My Month of Yoga + Future Plans

How do I feel after engaging in regular yoga practice this month? I feel like a changed person. I realize how dramatic that sounds. But it's true. I set out at the start of the month to take three yoga classes a week at the studio where I got an introductory pass for just $40. I stuck with it and attended each and every class. I have just one left on my pass, which brings my total hours of yoga this month to nearly 24 hours. A full day of yoga.

I'm almost certain that's more hours of yoga than I've done in the past two or three years combined.

What I've noticed after all of this bending and stretching is no surprise. My strength and flexibility are greatly increased. Having practiced yoga since age 18, whether intensely or not-so, as well as having a childhood of gymnastics and dance . . . I will say that I've always been sort of "good" at it. About halfway through the month, it was like a switch flipped and all those years of work had come back. I can do splits again. I can put myself into wheel with ease. And it all feels really, REALLY good.

There are also things I just, well, can't do. I used to get so frustrated. But something has changed in my practice. I don't care so much about striking photo-worthy poses just to strike them or to show off. I am all about alignment and doing it the "right" way now. I have much more satisfaction with the journey rather than the destination. Maybe it's being older and having less ego as I approach the mat. The mind-body connection makes more sense now. It's everything.

Whatever the case, I cannot afford to keep up at this pace with studio classes. In February, I plan to scale back to two classes a week, which will be approximately $20/week or $80 for the whole month. In March, track season starts, and I'll be lucky if I get to one studio class a week. So, I figure it's worth the investment. I'll be supplementing with home practice to try to keep up with three to four hours of yoga week. My favorite YouTuber is Yoga with Adriene.

I also have a 5-year plan of sorts.

Eeek!

I hesitate to share because I always have this fear I won't actually do whatever it is I set out to do. I also haven't had a plan in quite a while, so it's both exciting and scary to be thinking this way. I'd like to take a teacher training by age 40 with the hope of deepening my own relationship with yoga and possibly teaching a few classes on the side. Basic trainings in my area can be completed in 10 full weekends for around $3,000. Why age 40? If we have another child, I don't see starting the process for a few more years. Plus, with Stephen's coaching schedule, it's not feasible, but that may change in the future.

Yoga + running. That's been my harder balance to strike. I've been running only between 12 and 15 miles a week this whole month. It feels great. But it leaves me feeling conflicted. I think part of it has been the weather. Part of it has been the new focus and feeling guilty to take even more time to exercise (there's only so much time, right?!). I don't know where I am as a runner. It's still this big part of me, but I have absolutely no desire to race or train at high levels. I think when spring comes around, I'd like to be back up at running 20 miles a week, though.

So, that's that.

Are any of you guys yoga teachers? Or are you thinking of becoming one? I have two favorite instructors. One of them is my age and the other is in her mid-60s. I figure if I obtained my certification by age 40, that's still a whole career ahead of me!

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Namaste

I took my first yoga class in two years on Sunday. 

And before that class two long years ago, I hadn't taken a formal class in about, well, two years. Yeah. It's been a while. I've done poses during Barre workouts and random ones to deal with acute tension. My body is sorely craving fluidity and release. It felt so good to stretch and lengthen . . . I took another class on Monday morning. I actually signed up for the studio's new student pass -- $40 for a month of unlimited yoga. What a way to kick off the new year.

I plan to go to yoga three times a week this month. Two classes of flow on Tuesdays and Thursdays and a longer class on Sundays of align and flow. My goal? To better listen to my body. To breathe more deeply. To think more inwardly. To shed these aches and pains and feel . . . younger. Nah, 34 isn't old by any means. Still, I've been feeling rather stiff and blocked up both mentally and physically.

I'm also looking for connection and community. You see, the reason I've resisted filling in the rest of our monthly calendar is because I finally have a spot on it. And I like how it looks. When we installed it in the fall, Stephen had activities most days. Ada had a bunch of stuff, too. Even Eloise had play-dates, music classes, and other things going on just for her. Me? Nada. And now I've finally carved out my own time.

Of course, I won't be able to keep up such frequency at the studio. The price will jump considerably if I want to keep up at this rate. So, at least for now, I'll go as often as I can. My hope is that the regularity will get me in a good momentum. I intend to continue with a studio class a week the rest of the year . . . and to practice at home a couple more days. We'll see. This is a start of something, and it feels good in so many ways.

Are any of you rekindling your love for yoga (or any other long-lost favorites) in 2018?

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How I’m Moving These Days

A couple notes on fitness today. I’ve started a loose 10K training plan. I don’t have a race in mind, but after months of not running on any sort of plan, I was craving some structure. I’m still trying to balance TTC with running and exercise. Though I ran a 12-miler the day before getting my positive pregnancy test with Ada, the trouble we’ve having this time around has me set on a more conservative approach.

// RUNNING

Yes. I’m frustrated with it. And many of you have told me I don’t need to worry about mileage while TTC. I’m doing what I feel is right for me and my body. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size approach. What works for one person (or one pregnancy) isn’t necessarily the best choice for another.

