I once worked with a pre-teen girl who always seemed to identify with the dark side of life. While I did not think that was inherently a bad or dangerous thing, I was concerned that she seemed disconnected from the lighter, more sunny and carefree aspects of living.

One of the most popular core strengthening exercises is the plank, also known as the hover. To perform a basic plank, get on your hands and toes as though doing pushups and hold that position. Another common plank pose, sometimes referred to Sphinx Plank, is a modified pushup position on your toes and forearms or knees and forearms.

If you're working hard and eating clean you don't want to throw it all away when you dive into a dessert craving. Try this no-bake protein bar favorite of mine. You won't feel guilty about eating this sweet treat!

1 cup almond milk (original; unsweetened)
3 scoops whey protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
3 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup natural peanut (or almond) butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries (raisins, nuts etc..)
**I would recommend the chocolate powder w/ chocolate chips & the vanilla powder with the cranberries/nuts**

Prep time: 5min
Cook time:none!

Ladies,

Those of you that run...whether it be outside or on the treadmill....the repetitive motion of running is bound to cause tight spots. A way to beat those aches is a stretch then soothe strategy. Before you run, do 3 minutes of dynamic stretches like walking lunges Followed by a 2 minute light jog. Once you've finished with your workout, grab a foam roller and slowly iron out your muscles with the following moves described below. Sometimes you may want to let someone else stretch you and you can always schedule an appointment for stretch with myself, Skye or Emily! ;-)

The other day I was driving thru Starbucks for my ritual unsweetened passion fruit ice tea. When I approached the barista at the window she told me I didn’t have to pay because the car ahead of me had paid for my drink. Slightly stunned, it took me a few beats to integrate what she was saying.