Monthly Archives: April 2012

April 26, 2012

Hi lettuce heads!

Im back and bronzed and feeling pretty bodacious. Its amazing I hadn’t treated myself to time away in quite awhile, especially since it was one of the first times I TRULY, literally, had time to sit, enjoy, and reflect. My only requirements going there were workouts and drinking my shakeology, the rest was a “No worries, mon” attitude. I laid around the beautiful beach, ate good food, indulged in some typical no-no’s (fried bananas and cheesecake) , and saw some pretty darn eye opening things. Jamaica is a country of poverty, and getting outside the all inclusive bubble left a huge impact on me. I dont think Ive ever appreciated US soil in the sincerity that I do now after going on this trip. I didnt feel super threatened or sad or mad looking at another country’s every day conditions, it just helped me appreciate mine. There were some of the most friendly and happy people one could meet in Jamaica and then there were some of the pushiest and unsettling people Ive had to talk to as well, similarly to any place- theres always the good and bad. Fortunately the resort was incredible, the areas were beautiful, and the trip was magnificent. I wouldnt have changed anything and am so glad I got to see everything that I did…oh yeah, and enjoyed my birthday to the fullest. Happy 26 to me!!!

Heres a quick reel of the SWEET moments and views I shared with my loving boyfriend:

Everyday shakeology with travel blender

Containing my excitement…Nope!

Yummy refreshments! Unlimited and free? Yes please!

Gorgeous waters

Our Negril Excursion, walked the 7 mile beach 

Birthday dinner and sunset. Hello 26!

Last nights dinner outside, surf n turf!

Now what was the most powerful experience during this time away for me was one of the most simple experiences known to our culture.  Hold on to your seats…I READ A BOOK, cover to cover, and after completing it wanted to read it again. “Spirit Junkie” confirmed so much of from where Ive come and so much of who Im working on to be. A true peace with oneself and the ability to look inward for happiness, despite what yourself or others have labeled as ultimate solutions. It also empowered me to work on those times that I let other things get in the way of the true happiness I know I have. I came away with realizing we can do homework on these little distractions so that theyre less and less relevant- now this is cool! I can weaken those little negative, distracting thoughts? Yup, yes I can. This doesn’t take away from the fact that when your emotions are strong and you feel a certain way, there’s strength in speaking up. Speaking with conviction and knowing what’s wrong so that you can move forward and make the situation better is never a bad thing to do. The negative thoughts and distractions can take away moments of your life or they can take days or they can take years. Whatever it takes, find out what you need to do to own your feelings, see where theyre coming from and to feel empowered to do something about it- starting with yourself. Why face the world in fear when you can make a simple change and face it with, well, love?

Feeling both relaxed and empowered upon returning, I ordered “Fire Starter Sessions” by Danielle LaPorte. Now I dont have a beach to read this by nor all the time in the world, but everyone makes time for things theyre interested in. In fact, they cant help but make time because the curiosity and interest is oozing out of us. Im excited to be on a path of improvement, not only with my body, but even further with my mind and soul. Speaking of oozing, Im going to emphasize my enthusiasm for exercise here. After this trip, Im even more firmly convinced Ive got to shout on the mountain tops (yes this blog is a lovely mountain top) about what I know and feel is important. You may already have suspected this, but I had no apologies or hesitations in telling you that the workouts on vacation were huge for me. I enjoyed my day that much more, felt accomplished, relaxed, getting my normal dose of endorphins so that I not only was normal Maria, but normal Maria on vacation!

People normally have a tough time when their normal routine is broken. Think FINALS with school, deadlines with work, kids commitments, family obligations and of course vacations. Now how do we make it happen in those times? Well we make it happen. Non negotiable. Sometimes there are days where youre motivated to work out, because quite frankly you didnt want to put on your tennis shoes, and there are days where you cant help but be inspired to get active and use your exercise elbow grease. Despite the rollercoaster of thoughts that go through one’s head at a given time, especially broken routine time, I will urge you to be active in some way during those times, especially on vacation. One can always work more, study more, be with their kids more, clean more, be so obsessive with everything BUT those things you actually find very important. You’ve got to remember why its important to you and make it happen. Run with those Nike’s instead of kicking yourself with em

Here are the things I did to make sure I was active:

1) Every morning I committed to working out at some point and coordinated with my partner as to how we were going to make that happen. Ensuring safety of course, checking out where I could and couldnt go.

