A FeetUp Trainer To Invest In Yoga and Mental Health At Home – The Daily Beast
Posted: December 17, 2020 at 8:52 pm
It felt like an extravagance when I finally bought myself the FeetUp Trainer, but my justification went something like this: when the world feels upside down, perhaps its wise to literally look at life from that perspective. The FeetUp Trainer, which is on the better-made end of yoga benches out there, helps you to more easily do inversions of all kinds without injury or discomfort. This allows you to enjoy the circulatory and mood benefits of headstands and upside down poses for much longer than you would be able to on your own.
After doing some research on the best yoga benches out there, I landed on the FeetUp Trainer for a few reasons. Its made with high-quality vegan leather and wood, ethically manufactured, and also comes with a helpful two-sided poster of creative poses you can do on the bench. It also looked aesthetically pleasing, so I knew I wouldnt mind leaving it out in order to remember to use it more frequently.
I like to exercise, but find I slack when it comes to a very necessary component of fitness and general wellbeing: stretching. Having this tool around makes the prospect more playful while I watch TV or listen to a podcast or even meditate upside down. If I dont feel like inverting, this bench also helps make all kinds of stretches deeper, more supportive, and safer. I find it especially helps cushion the Half Pigeon pose, and makes arm balances more supportive.
If you are having trouble finding the fun in stretching or exercise, perhaps its time to give in to the topsy-turvy world were in right now and spend some time upside down. You might find you even get some good ideas there. (Some also claim inversions help your digestive system, though not too soon after a meal.) All in all, Im glad I shelled out the $150 for this bench, and think it makes a great gift for yourself or a loved one who misses yoga class while in quarantine.
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A FeetUp Trainer To Invest In Yoga and Mental Health At Home - The Daily Beast
How to ease stress with eye yoga: Celebrity yoga teacher Koya Webb – Insider – INSIDER
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Koya Webb can sit on the ground with her legs extended straight up and out to the sides, her arms parallel to the floor, grasping her feet. The celebrity yoga instructor and health coach can unfurl into a headstand, tilt into a backbend, and balance on one foot like an ice skater.
A post shared by Koya Webb (she/her) (@koyawebb)
"If anyone sees me on social media, they're like, 'you're so flexible, you're so strong,'" told Insider.
But that wasn't always the case. A former track athlete with a chance to go to the Olympics, Webb suffered a back injury that ultimately ended that career. It was caused by overuse, poor sleep, and tight muscles, she said."I couldn't touch my toes," Webb said.
But Webb's recovery led her to yoga which, at the beginning, was simply deep breathing. Now she helps her followers and clients, who've included Stevie Wonder, India Aire, P. Diddy, and Ashley Judd, embrace daily self-care something particularly critical during the holiday season capping off what for many was a tragic, life-altering year.
"I believe when we have challenges, they're actually meant to make us stronger," Webb said. "So no matter how rough, no matter how debilitating, no matter how sad, that if we're able to grow through the challenges and learn more about ourselves, learn more about others and learn more about the world, then actually that's the silver lining."
Webb talked to Insider about a few simple techniques anyone can use to find calm, and even joy, this season.
Eye yoga involves closing your eyes while intentionally moving your eyeballs in various directions. While there's no evidence that the practice can treat various eye diseases or improve vision, as some practitioners promote, it has been shown to reduce eye strain and is an accessible, subtle, and risk-free way to de-stress.
"The average American is in front of the phone or the computer at least four hours a day," Webb said, "and so that can cause eye strain and tension headaches, and it can add on to anxiety."
To practice eye yoga, simply close your eyes and take a few deep breaths while imagining the stress leave your eyes as you exhale. Then, with your eyes still closed, look all the way down, look all the way to the right, all the way up, and all the way to the left. Then, repeat in the opposite direction.
Roll your eyes in more fluid circles both directions, too, like you're massaging the backs of your eyelids with your eyeballs, Webb explained.
