We all have our problem spots that we would love to alter, from love handles at the waist to the dreaded saddlebags at the upper thigh. I sometimes refer to them as my "lower love handles" because I really don't like the word saddlebag. Gravity has a way of shaping our bodies as we age, but there are a few ways to battle those dreaded saddlebags. Check out these ideas. I'm sorry to say, but Read more

Need to open up and stretch those tight hips and hamstrings? Not only is this a wonderful sequence to start out with before moving onto deeper poses like backbends, but it's also a great way to warm up before or after a run, hike, or bike ride. Music: "Om Namo Narayana" by Deva Premal By the way, I'm wearing the Simplicity Pants made by be present. I love the way they feel when I practice. Read more

We all know how important it is to stretch out our muscles, especially after a run, so here's a series of five stretches I like to do. Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch - From a Down Dog position (this is a great stretch for your calves too), step your right foot forward between your hands. Lower your left knee onto the ground (make sure it's a padded surface - fold up a towel or use a thin block Read more

I call it the conception conundrum. As women, it seems like we spend much of our adult lives trying NOT to get pregnant, and if we have trouble conceiving when we do decide to start a family, it feels like an evil cosmic joke. Getting pregnant when you finally decide you are ready to become a mom can be more complicated than just forgoing the birth control. In these situations, there is the Read more

You can't go to a yoga class and NOT do this pose. It's called Warrior 2 and it's great for opening tight hips and shoulders and strengthening quads, calves, and shins. It also works your core muscles, because when you're in this pose, you really have to concentrate on elongating your spine and drawing your belly in. You can get into this pose from Downward Facing Dog. Step your right foot Read more

Check out the Hula Chair. Basically, you plant your feet flat in front of you, press the button, and start moving your hips and core in a circular motion. The makers say it will improve your balance and coordination as it gently aligns your spine and improves blood circulation. You'll love how it feels as it works out your abs and mid-section. They say it is a great way to warm up for any Read more

Are your ready for the next Yoga Challenge? The last one, Eagle pose, was all about balance, and this one is all about power and strength. That's why it's called Goddess. Not only does this pose make you feel strong and beautiful, it helps to open your chest and hips. It also works your hamstrings and calves and the muscles in your gorgeous booty. When you strengthen the muscles in your Read more

We've reached the last pose in the Sun Salutation A. Downward facing Dog, or Down Dog as I usually call it is one of the toughest poses to hold in yoga. It works every part of your body, and when you first begin to do yoga, you have a hard time holding this pose for more than 2 breaths. After you practice for a while, you'll build up the muscles and strength in your arms to hold yourself up, Read more

Everyone can benefit from opening their hips - whether you are a runner, biker, a mom-to-be, or someone who sits at their desk all day - stretching out your hips can help prevent lower back pain, or knee or hamstring injuries. Sanskrit Name: Eka Pada Rajakapotasana English Translation: One-Legged King Pigeon Pose Also Called: Pigeon Pose Our hips tend to be really tight because our everyday Read more