2) I used my HR monitor as a way to keep track of intensity- was I working hard or hardly working? I wasnt done until I hit my hour mark or 500 calorie mark.

3) I used the gym (treadmill, bike, elliptical), beach, and provided activities at the resort to be active

4) I kayaked (harder than it looks- hello upper thigh cramp), walked the beaches, was continually sweating even just by sitting by being in the heat (luxury yes), I even got in on a group dancing activity. They had me help lead the dance because I was shaking it enthusiastically, imagine that?

5) I came prepared! I packed workout clothes, my shoes, bras, heart rate monitors, music and my shakeology. I knew I was going to make it happen and that made the difference. The resources are everywhere but you’re in charge of your decisions. Do you row your boat, despite the conditions, or do you just let the tide take you?

Because I did this, I truly enjoyed my time. You can be active anywhere. Experiment with different things to get your heart rate up and break a sweat. Chances are if its hard and takes your breath away, you’re doing something right. I breathed deeper during the exercise AND after- really appreciating my life and my opportunity to be in paradise for the week. I urge you to take time for yourself, relax, reflect. Get to know what makes you tick (good and bad) and commit to working on your body, mind and soul. If exercise is important to you- dont EVER forget that and make it happen. You have to take care of yourself first before anyone or anything else can contribute.

Thanks for listening lettuce heads. May you face this week with strength and love. Shake it WHILE you make it!

Maria “Like the Lettuce” Romaine xoxo

 

Posted by Maria in Tips and Typos

April 16, 2012

Happy Monday Morning Lettuce Heads!

You may be completely aware of what gives you the biggest high you’ve ever experienced, and continually want more thereafter experiencing it. Adrenaline junkies are an incredible example. Trekkies, maybe another? Clearly people enjoy varying substances and hobbies, but I will tell you that my high is 100% fitness. Any chance I can get to compete in a way, push my body, or just get an overall wonderful workout- I love. I do have certain restrictions Ive put on myself- due to having knee surgeries AND wanting to live a long, healthy, enriched life. I cant beat my body to a pulp- unfortunately that wont get me anywhere. And I cant be overtraining my body so that its in a state of stress, defeating the wonderful properties of exercise. So I do my best to keep that balance. I will admit getting swept up from time to time!

For that reason, this weekend was an ideal weekend for me- as it had quality time with loved ones, inspiration from the health and fitness community around me, and some kick tail competition. On Saturday I joined Julie Voris and my fellow coaches (others who help people with their health and fitness goals) for a Super Saturday event. We had an amazing Turbo Fire meets P90x meets RevAbs workout. We also went over some big topics including a new cleanse the company we work for is offering, helping others get rid of sugar and caffeine addictions, just an over all reset. And we also got to see all the people who have lost anywhere from 5-100′s of lbs from the products and tools we help people with. Shakeology, etc. Talk about motivation.

Heres THE Julie Voris alongside Tony Horton, they’re BFF, and shes one of my fitness inspirations. You know when youre practically a kid and you say to yourself, “I want to be like her one day…”? This is who SHE is to me, and many others- a woman passionate about ending the trend of obesity

Here we are getting our workout on- can you spot me (hint Pink tank top and wicked hook)!

On Sunday I participated in the Carmel Sprint Triathlon. I broke my 2012 Triathlon seal and it was a success. Did it with my wonderful friend Katelyn- future Y Spin instructor! I finished 2nd in my cat and 132/537 all in all. The swim was harder than I remembered, the wind was wicked on the bike, and my run was surprisingly super fast. I had no idea I could run a 7:16 min mile! My favorite part is not only getting out there and feeling alive, but the competition and comradery that goes along with this. Everyone cheering everyone on- it truly brings me to tears every time I experience it. If you want to see the good in people- go to an athletic event (marathon or triathlon). People are not only impressive physical specimens, but theyre kindness and energy are equally matched.

Dont be intimidated by our model-esque hair and psycho guns.

I then watched my sister kick some soccer booty. Im the oldest of 6, and Bella is the baby. Shes one fierce competitor and it was so fun watching her play. I used to have such a hard time watching soccer since I stopped playing due to my dislocating knee caps. Now, as I grow up and realize my gifts in life,  I realize that soccer was so much a part of who I was and developed who I am today. Im watching more and more of it and am so happy for those that I love continuing to kick tail in it. This includes just about everyone in my family and even my boyfriend now. Its my turn to continue to be their biggest fan and Im surely proud to do it.