Finally, rub the palms of your hands together until they're warm, then place them on your closed eyes while zig-zagging your eyeballs once more.
Webb recommends doing eye yoga for just two minutes after every 30 minutes of computer use. You can also simply close your eyes really tight, and then blink them a couple of times to release the tension. "It also helps puffiness in the eyes if you didn't get sleep the night before," she said. "So it's really great to just do a little yoga every single day."
A post shared by Koya Webb (she/her) (@koyawebb)
Webb also recommends deep breathing as an alternative to full-body yoga.
"So many times people feel like they have to get a mat or have fancy yoga clothes to do yoga, but you don't have to," she said. But anyone can practice mindful movement, meditation, and breath work, which "really helps calm anxiety," Webb said.
"It really does help you turn on your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps you rest and digest, which most of us need because we're eating a lot andwe're also not as not getting as much sleep at this time," she said.
For beginners, Webb recommends a three-part breath: Inhale for five seconds, hold for five seconds, and exhale for five seconds. Repeat while involving the shoulders, bringing them up, holding them, and releasing them along with your breath.
"Anyone can do this, whether you're at work or at home, just these little eye yoga and breathing exercises will help release some of that tension out of your shoulders, help your eyes relax," Webb said. "And you're going to feel a lot better."
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The New You: The many benefits of yoga – WKYC.com
Posted: at 8:52 pm
You don't have to be a professional to feel real benefits from the practice of yoga. Even small, low impact movements can have big results
CLEVELAND Since embarking on this "The New You journey, Ive learned that that a healthy lifestyle is not only about eating well, its also about reducing anxiety and moving your body two huge factors in the ancient practice of yoga.
Thats why, each week during our shared medical appointment, we take some time to work with Cleveland Clinics lead yoga therapist Judi Bar.
"The reason yoga is in the program is because it does help with mindfulness. Were going to look at body awareness, am I breathing am I holding in my breath because just allowing ourselves to make a breath can many times, help us make a nice non-emotional decision," Bar told us the first week of the program.
Though virtual yoga has been great, Kati, Kim and I recently had the chance to practice with Judi in person, at Cleveland Clinics Wellness Center campus in Lyndhurst.
In our class, Judi explained that yoga can get a bad rap for being complicated and physically advanced. But right away, Judi told us yoga can be modified for all, and even low impact, simple motions can have lasting results. She had us start by using a chair to help us modify the poses instead of practicing on the floor.
"The key here is we don't start out running a marathon. In yoga we can build our core, we can stretch our our rotator cuffs we can help support our back we can get better stronger legs more flexible feet," Bar said.
"All I ask you to do is listen to your body if something that I'm suggesting isn't working then you adjust and adapt."
But its not all about the physical workout. Just like we learned in our culinary medicine class, like food, yoga can even help fight infections in the body.
"The variety we get in yoga and the moving helps to really support a healthy immune system too it pumps that lymphatic fluid through to to get some detoxing done," she told us.
Though none of us would call ourselves professionals, Kim, Kati and I all settled in pretty quickly to learn some of those famous poses youve probably heard about - including my favorite - the "warrior pose."
It wasn't all easy, but by the end of class, I think we looked pretty good! And Judi just may have convinced me to incorporate yoga into my daily routine. Namaste.
Were in this together!
If you're interested in learning more, or signing up for a similar program through the Cleveland Clinic, visit:
call: 216.448.4325 or email: cilm@ccf.org
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New Fitness Businesses That Opened in Philadelphia Amid the Pandemic – Philadelphia magazine
Posted: at 8:52 pm
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Phillys health and wellness community is finding new ways to evolve, and in some cases, starting fresh.
Strength Haus, one of Phillys new fitness businesses to launch during the pandemic, hosts an outdoor class in Queen Village. | Photo courtesy Strength Haus Instagram.
