Mindful Monday Inspiration #45

((Photo Source:  http://behappy.me/shchedrina/when-the-going-gets-tough-the-tough-get-going-127854))

Fitness Friday Fact #45

While chatting with a co-worker the other day, the issue of workout boredom was broached.  Like many individuals, my coworker had lost interest in her Plank Challenge because she couldn't fathom holding 1 position for 5 minutes.  

Rather than trying to suggest options to keep her mind occupied while parallel to the ground, I presented her with alternative activities!  Like the Hula Hoop exercise that I wrote about before, this Jump Rope routine would certainly make the time (and the calories) fly by for my co-worker!

((Photo Source:  http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/arms/express/jump-rope-workouts/))

Thursday's Trend Alert Dirt Report #44

When I started this blog last year, I had 2 goals in mind; to share my wellness passion and to motivate people to live healthier lives.  Apparently, Robyn Mendenhall Gardner felt the same way before posting her 30-day AB challenge.  

Since sharing the workout (shown above) on Facebook, Gardner has motivated millions of her closest friends to join her on a quest for a flatter tummy!  To date, she has inspired roughly 2.7 million people, and the LIKES keep coming.  

Despite the thumbs up that I gave this "AB"solutely fantastic challenge, I remain concerned about its effectiveness.  My apprehension stems from studies that have shown that crunches do not target and tone ALL of the abdominal muscles.  That exercise primarily pin points the rectus abdominis, leaving the internal obliques, the external obliques, the transversus abdominis and the opposing back muscles left high and dry.  

Although the plank portion of the 30-day challenge is favorable, a better way to enhance your ENTIRE abdominal region, is to check out this core strengthening workout!

((Photo Source:  http://rsvpmagazine.ie/two-million-people-sign-30-day-ab-challenge-get-abs-dream/))

Wednesday What Not #44

I'm not sure exactly when reading became less of a chore and more of a pleasant pastime, but I'm thrilled that it did!  I especially felt that way when I stumbled upon this fabulous piece of literary art!

Having spent countless hours virtually connecting with my best friend from college, I quickly related to the authors and their need to touch base with their "person" despite the distance that separated them.  While reading each email entry, I felt compelled to both laugh and cry as if the authors were my best friends too!

 As I get ready to close my copy of "Graduates in Wonderland," I urge you to pick up this amazing beach read and find yourself once again reading for amusement!

((Photo Source:  http://www.amazon.com/Graduates-Wonderland-International-Misadventures-Almost/dp/1592408605))

Tasty Tuesday Treat #44

Resourceful is defined as having the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.  In the context of new home ownership, however, being resourceful also means creating something out of nothing in a stark kitchen.  

Despite the perk of channeling culinary creativity, navigating a new kitchen with limited supplies can be incredibly daunting.  Such was the case when I decided that I wanted grilled chicken for dinner the other night.  Without the support of my old apartment's pantry, I needed to come up with a simple marinade for my meal.  

Thankfully, I discovered this recipe for a homemade Italian dressing that did not require a trip to the market!  

((Photo Source:  http://www.budsmagazine.com/how-to/eat/indica-italian-dressing/))

Mindful Monday Inspiration #44

"I always did something I was a little not ready to do.  I think that's how you grow.  

When there's that moment of 

'Wow, I'm not really sure I can do this,' 

and you push through those moments, that's when you have a 

breakthrough."

-Marissa Mayer; CEO Yahoo!

((Photo Source:  http://www.offbeatworlds.com/inspiration-dreams/))

Fitness Friday Fact #44

As a devout treadmill runner, I do not need to worry much about environmental factors impacting my workout.  For those individuals that opt for the outdoors, however, the summer weather can make for an insufferable sweat session.  

To avoid the negative effects of a "real world" run during the dog days of summer, check out these great tips from Fitness Magazine!

((Photo Source:  http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/running/tips/running-in-heat/?sssdmh=dm17.743608&esrc=nwfitdailytip061914))