Healthy Bits - Body
To see, or not to see
I always give my anatomy students the homework of observing people “out in the wild”—notice how they sit, walk, lean, etc. It’s beyond interesting to watch people simply being people, and it’s a great introduction to seeing the physical patterns we hold. During this exercise recently, one of my students said, “I noticed how willing…
Lucky Number Seven
Your body is capable of amazing things whether you know it or not. It’s designed to move in seven distinct patterns and, because of them, can coordinate a wide range of actions. Some of them quite spectacular, some more practical. So, whether you prepping to scale Mt. Everest or simply looking to get up off…
Restorative Yoga for a Quick Timeout
Restorative yoga has a quiet way of settling the nervous system without asking much of you. With the support of props and long, comfortable holds, the body gets the message that it’s safe to soften. Muscles let go, breathing naturally slows, and the constant background “buzz” of stress starts to dial down. There’s no pushing…
Your Beautiful Hips + What You Need to Know About Them
I’m betting that you have some strong opinions about your hips, don’t you? It’s okay, we all do. I teach anatomy to yoga teachers and movement specialists, and when they first are learning about the hip, I have them do a little exercise. I have them close their eyes and ask themselves a simple question: What do my hips mean to me?
Electro What?
Ever feel like a wrung-out sponge after a summer hike or yoga class? That’s your body whispering (or screaming), “I need electrolytes!” But what exactly are electrolytes—and why do they matter so much, especially in the sweltering heat? Electrolytes are essential minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium that help your body do the really important…
The Benefits of Foam Rolling (and Why Everyone Should Be Doing It)
Foam rolling—also known as self-myofascial release—is a simple yet powerful self-care practice that can make a big difference in how your body feels and functions. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply someone who sits at a desk for long hours, foam rolling has something to offer you. I recommend foam rolling…
Deep Rest + Why You Need It
Rest is a fundamental state in human biology, crucial for maintaining physical and mental well-being. It involves both the physical act of ceasing activity and the internal processes that allow the body and mind to recover. At its core, rest is deeply intertwined with the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), the part of…
Unlocking the Power of Hydration for Optimal Health
We all know that water is essential for life, but its significance goes beyond mere survival. Hydration is the cornerstone of optimal health, affecting virtually every aspect of our well-being. Yet, its not always easy to drink enough water, and it may even feel like a burden. From physical performance to cognitive function, here’s why…
Welcome to Winter: Natural remedies for a sore throat
A sore throat can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. They come around more often this time of year, especially with all the crazy weather we’ve had and having some natural remedies in your back pocket can help. Here are a few ways you can try to soothe a sore throat: Honey: Honey has antibacterial properties…
