Inversions, in yoga, are the poses where you put your feet above your head. Meant to give your mind a new perspective, they allow blood to flow to your head to improve circulation, which can cure headaches and help relieve depression. Going upside down also increases strength in your upper arms, back, and abdomen. These poses require skill and patience, so be sure to practice these regularly.
I had so much fun when I asked you guys about your favorite motivational sports movies. Better yet, I got a lot of great ideas for new films to watch, as well as some forgotten favorites. If you're looking for a little motivation, look no further than these 10 sports-centric movies.
Truth be told, I've been out of school for a while now, but when Labor Day rolls around, I get that back-to-school mindset.
Similar to New Year's resolutions, the start of school, even if I don't attend classes, gets me thinking about setting some new health and fitness goals. I am recommitting to brown bag lunches, just like elementary school. September also makes me think about running cross country, and I want to get off the street and do some more trail running. What about you . . .
It is Labor Day weekend, and that means barbecues to celebrate the end of Summer. Potato salad is a barbecue staple, but this dish doesn't need to be laden with high-fat mayo.
This potato salad features a red wine vinegar and mustard vinaigrette, with salty capers and cornichons (the French version of gherkins) for added flavor. Capers may be tiny, but nutritionally speaking, they pack quite a punch for their size. These little green olive-like nuggets of flavor are not only high in antioxidants, but they also inhibit the formation of by-products created in the digestion of meat that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and heart disease. Remember, to reap all the nutritional benefit of your potatoes, don't peel your spuds, and boil them whole.
I find practicing yoga regularly helps keep me feeling centered, both physically and mentally. But that doesn't mean you need to do yoga solo. Partner yoga can be often be twice as fun and more enriching. The book Contact: The Yoga of Relationship ($26) is a great way to learn how to make many poses work for two people.
This book is filled with gorgeous full size black and white photos of really creative partner poses, for both the beginner and the experienced yogi alike. The book is organized around seven points of contact yoga: trust, passion, commitment, love, communication, vision, and union. As you peruse through the pages, you'll see that there are several unique postures to try that are associated with each point. Trying these poses out with a partner is sure to strengthen your connection with that person, and leave you both smiling.
Charles Tyrwhitt
Ashley Brooke
Scholl