Here’s the plan I’m currently following. I’m hoping to find some type of 10K to do in the fall just for fun. Though I am trying to do some speed one day a week, that’s not really my goal with this adventure. It’s more about getting myself on a plan and gaining motivation.

Onto week two!


I ran my first speed workout in what felt like years last week. I did a one mile warmup, then two timed miles -- the first at 7:32, the next at 7:25 -- and then a cool down. I’m not in peak shape, but I was incredibly surprised that I’ve retained any speed at all! Definitely encouraging. Just goes to show that consistent training over the years pays off, even if you have a lapse in serious training.

For the cross-training, I’ve been doing Barre3 workouts online.

// YOGA

I’ve also committed myself to yoga. I used to practice quite regularly. I’d take two classes a week and spend time on my mat at home. I fell (way!) out of this habit years ago. I was writing an article on yoga the other day, and I came across Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. I’ve been hooked on her classes ever since.

I even started the 30-Day Yoga Challenge.


I also took my first studio yoga class in years yesterday. It was an easy flow, and I think I’ll be returning to take at least one class per week once Ada starts preschool. I used to treat yoga like a major athletic event. I always wanted to feel the burn. These days? I’m enjoying the stress-relieving aspect and the stretching.

Feels gooooooooooooooooood!

How are you moving these days?

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Hot Yoga (For Those Of Us Who Haven't Tried It Yet)

So, pretend it's 2008 (or earlier, I don't even know) and hot yoga is still relatively new. Yeah. I've been out of the loop, but also admittedly scared to try it, so my first time trying vinyasa flow (not Bikram) in 100+ degree temps was last Friday night with some friends from our local runners club.

I can't say I loved it. I can't say I hated it either. But I certainly see why it ends up being a love/hate thing for most people. I'd like to go back and try again, maybe even get one of those inexpensive introductory month passes, before forming a solid opinion.

// INITIAL THOUGHTS

OMG +  I love this vinyasa sequence -- so familiar, I know all the moves.

OMG -  Holy hell moly! I can't breathe + move this fast in 100+ degree heat!

OMG +  Wow -- It feels great to stretch so, soooooo deeply.

OMG -  My hands are slipping all over the place + I'm stretching, ouch, TOO deeply.

OMG +  The heat feels oddly comforting, especially since it's been so cold this winter.

OMG -  Uh. I think I'm going to pass out (quick fade in/out of black at 60-minute mark, no joke).

OMG +  All this sweat sure makes me feel like I'm torching 10,000 calories.

OMG -  Sigh, but I read that it might just be hype.

OMG!!! Who cares? Focus on your inner-self Ashley.

OMG +  I haven't used these muscles in so long. Feels good knowing they're still there.

OMG -  Ahh. I haven't used these muscles in so long. Can't do any more! *falls on mat

OMG +  Phew! It's over and I feel . . . incredible, no, i.n.v.i.n.c.i.b.l.e!

OMG -  I'm FREEZING!!! Cannot get warm . . . need seven blankets.

OMG +  [That night] Wow. I feel super flexible and stretched out. That was great!

OMG -  [Next 2 days] Sore. I cannot move my body -- must skip running. #fail

// \\ // \\ // \\// \\ // \\ // \\// \\ // \\ // \\// \\ // \\ // \\

No. Really. I had to skip running on Saturday and Sunday because I was so sore from trying it out. I don't know if that was because it was HOT yoga or just yoga, which I haven't done in a while. Thankfully, I got in my long run tonight . . . but man!

Anyway, I'd love to hear what you think. I've already gathered from conversations on Twitter and Instagram that a lot of you guys absolutely love hot yoga or Bikram classes. That you do them once, sometimes multiple times each week. Did you know there's also hot Pilates now? I have zero core muscles (well, that's a lie, but I hate working them out), so that sounds like sheer torture to me.

What about the rest of you?

Hot yoga: Love/hate?

Will my opinion change next time?

Are there "real" benefits to heat? Or is it just hype?

Like what you just read? You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!

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Weekend Things

I missed my yoga class Wednesday in an unfortunate incident involving a battery + ER visit. I'll share the story next week -- everything is completely fine, by the way. Still, I needed a good, non-running workout. Jillian Yoga has been great, but I never feel the stretch/relaxation I crave. I treat that DVD more like body weight strength training.

I suppose the relaxation part is hard, too, when a nosy toddler is patting my butt during downward facing dog.

// Yoga: I found it! //

So, yeah. I found the yoga DVD I've been looking for: Ashtanga by Gaiam

It's EXACTLY my old power yoga routine. Not hard, but not for beginners, as the title suggests.

// The Basics of Herbs //

I use a lot of herbs in cooking, but admittedly . . .

It's more experimentation than expert. This chart helps.

// Marathon Plan //

Thanks for your support with my fall marathon decision!

I'm nervous about injury. And some of you have asked . . . I'm being conservative.

I'm hoping to follow Hal Higdon's Novice 2 plan. 4 days running, 1 x-training.

