Quarantine Fitness: Staying Fit Within the Comfort of Your Home

What a difference a month can make.

That could be the understatement of the year, and if I had to wager a guess, I'd say that I'm spot on that no one anticipated the current "reality" that ushered in quickly and un-apologetically.  For me the impact from the Corona Virus was felt socially almost immediately, as I canceled standing birthday plans and began my duty to self-quarantine and practice physical distancing. A negligible concession against the backdrop of a global pandemic.

I know this shift to a “new normal” affects everyone differently, so I hope you will remember to be kind and gentle with yourself as you continue to adjust in the days ahead.  And about adjusting… If you were accustomed to a regular fitness routine outside of your living quarters, then, like me, you’re pivoting to online workout resources to keep you moving, fit (and, let’s be honest, sane.) 

Since we’ve been at this #stayathome thing for a few weeks now, I’ve scouted (both personally and by word of mouth) several programs and fitness masters that will serve us well now—and in the days beyond.  From yoga, to full body boot camps, cardio and more, you’ll want to add this round-up to your fitness arsenal.

Self-care has never been more critical than it is now, so be sure to incorporate #quarantinefitness into your routine and stay well and safe.

The Round Up~

 The Home Depot Backyard -- Now through April 18th, the Home Depot Backyard is offering a free live-stream fitness program that's available worldwide.  Workout sessions will stream live from the Home Depot Backyard Instagram account. 

Peloton – Known for their elevated bike workouts, Peloton is offering free 90-day trial subscriptions to its full fitness library, via the app, for new subscribers.

x28 Fitness -- Exclusive online training combined with tailored programs based on fitness levels, multiple nutrition plans, a Facebook support group, and more, x28 is a personal favorite for online training. 

Free Streaming Workouts -- Parade.com did the heavy lifting of rounding up over 125 (!!!) free workouts that you can stream. From Youtube, to Roku, Instagram, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, ios, the good ole' world wide web, and more, there is literally something for everyone--and no excuse not to jump in and get moving!

Happy (Quarantine) Living!


Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Springing Forward

Blooms from my hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand last Spring

Spring is coming! A recent calendar tickler about the upcoming daylight saving time (it's this weekend, fyi) reminded me that we are rounding the corner on Winter in a matter of weeks. It’s been an interesting season for sure, and a renewal is certainly in order. 

That got me to thinking about what lies ahead in this next season, or better still, what I want this upcoming season to be for me. While I can’t answer that exhaustively in this moment, I can say that my outlook, fueled by my faith, is as hopeful as ever. 

Along with more personal discovery and revival, I’m looking forward to blooming and flourishing more in the ways that are meaningful to me. And I encourage the same for you.  Some suggestions for every season include: embracing self-care and self-love.  Using your voice. Pursuing your passions. Being your authentic self.

So here’s to finishing this season well (as defined by you) and intentionally embracing the good that awaits as we spring forward. 

Happy Living!

{Self-Care x Pampering} ~ 5 Ways To Treat Yourself Well

Self-care can mean many things to as many people.  However, one thing is constant--it's necessary for actualizing our most fulfilled, balanced, and healthy selves.  Whether you're talking physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual, well-being, making time to care for yourself is essential.

One of the many ways that I spell self-love and self-care is through pampering!  Whether it's a trip to the spa, or special at-home rituals, a little pampering goes a long way to reinvigorating and uplifting us into our best selves.

Here are five of my favorite ways to indulge:

Drink to Life - with a 24-hour drink menu for the prettiest skin of your life. (Marie Claire)

Detox Your Skin - grab the secrets of five beauty bloggers as they spill the beans on the best ways to care for your skin from the inside-out. (Bloglovin')

Enjoy a Spa Day - at home! With these DIY spa treatments, your spa day is closer than ever. (Lulus)

Unplug - Going off the digital grid for an afternoon, a day, or more, can contribute immensely to a renewed outlook and a recharged mental state.  And fewer things can be more indulgent and nurturing when the world beyond beckons and your favorite app is only a touch away.

Rest Up - Sleeping in, afternoon napping, early bedtimes, anyone? Slowing down and prioritizing restfulness is the essence of self care and the side benefits are endless!

Sounds simple, right?  But if we're being completely honest, how consistent are we about actually doing it?  Let's make the days ahead the best they can be with a bit more self-love and self-care in action.

Happy Living!

P.S. How do you spell self-care?