With all of the change and challenge of this year for the fitness and wellness industry, its a marvel to see new fitness initiatives opening up. But, we shouldnt be surprised. The Philly area is chock full of determined and passionate trainers and leaders who are creating their own paths, whether IRL and socially distanced, or entirely online. (Shout out to all the virtual races that happened this year, too.) Here are just some of the new digital and in-person offerings that have cropped up in the Philly area since March.
These new workout classes (which kicked off during the most recent city shutdown) typically take place on Sundays outdoors and socially distanced in different locations around Philly. Check their Instagram for information and to get on a mailing list for workout updates.
Leavell Up Fitness is a body-positive and inclusive fitness network that seeks to make exercise accessible and joyful. It was launched this year by Lauren Leavell, a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and group fitness instructor. Check the website for membership options.
The stylish new Nordic-inspired space in Nolibs opened this year and offers sauna sessions, massages, and limited contact private booking. Read more about their opening and their offerings here.
Yoga teacher Marissa Nash launched the Well Studio in October, a virtual studio focusing on movement, breath work, community, and meditation. Members get access to a weekly movement and meditation sessions and a monthly wellness guest expert talk. Check out all the information on their website.
Yoga instructor Lisa ORear launched Align Your Asana 2.0, a group coaching course centered around yoga this fall. Check her website and Instagram for the latest updates and future offerings.
Fit pro Jayel Lewis pivoted to launch her Fitness Curriculum, a program which teaches fitness professionals how to build their online platforms and businesses, and create additional revenue streams, in July. Shell be offering more sessions in the coming year, too. Find out more on the website.
OMM Yoga Studio, which stands for Organic Mindful Movement, was founded by Anne Ledyard, Jacki Silva Steuer, and Melissa Green Henkin. They created it after being laid off from CorePower Yoga amid the coronavirus pandemic. Check out their full list of offerings on their website.
This brand new gym from Whitney Blaylock opened this September on East Allegheny Avenue. It was designed to be a space where women can confidently reach their fitness goals the space features painted walls by fashion designer Iris Barbee Bonner. Check their Instagram and website for their latest updates.
This program from fitness coach Angelena Minniti includes a 12-week group coaching course that will come with a progressive strength training program, live workouts, a nutritionist and a community of like-minded individuals. Check her Instagram and website for more information.
Spirits Up! launched in June, and has since continued expanding their initiatives to include socially distanced group workouts like running, yoga, and meditation, as well as plenty of virtual health and wellness events. Theyre working towards a goal of opening a brick-and-mortar location, too. Check out the latest updates on the website and Instagram.
Yoga instructor Jung Kim kicked off her virtual yoga program, YogaJung, this year, partnering with various other local organizations in the process. Check her website for the latest updates and schedule.
Fitness coach and entrepreneur Jackie Dragones latest offering is The Program, a 90-day small group training for busy women that want to build sustainable healthy habits. Find out more information here.
Launched during the pandemic by Latifah McMullin and Jimmy Kirby, the Practice in the Park yoga series takes place outdoors and socially distanced in Malcolm X Park on select dates. Check Instagram for the latest updates and information about upcoming classes.
The movement and meditation classes from Joy Moves are available by membership subscription or drop-in. Find more information and the latest scheduling information online.
Launched in September 2020, this new studio from instructors Alyssa Beerger and Michele Dolaway offers pilates, barre, and yoga virtually as well as in outdoor locations in Ambler. Check their website or Instagram for the latest updates.
The Refresh is a Be Well with Beth fitness and nutrition online program created for busy parents. It provides weekly action prompts, online resources, Zoom chats and other tools to help parents feel energized and in control of their health and wellness. Find out more information on the website.
Konect offers recovery compression therapy, chiropractor services, IV therapy, and chryotherapy in NoLibs, and opened this past summer. Check their website for the latest information on pricing and availability of services.
Another NoLibs newcomer, Nirvana medical wellness spa was founded by a former Rescue Spa esthetician, and includes a staff largely drawn from other former Rescue spa workers. Learn more about them here.