// Food, food, FOOD!!! //

I have SO many new recipes to share with you over the upcoming weeks.

In the meantime, here are my culinary picks on Pinterest, general and gluten-free.

// Watch it //

I've been using Stephen's Garmin 210 for months. I need my own watch.

Trying to choose between the sleek Garmin 10 + newer but $$$ Garmin 610.

// Pandora's Lunchbox //

I happened upon a great piece on "how processed food took over the American meal."

Here's Part 1 (interview w/ Melanie Warner) + Part 2 (truth about soy protein).

// Undecorate //

I don't have the book, but I saw it when I browsed through the home section at B&N this week.

Even just the word "undecorate" got me thinking. It's now my mantra for spring cleaning.

// Pack It Up //

I'm at WAHM/SAHM, and yet I still pack a lunch. Is that weird?

Here are some great packed lunch ideas + a gorgeous bento box gallery.

// Fashion Week //

I was surprised that you guys like my (frugal) fashion picks!

This week, I'm digging striped dresses, colorful canvas totes, and crochet Toms.

// That's Sharp(ie) //

Wow. Sharpie Easter eggs. What could be easier than that?

I love these colorful, naturally dyed eggs, too.

// Technical Note //

I changed the way you visit links on this site in response to suggestions.

Now links open new windows. Please let me know if this works well for you or not.

And here's what else you may have missed on Writing Chapter Three:



Have a great weekend!

Psst: You can check out more Weekend Things here + here + here + here + here + here + here + here.

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Good Question: Aches + Pains

Kate writes: 

I finished the couch to 5K plan a few weeks ago . . . and in the past couples of weeks I have noticed that my legs are killing me after and during a run. It doesn't last a full day which makes me think that I haven't done any serious injury. 

My question is this: As a new runner, how do we tell what is an injury and what is just our body adapting to the change we have made? I would also really love some tips on how to help with muscles after running as I know to stretch but am not sure what types of stretching or if it's enough. 

Does this sound familiar to any of you? I can sense the head-nodding.

I know for certain that I had similar issues to what Kate is experiencing when I was just starting out. First: I don't want to diminish the cause for concern. Whenever you have recurring pain or problems, a doctor is your best source of information. However, I have experienced general soreness -- growing pains versus injury -- as I've brought my training to another level.

When I went from running 3 miles to more back in college, I remember I had shin splints and my calves would just throb and ache during and after a run. It was so frustrating because I wanted to run longer and farther, get faster . . . but it's like my body couldn't keep up.

At the time, I was running in the wrong pair of shoes, not taking many rest days, and definitely "forgetting" to stretch. I wanted my body to do its thing without fully doing mine to take care of it.

So, I guess that's where to start: Look at your routine.

What are your goals? 
How is your weekly running plan helping you work toward them?
Are your shoes old or not suited for running?
Have you been taking adequate rest?
Are you stretching enough. At all?
Do you enjoy cross-training? Could you?

For me, after a pair of new shoes (road versus trail), 4 days of running a week versus 6, and starting to compliment my workouts with yoga . . . things got better rather quickly. And usually for cases for general aches and pains versus injury, this will be the case. If the issues continue, that's when to head to a doctor.




Honestly, yoga is THE BEST compliment to running. I'm horrible at sticking with cross-training like yoga + strength despite knowing they have incredible benefits. But I'm back at it again, and I am feeling stronger than ever, which is great.  Adding some basic stretches to your routine will not only make you stretched + stronger, but also help you recover from those hard workout days.

Here are some resources:

• The Runner's Guide to Yoga (Book)
• Yoga for Runners: Intermediate Program (DVD)
• The Athlete's Guide to Yoga: A Personalized Practice for Strength, Flexibility, and Focus (DVD)  
• Yoga for Runners by Ann Richmond (DVD)
• Why Runners Need Yoga on CNN
• Runner says: "Is Yoga Good for Me?" on Natural Health

I'll be back soon with a post dedicated to other cross-training, specifically strength as I have seen dramatic results and differences since I started lifting weights again. I'm late to the fad, which I think has already passed, but kettlebells are awesome.

Thanks to Kate for her good question!

Also: Many of you let us know that the old site was running slowly for you. I think the menus were to blame, so I'm in the middle of switching to a very simple framework. It's hard because on Blogger you have to do things while the site is live.

The main trouble at the moment is if you're viewing not at full screen capacity, the images are skewed. Please let me know of any huge issues (if you're reading on RSS, you can see what I'm up to here). 

Otherwise, thank you for bearing with me!

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Namaste

I've been searching for some exercises I can do on my off days from running. Stuff I can do quickly and quietly while Ada naps. The treadmill is far too loud and right next to her room. The spinning bike is quieter, but I moan and groan from my burning quads.

So, I thought I'd review some TV workouts over the next couple months as I try them out. Last night, I indulged in a new-to-me DVD: Jillian Michaels: Yoga Meltdown. (I actually bought it via this link and play it on our Roku player.)

