Author Archives:
May
16
Wielding Optimism
Optimism can shape our reality. Our ability to look at a situation and discern whether the outcome will be good or bad is skewed by experience. If we experience a negative outcome and approach every situation that follows with skepticism, our beliefs of a negative outcome become re-affirmed. It is then easy to start to [...]
Apr
21
Expanding the Brain
Neuroplasticity is the ability for the brain to grow new synapses and expand the wealth of knowledge stored away as memory. In order to create new synapses, the brain needs new stimulus. There are several ways to enhance brain power and retention. Sensory motor skills can boost cognitive ones, so that’s just one more reason [...]
Mar
14
Spinal Alignment and Positioning
Spinal alignment is key for proper development and activation when exercising. Most exercise is done with a neutral (can also be referred to as straight) spine, which is the maintenance of the natural s-shaped curvature when the spine is erect. Everyone has an anatomical variation; a slightly different degree of curvature. But, often the spine [...]
Mar
02
Common Hip Injuries
The hip is a complex joint that circumducts in motion. Often times, due to this complexity, the hip is a sight for injury. Pain may manifest inside the joint, on the posterior, anterior, or lateral side. An injury inside the joint can likely be due to degeneration (osteoarthritis) of the joint, a labral tear, bone [...]
Feb
24
Meditation and the Brain
OHMMMM… With the stress of modern life most people seek some sort of retreat. Often times this manifests as a vacation adventure, internet search, blog or book, television show or movie. This does in a sense allow a break to enjoy life, but have you actually allowed your brain to completely shut off? Meditation is [...]
Feb
10
Stretching 102 Video: How to Target Your Calves, Inner & Outer Thighs and Large Hip Muscles
This video of a three-part series addresses different stretch techniques including: static, active, dynamic and resistance stretching by demonstrating some basic stretches for the calves, inner/outer thighs and large hip muscles. When assessing when a certain stretch technique should be used, there is no right or wrong answer; however, here is what I recommend to [...]
Jan
16
Gym Etiquette – Hey, Can I Work In?
Welcome 2012! Welcome all you new SAC gym goers and many of you faithful continued gym goers. With the New Year brings many new & regular people who may need a refresher on how to be respectful to amongst fellow gym goers as well as the people trying to keep your facility in tip top [...]
Jan
12
Yoga for Ailments
While studying Ayurvedic medicine (holistic medicine from India), I quickly realized how intertwined yoga is in this system. There are several different types of yoga, most focus on meditation. Hatha yoga is a branch that integrates physical asanas; this is what most westerners are familiar with. A pioneer in Hatha yoga is Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja [...]
Dec
02
Fascia Stretching and Strengthening
Fascia is a connective tissue that enwraps the muscles, different groups of muscles, vessels, and nerves. It binds these structures together and consists of several layers: superficial, deep and visceral. It forms a web sheath over the muscles the same as the whitish tissue between the skin and muscle of meat, like chicken. Fasciae are [...]
Nov
09
Holiday Travel Stretches – Stretching 101
If you are traveling this holiday season, remember to be kind to your body. In a plane, train, or automobile your muscles are forced into a shortened position for a prolonged time. Here are some basic stretches that can be done to mitigate the effects. Chest stretch- A muscle commonly associated with poor posture is [...]
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