Here we are at the soccer fields. She’s a rock star!

After, grabbing a bite to eat on a beautiful day!

Teaching Spin tonight,but after that I’m signing off for a week as I’ll be out of the country. This is my first trip away in years and I may just have to disconnect all electronic devices as a promise to myself to put Maria first, get a little one on one with nature, and just relax. I’m going to take tons of pictures and I’ll most definitely fill you in on how I made the most of my time abroad once I return.

Maria “Like the Lettuce Romaine” xoxoxo

Here is my group ex class schedule for when I return!:

Monday: Group Cycle @ 6:30-7:30 pm. Downtown Y.

Tuesday:  Turbo Kick @ 6:00-7:00 am- Yoga Monkey + Fitness in Broad Ripple

                    Turbo Kick@ 6:35- 7:35 pm. Downtown Y.

Wednesday: Turbo Kick @ 6:30-7:30pm. So.Be. Fit Studio in Broad ripple.

Thursday: Turbo Kick @ 7:00-8:00pm. Yoga Monkey + Fitness in Broad Ripple.

Friday: Group Cycle @ 6:00am-6:55am. Indy Bike Hub YMCA

Posted by Maria in Tips and Typos

April 11, 2012

 Hello lettuce heads!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and Easter. Mine was GREAT-time with family, friends, scrumptious food, fabulous workouts, and despite the craziness, some self reflection. Not sure if it was my hour long run with my brother- in which we talked about life, getting out on my bike for 25 glorious miles on the road, being surrounded by those I truly love the most, or coming back to a place of reflection and prayer that I always achieve when I put my hands together, whether in Church or at the dinner table-but I have quite a message to share today…

Here is my week/weekend reel full of loved ones and fun times:

…I grew up wondering what was so cool about people who wanted to come off average, those who didn’t want to look like they worked hard, and as I age…(birthday next week!!!) Ive continued to question myself and others’ ability to feel sorry for ourselves, or to want to struggle, never to come off blessed, happy, or fortunate- maybe at the fear of coming off cocky or spoiled. However, the more I read, self reflect, read, self reflect again, I realize that in much in the same light that we must let ourselves shine in our abilities, we must shine in our happiness. If we make a shift to decide on happiness, we can truly encounter anything. We dont have to go through what others go through or dont go through. Our journey is not theirs. It is ours. So if you feel like you havent been through anything and dont deserve to walk around happy, you’re wrong. Everyone has the ability to live their life in the energy that they choose.

Im definitely not saying to numb our feelings and just be happy. It seems to me that happiness is achieved after finding a solution to what might be wrong in the first place, or always. When something bothers me, Im practicing to listen to what it is, why, to feel it out and then decide on how to best handle it so I can move on with peace and love. If you want to stop reading now and ask yourselves, “Hey how much yoga has Maria been doing lately? She sounds all star fish fingers and namaste. Well yeah Ive decided to not only practice health in my fitness, but even more thoroughly by treating my body as a temple with better fuel, and by improving my mind, feeding it vitamins instead of junk.

What are you doing to get in touch with whats important to you? How are you taking care of yourself so you can take care of others? How are you feeding your mind vitamins? It all starts here after all. There is indeed this huge stress for perfection in balance. Ive been reading a lot from author, motivational speaker, Danielle La Porte and I agree with her, thats NOT the point. I know there will be things Ill never progress in. If you read her articles, she asks you to release the pressure to achieve this perfect balance. If theres things you know are either important to you and/or you’re good at, work on those and be GREAT at them. Be excellent, this is how we stray away from average and let our lights shine. So what Im saying that is in order to achieve your fabulosity, one must forget about balance, but rather take care of oneself in body, mind and spirit in order to find your specific blue print for YOU. The blue print that maximizes YOUR gifts and talents, whatever that may be.

