Thursday, March 31, 2011

Sharing Its Thursday


Monday, March 28, 2011

Curly Girl Meet Ups

I have been to 2 Curly Girl Meet Ups in the last few weeks... The amount of fun we had was NOT captured in these photos.. But here they go anyways...























Sunday, March 13, 2011

One Of My Loves..Spinning Class!

So one of my favorite things to do in the gym is a 60 Min Spin/Cycling Class. Why? Because i see results quickly.. And summer is around the corner and I need to drop 10 pounds. I do find it hard to get friends and family to join me...
Spinning is an indoor cycling class held in group fitness centers and health clubs all over the world. Spinning is not only a popular aerobic exercise, but also a great way to lose weight and improve your health. Benefits of spinning include decreased body fat, increased cardiovascular and muscle tone, and decreased levels of stress.

 Muscle Endurance

Muscle endurance is characterized by doing consecutive muscle contractions for a long period of time. When you use a spin bike at a moderate intensity, you can increase the muscle endurance in your legs.

Strength

Working out on a spin bike utilizes a lot of muscles. The glutes, quads, hamstrings, calves and even abs are all targeted. Working out on the bike can help tone and strengthen these areas, especially if you turn the resistance up high so you have to stand to pedal.

Non-impact

People who have joint issues should not place too much downward force on their legs, because it can exacerbate their condition. Spin bikes are used in a seated position with no force coming down on the joints, making it a safe, non-impact exercise

Posture

Having bad posture can lead to muscle imbalances and slouching. When you work out on the spin bike, you need to engage muscles in the hips, trunk and shoulders to stabilize your body. This will improve your posture and your balance at the same time.

A Complete Workout
A 30-minute class can burn as many as 500 calories, according to My Fit. It also helps build your stamina, improve overall strength and increase endurance. Because spinning bikes can be adjusted to provide more or less resistance, you can choose a level with which you’re comfortable. Heavier resistance also means you will be providing your lower body and even your abdominal region with an effective workout. My Fit says spinning classes help you lose inches, shape your body, tone muscles and burn fat.

It's More Fun

Working in a group makes you accountable for your progress, as chances are you don’t want to be the one who falls behind week after week. Having an instructor makes it easier to follow a program, keeps you motivated and forces you to maintain a steady pace. A spinning class is also a lot more fun than sitting on a stationary bike, as you have music, the encouragement of your instructor and a variety of pacing and exercise to keep you interested.


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/396247-spinning-class-and-weight-loss/#ixzz1GXVTHKQM

Friday, March 11, 2011

Steam Room "Detoxifying The Body"


Lately I have been going to the steam room after every workout for 15-20 minutes.  I love the way it has been making me feel. Here are some of the benefits:
Benefits of steam bathing is that it has a stimulating effect on the cardiovascular system. The pulse rate increases from 75 beats per minute (average) to between 100 - 150 beats per minute during a 15 - 20 minute session. This increases blood circulation but not blood pressure, since the heat causes the tiny blood vessels in the skin to expand, accommodating the increased blood flow.
Steam bathing and thus steam inhalation is an effective treatment in respiratory conditions and is highly recommended for the treatment of the common cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, allergies and asthma.

1. Steam relieves inflammation and congestion of the upper respiratory membranes.
2. Steam relieves throat irritation by moistening the air.
3. Steam relieves spasmodic breathing (asthma, croup).
4. Steam loosens secretions and stimulates discharges of mucous from the throat and lungs.
5. Steam relaxes muscles and relieves coughing.
6. Steam keeps the mucous membranes from excessive drying.


If you are like me and dont have a hair Steamer.....The steam room in the gym will do... I add conditioner to my hair and just sit...hahaha

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

My Hair Wish List

 I have a list of things i cant wait to get my hands on....... Here is my hair Wish List.. 


Huetiful Hair Steamer
Maxiglide Flat Iron
Soft Bonnet Hood Hair Dryer
 
 
 
Microwavable Thermal Conditioning Heat Cap
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The Loc Soc


Tuesday, March 8, 2011

The Health Benefits of Flax Seeds

I make a smoothie every morning for my breakfast, which includes: Orange Juice, Fresh Spinach, Carrots, Frozen Pineapples, Mango's, Banana and Strawberries... which Grounded flax seeds. I am normally full for the next few hours, then I have breakfast.
                                            
 
Some of the potential health benefits of flax seeds that have been reported:
 

  • Omega-3 essential fatty acids, "good" fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Each tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains about 1.8 grams of plant omega-3s.

  • Lignans, which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. Flaxseed contains 75- 800 times more lignans than other plant foods

  • Fiber. Flaxseed contains both the soluble and insoluble types

    • Lowered blood cholesterol levels
    • Lowered high blood pressure
    • Increased energy, vitality, and stamina
    • Increased sense of calmness under stress
    • Reduced threat of blood clots
    • Protection against cancers, particularly hormone sensitive cancers such as breast and prostate
    • Better regulation of blood sugar levels
    • Eases inflammatory tissue conditions, including arthritis
    • Alleviation of dry skin, eczema and psoriasis
    • Enhanced immune system
    • Increased metabolic rate with a positive impact on weight management
    • Helps with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
    • Natural laxative
    • And the list goes on

    Wednesday, March 2, 2011

    My Off Day

    So I'm not a Mother yet, but I am a PROUD God Mother of my little Cousins.... These kids are my world and they get almost whatever they want....lol.  We spend the day at the Library and doing a little shopping...


    This is how i started the day after the gym


     This is how the day ended.

    Tuesday, March 1, 2011

    Some Of My Transitioning Flies

    It's crazy to me, but a lot of folks dont believe that i transitioned for 20 Months.... Well here are some photos.It wasnt always easy, but i knew i didnt want to BC. It can be done , you can also Long Term Transition, if you dont want to Big Chop...Here is my Very FIRST youtube video while transitioning back in July 2009.                                                                                                                              
     

    (46) Tangle Teezer, Quick Up Do & Rambling