Healthy happy you.
Sometimes it seems like the more effort we put into shutting down our busy brains, the harder it is to accomplish. Jam-packed, stressful days make true relaxation challenging for many of us, and we often forgo winding down after work because of time demands. If taking a 90-second vacation doesn't always work for you, look through pictures from previous vacations to help get you to a state of Read more
If you're stressed out, wound up, or feeling down, then you're in desperate need of Yoga Nidra. It's the definition of deep relaxation. The nidra class is devoted to bringing you into complete stillness and calmness while still being aware. You come into a comfortable Savasana pose (sometimes a teacher may encourage you to use blankets and pillows to make you feel comfy, cradled, and fully Read more
I know that it seems like a contradiction of terms, but active relaxation is a real technique for getting rid of unwanted tension. Stress creates muscle tension so actively relaxing your muscles can really help clear your mind and ease your level of anxiety. Hold the following positions for 5 seconds and focus on the sensation of muscle tightness. Then actively release the position and focus on Read more
While many people love the thrill of biking fast downhill, I am not one of them. I love biking uphill. Call me crazy, but I crave the burn in my lungs and legs. But once you've climbed a hill — and in my neck of the woods, hills can be miles long — you have to get yourself down the other side. Aside from just getting out there and riding, having a few tricks up your sleeve can help. Here are Read more
Indoor cycling classes are an amazing cardio workout, but if you don't know what you're doing, you'll walk away frustrated, or, even worse — injured. Compared to other group fitness classes, indoor cardio cycling is also a little harder to pick up on when trying it for the first time. After getting the lowdown on what to expect from your first class, follow these rules on things you should Read more
In yoga, pranayama is considered the art of breathing, and knowing different pranyama techniques will help support a strong practice and get you feeling all kinds of awesome. Because the Sanskrit can be a little confusing, here are explanations of four pranayama techniques to help you on your way to better breathing. Ujjayi pranayama: Integral to Ashtanga and many a Vinyasa class, ujjayi Read more
It's natural for work to leave you a little stressed, but if you're a frazzled mess from nine to five, it's important to step back and relax. Not sure how to loosen up? From doodling to redecorating, here are 13 easy ways to de-stress during the workday: Finish the tough stuff first. Try to get your most complicated tasks out of the way early in the day so that they're not looming over you for Read more
Having a standing spa appointment may sound indulgent, but in reality it can be just as important as any other healthy habit in your wellness routine. Why should you invest your time in a massage? Not only are massages good for your muscles, especially after a long week of arduous workouts, but getting a massage also helps the rest of your body and your mind. Getting a massage helps you relax, Read more
Eight interior designers joined forces to transform The Teen Project P.A.D. Drop In Center in Venice Beach, CA, into one of the most stylish hangouts around — in just under a month! Aside from working pro bono, the talented group leveraged donations to turn a lackluster white box into a cheery, color-filled center that reflects the surrounding Venice Beach aesthetic. Designers included Vanessa Read more
Since it's important to vary workouts and keep the body guessing, this year I resolved to add indoor cycling to my usual running-and-weights fitness routine. I made sure to wear and bring the right items to the gym, but I learned a few technique-related tips during class that I wish I'd known earlier. Planning to try an indoor cycling class for the first time? Keep these three pointers in mind Read more