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Benefits of embarking on a yoga retreat – Travel Daily News International
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Everyone is aware of the fact that practicing yoga has innumerable benefits, but to master the art perfectly you need to get away from routine life. Opting to spend time at a specialised yoga retreat can raise your yogic potential to an entirely different level.
Embarking on a journey of this type is not only insightful and empowering, it offers the true essence of a healthy lifestyle. If you are still clueless as to why you should include yoga wellness in your travel plans, then here are some compelling reasons to convince you.
Yoga allows you to relax and destress One of the main reasons to book a yoga retreat with a reputed brand such as Vacayou, is to get away from it all. People have become so stressed with the chores of everyday life and the responsibilities that come with it, that most of their daily time is spent in survival mode.
A retreat allows you to spend time on yourself without having to focus on other issues. Often after you leave the retreat, your state of mind will be clearer and with your batteries recharged, you will be able to tackle your problems of daily life in a much relaxed manner than ever before.
A retreat totally disconnects you from technology Many good retreats are located in remote but scenic locations where there is no cell service or very limited connectivity. In fact mobiles, laptops and computers should always be left at home or completely switched off when attending a retreat.
This disconnection from technology for a number of days allows one to connect better with your body and your natural surroundings. Once the temptation to talk to friends and family members back home or check emails gets subdued, you will discover that the break from the electromagnetic radiation you lug around with you all the time can save you from various ailments in the long run.
Brings you closer to nature With so many distractions occupying our life, humans yearn for something to fill in the gap between themselves and nature to feel happier, fulfilled and better connected to the universe. The fact that most of the yoga poses are named after animals is proof enough as to how yoga practitioners have learnt to maintain their health by the imitation of these poses.
Yoga brings you close to nature by providing a connection with air, water and earth, a reason why many yoga retreats are located in the best of natural surroundings almost everywhere in the world. Even states like New York, have quaint yoga retreats like the Shou Sugi Ban house in the pristine Hamptons. You can easily take a break from big city life by spending a few peaceful nights there.
Gives you space to self reflect Yoga retreats allow the individual to reflect on their lives and the actions and decisions they have taken in the long run, irrespective of whether they were or were not in their interests towards a positive path.
Some people may be fearful of self-reflection as it may reveal emotions and make them vulnerable, but time taken to reflect can bring about clarity and visions for a better future. Time and space so created for self is very important to make the onward journey of life on a path that satisfies your dreams.
Enhances your yoga and meditation level Even if you have been practicing yoga for many many years, embarking on a yoga retreat will surely have additional benefits. The fact remains that every time you work with a different instructor and discuss your own yoga practice with them you reap immense rewards.
This helps in a deeper understanding of the mind, body and soul connection by focusing your energy on different areas. A retreat also gives you the opportunity to practice on your mindfulness exercises and better meditation.
Meet like minded people One of the biggest advantages of staying in a yoga centric resort is that you will be surrounded by like minded people during the entire duration of your stay there. Since these people will be from all walks of life, a perfect platform is created to foster long lasting friendships.
Once you experience different cultures, it is quite possible that you will get inspired by someone and learn something new altogether. As the environment around you will be positive, you will have a better chance to relax and concentrate on your own personal wellness than ever before.
Physical benefits of yoga The various techniques adopted in yoga to induce relaxation can lessen chronic ailments like arthritis, migraine, headaches and lower back pain. Yoga has also been of immense help in reducing the blood pressure and curing insomnia.
Some other physical benefits include:
Mental benefits Besides the physical benefits of yoga there are plenty of other qualities to aid a yoga practitioner. The main thing yoga does is to help manage stress, a malady known to have a devastating effect on the body and the mind. T
his usually results in lower levels of concentration, sleeping issues, back pains and alcohol and drug abuse. Yoga is very effective in coping with mental issues and leading to a more positive outlook towards life.
