July 2013 Newsletter

Me and my sisters-in-law jumping for joy!

Greetings goddesses! Another Renew Day, another newsletter! On the 12th of each month, the date of my birthday, I find a way to renew. This month I am choosing to take extra care with my breath. I invite you all to join me in allowing yourself to find a comfortable seat, close your eyes, and just BREATHE!

Sometimes even when our bodies are stationary our minds are racing! So take a moment and try this simple, restorative breath: Inhale for 2 counts, exhale for 4. Repeat the sequence 4 times.  This practice calms your central nervous system. By counting the breath, it is easier to rest your focus and find inner peace. This gives the body AND mind a much needed break.

An extra tip: Practice breathing in an air conditioned room ;)

On the Road…

Clowning around with my Dad last summer!

For many years around the 4th of July I volunteer as an instructor at a clown camp with my Dad. We have clowned around together every summer since 1995! This summer for the first time  in 18 years, my father could not participate in the parade with me because of a health issue that landed him in the hospital. His presence was dearly missed by myself and all 20 clown children!

This camp serves as a beautiful opportunity for me to appreciate the joy of movement. I was reminded, watching the kids pile in and out of a clown truck, how much FUN movement can be. Sometimes it’s necessary to get out of the gym and into a clown truck to notice this! An active lifestyle does not always mean elliptical machines and free weights! Together we tumbled, juggled, and paraded around while our painted-on clown grins were made even wider by our own smiles. I am so grateful for this week each year and look forward to my Dad regaining health and joining me next summer.

Industry Insight

Here it is!

I have some exciting news to share! Myself and two members of the In Fitness & In Health community were featured in the July-August edition of Idea Fitness Journal! In an article titled “Do Fitness Pros Understand Obese Clients?” Joan Darragh and Suzette Banzo spoke up about the challenges met when trainers don’t know how to work with different body types. I advised trainers to review each and every machine to understand which one may not accommodate the larger body type. Everyone has a right to feel safe and welcome when pursuing an active lifestyle!  This is an industry magazine available only to members.  If you would like a copy of the article, contact Rachel@RochelleRice.com and she can send you an email or snail mail version.

In other news, the American Medical Association (AMA) recently declared obesity to be a disease. I was asked to comment on this for another upcoming Fitness Journal issue.  My thoughts are that perhaps some women may feel a sense of relief with a diagnosis rather than a failure at weight loss.  However, I am deeply concerned that we will see a proliferation of weight loss products, programs and scams promising to ‘cure’ the obesity disease.

Muscle of the Month

The Gluteus Maximus is one of the most underused muscles because of our seated computer lifestyle. This is the largest of the gluteal muscles and the most superficial, meaning it is closest to the surface of the skin. Most importantly, the Gluteus Maximus helps stabilize our legs and our torso. You can activate this muscle sitting or standing by squeezing the buttocks together.  The ‘glutes’ are used during squats or standing up from the chair or toilet.  We often underestimate the power of the glutes even in balance exercises on one leg.  They are essential in climbing stairs.  We miss the potential power of the glutes while balancing on one leg.  Climbing stairs or stepping up on a curb:  Place the right foot on the stair or curb in front of you.  As you transfer your weight onto your right foot and lift your left foot, push through the right buttock asking it to do the work for you instead of your knees.  Bring the left foot to meet the right on the same level or let the left foot can continue through to the next step and push up through the left buttock.  Breathe as you climb and lift your abdominals.

Moving Forward

Wellness Weekend 2012

As we continue through these hot summer months I invite you to find an activity that you truly love doing. This could be anything– ping pong, hula hooping, blowing bubbles! Afterward, breathing in that air conditioning will feel especially good!

I look forward to seeing some of you at my 16th Annual Wellness Weekend this August 8-11. There are still 3 spots left and anyone looking for an opportunity to partake in movement and community should join us!

I will be attending the National Speakers Association convention in Philadelphia July 27-30. It will be an honor to step into my new role as Vice Chair of the Chapter Leadership Council.  Our job is to mentor leaders as they MOVE into their role as President of their chapter.

As always, I wish you joy in movement. Find ways to stay cool (literally) in these ‘down dog’ days of summer!

Yours in health,