I've only been through Level 1, but -- for those of you who are unfamiliar -- each workout is 30 minutes (two workouts for a total of 1 hour). It's a sort of bastardized power yoga sequence. I like that it's difficult, yet familiar. All of these same poses were incorporated in my practice many years ago. They're just much harder for me to do now, especially all those chaturangas!

The good: I definitely can use the stretching. With all the lifting of my 20-lb toddler, my back is killing me. It also feels good to change up my routine from running. I can certainly use the balance and strength training. Plus, I can do it whenever I want versus trying to make a yoga class across town.

The bad: I suppose I expected something a bit more unique from this DVD. Don't get me wrong, it's still very good -- but it's very similar to my old power yoga classes. Nothing really new there. Turning that point into good: I only paid $7.99 for the program, which is half the price of one yoga class.

More to come with these types of reviews. If you have any DVDs you think I should check out, I'm wide open for suggestions. I'm looking for strength and stretching, but I'm also interested in cardio-focused stuff. And I'm trying to stay away from anything that requires equipment beyond two hand weights.

MY MUST-READS

I've been asked by several of you what blogs and websites I read on a (semi)daily basis. This list used to be pages long, but I've recently pared down quite a bit because I simply don't have time. Of course, it's always changing, but here we go!

: : : Food : : :

Edible Perspective

Oh She Glows  

Spoon Fork Bacon

The Amaeteur Gourmet

: : : Fitness : : :
No Meat Athlete
Runner's World

: : : Mom-stuff : : :

Ask Moxie

Daily Garnish

Nat the Fat Rat

: : : Home : : :

Apartment Therapy
Design Sponge
Door Sixteen

Making It Lovely

: : : Laughs : : :

BuzzFeed

McSweeney's

Parenting: Illustrated with Crappy Pictures

Suri's Burn Book

Have any good reads to suggest? Please include books! I desperately need to carve out time to read a good book (I like non-fiction best!).


And if you didn't catch it yesterday, check out Writing Chapter Three for some tips on how to take your own family photos.

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A New Leaf

I could write a lot of things tonight. I am feeling sluggish, tired, and unhealthy. Running is going fine. I'm ready to run Sunday's race, but there's little passion there. I've been eating grilled cheese for most every meal since Ada's solids strike made me into her personal chef.

Yeah. I always use the baby card when I'm in a funk. I feel like now that Ada's almost a year old, I need to start taking some responsibility of my own for how I'm treating myself, my body, my mind.

The truth is:

So, starting next Monday, I am turning a new leaf. For me, I always have to start fresh. Set a date. Make a plan. Get organized and keep track. And usually I have to make radical modifications to snap out of bad habits. Why Monday? I need to get through this race weekend. Don't want to change anything just yet.

Nothing I'll be doing is revolutionary or new, really. But I am hoping some of you will enjoy and even consider joining me. Not necessarily to do exactly what I'm doing, but, instead, to find your own path to transformation. Whatever that word means to you in this moment.

I'll be outlining some of my goals next week (nothing terribly specific, mind you). I worked on a rough menu plan earlier today and thought I'd share it, as I'll be blogging many of these meals -- short recipes -- throughout the week. If you have any suggestions for healing foods, I'd love to incorporate some into my plan.

BREAKFAST

• Green Smoothies
• Fruit Smoothies
• Oatmeal
• Eggs

LUNCH

• Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
• Broccoli w/ Brown Rice
• Miso Stew
• Homemade Black Bean Burgers

DINNER

• Roasted squash
• Sesame Baked Tofu
• Stuffed Peppers
• Crust-less Quinoa-Kale Quiche 

OTHER STUFF

• Herbal Teas
• Lots of Water
• Kale Chips
• Energy Chunks

I've put myself on detoxes in the past. This "New Leaf" plan, as I'm calling it, isn't a detox. It's just me, trying to figure out what feels wrong in my diet, exercise, and life in general. Obviously it's going to be some trial and error. I have no specific expectations at this point.

As I already wrote, I'll be blogging recipes and other things during the process. I am thinking a kickoff of clean eating might do the trick. I am also planning to add yoga back into my routine, as I am in need of the mental health benefits I used to enjoy when I was deep in practice.

I don't know about you, but whenever the seasons change, I tend to feel restless. I think part of this whole thing is a product of that stirring. I may come out of it doing nothing different in the long term. As I see it, at least by taking this time, I'm responding to whatever is inside me, telling me to examine my life.

Whether or not anything "productive" happens, sometimes engaging in that internal dialogue is all I need to do to feel back on track.

Like what you just read? You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!

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Healthy Living: Nina's Story

Nina writes:
I recently found your blog and have been reading it non stop since then. I love that you decided to have a healthy living celebration week and then continued it! (Thanks, Nina! We're loving all the fitspiration, too!) Here is my story . . .

I was always a bit on a chunky side, never skinny and never fat. I ate as much as I wanted, whenever I wanted, and since I was a latch-key kid, I didn't have anybody around to stop me from sitting around and doing nothing but eating. I dabbled in working out a little bit but I never really got anywhere. My senior year of high school my (then) best friend and I signed up at the local YMCA and started going together. We also went separately, myself more so than her.


