Align Pilates® Minneapolis

As a loyal yoga goer, I know that downward-facing dog is central to my practice. But as a jogger, I didn’t realize that the pose could also be essential in creating better, faster, longer runs. Once you think about it, it’s clear: stretching ensures longer, more agile muscles, which in turn enhances the workout experience.

For me, stretching can be a little like flossing. I know it’s necessary, but it often becomes just another thing to add to my already busy routine, especially if I only have a short window of workout time. Quick and easy is the name of my game. That’s whey these three stretches (one of which, of course, is down dog) are perfect. The bonus is that I already know them—they are simple, swift and will allow me to feel more energized before, during and after exercising.

If only the fight against gingivitis were so easy.

You do your best. You practice a regular regimen of Pilates and yoga, and your eating style is as healthy as humanly possible. But when stress strikes like a wrecking ball and you need fuel, you innately reach for the naughty carbs: white bread, pretzels and pasta. “Bring it on,” you say. Why do you torture yourself so?

Don’t worry. There’s help for you yet. Check out these 9 select fruits, vegetables and meats that have the natural power to reduce tension and strain in the body. They pack essential vitamins and nutrients to trigger satisfaction, without making you feel like you’ve ingested an inflated birthday balloon.

Now, put down that baked potato and read up on these accessible and easy-to-eat stress-fighters. Your waist line will thank you.

Patti Stanger, the so-called Millionaire Matchmaker, is a bit annoying but does make a good point. Looking for women? Hot women? They do yoga and pilates.

Join now.

Life is busy. Phone calls. Twitters. Task lists. Sometimes we need it all to go away. It’s meditation time.

Sure. I’ve tried to just close my eyes, cross my legs, and think peaceful thoughts. But what starts with “om” inevitably ends in thoughts of shopping lists, work projects, and what I ate for lunch. My lack of talent in the meditation department prompted me to search for an auditory aid. Foreign language CDs helped me brush up on my Spanish, so why couldn’t a meditation CD help me relax?

Well, easier said that done. Most of the meditation music out there is overly new age-ish, and frankly, the voice-over audio guides can sound a little spooky. But then I stumbled upon this melodic gem: Hip Hop Yoga: For Meditation, Relaxation, and Sleep In the Urban Jungle. It changed everything.

Meditation just got hip, yo.

What things come to mind when you think of the word man? Neck ties? Pocket knives? Money clips? Down dog? Be nice, now. I meant the yoga position.

According to journalist and yoga enthusiast, John Capouya, a man is at his manliest when he grabs his yoga mat and hits the gym. I couldn’t agree more.

Capouya’s book, Real Men Do Yoga—21 Star Athletes Reveal Their Secrets for Strength, Flexibility, and Peak Performance, offers yoga techniques for rookies and pros alike. But don’t sweat it dudes, you don’t need to be an athlete to get down with down dog. This book also gives practical advice on how yoga can benefit all members of the male persuasion, from relieving stress and gaining focus to improving performance in existing workout routines. If you don’t believe me, hear it from MN Timberwolve Kevin Garnett:

“I practice my breathing and focusing before every game. Yoga helps me calm down and helps me center my energy so I’m balanced instead of going out there and just spreading my energy all over the court.”

Cheers to Mr. Capouya for reinforcing the fact that yoga isn’t just a “chic thing.” Now stay tuned for his next literary masterpiece: Real Men Put the Toilet Seat Down.