norfolk, nashville, and now

Remember traveling? [Hold tight, I share in mixed feelings]. I hopped on many a plane last year; nearly all, domestic flights. Let's start with Virginia, a double-dip destination thanks to two important occasions. First, a most beautiful wedding; second, a critical election. Although "my candidate" didn't win, it was amazing to have helped flip Virginia blue as as a Sister District volunteer.

Moving on to in between, when I flew to Nashville, Tennessee. My mom had proposed the idea. My sister expressed enthused interest. We saw live jazz at Rudy's Jazz Room (times two); wandered through the farmer's market; dined at Monell's and Husk (where they personalized our menu with birthday wishes), ventured to the Grand Ole Opry and, obviously, down Broadway; tasted good beer at Bearded Iris Brewing and fine wines at Arrington Vineyards. All together, it made for a happy, draining, sometimes stressful 31st.

These trips were riddled with sunshine and privilege, good fortune and social proximity. While in Nashville, he texted to see how the holiday weekend was going and ask if I'd like to go out again. We've spent countless weekends (and more) together since then. I'm so grateful for him in this life, during this pandemic, and my gosh what I wouldn't do to be with more family and friends right now.

These times are unprecedented. This virus is affecting all of us, in a multitude of ways. And yet, also, inequities have never been more prevalent. Those who can be home, should be. Those who can be generous, should be. There are so many freaking unknowns...
I hope with all my being that we heal and hold onto–learn from–what has come to light. Please take care. Please love well.

la pharmacie

While in New York earlier this year, I boasted to a friend about not having ever gotten sick in Paris. It must be because I eat so well there, I half-joked. But it's true. And not just because "science compared every diet, and the winner is real food"; which, apparently, is not already a given. (For the record, I made a visit to a Parisian doctor's office in late February. Karma: 1; lack of humility: 0).

Science has also proven that we value experiences above all other purchases and that meaningful relationships promote well-being. As if I don't say it enough: there's something so wonderfully special about sharing a meal, whether at home or in a restaurant.

Last night, I was lucky enough to meet Rebecca for dinner. (She spent the last day of a Euro-work trip in Paris.) I made reservations at La Pharmacie, an especially convenient choice as I've been lusting after it since last summer when I first passed its pretty exterior.

My à point steak with chimichurri sauce, roasted potatoes, and salad was fantastic; our pichet of red wine, even more so. And don't even get me started on their butterscotch molten cake. My god. I've since added it to my list of favorite restos and am already eager to bask in the warm ambiance and convivial environment once more. I'll likely be pressed for time, money, and occasions to do so though. Have I mentioned I'm leaving Paris in early June? Well, I am. So it's as good a time as ever to share my nine other top eateries :) Semilla, Le Garde Robe, 3 Pièces Cuisine, Septime, Holybelly, Le Richer, Artisan, Caillebotte, Lockwood. Bon app !

P.S. The last time I dined in a pharmacy--also awesome.

altruistique

While catching up on the Daily Show recently, I saw an interview with Samuel J. Jackson promoting his latest blockbuster, Captain America. I've been thinking about good guys and bad guys ever since; mostly because there's no such thing. And yet, I also believe "character is the culmination of daily action" (to borrow Brianna Wiest's words). So I've been pondering the really good and less good people I know, and based on my own experiences with them, what actually makes one a better human being than another.

Clearly I'm writing this post because I've got it all figured out :). My working theory is that goodness is equal part intention as it is reaction. Although when it comes to poor choices, "not meaning to" doesn't take away from the negative effects of having done so, we shouldn't reduce the value of effort in redemption and forgiveness--especially, and for instance, after the most horrific events.

{Bois de Vincennes}

Soon after coming to this conclusion, I received an email from ScienceDaily. This headline--People with higher bonuses don't give more to charity--caught my eye. Apparently, "higher earners are less inclined to give, and donate a similar share of their money compared to those on lower incomes." Disappointing, I thought, though not all surprising. (I've been following Kristof's opinions on related issues.) Research lead Dr. Tonin said, "the distorted feeling of entitlement [coming from monetary bonuses that are often a result of skills, effort, and luck] may furnish subjects in the higher earner group with the moral ground not to act more generously."