The meditation and breathing exercises incorporated in yoga practice can make a vast improvement in the well-being of a person. Regular yoga sessions relax the mind, relieves the chronic stress patterns and creates mental clarity and calmness. Moreover, yoga can help in detecting physical problems early so as to allow for quick preventive action.
Makes a person happy It has been well established that consistent yoga practice can improve depression and thereby provide a significant increase in the serotonin levels and a decrease in monoamine oxidase enzymes and cortisol. These findings are correlated with enhanced levels of happiness and better immunity in dedicated long term practitioners.
Relaxes the system Yoga encourages the individual to slow down the level of breathing and concentrate on the present by shifting the balance of the nervous system to create a restorative effect. This increases the flow of blood to the intestine and the reproductive organs to instil a relaxation response. It further increases proprioception and improves balance resulting in fewer falls, especially for the elderly resulting in a delayed or never admission to a nursing home.
Practising yoga on a regular basis can increase the physical as well as the mental health benefits of a person. This systematic approach to wellness focuses on the natural tendency of the various flex muscles groups present in your body towards self healing.
Fortunately, whether you are a couch potato or a fitness freak there are so many modifications in yoga poses that anyone can easily start practising yoga. Embarking on a yoga retreat will hence be beneficial for people of all fitness levels or age.
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Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Yoga Bolsters – Longevity LIVE
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Take any yoga class, and the studio will most likely offer yoga bolsters, cushions, and pillows to assist your restorative poses or help you achieve a comfortable position for deep breathing exercises. But now that youve felt for yourself how great a restorative fish pose can feel when supported by firm yoga bolsters, how do you choose the best cushions for your own home practice? Heres what you need to know. Longevity Live Partner Content.
Yoga bolsters and pillows come in four basic flavors: rectangular, round, pranayama, and meditation. Round and rectangular bolsters typically come in two sizes, large and small, with the small bolsters being several inches shorter than the long bolsters.
Pranayama yoga bolsters look similar to rectangular bolsters theyre rectangular, but they tend to be longer and thinner. These bolsters are used to open up the spine in a reclining position during pranayama practice. Meditation cushions, like the small, round zafu and the large, flat zabuton that goes under it, are intended to support the spine during seated meditation practices.
Different types of bolsters are suitable for different people and practices. Small or junior sized rectangular or round bolsters are suited for children and petite adults, for example, while rectangular and round bolsters in general are suitable for supporting the body in most restorative poses.
Rectangular bolsters are flatter and more stable for restorative poses, and theyre large enough to support the entire torso of the average practitioner. Round bolsters are more appropriate for supporting poses that encourage a bend in the body, like side bends and back bends. They can also be placed between the legs to relieve tension during seated meditation practices, or under the knees during savasana.
Meditation cushions are designed to provide support for the entire body during seated meditation, and thats why most people use a zafu/zabuton combination the zafu provides firm support for the spine and torso, while the zabuton provides support for the legs, feet, and ankles in positions like lotus, half lotus, easy pose, or hero pose. You may be able to use a folded zabuton to provide support in some yoga poses, but a bolster will typically be firmer and more fully stuffed.
Most companies that make and sell yoga bolsters offer different firmness levels, typically a maximum and a normal or minimum level of support. Unlike other pillows, yoga bolsters are packed firm to offer support that allows your body to relax into the bolster, and keeps supported areas lifted off the floor. Softer bolsters are appropriate for more restorative practices and poses, while firmer bolsters are best if you follow a more active practice, or youre a larger practitioner.
You can also choose from different filling materials, and the filling material you choose might make a noticeable difference in how functional and supportive your bolster is. If you want a light but firm bolster thats easy to carry, you need to look for one with a synthetic filling, like poly-fill wrapped around foam, or even a natural cotton filling. If you want a bolster that will conform to the shape of your body, grab one filled with buckwheat hulls or flaxseed its more sustainable, and might offer optimum support, but itll be heavier and you probably wont want to drag it to the studio with you.