www.daniellelaporte.com

By reading her articles and motivations, Ive also found Gabrielle Bernstein. I just ordered her book “The Spirit Junkie”. Im stoked. It doesn’t just happen to be that I listened to one of her meditations, moving me to tears, emphasizing the importance of love over fear, or that the foreward of her book is from Marianne Williamson, who is the source of my all time favorite quote, “Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, its that we are powerful beyond measure”, but its mostly her message to experience the miracle of life…not being so hard on oneself, because how are you to know better?, but that you know now, and now is the time to do something about it. Now you know you want more and want happiness, because now you know theres no shame in wanting this, you and all others deserve this pursuit and even better, achievement. I cannot wait to dive deep into this book. Surely it will influence my future posts here on this blog.

http://gabbyb.tv/

I definitely dont have it all figured out, but recently Ive not only begun to fuel my body with purer food, but have wanted to activate my mind, and flex my soul. Its been incredibly rewarding, and Id be doing myself and all of you a disservice by not sharing my enthusiasm. I find the need to rally you all to read, self reflect, read, and self reflect again with me. Have no shame, even calling them self help books if you must, and find inspirations in every moment, surrounding yourself with people, books, sites, and messages to lead you to a better you. Whats so cool about not caring anyway? I am phenomenal. I am blessed. I am happy.  Im flexing my soul- join me!

 Maria, Like the Lettuce, Romaine xoxoxo 

Posted by Maria in Tips and Typos

April 2, 2012

Happy April! What a wonderful month. Blossoms are blooming, spring breaks are happening everywhere, its the start of a new quarter and its also my birthday month! I dont know how your January-March went. I cant complain, but sometimes if you’re like me, you’re just ready for a new month. April is definitely that for me. Ive allowed myself to go on a vacation and it just so happens to be in a few weeks- surely contributing to the relief I have coming into April. Myself and others are needing to remind themselves of their goals and objectives they set on, say on January 1st for example. Fortunately the weather is warmer, people are moving outside, and bikinis are everywhere in the shops. For every reason there is to hide away and not put health and fitness first, theres also little contests the world puts out there to see if you want to participate. Do you too want to look great in a swimsuit? Do you too want to lose 100 pounds eating one tablet a day? Buy this ab machine and your problems will be solved? Who else is seeing that more and more in the magazines and store advertisements?

Instead of responding to the vicious cycle of fads and popularity contests, the best thing a person can do is want to make a life style change. Ive said it before and Ive said it again, you need to want it for the long haul- and this is what makes the difference for people. I was recently interviewed in a wellness blog about maintaining balance, staying healthy, and finding sound solutions to your problems, called “In Good Measure”. Here is the link to find  http://yourlocalsecurity.com/in-good-measure/.  I talked about these topics specifically. Whats super neat is that the more I work with others and help them achieve their health and fitness goals, it takes everyone this defining  moment of reflection before they can tackle their longstanding battle with health and fitness. Before people tackle and conquer, they find their inner athlete, their inner warrior of sorts. They are in the game of life and are ready to win. People who succeed truly believe in themselves just enough to make it happen and once they’ve achieved what they set out for, they have this awareness of their capabilities. Call them heroes. Call them magnificent. Call them unstoppable.

Not only does one need to get in the game, they need to bring their game day in and day out. What can continue to motivate you to be motivated? This is a great audio clip by Turbo Fire creator, Chalene Johnson, providing such motivation for motivation! http://soundcloud.com/chalenejohnson/chalene-johnsons-motivational.

After I listened to her, I realized that I definitely play music that makes me want to roar up on the mountains and theres pictures of myself when I compete that reminds me of my fierceness. If I were you, Id find that inner athlete, warrior, in oneself, no matter how deep you need to dig, and introduce yourself to them. If you have already done this, make sure you do it again and again and again. Focusing on your end goal is key, but the reassurance that you are capable of tackling ANYTHING is a crucial component of succeeding in health and fitness, and life in general.

Heres my athlete, warrior pic. I may not be in a hot bikini, but I feel strong and capable of just about anything. Coming out of Nashville water, about to hop on my bike. I got first place in this race- looking back on the pics, I can totally see why!

Ask yourself what you need to do to find your fierce. What motivation do you need to stay motivated? Surround yourself with game time music, photos, and refreshers. Whether its a picture of you and the children you were in labor for hours with, an album of graduation pictures, or high school and college flash back photos- find when you kicked some serious tail and remind yourself that YOU did it.  Now repeat that reminder incessantly, day in and day out, from this point forward.

Get in the game with me, and bring it! Happy April!

Maria, Like the Lettuce, Romaine xoxoxo

Posted by Maria in Tips and Typos