Then a recent conversation with Lorelei about 'the halo effect' that accompanies benevolence came to my mind; as well as research findings I've shared previously: "Next to quitting smoking, giving is the best possible thing you could do for your health--making virtue truly its own reward." Upon closer examination though, as much as we may feel good by doing good, this hardly selfless feeling encourages a "positive feedback loop" that, in turn, encourages more altruism. Not bad, right? It's likely those great people I spoke of are reveling in such a state of being. And... they deserve to. Amidst more sad news, this world needs more like them.

*For the record, "altruistique" is entirely Franglish-ish. It has no meaning whatsoever yet accurately reflects the way I tend to communicate on a daily basis in Paris. All good, right?

au revoir, kilos

I've lost weight since moving to Paris.

How annoying is that statement, huh? And yet... I have no idea how it happened! I've been eating well to the extent that refined grain baguettes, wine, cheese, butter, and dark chocolate (or rather, if I'm lucky, dark chocolate mousse) have become staples in my diet. Is my body not going against everything we've been taught weight loss is?

Not exactly. You see, in addition to those carbohydrates and sugar, I've been having my fair share of market-fresh fruits and vegetables--not always organic, but never genetically-modifed. I've also been extremely active: climbing the six flights of stairs to ma chambre de bonne about twice a day, walking the 10-minutes to the closest laundromat and Monoprix (Target equivalent), commuting 30-minutes to AUP's campus, and meeting friends everywhere else with public transportation.

Furthermore, I've been averaging seven hours of sleep each night and sitting down for three meals a day, hardly ever snacking before though always having dessert after.

Perhaps the French Paradox isn't a paradox at all but a return to a lifestyle that we're actually meant to be living; one that favors real food, sufficient activity, meal time, and a good night's sleep. And if so, I'm really looking forward to adding community yoga and barre3 to the mix. It should help with grad school stress ;).

By the way, I've discovered the absolute best lunch in the 7th: les coccottes de Constant. My meal was ridiculously satisfying and affordable (for the neighborhood).

Note: I became aware of the weight loss based on a change in how my clothes fit but I did not intend for it nor do I believe I needed it. I am, however, still within a range I am comfortable with and thus will continue enjoying a full life as I have been.

from concrete to greenery

Yesterday, a friend from home invited me to join her for a hike. I wanted to go even just to hang out with her, but I also realized it's been almost two years since I enjoyed Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Not okay! The Preserve is conveniently located close to our parents' houses and with over 1,400 acres, one can always find a new scenic path through "wetlands, woodlands, meadows, and fields and past streams, rivers, and lakes while traversing wood and stone bridges." Plus, on a sunny, summer day, there are few things more refreshing (the beach is one of those things, of course, but don't worry, plans are on the horizon).

I love walking through the city's busy and crowded streets. There's an invigorating energy and beautiful sights along the way. I read once that, "Paris is the most modern of ancient cities, while New York is the most ancient of modern cities." There's truth to that. Even just one New York City block represents years and years of history, and it's almost magical to try to digest it all. Then, following just 40 minutes on a train, I can find myself up here amongst even older trees and stars. Amazing, isn't it?

A recent HuffPo article outlined some of the benefits of outdoor exercise: improved attention and focus,  greater likelihood to keep exercising, lower risk of being overweight, more energy, faster healing and less pain, and higher Vitamin D levels. They also referenced a 2010, BBC-reported study finding: even just five minutes of exercise in green space can improve mood and self-esteem. My friend and I spent an hour and fifteen minutes hiking. Talk about an endorphin boost :).

Afterwards, we retreated to The Patio Restaurant for a late lunch. For a diner-style eatery, this place has an impressive salad menu. I had the Bella salad (chopped mesclun greens, spinach, arugula, asparagus, fresh oranges, sweet walnuts, raisins, goat cheese, avocado, plum tomatoes) with grilled salmon. Delicious.