In addition to working out together, we also ditched class, smoked, and didn't eat/avoided eating as much as we could. We did a 3-day fast together to "gear up" for Thanksgiving. I ate about 5 plates of food on that Thanksgiving. I kept up these habits throughout the year and into my first semester at college. I think it is important to point out that while I had these unhealthy habits, I lost maybe 2 pounds, if that.

Then, my mother and I went on Jenny Craig to lose some weight for my brother's wedding. She is about 30 pounds lighter than I am -- she has a tiny frame. Mine is bigger, I'm built more like my father. Anyway, the program wasn't that bad . . . and during it, I lost about 12 to 15 pounds. But the second I started eating "real" food again, I gained all of it back. Weight Watchers was my next diet, and while I didn't lose much weight, it opened my eyes to portion sizes.

After I had worked in a gym for more than a year, I finally started to use it regularly. I even started working out with one of the trainers. Personal training was fabulous because my trainer kept me motivated, entertained, and super sweaty! It took a while, but my body started to change, become more athletic. It seemed like overnight, I had lost 20 pounds! Despite this fact, I still felt very uncomfortable with my body. So I started restricting what I was eating, trying to stay under 1200 calories a day, and I did that on most days (usually with the aid of Camel Lights and loads of water).

During this time, I was living away from home and had a tight budget, which only added to my lack of calories. I often ate a can or two of veggies for dinner. One day, my trainer put me on the treadmill for my warm-up. I was NOT a happy camper. I've always hated running, I walked most of the mile run in grade school and high school, always coming in near the back of the pack. I practically kicked and screamed when he made me run for 5 minutes. Then he did made me do it again. And again. And again. I stopped fighting it and eventually found myself choosing the treadmill for my cardio workout. A few weeks later, one of the members came up to me and said "It looks like you are quite the runner now, Nina!" I was very confused because I didn't think myself a runner. I mean, I liked running and I could run about 45 minutes without stopping, but no way was I a runner!


March 2009 was quite an eventful month. I was at my lowest weight ever, 153 pounds, I went on spring break with my (then) best friend Allie, I met my (current) boyfriend. And at the end of the month, I was the sickest I've ever been. Being on bed rest for 7 days was not fun. All the hard work I had put into my body had left and all those pounds came back immediately, it seemed. It took longer than it should have, but I got back into working out and back into running and the excess pounds melted off. I wasn't with my trainer anymore, so I signed up for boxing at my local LA Boxing to use as strength training. I signed up for the Soldier Field 10-miler that May, trained for it, and completed the race 2 minutes ahead of my goal time of 1:40. Currently, I'm 3 weeks away from my first half marathon and hoping to finish in 2:10.

I also recently started taking Bikram Yoga classes -- they are addictive! The first class I took was amazing. I didn't stop at all and I did all the poses pretty easily. The second class was HORRIBLE! I had to sit nearly 25% of the time, if not more, but I still loved it. I love the heat, the sweat, the everything! At one point in time, I disliked yoga, mainly because of all the audible breathing. Audible breathing makes me cringe . . .

I'm happy to report that I rarely step on the scale these days, whereas I was at one point weighing myself twice a day -- once in the morning and then again before bed. I'm seeing myself as an athlete now. One of the biggest changes of all? I stopped smoking November of last year (cold turkey!), and I eat as healthfully as I can. I'm smarter with my meal choices and my portion sizes. I avoid buying bags of potato chips and cartons of ice cream. Otherwise, I will eat them in one sitting. I really do enjoy working out and being active and feeling healthy. I'm around 157 pounds now (though, again, I haven't weighed myself in a while), but my body is so different than it was over a year ago. I am much happier with my body and I feel healthier and happier, too.

Thanks for reading my story!

Nina (from Running Nina)

PS: And I can now eat fried dough loaded with powdered sugar without feeling bad about it!

In need of some healthy fitspiration? While you're here, you can read more great stories like Nina's -- as well as submit your own healthy living story to be featured on our site!

Like what you just read? You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!

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Healthy Living: Alysa's Story

Alysa writes:

Hi Ashley!!! It's alysamarsiella over from Twitter, plus I have a blog over at girlvfood.blogspot.com. I think this is so cool what you're doing with the Healthy Living Stories. I love reading about other people's transformations and switches to healthier lifestyles!

Here's my story: I was always a bigger kid. Not chubby or fat, just bigger. I have a small skeleton, but at the same time, I'm broad and flat. So, in my childhood years, I always looked "solid." My diet as a child was the SAD (Standard American Diet): white bread, meatloaf, hamburgers, french fries, and an abundance of pasta from my fiercely devoted Italian family. You try turning down my grandmother's homemade baked ziti with vodka sauce! You're made of stronger stuff than I am if you can!!!

Because I was an active kid, I never got "fat," although because I was always a little bigger than the other kids in my classes, I would definitely get teased for my figure. I first thought I was fat in third grade, when a classmate told me my mom was probably scared to let me sit on her lap because I'd "smash" her. Kids are so nice, eh?

