest of our bodies. In many cases, we can also find ourselves disconnected from our own thoughts and emotions. Now, contemplate a scenario where you could foster the same connection you have with loved ones, but with yourself—genuinely understanding yourself, your inner world, and how it intertwines with your outer world to shape the unique YOU. Wouldn't it be an enriching journey to forge that connection within yourself? This week, a client shared an enlightening experience. She discovered a spot in her body that responded profoundly to a specific movement, despite it not being the source of her discomfort. She began "gathering data points," noticing how these data points influenced her body—connections forming before her eyes. Connection. She was making connections. Now, envision the possibility of connecting your own data points, unveiling insights into yourself, and cultivating a profound inner awareness and relationship. Such self-discovery could genuinely enhance your well-being. I would love nothing more than for you to embark on this journey. That's why I'm thrilled to extend an invitation to the upcoming series, Intro to Rest and Rejuvenation Sleep Meditation. It's an opportunity for you to reconnect with yourself. Together, we will explore simple practices that can help you restore and regenerate, just as sleep does. By dedicating time to your inner world, whether it's your thoughts or how your body feels, you'll tune into yourself and deepen your awareness of your body and mind. This four-week series kicks off every Friday, starting on October 13. You can join us on Zoom from the comfort of your own home or in person at Yoga Within Edmonton. So, as you go about your weekend, remember to connect with others and, equally importantly, with yourself. A simple thought of gratitude for yourself and those around you can go a long way. Wishing you a warm and fulfilling Thanksgiving weekend filled with meaningful connections. 🦃 Stay well and happy moving, Lisa Denise* and I worked together over many years. We met every six weeks online and her main goal was to decrease the pain in her left hip. She is a great example of what I want to share with you this week. Denise was full of energy! She was extremely motivated to exercise daily and complete her home exercises. There were times when I would ask her to do less physical activity as she was like the energizer bunny...she just kept going and going. Denise had some real struggles in her personal life. She was the primary care giver for a home bound parent which carried a lot of responsibilities and energy. She lived alone and unfortunately experienced a major housing crisis that impacted her whole world. She had no control of the fix nor the timing of the renovations. On top of that, she had daily pain in her hip. She was exhausted. One day while on Zoom, I realized that she was running on empty. Her energy was zap, zilch, gone. She was drawn and sitting in a slouched posture, almost like she wasn’t even able to hold herself up. The zest that was normally present for physical activity was gone. She wasn't sleeping well and looked very, very tired. I invited her to come into her favourite position, legs up the wall, where you place your bum close to the baseboard and then let the legs be supported up by the wall. She could settle in that position and I invited her to just rest. After some twitches and wiggles, Denise finally settled and I could see that her breath was also calming down. Through a guided rest and rejuvenation sleep meditation, I guided her through a series of ways she could connect to her body and breath. Her mind was able to perceive and absorb what I was saying which helped her fall deeper and deeper into rest. Denise didn’t have to do anything physical. She simply allowed herself to be guided into a deeper and deeper rest. After the meditation, she slowly came back to a seated position and faced the Zoom camera. The deflation and lethargy had lifted. Her body was now upright and light. She looked me straight in the eye and said how wonderful she felt. With an expression of gratitude, she thanked me for the meditation and acknowledged how depleted she really was. Denise realized that rest was the only thing that could lift her energy. Life is hard. It can drain us to near depletion. Sometimes we run (literally) through this world and never give ourselves rest. Is that you? Are your living on an empty tank? Has life drained you of your vitality? If so, I invite you to consider how you can fill your tank back up. I would like to help you with that. One of the parts I love about my job is helping people fill up their tank. Sometimes it is with physical activity and at other times it is with rest. Isn’t it amazing how two things that we might think are on opposite sides of a spectrum actually can do the same thing??? Physical activity AND rest can both build our vitality! So, I’ve got something for you. A new 10 minute video for you to explore a rest and rejuvenation sleep meditation. Find a comfy place to sit or lie down and let my voice guide you the whole way through. After going through the meditation, have you felt a shift in your system? Maybe a large