Mind, Body & Soul Series: The Body

Hey there. Let's chat about the excitingly unique and powerful temples that hold our souls; the human form, our body! I encourage everybody to take care of their bodies and treat them in the way that they truly deserve. In this fast paced, always on the go, never stopping to smell the roses society that many of us live in, it's easy to "let go" in terms of taking care of your body. I know that I am not perfect and I am not trying to give advice on "my tips for getting rock hard abs." Instead, what I'd like to do is open up a dialogue and remind people to make time for self care.

First of all, I am not a fan of exercising. I get easily winded while running, I personally find lifting weights boring, and I am definitely not rhythmic enough for Zumba. However, I have recently found my niche! I already knew that I loved yoga. In fact, I think everyone should practice yoga. Not only is it great for stretching and waking up your muscles, it is a great practice that encapsulates this whole series...

Yoga teaches you about the whole mind, body, soul connection, dude!

It is so refreshing, and although I have been practicing for a while now, I still have so much more to learn... and that's the exciting part. I am so pumped to learn more and to open my mindset to manifestation, deeper levels of meditation, and more funky twisty-turny yoga poses (:

So, back to my niche, I have found that I love yoga, pilates, and barre exercise techniques. This style uses small movements that make a powerful impact. Strengthening muscles, toning my body, and lengthening through the spine and limbs is just the thing I wanted. I feel so proud of myself even after a quick 15 minute workout because I showed up, and I strengthened my body. Especially as we age, we MUST take care of our bodies and they will then take care of us. Whatever you like, whatever you can find that works for you, I encourage you to practice it regularly.

Food is our way to nourish and reward our bodies! I am not strict on my diet at all. I think that most things are okay in moderation. If you are gluten free, lactose free, vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan, etc; look at your options and enjoy! As long as you provide your body with the right nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, then it's okay to add a helping of ice cream too. Eating nothing and depriving yourself of all that good energy is only going to make things worse. Eat smart and well, and your body will be happy.

Lastly, find gratitude. Be grateful that your body is working in all the amazingly intricate ways to keep you moving and grooving. One practice that I have found beneficial is looking at myself in the mirror. Whether it be fully clothed, or by looking at your whole body, not covered at all ;) , look and welcome your body as it is. I know it's not easy, but the more you do it, the more you may be comfortable in your own skin. I may have not at first loved the rolls that I have in my stomach when I sit down, but I have learned to accept them. Now, I look at myself more confidently, and more contently. What's the point of comparing my body to skinnier girls, or girls with bigger boobs? I am so proud of my body, all that it has gone through, and all that it will go through in the future. Don't even get me started on what a pregnant woman's body can do. After my obstetrics clinical in nursing school, I am geeked over how amazing the female body works. That'll be a whole other blog post.

Overall, what I'm saying is, the human body rocks! If we take care of our physical form, we can be that much more inline with our spiritual form. From your eyes and ears to the tips of your toes...

spread kindness, jenn