Getting Back to Nature

Some Woodland Framed Roads Near Lake Hartwell, SC

By Laurie Epps

So, I'm all jazzed about the upcoming 5K this fall. Being a blogger myself, I started reading blogs about training for a 5K, and even looked at medical sites like the Mayo Clinic and John Hopkins to see how they weighed into it.

Slowly, some real patterns started emerging. The 5K 101 consensus seemed to be to workout 4-5 days a week with walking nearly every day, and an extra long walk on Saturdays. 

The Importance of Fitness Goals

Just Before My Yoga Class

By Laurie Epps

My weight loss has plateaued. But my overall fitness has improved. I've tried a new yoga class that meets twice a week. I'm really starting to recognize folks at the gym and really enjoy myself. I always feel better after a trip to the gym.

I believe from my research, that yoga really does a body good. This is not only true because of the relaxation and meditation component, but also because it gives you overall awareness of your body. What many people aren't aware of is that there are 14 Types of Yoga. Most gym's, like mine, offer Hatha Yoga which is very fluid and is meant to burn calories. When you're new to working out, it might be hard to keep up, but slowly you'll notice improvements.

Just Before My Yoga Class

The Real Kick-off Week

May 17, 2015: At My Great Godsons Dedication

By Laurie Epps

I'm finally doing it! I'm making it to the gym almost every day. The first week, I went 5 days that week. My efforts are rewarding me with immediate weight loss. I'm not going to bust 300 pounds, and I couldn't be more delighted. Much easier than I thought it would be, I'm making new friends, and I'm feeling much better about myself. 

Already, I've noticed that I walk a little taller when I enter a room, and it looks like my unwanted tummy is dropping. If you're in that dark place that I was in, you might be intimidated by the gym, or going it alone.... don't be. Your friends and like minded people are at the gym.

I know that the gym may not be feasible or palatable for a lot of folks, so today, I'm going to talk about the best reasons to strive to get in shape.