I had great exercise stamina from my years as a dancer and a three-sport athlete, but once I started college and quit sports, I just ate to eat. I was bored and constantly felt like I had my back against a wall. Nothing I did, it seemed, was good enough. My mom tried to get me in shape, but it wasn't until December of 2004 when I started thinking "Maybe I have a problem with overeating." At the time, I was 5'4" and weighed in at approximately 196 pounds, and a very, VERY tight size 16. I had stretch marks that scared me with their violent red color, my back was constantly hurting (my weight was all gained in my stomach area), and I felt lonely and listless. I even dyed my hair black in a goth phase because I didn't want to be seen. In the spring of 2005 I stepped onto the scale and what I saw shocked me. I had pushed over the dreaded 200 pound mark. I weighed in at 202 pounds. I was devastated.

Over the course of a year (from August 2005 to August 2006) I lost close to 50 pounds. I plateaued out at 155 for about two years, but that was because I kept sabotaging myself with unhealthy binge eating and falling victim to enabling "friends" who wanted to wreck my progress. Once I began to get rid of those impulses to overeat, the rest of the weight melted off. I now weigh around 135 pounds (I don't really know for sure because I don't weigh myself regularly anymore.)

However, in my fear to keep the rest of the weight off and maintain my 70 pound weight loss, I thought I needed to work even harder. I ended up starving myself and overexercising. Then I counted every single calorie, which just drove me crazy (I was measuring out my ketchup, for goodness sake!). Then, I developed lactose intolerance and IBS, so now there are times where I'll be starving, but I honestly can't eat a thing because I'll be sick.

As you can see, I didn't exactly lose my weight the healthy way. I did a lot of kickboxing, didn't really eat properly, and punished my body for its so-called "failings." But now, I can honestly say that I am living to be healthy, not skinny. I credit, oddly, my IBS for this. When you're swollen and in pain, vanity goes out the window. You have to take care of yourself. You only get one body.


Which brings me to my favorite two forms of working out/staying healthy now: Running, and yoga.

I was never a runner. Ever. I'd run for five minutes and get winded. I can go on the elliptical for two hours -- trust me, I have proof -- and not even be bothered. But if you told me a year ago I'd be running 5 miles, three times a week, I would have told you you were out of your mind! But with the encouragement of my father's personal trainer (who told me anyone can run if they really, really want to run), I started off slow. Actually, that's a bald-faced lie. I started with 3 miles, a couple times a week. My cardio background helped TREMENDOUSLY. I upgraded to 4 miles a little while after that, and now I can go for 5 miles outside without feeling like I'm exhausted at the end. It's been a little hard because this summer has been so hot, but I actually think that's going to help me in the long run.

Running keeps me sane. When I feel stressed, or overworked, or feeling like I want to engage in unhealthy habits, I run. Back in the day when I used to work out I did it for one reason only: to burn calories. It didn't matter how tired I was, I worked out to burn calories and that was it. When I run outside, I don't time my splits, or check calories burned. I run because it keeps my digestive system in check, and it feels like I'm flying. When I run, I feel like I can take on the entire world, and like I'm a superwoman.

And yoga? I had done yoga for almost a year with my best friend (who is a big-time yogini), but had to quit due to it becoming too expensive. In April, I started working at the yoga studio which pays me in free yoga. Yoga calms me in a way nothing else does. When I started doing it again, it was like reuniting with a longlost friend. My panic attacks vanished. My back problems diminished. My posture improved. My arms and legs have never been stronger. And my mind is so much clearer and my self-esteem skyrocketed. In yoga, everyone can feel like they are powerful. I rarely get addicted to one mode of exercise, but if I had to do only two forms of working out for the rest of my life, it'd be running and yoga.

As for food, I stick to a mostly vegetarian, almost-vegan diet. I say "almost" because I do not say no to steak every once and a while, and I love grilled chicken, Greek yogurt, and ice cream far too much to completely give them up. However, my diet is mostly comprised of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nut butters(!!!), beans/legumes, and meat substitutes such as tempeh, tofu, and seitan. I eat what I want, when I want, how I want it. And sometimes I splurge, but I know it's smart. Over the last few months I've been diagnosed with a myriad of stomach problems which are leading me to consider a mostly raw diet. I can't wait to see what changes it will make in my energy levels and my digestion! I also love taking unhealthy recipes and putting my own spin on them to make them healthy, such as baked rutabaga fries, one-serving veggie dairy-free pizzas, and organic tofu stir-fries. I really love the process of cooking for myself.

The best feeling, though, is knowing I'm not a project anymore that needs to be continually improved. I am perfect, just the way I am. And for the first time in my near 25 years on this planet, I believe that I am beautiful.

Thanks for reading!

Alysa (from Girl vs. Food)

In need of some healthy fitspiration? While you're here, you can read more great stories like Alysa's -- as well as submit your own healthy living story to be featured on our site!

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And the Birthday Celebration Continues . . .