It was quite the pleasant afternoon. And later on, I enjoyed a quintessential summer night in the city atop a Williamsburg rooftop. There really are an infinite number of ways to have an "I love New York (state)" moment.

the possibility of you

Hiya, lovelies. Hope you're enjoying spring-like wherever you may be. Between cleaning, packing, laundry, and (oh yeah) work, I've got lots and lots to do today. So, I thought I'd save myself some time and vlog about the book below. Enjoy... :) 

P.S. Considering I'll soon be on my way to Oklahoma (!), I figured I'd also provide some extra reading/viewing material to keep you occupied:

• Whether or not you like Jon Stewart, his interview with Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood is worth watching.
• Another must-see? Actor Thandie Newton speaks to TED about dealing with prejudice and rediscovering oneness.
• There's no magic formula to being creative, but a cold beer (or glass of wine) might be the key to your next big idea. <- Click to find out how.
• In unrelated news, I recently reported a ton of healthy travel trends.
• "Entering the unknown often triggers an avalanche of self-doubt." Wouldn't you agree? Rich, happy, and hot Marie Forleo gives you the secrets to getting over it.
• Oh, and one last thing: are we friends on Goodreads yet? 

the natural cure

I've been told I give good advice. I like that. When someone I care about is going through a particularly challenging time, I'm glad I'm able to offer comforting and encouraging words and help them make sense of their situation. I know I'm not nearly as good as talking myself through the same things though. Like, at all.

Sure, I understand life is anything but easy... yet I still find myself being so gosh darn impatient with my inability to know exactly what to do, and then anxious at the possibility of "failure." What's up with that? Seriously. Oprah Winfrey said, "Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possibility." I couldn't wholeheartedly believe in that statement more. Nonetheless, I am left discontent with the monotony that is and overwhelmed by the possibilities that lie ahead. My harsh logic just doesn't make any sense.


I wonder if, maybe, at some point in my life I won't feel this way. Maybe I'll be able to take a deep breath, a step back, and fully enjoy the journey I am creating, the story that is unfolding before me. It certainly is something to think about.


But whether that transformation happens sooner or later (or at all), I mustn't forget to be kinder to my worrisome self. It is very okay that I'm grateful and fearful simultaneously. After all, I know firsthand I'm not the only one. 


And, if I truly need a break, I should give myself just that.


Recently (within the pages of this month's Self magazine), I discovered that there is actually scientific evidence to prove we can change our disposition simply by changing our scenery.

• Rivers, lakes, oceans: "Water's aesthetic qualities, such as its rhythmic movement, may induce a calming effect on our psyche."
• Forests: "Woods spark contemplation and clarity. 'When we're isolated from the everyday hustle and bustle, we're forced to turn inward and connect to ourselves in a deeper and more focused way.'"
• Parks: "'Designed to be gathering places, parks give us a sense of togetherness, with their inherent social aspect,' ...And spending time quality time with friends and family is proven mood magic."

This is especially good news considering the weekend ahead: two friends and I are retreating to the Berkshires. We're going to soak up all the natural and cultural beauty we're able to in this short time. Boy, do I need it.

Image via Pinterest

P.S. Just the other day, I was also told I am the most introspective person someone has ever met. That I could have assumed with confidence :).

a not-so-starving artist

When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a veterinarian, then an animator, then an interior designer. My current job is not even remotely similar to any of those positions. My friend Katie, though, wanted to be an artist... and she is.

Last Friday, I attended the unveiling of her latest work, a mural created for the Edwin Gould Foundation and entitled "Prime Root."

I couldn't have been prouder, especially being that I've basically known how talented she is my entire life. Together we've finger-painted, performed in plays, went to art camps, and workshopped in writing classes.

And now she's an artist, a real one. I just love lifelong friends. Chatting with her parents again, meeting her high school/college friends, seeing her work, toasting to her success (and bright future) could not have been more wonderful.

By the way, did you know gazing at art can be healthy? In fact, a study from University College London found that when people looked at paintings they liked, the part of the brain that governs pleasure (medial orbitofrontal cortex) lit up. The nerve center relating to romantic love (caudate nucleus) also brightened. Maybe that's how I managed to meet a seemingly great guy the following night who is taking me on a date tonight? We'll see :) but whatever works.

loving love

Happy Valentine's Day! What's that, sweetheart? You're not happy about it? I don't understand why not; handwritten cards are sweet, chocolate is delicious, flowers are beautiful, and love is just about the most wonderful thing there is.

In all honesty though, I get it. Some of us are hurt, lonely, bitter even, and today has that special something to emphasize the fact. But how about we change that? Why don't we choose to view today not as an over-commercialized, sappy, insincere exaggeration of romance, but as a lovely reminder of how loved we are? We are, you know. Whether it's by family, friends, a significant other, or all three. 

Need some convincing? Just call you dad, your grandma, your brother, or your best friend. Re-connect with your favorite college roommate by email or open up those signed high school yearbooks again. There's love in your life, kind of a whole lot, and today is the day to embrace it. 