shift or maybe a subtle shift. Both are good depending on what you need. And if you want to do more resting with me, consider signing up for my upcoming four week series of rest and rejuvenation sleep meditation at Yoga Within Edmonton starting on October 13. Click here for more information and to sign up (and yes, it is in person AND on Zoom!) Stay well and happy moving or resting, Lisa *name changed for confidentiality Hands down - the hips, back and shoulders are the areas of the body my clients always struggle with the most. Quite literally, clients are challenged to actually get their hands up and over head and they are doing all sorts of funky movements to get their hands there. Is that you? Are you dealing with stiff, sticky and cranky shoulders that need some TLC? This week I've got you! Shoulder issues can show up as previous injuries but also can be a shift and change in the shoulder's ability to move. The arm bone doesn’t have the freedom of movement it once had in the shoulder socket. This can come down to how well the shoulder blades are moving on the rib cage. And you have two of them, of course! In this next instalment of Real Moves for Real Life, I share 3 specific movements that bring awareness to your shoulder blades and provide an opportunity for them to move. Here are movements you can do in less than 10 minutes that will bring the freedom of movement back into your shoulders. Jump right in! All you need is a strap or a belt or an old neck tie, a mat or chair, and a medium firmness ball like a tennis ball. After you've gone through the movements, what did you notice in yours shoulders? Can you reach up above your head to give me a double high five? 🙌🏼 And with ease? Hit reply on this email and let me know how your shoulders feel NOW. Let’s start this next week with relaxed shoulders! Stay well and happy moving, Lisa P.S. Did you know I have a YouTube series called Real Moves for Real Life? If you have missed any of the other episodes, here is a link to the playlist. Have you noticed the change this week? The shift in the weather. The shift in our daily routines. The shift in our priorities. September often feels like a fresh start, almost like a new year in January! One of the perks of living in a city with all four seasons is that change is always in the air. And with change comes the opportunity for a new perspective. This got me thinking about you and how we can navigate through these transitions, especially when it comes to our physical well-being. Today, I want to share with you a key approach to cultivating a new perspective that's closely tied to your physical activity habits. So, let's dive in! Take a moment to pause, breathe… Reflect on the exceptional physical activity experiences you've had in the past. Transport yourself back in time to those moments when moving your body felt amazing. For each of these experiences, consider these seven questions:
I've even provided a handy worksheet for you to jot down your thoughts. Writing it down can help you reconnect with those experiences even more deeply. Now, armed with the insights you've gained from these reflections, it's time to craft your new perspective on physical activity for this Fall.
What new possibilities open up when you draw from your past exceptional physical activity experiences? Remember, the process of introspection and implementation is incredibly empowering. And there's no better time to start than right now in September! As I glance at my desk calendar, which I've recently turned to September, I read this quote by Aristotle: In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous. So, embrace the marvels of this week as you shape a fresh outlook on physical activity for the final four months of 2023! If you'd like to share your exceptional physical activity experience from the past, feel free to shoot me an email at info@lisaworkman.com. I'd love to hear about your experiences and how they'll influence your new perspective on physical activity. Keep moving forward! Stay well and happy moving, Lisa P.S. September is already in full swing! If you're interested in working with me in person, here's a quick overview of a few ways you can do just that. In the bustling world of fitness trends, from high-tech gadgets to boutique gym memberships, there's one exercise powerhouse that often goes overlooked – the staircase right in your own home! Yes, you read that right. Your very own set of stairs can be your secret weapon to a more active and healthier lifestyle. Imagine turning your daily ascent and descent into a targeted workout that boosts your strength, stamina, and overall well-being. Intrigued? I'm here to tell you today that you don't need all the fancy stuff (and expensive at that!) If only you (and everyone else) realized that a set of stairs can be your at home workout station! And with this in mind, this week I wanted to share with you my newest video, Stairway to Success: 5 Strength Building Movements on the Stairs that promises to change the way you see your staircase forever. In this video, the stairway in your home morphs into a dynamic workout space. With expert guidance and an engaging approach, you'll be led through five carefully curated exercises that utilize the staircase's architecture to its fullest potential. Exercises That Elevate: 1. Lateral Step Ups: A lateral strength booster that makes each step count. 