Far from it. My lunch today? Roasted almonds, an Oreo brownie, coconut water, and a peach. I really need to plan better for tomorrow.

So, just a quick lunchtime blog. I seem to have run out of all my saved-up posts! I definitely am looking forward to having a low-key weekend for cooking and baking. And maybe some house projects (like painting our bedroom!). Oh, yeah. And writing posts!!! I have a gazillion ideas for great stuff I want to post for you all. Stephen does, too. In fact, he's thinking of starting a FAQs corner. He's not an expert, but he's got a ton of running experience, he's wicked fast, and he's a fun read.


OK. Yesterday, I ended up spending the rest of my birthday money. I know, I've been 27 for almost a month. I spent some on a new running outfit from the always-fabulous Lululemon (as seen above). I got the Run Speed Short (in black) and the Cool Racerback (in grey). At first, I was nervous about the short-ness of the shorts. But let me tell you -- I put them to the test last night -- absolutely no chaffing, felt great. I would buy more if my budget allowed right now.

You may have noticed I've incorporated yoga poses into each of the posts today. Why? Well, I need to get back into my practice. I'm incredibly tight from marathon training . . . and stretching feels amazing. Thing is: I need a yoga buddy! Yes. I can do it alone, but it's SO MUCH more fun when I have a friend to join me. We'll see about that. I'm planning to join a gym after the marathon because I like to add some variety to my routine. There aren't any fantastic gyms around here, though -- so, wherever I go will have to have some great spinning and yoga classes.

Onto my next self-gift. It's for yoga (so keeping with our theme). We went to Target during my lunch yesterday, and I found this cute yoga mat bag. It's similar to this one, but I can't find the exact color/pattern on their website. The bag is roomier than other bags I've had/seen, so I think I could stash a sweater and pair of Vibrams in there, too.



I love the embroidery detail. It's also slightly padded. I don't really know what benefit that provides for the bag, but it sure feels comfortable.

Last, I picked up some cartons of coconut water.


I'm obsessed with coconut water -- I always mix with either 1/3 to 1/2 coconut water and 1/2 to 2/3 regular tap water. That way, it isn't too sweet. My habit is getting the better of our beverage budget -- so I think I'll order a case on Amazon sometime soon. It's so worth it. It's a hydration like I've never known!

So, that's all for now. I have grand plans for dinner (after a nice and easy 5 mile run). Recipes will abound sooner than you know. Here's a question for you, now: When you get the gift of cash, how do you treat yourself? Do you save? Do you splurge? What do you invest in? One year, I used my X-mas dough to finance my gym membership. Another time, I bought cookware.

For me, the money never lasts. (Hi. My name is Ashley, and I'm a shopaholic.)

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Heatlhy Living: Brittany's Story

Brittany writes:

I used to dread working out, just like most people I know. Nothing seemed to keep me motivated and I would quickly fall out of my workout routine. After a year of trying, I just gave up. I began to develop pains through my neck, shoulders and back. My strength decreased considerably and I could hardly even touch my toes. My pains became intolerable and I knew I had to find something to fix them. I decided to try one more thing although I knew in my mind I would hate it eventually. I signed up for a six week beginner’s yoga series, hoping that I would stick with it at least through the length of the six weeks.

On the first day of class, I entered the yoga studio filled with emotions. I was nervous to try this new experience, intimidated by what looked like confusing positions, but hopeful that my last option would come through for me and that I would actually enjoy my experience. My yoga teacher was friendly and welcoming, which was a relief. Throughout the class, she taught us step-by-step how to go through each pose.

Soon I was putting my body in positions I never knew I could do. We were taught to not judge, but to listen to our bodies. If we couldn’t reach that far, we didn’t have to. We only went as far as our body would allow us. It was a refreshing experience. I left the class happy and energetic, completely opposite of my feelings when I would leave the gym.

I could not believe how much I loved yoga and what a difference it made to my daily pains and aches, which were barely existent within in a few weeks. In between my six week beginner’s series, I took other yoga classes that the studio offered. I quickly developed an addiction and a need for yoga. I couldn’t wait to leave work to go to my yoga classes. Instead of lying on the couch watching TV, I would practice yoga. Instead of compulsively eating, I would practice yoga. I became my own yoga advocate, telling everyone about it. I wanted everyone to experience yoga and the many benefits of it.

Yoga made me aware of my body, how it reacted when moving different ways. My strength and flexibility greatly improved, as well as my posture. I am overall more happy and energetic. I cannot say enough about how yoga has helped improve my life.


Happy Blogging :)

Brittany (from RebelRoadSister)

Pssst: Here are some yoga-related how-to posts on our site to help you bend, stretch, and breathe your way to fitness:

• Chaturanga Dandasana Sequence
• Shoulder Stand
• Headstand
• Bakasana
• Bridge and Wheel
• Half Moon
• My Favorite Yoga Pose?

And while you're here, why not visit our new Healthy Fitspiration page? You can read more great stories like Brittany's -- as well as submit your own healthy living story to be featured on our site!