Spread it, too. I just published an article on Pravassa with five ways to do so. Loving love, and sharing it with others, is a lot more healthy than you'd think.

Also, please celebrate. If you're in a relationship, engaged, or married, I take it your plans are covered :) but if you're not, make some. This special lady will be my lunchtime Valentine, and I'll be margarita-ing with three great friends tonight. Then again, you may not wish to dine out. So consider Glamour's advice: Invite a few people over for board games or have a spa night all to yourself. And no matter what you end up doing/not doing, read this poem I wrote on last year's Valentine's Day. Revel in each and every opportunity that only single life can bring.

the grand grand canyon

I had my first hot toddy tonight. This cold weather cocktail (originating in Northern England) is traditionally prepared with a mixture of whiskey, boiling water, and sugar or honey. Mine at the Cover Club was made with cloves and a lemon slice too. It was delicious... and needed in the way drinks sometimes are.

Even with all I learned in 2011, apparently no amount of wisdom could ever rid me of my worries. And I'm assumedly not the only one. Last November, Joanna Goddard admitted to being plagued by her own and how, at 27, it lead her to a therapist for a few months. How did the therapist respond? With this:

 "Picture that the Grand Canyon is your life--your past, present, and future. Start envisioning the various parts of your life within the canyon: Over there is the day you were born, your third-grade choir performance, your job as a babysitter. Picture your present: There's your apartment, your friends, your mom, the book you're reading right now. Picture your future: There's your next vacation, the love of your life, your future children, the Top Chef finale :)."

"Now, my therapist told me, picture the enormous Grand Canyon and drop your worry into it. Whatever you're worrying about--your cranky boss, your dating life, a salty comment from a friend--will be barely visible. 'See how tiny it looks?' she says. Suddenly your problem will seem much, much smaller in comparison to the grand course of your huge, rich, long life."

I don't know about you, but I'd agree that it's brilliant. It really helps put each worry into perspective. 


That, and gives me a reason to reminisce about my 2005 visit to the Grand Canyon. I was 17 and had applied to the 10-day program that brought myself and a dozen other high-schoolers to study the Earth sciences in Arizona. It was fun, educational, and absolutely spectacular. On our first night, we took the inns towels out to the edge of the canyon to stargaze. I saw more shooting stars in the those twenty minutes than I had in my entire life. Similar to how good everything has turned out to be in the past seven years since then, that memory continues to amaze me.


P.S. Turns out, Wednesday is Hot Toddy Day :) enjoy!

treating myself

I don't know if you've realized this, but in addition to embarking upon "the most wonderful time of the year" we're also in the midst of that frightening holiday season with gift stress, family drama, and empty calories. The horror!

At least we're enjoying spring-like, late fall weather?

In all serious though, I'm excited. I feel secure with where I am personally and professionally. My social calendar is filling up with potlucks and parties. This year (as opposed to the last) I'm feeling especially festive, thankful, and ready.

In order to enjoy everything to the fullest, I'm rededicating myself... to myself. When I get the fun kind of busy, I tend to exercise less, eat out more often, and not get enough sleep. As much as this lifestyle is fine for a short while, it becomes anything but when it lasts for weeks on end. So, here's the plan:

• Keep a regular sleep schedule. I like my planner, and my to-do list, and all the productivity that is meant to come from it. Trouble is, when it comes to settling down in the evening, it's tough to slow my mind down from that go-go-go. Enter a book before bed. Although I read regularly, shutting down my computer and opening up my next good read of choice isn't a habit of mine. I've decided to make it one. Reading before bed calms me down and truly prepares my body for sleep. And when I am able to get those solid 7-8 hours, my days are brighter, as is my skin. Just last year, Swedish researchers found that "people deprived of sleep for long periods appear less attractive and more unhealthy than those who are well rested."
• Prepare myself (at least) two meals a day. Working from cafés by day and making dinner plans in most evenings means that I too often only make myself breakfast. I wouldn't dream of waiting for oatmeal until I was out and about ;) but I also need to pull in the reigns (reindeer pun intended) on my lunches. I'm usually more than capable of channeling Heidi Swanson and whipping up one of the recipes I'm constantly collecting. As for those days I can't be home around noon, well, I'm pretty sure convenience is why sandwiches were invented. Prioritizing these midday meal options will surely be more beneficial for my health and finances.
• Get fresh air on a daily basis. Being that I have the unfortunate desire to become less active in the colder months, I was inspired to write Four Reasons to Stay Active This Winter. Even if it's just taking a walk with my roommate's dog along the East River or around Central Park, I know that being outside and moving makes me happier... and helps me maintain my weight. (There. I said it.) Thankfully, I'm also responsible for reviewing fitness classes for Pravassa. I'm hoping it, along with publicly declaring my goal of 4 classes/week, keeps me accountable.
• Only celebrate when celebrating. I am the first person to advocate for plenty of bubbly and sweets this holiday season. With that said,however, there's no real need to open three new bottles of wine in one week, or have three homemade pumpkin scones in one sitting; even if both or either are gifts. Furthermore, prioritizing health and maintaining mindfulness when I'm eating on my own will surely make those many special occasions with family and friends (and drinks and desserts) that much more special.

