Day 11 of New Year New You

Welcome to Hump Day Wednesday!  I swear I was just typing out Monday's blog like five minutes ago.   Well here we go with another day of fun together.

My Day 10:  Today was a great day! I taught some of my favorite people at Crunch John St and Union Sq.  Taught my 1st ZUMBA class, it was AWESOME.  Can't wait to get back next week.  If you are available join me next Tuesday at 90 John St - 1245 PM.  Not a Crunch member? Be my GUEST - just let me know you want to come.  Got in my BLT workout for sure and enjoyed my Self Growth moment.  :) It really feels good writing for all of you everyday!

Now its time for Day 11:

Fitness:
Well we've had an Abdominal day and yesterday was BLT.  I think its time for a little upper body workout. Show me your GUNS!

Do this workout to help sculpt and tone your biceps tomorrow.

• Alternating Hammer Curls with 10-15 LB dumbbells perform to failure  Rest 1 min - Repeat 2x
• Body Bar or Barbell Biceps Curls.  Using the heaviest body bar in the gym or at least a 20 LB Barbell perform Biceps Curls to failure.  Rest 1 min - Repeat 2x
• Concentrated Biceps Curls.  Using 10-15 LB dumbbells perform to failure.  Rest 1 min - Repeat 2x

Food:

Make today a Protein and Veggie day!  You heard right, do your best to have a no Carb day.  It might seem hard but you can do it.  Here are some examples for you to try: 

• Egg White Omelette - add onions, spinach, mushrooms whatever you like
• Burgers - Grilled Chicken no buns  
• How about this Mexican Collard Green Wrap
• Salad always works
• Steam some Veggies for Dinner
• Try the Peanut Butter Protein Shake from yesterday

Be sure to come back and let me know how your day went. 

Self Growth:

We have been giving to ourselves for the past 10 days, its time for some Heartfelt Acts.   Here are 4 ways to strengthen your connection with others.  

GIVE- Donating money to a charity is just one way to give but why not donate your time where possible.  How about volunteering to pick up a friends kid from school.  Or offer to babysit so they can go out or to the gym.  Think about donating your expertise or services to a cause.  How about volunteering with an organization such as NY Cares. 

LISTEN- Take time to really listen to another person be it a friend, a co-worker or stranger.  Everyone loves to be heard and you never know what you might learn by listening.   

INCLUDE- Think of ways to make someone else feel included or welcome today.  Is there a new employee at your job?  I am sure you remember your first day.  Ask him or her to grab a coffee with you.  Say hello to an unfamiliar face in your yoga or spin class etc. 

FEED- Invite a friend to dinner.  What about helping out at a local food bank or shelter.  It's flu season, I know I would love to receive a pot of soup from a friend if I was sick. 

Until tomorrow!

Taj

photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/qthomasbower/3470650293/sizes/s/in/photostream/

Day 10 of New Year New You

Here we go Day 10 of 31!  I can't believe 10 days has gone by so fast.

My Day 9: Started my day off with some exercise before leaving the house. Had leftovers for lunch and enjoyed them.  Didn't get a chance to call my friend BUT its on the to do list for today!  I really do want to call and make her day.

Now is time of Day 10:

Fitness:
Lets make today a BLT day.  No I don't mean Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato.  Its Butt, Legs and Thighs!

Here's a quick routine to give your legs a pick me up - No equipment needed!

• Standing with feet hip distance apart, step the right leg forward to perform a lunge and then return to start. Do this 15 times on one side and then switch - Repeat 3 times 
• Standing with feet hip distance apart perform calf raises for 45 seconds, Rest 15 seconds - Repeat 3 times
• Standing with feet slightly wider then shoulder distance apart, toes turned out. Perform 30 Plie squats, focus on squeezing the glutes at the top. Rest 30 seconds - Repeat 3 times
• Standing with feet hip distance apart lifting right leg and pressing leg backwards. Perform Hip Extension 30 times on one side.  Switch - Repeat 3 times

These quick exercises target the major muscles of the legs and can be performed anywhere.  Don't hesitate to take a break while at work and rock it out. 

Food:

Need something to help with your sweet tooth?  Why not try this recipe for Breakfast, Lunch or a mid day snack! Its packed with protein and flavor. 