You might want multiple bolsters for your home practice, or you might be looking for the perfect bolster that will support all of your poses. Fortunately, youll have the chance to try differently shaped and sized bolsters in most yoga studios, where teachers offer a range of props to their students. Tell your yoga teacher youre trying different bolsters in order to choose which kind(s) to buy for your home practice. He or she can give you advice and maybe offer you different kinds of bolsters to try from the supply closet.
A yoga bolster can really transform your practice, making it easier for your body to get into restorative poses and active poses alike. Take care when choosing the right bolsters for your home practice. These cushions will be a central part of your practice for years to come.
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Its never too late to start, says Shilpa Shetty as she aces Sirsasana – The Indian Express
Posted: at 8:52 pm
By: Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | December 17, 2020 10:00:38 am Seek some fitness gusto from Shilpa Shetty. (Source: Shilpa Shetty/Instagram; designed by Gargi Singh)
We all wish to reach a certain goal when it comes to our fitness levels. But none of it comes without dedicated efforts and strong willpower. So if you have been thinking of upping your yoga practice and acing Sirsasana or headstand, you have the perfect inspiration coming straight from actor and yoga aficionado, Shilpa Shetty Kundra.
The fitness icon recently posted a note on Instagram along with a video sharing her three-year-long journey of acing Sirsasana.
The 45-year-old revealed she began her journey, plausibly late for her age, in January 2017. I first tried the Sirsasana, or the headstand, almost three years ago with a bit of fear as I was told I wouldnt be able to since I suffered from cervical spondylosis. Started out late, but I made it my personal goal to attempt it with diligence, faith, and the belief that the mind is more powerful than the body. It took me a few months to accomplish the mission I was on, but nailed it nevertheless, Shilpa shared.
If you thought it was easy for her given her passion for fitness, wait till you read what she had to say further. Whoever thought it was easy for me nothing in life is till you try consistently. I practice this asana to sustain this accomplishment, no matter what happens. Three years later, it still makes me extremely happy to know that I can manage to perform and record myself performing the Sirsasana all by myself, she mentioned.
Benefits of Sirsasana
According to Shilpa, the asana helps increase blood supply to the head, therefore, is beneficial for the brains functioning and for all sensory organs in the head such as the eyes and ears. It also improves focus and ability to concentrate and also regulates the functioning of the many systems in the body.
Want to do Sirsasana? Heres how to approach it
Known as the king of all yoga poses, Sirsasana needs practice and precision to nail.
*Always workout with an experienced trainer and be on the same page with them. *Warm-up before you start your practice. *Dont immediately jump into a headstand. Experts stress the need for core and shoulder strength to attempt a headstand. The rest of the body bears more pressure in the inverted posture, so pay attention to strengthening the neck, shoulders and core in the initial sessions before attempting the final stance. One can include preparatory poses like boat pose, dolphin plank, and wide-legged forward bend. *Not just the bodys ability but the breathing ability also needs to be kept in check. Deep breathing is a must to ace the practice.
We agree with Shilpa when she says, the motivation is here, its never too late to start. What about you?
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Topeka yoga instructor to host winter solstice hike – The Topeka Capital-Journal
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Brianna Childers |Topeka Capital-Journal
Kathy Damron, a Topeka-based yoga instructor, has always found comfort and beauty in hikes and a variety of other outdoor activities.
Damron is hoping others find that connection when they join her on a winter solstice hike Monday, Dec. 21, at Cedar Crest.
The hike will start 4 p.m. and participants will meet at MacLennan Park Trails at Cedar Crest, 1 S.W. Cedar Crest Road, before embarking on a short hike on the trails. The hike is open to anyone and all levels of walkers and hikers. The wearing of masks is encouraged.
Damron said she anticipates the hike will last about 45 minutes to one hour, and attendees are invited to bring a chair, warm clothes and a flashlight for a socially distanced gathering afterward.