my big fat greek wish

Happy Cyber Monday, friends. For many, I know that discounted shopping opportunities like this are exciting, but for me, well, I could care less. You see, I've never been big into beautiful things. Beautiful places though... yes, please! I hope this means I'm visually-driven and artistic rather than completely superficial.

 

I just cannot get enough natural beauty or that of architecture, photography, dance, art museums, design, and the culinary arts. These aesthetic forms delight and inspire me, and unseen ones often help determine my next destination. It should be no surprise then that Greece often tops this "beautiful places to go" list. 

It was the Ancient Greeks that first defined beauty as pure, simple, and symmetrical. Since then, the word has been shaped and reshaped by culture so that it is not only seen as a quality of perfection, but also imperfection. (Remember the Japanese ideal of wabi sabi?) Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. Still, there is one aspect that seems to have remained consistent throughout the world: the connection between aesthetic appeal and well being.

I began this year with my healthiest resolution and these words, "Is it a coincidence that when I look back on the happiest parts of my life, they're also the times in which I looked and felt my best? I think not." Hippocrates, a Greek doctor, teacher, and "father of medicine," would probably agree with me. He believed in treating the body as a whole and that optimum health would be reached through a proper diet, fresh air, good hygiene, and plenty of exercise. Most, if not all, Ancient Greeks agreed with him on that last part; exercise had become a physical activity to reflect their belief in the beauty of the human form.

Of course, I am no health evangelist. I believe that seeking pleasure is equally as important as maintaining optimal health. And for that, I look towards another school of thought originating in Ancient Greece. Epicuris, an atomic materialist, believed pleasure to be the greatest good. He believed you attain the greatest good in living modestly, gaining knowledge of how the world works, and limiting one's desires. These days, epicureanism has been misinterpreted to mean a love of enjoyments, especially good food and drink. As for my personal understanding and practice, it falls somewhere between these two extremes.

Each day, I combine Hippocrates' philosophy on health with an adaptation of Epicuris' philosophy on pleasure as I strive for "good living." And according my favorite authentic Greek Yogurt, FAGE, good living is actually a Greek tradition. Interesting. Apparently, in spite of my attempt to combine all the yummy philosophies I've acquired throughout my travels and life experience, those from this beautiful country I've never actually seen seem to have resonated the most.

The best way to enjoy life is to keep oneself intellectually stimulated and physically satisfied, and that, my friends, just may be the most beautiful thing of all.

I would love the opportunity to experience Greece for myself some day, and that is why I wrote this post... As part of the Foodbuzz Featured Publisher program, I have been entered for the chance to win a trip to Greece courtesy of FAGE. You too can enter to win one of three trips to Greece by entering the FAGE Plain Extraordinary Greek Getaway here: http://www.fageusa.com/community/fage-greek-getaway.

Words by D. Alvarez, Photos by M. Egkolfopoulou

it's only natural

After a weekend (or two) of lovely decadence and unlimited indulgences... I need a break. My body is craving vegetables, a few sweaty runs, green juice a plenty, yoga and perhaps most of all, rest. Lots and lots of rest. I don't doubt that an organized bedroom, clean laundry and a bountiful bank account would help as well.

I'm young (even with a recent birthday), I'm healthy (despite being plagued by a sluggish bloat), and I am most definitely fun-seeking (no apologies). I have enjoyed every single moment of these past two weeks--including the free happy hour at the Empire Hotel Rooftop with my friend, Kate, at which I took these photos. And yet, for now, I've had enough. I would just like to go home after work and head to bed early. Thrilling? Not so much, but it's certainly called for.