Peanut Butter Protein Frosty

1/2 cup chocolate soy milk or low fat milk, chilled

1- 4 oz container of whipped chocolate yogurt

1/3 cup chocolate whey protein powder

2 tbsp Smucker's Natural Creamy Peanut Butter, stirred*

Ice Cubes

Cinnamon - optional

Combine soy milk, yogurt, protein powder, peanut butter and enough ice cubes to make 2 cups in a blender.  Process for 45 seconds or until smooth and frosty.  

Makes 2 servings, so pour into 2 glasses Share and Enjoy! Garnish with Cinnamon if desired. 

*Almond Butter can be used in place of peanut butter.  If there is too much chocolate for you with the milk, yogurt and protein powder, feel free to replace any one with Vanilla flavor.  Adding a half banana is also an option. 

Self Growth: 

Take time out today to notice positive changes - yes there are some already at day 10.   Starting with the fact you have been returning to the New Year New You 2012 Challenge everyday! 

Recognizing the immediate benefits of exercise reminds us why we started in the first place.  There are all kinds of long term benefits to changing our routine.  However instant gratification comes in the form of improved energy, reduced stress, better sleep, a healthier and happier outlook, increase confidence and more.  

Taking time today to acknowledge these immediate positive changes will also keep you coming back until Jan 31st. Remember, starting with small habits lead to creating bigger, long lasting habits. 

Enjoy the day!

Until tomorrow, 

Taj

photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/elanaspantry/6009765671/sizes/s/in/photostream/

Day 9 of New Year New You

9 Days and Counting :)  I want to say how proud I am of your dedication.

My Day 8:  After two nights of celebrating my birthday, somehow I managed to push through a 7 mile run in 1 hour 4 mins.  Made enough dinner for leftovers... :) And lunch for me and the hubby!  Getting to bed early reflecting and relaxing was what I looked forward to all day!  AAHH, to rest the mind and the body just in time for our Monday restart!

Here we go Day 9:

Fitness:
Its Monday so it time to kick start our day with some exercise.  I am posting this early so hopefully you read it before you get to work.  Here are some suggestions:

• Have A.M. Sex - its stimulating and burns Calories
• Do 10-20 minutes of Sun Salutations to get the blood flowing
• Pop in a Workout DVD that's been sitting on the shelf and move your body
• Maybe use the Wii or Kinect System - Dance Party anyone?
• Do some abdominal crunches and/or push ups

Today is about starting with Fitness and Movement on the top of your mind, as you walk into work all warmed up.... Smile, because no one but you knows what option you choose!

Food:
Hopefully you are enjoying your leftovers, I know I will be.
For those who didn't have time to cook yesterday here are some tips you can keep in mind when you go out for lunch.

Did you know that KFC yes Kentucky Fried Chicken's Individual size Mac n Cheese is only 160 Calories and 2.5 grams of Saturated Fat.  I can't speak on the taste BUT if you are in a bind add a piece of grilled chicken to this side and enjoy.

Going for a Salad today? Squeeze a Lemon and/or Orange over your salad at the dressing instead of the  usual go to Sesame Ginger or Ranch Dressing.  Adding Mandarin Oranges to the salad can substitute if you don't have a fresh lemon or orange to squeeze.

Eating at the Company cafeteria:  Make today a No Carb lunch!  Grab more fruits and veggies to give you a natural boast.  If you get the munchies grab some energy mix from Day 5.


Self Growth: 
Pick up the phone and SURPRISE a friend with a call.  Pick someone whom you haven't seen or spoken to in awhile.  With so much at our fingertips we have lost connection to some of those who have been very near and dear to our hearts.  Today is a good day to bridge the gap between you and them.  I bet he/she is thinking about you too.


Making this call well fill both your hearts with love, smiles and good energy, reminding each of you just why you are in each other lives.  There is no better time then the present to catch up your goings on! So stop what your doing and pick up the phone.

I know exactly who I am going to call and I bet she is going to be very surprised!
Feel free to share your experience with us.

Until Tomorrow!

Taj

photo:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/fourstuarts/3347522358/sizes/s/in/photostream/

Day 8 of New Year New You

7 Days down, only 24 more to go!  Don't be overwhelmed we are taking this one day at a time.

My Day 7: What a great day it was, there were NO complaints about the weather from me. As for my day I had S'mac for lunch... If you don't know this place.... stay AWAY is sinfully delicious and full of endless calories.  All they make is Mac n Cheese, need I say more!  After lunch I had to make sure dinner was full of Veggies.  Didn't make it to the spa as I imagined HOWEVER the Spa came to me, it was very nice.