2. Descending Stairs Delight: Who knew descending could be so productive? Get ready to work those quads and hamstrings. 3. Supported Squats: Your stairs becomes your fitness ally, aiding you in mastering deep squats for an all-encompassing lower body workout. 4. Hip Hike: Elevate your hip mobility and strengthen your glutes with each energizing hike. 5. Spinal Twist with Lateral Bend: Engage your core and obliques with a playful twist and bend combo. The beauty of this workout lies in its accessibility – no need for expensive gym equipment or extensive space. Just you, your stairs, and the commitment to invest in your health. There is also a downloadable handout below for a step-by-step guide to each exercise, ensuring that you're equipped to embark on the stairs with confidence. So, are you ready to embrace the gym you didn't know you had at home? Watch the video, grab your handout, and let's climb to a fitter, stronger you! Stay well and happy moving, Lisa You aren’t thinking about the snow and cold yet, are you? I don’t imagine so. Maybe it the subtle shift in the air, the hint of autumn on the horizon that has you thinking about the start of something new? Perhaps, it’s the thought of the months ahead, the uncharted territory towards a new year. Whatever the reason, there’s something to be said about taking a moment, even now, to contemplate how you want to feel as the year draws to a close. Because let’s be honest, December might seem a long way off, and you’re probably not actively thinking about it right now. But here’s the thing – it’s not about December itself. It’s about how you want to FEEL in December 2023. And guess what? You have the power to decide that right now. It is all about the power of intentional choices! Would you like to feel stronger? More mobile? More vibrant and full of energy? These are all valid desires, and they can be your reality if you choose to make them so. The process starts with setting your intentions. Consider the following steps as you begin this journey:
You might be wondering why there’s mention of 2024 already. It might seem premature, but these final four months of 2023 can serve as a launchpad for the coming year! Your choices today set the stage for your experiences tomorrow. By investing in your well-being now, you’re laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and fulfilling future. How can I help? To support you on this journey of intentional transformation, consider joining upcoming programs and offerings this Fall. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, there’s something for everyone. Explore some of the options available to you: • Try for Five Yoga Class: Experience the benefits of yoga firsthand in a trial class. Dip your toes into the world of yoga and discover its potential to enhance your well-being. • Everyday Yoga: Delve deeper into your practice with a seven-week yoga series. This structured program offers consistent growth and progress, helping you embody your intentions. • Beginner Yoga Class: If you’re new to yoga, this class is designed just for you. Learn the basics and build a strong foundation for your yoga journey. • Noon Hour Yoga Class: Take a break from your day and rejuvenate with a lunch hour yoga practice. This can be the perfect way to restore your energy, refocus your mind and start your weekend early! As a valued member of my community, you are among the very first to know. Registration is now open for Try for Five Yoga Class and Everyday Yoga, and in the upcoming week, I’ll be sharing all the details far and wide. This means you have the exclusive opportunity now to secure your spot ahead of the crowd! Just a friendly heads-up… I’m excited to unveil my brand-new signature One-on-One Program - Movement Momentum! If you’re someone who enjoys personalized attention, this program is designed to perfectly suit your needs. Together, we’ll tackle your specific concerns and work towards achieving your goals. Doesn’t that sound like a fantastic journey? Stay tuned for more updates in the upcoming weeks! Your Journey, Your Choice The power to feel your best and live your best life lies within your hands. It’s not just about surviving the year; it’s about thriving through intentional choices. By focusing on how you want to feel, you’re stepping into a proactive role in your well-being. While December 2023 might be a distant thought, the feelings you desire to experience then can be nurtured and cultivated starting now. So why wait? Begin your journey of intentional transformation today and set the stage for a vibrant year-end and an even more exhilarating future. And as always, reach out to me directly and let me know how I can be your guide as you embark on this journey of vitality and transformation. Stay well and happy moving, Lisa |
AuthorMissed my most recent newsletter? Don't worry, I've got your back. Find all my exclusive letters here on this blog. ~Lisa Archives
May 2024
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