Ive always enjoyed this time of year for not only the seasonal aspect of the holidays, but also just the beauty that comes about outside, Damron said. When the air gets a little cooler and drier, the sunrises and sunsets in Kansas are truly remarkable. The colors are more vivid and as we get closer to winter solstice, because of the way the earth aligns with the sun, the sunsets actually last a little longer so you might notice in the afternoon the colors get a little softer.
This years winter solstice will be a unique experience as Jupiter and Saturn will reach almost complete alignment for the first time in nearly 800 years.
According to The Associated Press, when they align this closely, the two planets will appear to form a single bright star, also known as the Christmas Star.
The last occurrence of this type of planetary alignment happened in 1226, said Patrick Hartigan, Rice University astronomer.
Jupiter and Saturn will move closer together over the next two weeks leading up to Dec. 21. Those searching for the Christmas Star will be able to see it by looking to the southwest as the sun sets.
While planetary alignments arent a rare occurrence, the Associated Press reported, this particular type of alignment isnt common due to how close the planets will appear to the naked eye.
NASA predicts the next time an alignment of this magnitude occurs will be in 60 years, then another 320 years after that.
Damron is hoping to witness the Christmas Star during the winter solstice hike at Cedar Crest.
Im hoping people, even if they leave (the hike), that by the time they get home they can look outside and see it, Damron said. It should be really spectacular.
Damron said she hopes the hike creates an avenue for community members to safely gather amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
I think more than anything else, I just want people to take away from the experience a sense of gratitude for community, for one another, Damron said. Being outside, even if youre outside and you dont know another person thats on the hike or youre just taking a walk and you dont really know the other people, just having that ability to connect with people I think can be deeply gratifying and booth peoples overall sense of well-being.
Its a richer experience than I think people oftentimes imagine until they start spending time outside hiking or waking or riding their bike. Its a wonderful resource thats available to all of us.
The winter solstice this year will be a special one as Jupiter and Saturn will almost completely align and create the appearance of a bright star, also known as a Christmas Star, for the first time in almost 800 years. On Dec. 21, which marks the winter solstice, the planets will be at their closest point.
The best time to witness the Christmas Star will be over the next two weeks leading up to Dec. 21, and it can be found by looking to the southwest as the sun sets.
If you plan on experiencing the winter solstice and the Christmas Star at a vantage point in Topeka, let us know where by emailing Topeka Capital-Journal reporter Brianna Childers at bchilders@cjonline.com.
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Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1 review: A compact and flexible business 2-in-1 Review – ZDNet
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Lenovo has a wide range of laptops on its books, including the Yoga brand which signifies a 2-in-1 system with a 360-degree rotating screen. While theThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1is, as its name suggests, the first in a new line, it's also a very close cousin of 2019'sThinkPad X390. There's also the superb -- and expensive -- 14-inchThinkPad X1 Yogaand the traditionalThinkPax X1 Carbonto consider.
Heritage aside, the ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1 is a small, neat 13.3-inch laptop that's made for portability. Prices start at 1,097.99 (inc. VAT; 914.99 ex. VAT) in the UK, with our high-end review unit costing 1,511.99 (inc. VAT; 1,259.99 ex. VAT).
The design is utterly distinctive: an all black chassis, with the ThinkPad logo on the lid, and the dot of the 'i' glowing red when the laptop is in use. Inside, the red TrackPoint between the G, H and B keys and its companion three physical buttons above the touchpad are also giveaways.
The X13 Yoga Gen 1 is solidly built, meeting 12 military-gradeMIL-STD 810Gtests and exhibiting typical ThinkPad durability in both the lid and the chassis. There's a little flex in the lid, but not enough to worry about, while the base is solid, with no flex at all in the keyboard. This tough build does impact the weight, which starts at 1.29kg.
Lenovo's 13.3-inch ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1 runs on 10th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage. Options include a 4K OLED display and LTE mobile broadband.
