It's Been a While

Hey everyone! I realize that it has been a while since I’ve written. I took a well needed break this summer from my regular health and wellness postings but I’m back with renewed energy and zest.

• I spent the summer reconnecting with family and friends and just enjoying the longer days. Sometimes you just need a break from the regular routine to recharge your batteries!

Since I was also on a break from teaching yoga, I took advantage of the time to do more Pilates. A friend recommended Cassie Ho’s workouts on Fit On and I got hooked! I definitely feel like my strength increased, and I came away more toned. I plan on incorporating even more Pilates moves in my yoga teachings this fall.

• While I took a break from following my usual podcasts of Dr. Mariza Snyder and Dr. Mark Hyman, I delved into health books, reading Dr. Steven Grundy’s The Energy Paradox and Jessie Inchauspe’s Glucose Revolution. Stay tuned for more insights I'll share from those books.

Summer is when I do all my medical checkups, giving me an opportunity to further tweak my diet and wellness routine for the year ahead.

• Besides a full lipid panel, I regularly ask my doctor to check my fasting glucose, fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1C, c-reactive protein, and uric acid levels.

• I was happy to see that many of these inflammation markers were low, but I noticed a creeping up in my overall cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL. I had been eating a lot of full fat yogurt and cheese but think I need to switch back to lower fat options.

I hope you have been able to take some well-deserved time for yourself this summer. Our physical and emotional health depends on incorporating periods of rest and recuperation.

• If you can’t afford a vacation, a staycation where you change up some of your routines can still do you good!

I’d love to hear from you about your favorite ways to reenergize.

Best, Jill