Nourishment of the Body

Nourishment is a very big word, and includes far more than just food.  I am sometimes overwhelmed when I think about the elements of nutrition that I have come to know, and those I have yet to learn.  As with all facets of fitness being a life long learning process, this one is no exception.  That old saying "you are what you eat" ... rings true loud and clear!
I now try my best to consume as much organic food as possible.  Although more expensive, it's a worthwhile investment.  My priorities have definitely shifted to accomodate the cost.  With a little effort, I have been able to seek out some resources much more affordable than others.  Don't be fooled by trick phrases on food labels.  "All Natural" for instance has a very loose meaning within the FDA.  Educate yourself about what is in your food. 

I try to graze on foods throughout the day.  It is my recommendation that we all should try to average 5 nutritious meals daily.  Smaller portions or snack size will suffice.  Frequent eating ignites our ability to burn calories much more efficiently, just like firing up a furnace.  Each time food passes through our bodies, the metabolism flips a switch.  It is this cycle which creates metabolic efficiency.

I am often asked 'what do you eat'... the answer is not so simple.  I am a creature of habit, but this too has evolved over the years.  I will share some of my basic favorite menu items, plus my favorite  'good food list'.  

So perhaps you are asking 'what about Cheat Day' ... absolutely this is a must.  We all need to allow ourselves something to look forward to that might not be so good for us.  I like to have fun too, and have done my share of having 'Cheat' meals!  I recommend one day a week to have some fun.  It provides you with a much needed break.

Nourishment of the Mind

I have learned a great deal about the importance of feeding AND cleansing our minds.  I encourage the practice of Yoga to everyone I come in contact with.  There are many types to choose from, but be careful to select wisely.  Yoga is not a competition, it is a very individual way to improve your body awareness, strength, and flexibility.  Go at your own pace, and do not try to keep up with others.  By learning to embrace this powerful tool, you will benefit both physically & mentally.  Yoga is an art to be respected and revered, not rejected nor sneered (something I am guilty of when I was younger).  Even just once a week will add value to your life.  I have been deeply humbled in yoga practice sessions, creating an self awareness I never knew. 

I try to feed my mind in reading as much as I can.  In the last 3 years, I've truly made that commitment a part of my life.  This allows me to digest and then blend many philosophies that exist.  I attempt to apply those bits and pieces to my life that make the most sense to me.  So featured here is a recommended "read" list of those books I have found useful.