So that is exactly what I'm going to do for these next three days; allow my body the rest and tender loving care it deserves, refresh my beloved apartment, give my wallet time to replenish. What is fun if I'm not well enough to enjoy it anyway? Exactly.  Don't worry though, this does not mean that things are going to get boring. We have a few previous evenings of entertainment to catch up on...

personal definitions

Yesterday's post has had me reflecting over my life in the past year. It's been an interesting one, emotionally and professionally, and it's that unique combination of uncertainty, heartbreak, open roads and Central American getaways that led me to exactly where I am today: residing in Manhattan, working at a start-up, doing what I love, and living the way I choose to.

Which leads me to my next thought - how I choose to live. Healthfully is the first word that comes to mind, but upon further examination, it appears as though such a word is often vague. And so, I will define it for the both of us. Doing so is most likely the only way I'll be able to maintain some sense of equilibrium around here.

 

Foremost, I believe in having a healthy mindset. This means making sure I eat vegetables daily but not being critical of myself if on a busy day that merely means a few carrot sticks for a snack. This means prioritizing those extra few minutes each morning to make myself breakfast and pack a lunch. This also means being very okay with skipping a homemade, balanced dinner to meet a friend for drinks and appetizers. And, finally, this means enjoying copious amounts of wine, chocolate, and salads without any concern for their respective nutritional content.

Next, I believe in having a healthy approach to daily life. Enjoying the long walk to the subway, for instance, because I realize that the physical exercise is beneficial and the time spent meditatively moving calms my thoughts. Or perhaps working diligently in the office all day and then unplugging at home to give my eyes, and my brain, a rest. Or maybe even reveling in a suprise lunch of baked goods, corn chowder, raw broccoli salad, and guacamole and then listening to my body as it calls for green juice that evening. Traveling whenever possible, honoring that passion, is probably an example as well.

Lastly, I believe in having a healthy fullness. Yes, I did just make up a phrase, please allow me to explain. Health aside, a full life for me means meeting a friend for wine-filled dinner on a weekday night. It may also mean canceling plans with people I love so that I can unwind, clean up, and relax with my own perfectly happy heart. It is a sense of emotional wellness that is just as important to me as being content with my overall physical well being. That, my sweets, is what living healthfully means to me. How do you define your balance?

a balancing stroll

May has certainly been a busy month thus far. I moved and settled into my new apartment, I'm slowly but surely surviving a marathon work week, and apparently my birthday is the weekend after next. It's been fantastically exhausting. So, for the next few days, I am going to take a long, hard look at the areas of my life that need balance and determine how it is I'm going to find it.

Sleep: I don't often sleep as much as I should. I intend to go to bed early and then stay up, lying in bed, as I ponder all the things I need to do the next day. Then I watch Hulu for a few hours. Unfortunately, lack of proper rest has physical effects as that of stress. You can imagine how pretty things often don't look as a result ;). I need to get myself on a regular schedule while also finding moments throughout the day to mentally rest. Meditation comes to mind, quite literally.

Nourishment: I cannot say that I haven't been eating healthfully, but recently, convenience has taken priority before nutrition. Now that I have my weekends again, I'd like to visit my local farmer's market more purposefully, seeking seasonal produce with an idea as to what dishes I'd like to whip up later in the week. I never though I'd be the one to plan my meals, but perhaps I will. Albeit loosely. It might be the only way I'll properly use my new Vitamix, and it'll certainly be a way to make sure my eats have variety.

Movement. Oh dear yoga, how I have neglected you. Exercise always seems to go to the wayside as I accumulate more and more into my schedule. I miss it. Believe it or not, I'd actually like to get into the habit of running at least once a week. I also must use of my Yoga PassBook, in addition to trying out local rooftop yoga at YoYoga! NYC and a few other studios I've acquired trials for. Thankfully, no matter what, I always have my walk to and from the subway. It keeps me centered.

And there ya go; My general plan for re-balance. Throughout these next few posts, I'm going to highlight a few of the tools that have and will help me in this ever-necessary process including a round-up of kitchen staples, new activewear, and general thoughts. I know I'm looking forward to writing and then practicing them more than anyone :) hope you'll enjoy too. Have a good night, lovelies.