Time for Day 8:

Fitness:
Checked the weather for you,  although it will not be as warm as it was yesterday its still going to be a nice day so get out and enjoy.

Go for a RUN.  Yes I said run!  :)  Set a goal:

• Time 
• Distance 

If your new to running don't worry about speed, just move, dress appropriately and get outside.  Take the dog, kids, a friend or spouse with you.  Running with someone makes time and distance go by faster then being alone.

If you have questions about running let me know.  When you get back post a comment here or on Facebook and let me know how you feel.

Food:
Make enough to take to lunch tomorrow. Taking lunch not only saves you $$ but its healthier for the new you as well.  Besides your food always taste better then take out.

How about giving this recipe a try:

Lemon - Caper Chicken

4 - 4 oz Thin Chicken Cutlets

1/2 cup low fat milf

1/2 cup all purpose flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

2 tsp lemon zest

2 tsp olive oil

1-2 tbsp capers

In shallow bowl combine 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper - Set aside

Dip the Chicken Cutlets into 1/2 cup of low fat milk (one at a time) Next coat both sides with the above flour mixture.

Combine 2 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tsp of lemon zest set aside. 

Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in large saute pan over medium-high heat.  Add cutlets and cook 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through.  Transfer to a plate but keep warm.  

Add the lemon juice mixture and 1-2 tsp tbsp capers to saute pan, scraping pan to loosen any browned bits.  Drizzle sauce over Chicken and serve with Brown rice or roasted new potatoes and a veggie of choice. 

For my vegetarians here is a Tofu Steak Recipe to replace the chicken above.  

Self Growth:

Rest easy and Sleep Tight!  Plan to go to bed tonight 30 minutes to 1 hour before you normally do.  Giving your body time to whine down after all of the days and weekly activities is good for the body and the brain. 

Turn off the TV and the cell phone. No laptops, not evening a book!  Going to bed with sensory stimulation causes our mind to continue to process even while we are asleep.  So here is your NEW YOU bed time plan. 

• Spray Lavender on the Sheets and Pillow 
• Or use Johnson n Johnson Lavender Lotion on your hands, feet and neck
• Lay on your back - Close your eyes and mentally shower yourself with love and appreciation
• Notice your entire body from your feet to your head
• Contract and stretch your muscles, flex your feet and hands
• Let yourself melt into the bed resting your hands over your belly 
• With each exhalation notice your naval expand on your inhale and relax on the exhale
• Close your eyes and imagine releasing all tension for about 12 - 15 breaths
• Roll on your side into the fetal position and drift off to sleep

Enjoy! 

See you tomorrow, 

Taj 

photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/9619972@N08/3198810449/sizes/s/in/photostream/

Day 7 of New Year New You

Well it's been one week!  I hope each of you are diligently following along.  I am having fun setting up the daily challenges. MY apologies for the late post... Today is my birthday and I was out last night with some friends.  :)

My Day 6: Got in my plyometric exercises and put an apple in my salad!  I wasn't able to invest in my workout yesterday... But there is ALWAYS today.

Here we go with Day 7:

Fitness:
Surprise its your day off.  Yeah!  Everyone needs a day off from work and so does your body. ENJOY, there are no physical moments you have to perform today.

Now if you weren't able to complete one of the other days fitness challenge and you want to get it in today, be my guest.  I am keeping it leisurely today.

Food: 
Go GREEN today!  Make today about adding more green veggies to your diet try:

• Collards Greens
• Kale
• Broccoli
• Asparagus
• Spinach

Green leafy veggies are full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.  Grab a freshly made glass from your local juice bar, make your own at home.  Steam them for lunch or dinner or  stop by a local raw food restaurant like: Quintessence in Manhattan. 

Self Growth:

Take advantage of your day off! Restore your body with one of of the following: 

• Massage
• Sauna or Stem Room Treatment

If getting to a spa is too late notice for today, bring the Spa to you!  Prepare a hot bath with the following: 

• Candles to set the ambiance
• Epsom Salt
• Drop in some Lavender oil (if available to you)
• Bubbles are always nice too

Afterwards give your body a nice self rub with some lotion or baby oil.   Take your time and move with the muscles, long strokes. 

Enjoy!  I think I see a Spa Treatment in my near future :) 

Until tomorrow

Taj 

photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicehenneman/5849718391/sizes/s/in/photostream/

Day 6 of New Year New You

Wow, its day six already!