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My Favorite Yoga Pose?

I think we have a winner . . .

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Reader Spotlight: Steff and Half Moon Pose

Hey, everyone. Meet my gorgeous gal-pal Steff. She and I go way back to the college days -- in fact, we met at our orientation before classes even began! Not only that, we were also housemates for a year or more. We traveled to San Francisco together. And enjoyed a number of other good, good times. I seriously love this girl to death.




Anyway, Steff generously sent along two photos of herself doing some of her favorite Bikram yoga poses for our reader spotlight. Thanks, Steff! Her first pose (shown above) is the half moon. The second is a variation: a half moon back bend. Gotta applaud her awesome form in these!

If you'd like to read more about Steff, check out Steff Says. It's her spankin' new blog (and one of my new favorites) -- all about staying healthy, eating well, and enjoying life in Manhattan’s West Village.


And if you'd like to be featured in our reader spotlight, just check out our info post with all the gooey details about the spotlight, as well as guest posting opportunities.

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Hump Day Yoga: Headstand

Today is yoga day here on (never home)maker. And what better way to kick it off than with a headstand? According to Yoga Journal, the following are all benefits of striking this pose. And even if you're relatively new to yoga, you can even gain these benefits by performing an assisted headstand, which I'll go over in just a bit.

• Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression
• Stimulates the pituitary and pineal glands
• Strengthens the arms, legs, and spine
• Strengthens the lungs
• Tones the abdominal organs
• Improves digestion
• Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause
• Therapeutic for asthma, infertility, insomnia, and sinusitis

Headstand (Salamba Sirsasana)

• The key to trying this pose is being honest with yourself. If you don't feel comfortable, don't try this without a sturdy wall next to you. You may follow all of these steps while set up somewhere against a safe wall. There's no shame in it. It's how I learned.
• Step 1: Stand with your legs far apart, feet pointed outward, and bend over until your head is close to the ground. Bring your arms down and lace your fingers together. Set your forearms on the floor with your elbows shoulder-width apart. Then place the top (crown) of your head on the floor. 
• Note: You will notice I do not place my hands in this manner. You may also just place your hands on the ground -- I feel more comfortable doing so. Which will keep your forearms off the ground. I tend to do my headstands this way because it's how I learned them as a gymnast when I was younger. But the "correct" way is to lace your fingers and have your forearms on the ground.
• Step 2: Do this very slowly so you have the most stability possible. Bring your knees in toward your body and lift them off the floor. Continue lifting through your thighs, bringing your feet upward toward the ceiling (or sky) and straightening your legs. Pay attention to your core muscles to stay balanced.
• Step 3: Hold the post for as long as you can. If you find you can only shoot up and then swiftly fall over, you may want to practice with a wall.
• Step 4: To come down, just slowly reverse the process (bring your legs down, bend your knees, bring feet to ground, etc.). Again, again, and again -- slowly.

If this pose is still too weird/scary/strange for you to think of doing on your own, consider partnering. Have someone spot you while you start. And then hold your legs while you're up. Or maybe if you get a bit more comfortable, instead of holding your legs -- they could just hover their arms there to make sure you don't fall.

Stay tuned for part 2 of our yoga-spree, set to come out a little later today. And tell me something, yogis! I've never tried hot yoga before. Is it something I should try out because I'll love it . . . or is it more a fad than anything else? Just curious, because I've heard both good and bad :) Namaste!

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Hump Day Yoga: Reader Feature

I planned to post a couple beginning poses for today's Hump Day Yoga today. But for whatever reason, I accidentally deleted the photos Stephen took of me. They're. Just. GONE! Ugh. So, I'll be sure to share some of my favorite beginners yoga poses NEXT week. I didn't want to skip another installment of HDY, so I came up with a fun idea.

READER FEATURE.

Here's the deal: I'm on this blog all the time looking silly in all my photos. Not silly, but -- come on. I stuck my butt up in the air to show you all crow in last week's post. I even went head over heels for you to attempt a half-scorpion. Now, it's your turn!

Strike your favorite pose and send us a photo. Next week, we'll post what y'all send us in a special edition of Hump Day Yoga: Reader Feature -- because all Wednesday next week will be about yoga. You don't need have a blog. Or a Flickr or other photo account. You don't even need to edit your photo (I can make 'em smaller, etc.)

Most important: You need not be a yoga pro to join in on the fun. Just get out there and stretch. Try something new. Master something old. Inspiration can be found right over here.

Try some yoga at your favorite landmark (in this case, Textor Ball at Ithaca College, our alma mater) . . .


Or maybe some outdoor yoga wearing sunglasses and toting your favorite pet . . .



There's no right or wrong way to do it. Just slap on your yoga pants, find a camera-savvy friend to snap a photo, do your thing, and email it to us at neverhomemaker@gmail.com. Also be sure to include your first name, blog address (if you have one), and name of pose, if you know it. And, of course, if you have questions, just ask.


Also be sure to get your copy of our free poster. Our gift to you as we celebrate reaching 906 subscribers!

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