What we find beautiful in the fall

As we gather together again for a fall kick-off season at the studio, as usual, we have a lot to talk about. Inevitably our conversations shift to the new things that are going on in our homes,with our families, and at our jobs. The changes in the weather bring about discussions of seasonal favorites like apple crisp, maroon mums or hiking. What are you moved by as this beautiful time of year rolls in? Does this season remind you of lessons learned in fall-seasons past, or evoke a feeling of coziness and companionship? Are you taking stock of your summer fitness schedule and planning for how you will continue to be active with the changing seasons? I am so excited about this season, it almost surprises me how many things make me smile—why don’t you share with us your “fall favorites”–you will, as always, bless us with your words.

When the living is easy

It is that wonderful time of the year again, when life slows down and the sun (finally) shines brightly upon us. I was thinking about how this season always feels like a bit of a reorganization for me. I am not a joyful idle person and this time of year brings this weakness (or more cheerfully “area for improvement”) to my attention. My perspective does seem to shift as my schedule lightens up and I have more time to be reflective. What I have found this year, and every year prior to this one, is that I need to take a seat, turn on some music, maybe have a glass of wine, read a novel of my choice, and simply enjoy the moment. How does the summer time affect you, are you recharged by something in particular, or have you learned something about yourself lately that you had not realized before? As always we love to share at Heart and Soul, give a voice to a thought or newfound wisdom. Bless us with your words, honor us with your insights, and we will all be the better for it!

Your favorite recipe

We were talking in class today about some of our favorite recipes and decided that this would be a perfect topic for the blog. Please share with us something you love to cook and eat or drink. That means Nancy you have to share the brisket recipe and Tracy you have to share the creme brule french toast and of course Sheri we are expecting the specialty martini potion!! My recipe will be added when my daughter gets home, because we all know that she is the chef in the family–I am simply the sous chef!! (please note: if you are taking the recipe from a specific author, please list the reference)

Sharing Words

There is nothing like a powerful verse to spark reflexion and generate new thought. This week I thought we could share our favorite quotes with one another. I actually found a new quote when I was looking under the category of age!! I often ponder what it means to age well and how I can be the best version of myself as I adjust to the changes that correspond with living a long life. The blessing is in being able to live long enough to see my children grow and meet their children; I will continue to work on how to do that with grace and appreciation.
Here is my quote:
To resist the frigidity of old age, one must combine the body, the mind, and the heart. And to keep these in parallel vigor one must exercise, study, and love.
~Alan Bleasdale~

What helps–what doesn’t

I have started to do some background research for my dissertation and I am looking into what factors help us as we seek to make exercise and healthy behaviors a part of our everyday life. It is also important to identify the barriers to physical activity that prevents us from engaging in adequate exercise for the improvement of health. When you think about what you would like to achieve to improve your health and well-being, can you share with the rest of us what helps you get where you want to go and maybe what might get in your way from time to time?
As usual, I will start us off. I think what helps me the most is that exercise is my way to reduce stress, I know if I am having a bad day and I spend an hour doing yoga or get in a good cardio workout–I feel better. Even if nothing has changed concerning what made it a bad day, I feel more able to manage what comes my way and more able to keep my chin up. Beyond that, when I get to join the people at the studio for a workout, even if I am tired and don’t feel like I have much to offer physically, the kindness and friendship of the people in the room revitalizes me. A barrier for me would be not getting up and going when the going gets rough. Luckily, I have a great place to go like the studio and often feel that I am the one who is the most deeply blessed by that experience!

Tidbits

We share many moments of fun and companionship at the studio. Often times, conversations take place and delightful things are revealed. Can you share a bit of that with the rest of us. Let’s call them “Tidbits” —a word Suzi D. uses when she is imparting her wisdom to us all (she is not one to waste words and she has taught us to do the same!!).   Stephanie