My Day 5:
Got in 20 pushups :0)  Had a yogurt- 1st day back from vacation my day was full so I didn't get to the store for the mix...BUT I am going tomorrow I really want to try it.  Set a date with myself on Jan 27th!  Can't wait, yoga and spa day.  Yippee!

So here we go Friday-Day 6:

Fitness: 
Put down the weights its Plyo time!  Follow this plyo-metric routine to shock the body, increase agility and speed all while building endurance.

Here we go:

• 1 min Mock Jump Rope
• 1 min Jumping Jacks
• 1 min Speed Skaters
• 30 second - 1 min Jump Squats
• 30 second - 1 min Switch Lunges
• 30 second - 1 min Burpees (more intensity add a push up to it)
• 1 min Wall Sits
• 1 min Calf Raises
• 1 min Mountain Climbers
• 30 second - 1 min 180 degree turn jump squats (this is the best pic I could find, don't use a weight and looking at the picture on the right you literally turn around into a squat to face the other side of the room) 
• 30 second - 1min Fighter Stance punch and Switch  (Punch left- right, turn 180 degrees, repeat) s

Rest for 2 mins and repeat!

Food:
Add an Apple to your diet!  Yup its true and apple a day could help keep the doctor away AND a little bit more!


No peeling please, the skin on apples is jam packed with an antioxidant called quercetin which may protect your lungs from pollutants.  So start today, eating five or more apples a week can improve lung functions

Need a little scalp rejuvenation:  Massage a few tablespoons of Apple Cider vinegar directly into washed scalp leave on for 1 minute then rinse.

Use Applesauce in place of half the butter or oil when you make your next cake. Enjoy less calories, fat and naturally sweeter dessert.

Self Growth:
Invest in your workouts and get yourself something new:

• A pair of Socks
• Sports Bar
• Shorts
• Pants
• Sneakers - You name it

We all feel better when we have on something new so go for it, and strut your stuff. 

See you soon! 

Taj 

Day 5 of New Year New You

Jeez Louise is it COLD in New York.  Do you think I can click my ruby red heels three times and wish myself back to Puerto Rico?  If it would work I'd be back in heartbeat.  Wishful thinking, its time to get back to work and back to my students.  I miss them just as much as I miss working them out.

My Day 4: Since we were traveling back home I wasn't able to try a new class today... BUT I will make it up this week.  Made 2 substitutions:  had two servings of veggies and maple syrup for sugar.

Here we go Day 5: 

Fitness: 
Its Push Up time....  So Drop Down and give me 20!

Yeah I'm not kidding you read correctly today is push up day.  Now I realize some of you can do 20 push ups in your sleep so I challenge you to do 20 slow count push up. Count 1, 2, 3 down and 1, 2, 3 back up.

You can always do these in intervals, the ultimate goal is to accomplish 20 pushups.
If you are feeling energetic and ready for more do an additional set.  Enjoy!

Food:
This cold weather is beckoning me back home to my bed.  How about you?
When its cold outside our energy levels have a tendency to drop.  Break out some spices to bring you warmth as well as flavor and health benefits like energy.

Stop by the store today and pick up the following to prepare a Spicy Energy Mix you can take to work.  It will keep you satisfied during the afternoon lull and boost your energy.

• 1 ounce pumpkin seeds
• 1 ounce pitted chopped dates
• 1/2 ounce dried mango or another fruit of choice
• 1 ounce almonds
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for those who like it spicy. 

Mix together and enjoy

If you can't pick up the above items, try having a yogurt during the day.  Its good the digestion and has vitamin B-12 important for metabolism and helps to give you a bit of energy. 

Self Growth: 

Book a date with YOURSELF!  Crack open your planner, hit the calendar app on your phone or tablet.  Look over the next 25 days and RESERVE a 1 DAY just for YOU!  

This day you be all about YOU!  You could work out, read, go the movies.  Hit the bookstore and check out the new best sellers list. Go shopping at the vintage market you heard about, go to a dance studio or museum.  Whatever you choose its all about creating me time.  

There is no better way to recharge yourself then by taking care of you.  DO NOT skip your date or let something cut into your time.  Stick to the plan and do you.  

I'd love to hear what some of you have chosen to do for Me Time!  

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Until tomorrow!

Taj 

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photo:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/siva0215/3528423770/