In laptop mode, the X13 Yoga has a desktop footprint measuring 310.4mm wide by 219mm deep, and it's 15.95mm thick. It's a compact laptop that will fit into even my smallest rucksack -- in fact, the rather chunky two-piece power adapter is more of a pain to accommodate.
The 360-degree screen hinge is smooth and tight enough to hold the display in any desired position. The trade-off with a laptop that's designed to function in tablet mode is relatively wide screen bezels. I measured the X13 Yoga's side bezels at 8mm to the outer edge of the chassis, the top bezel at 17mm to the outer edge, and the bottom bezel at 22mm to the inner edge of the chassis frame, with another 10mm to the very edge of the chassis. The wider upper bezel is understandable, but in these days when the trend is for taller screens that reduce the bottom bezel to a minimum, that 32mm really rankles. Thescreen to body ratiois just 72%, compared to 80.5% for the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1.
If you don't need the X13 Yoga's rotating screen, the 14-inch ThinkPad X1 Carbon (7th Gen) might well prove a better option, as it's comparable in size (323mm x 217mm x 14.95mm vs 310.4mm x 219mm x 15.95mm) and significantly lighter (1.09kg vs 1.29kg).
The ThinkPad Pen Pro is bundled, and has a home on the right side of the chassis.
The screen itself is a pleasure to use. At 13.3-inches it's rather small if you want to have two working documents open side by side, but the quality of the FHD (1,920 x 1,080) panel on my review unit was excellent. I found it equally good for watching video as for document creation and editing. Bear in mind though, that the screen on the entry-level iteration only offers 300 nits of brightness; my review unit had a 500-nits screen.
The screen is touch responsive, and Lenovo provides itsThinkPad Pen Profor stylus-based input. This lives in a housing on the front right of the chassis, so it's less likely to be lost or forgotten.
A 4K (3,840 x 2,160) OLED panel that supports 100% of theDCI-P3colour space is available as an option, but there are two security feature that are only available with the FHD-resolution panel. These are: Privacy Guard, which is invoked via the keyboard and obscures the screen for people sitting on either side of the user; and Privacy Alert, which uses the webcam to let you know if someone is looking over your shoulder. Further security features include a fingerprint reader and Lenovo's ThinkShutter sliding privacy cover for the 720p webcam.
The X13 Yoga Gen 1's keyboard is a typical ThinkPad unit, with large and responsive keys. It is backlit, and quiet in operation.
The keyboard is a joy to use. The large, pot-bellied QWERTY keys are springy and responsive, the Fn keys are slightly larger than you might expect and squared off, the cursor keys are sizeable, and the Enter key is double-height and wide. The keyboard is almost silent in use, and as noted earlier, there's absolutely no flex at all. The trackpad is responsive, too.
Processor-wise, the ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1 is based on 10th generation Intel silicon. The seven off-the-shelf configurations available in the UK use either Core i5 or Core i7 chips, with my review unit sporting a top-endCore i7-10510U. RAM is either 8B or 16GB, as in my review unit, while SSD storage varies between 128GB, 256GB and my review unit's 512GB. LTE mobile broadband is integrated into some of the off-the-shelf options, with the SIM caddy on the right edge of the chassis.
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There are two USB-C ports on the left edge, one of which supports Thunderbolt 3 and is incorporated into a 'double dock' that can also accommodate an Ethernet dongle or a Lenovo docking station. The other USB-C port is used for charging. Also on the left edge is a USB 3.1 port and a 3.5mm headset jack, and space for an optional smartcard reader. There's a second USB 3.1 port on the right side, along with a full-size HDMI port, the SIM caddy and the stylus housing. The power switch is also here, conveniently located if you want to leave the screen facing outwards following a tablet-mode session.
Lenovo claims a battery life of up to 18.2 hours in its detailed product specs, although elsewhere it simply talks about 'all day' life from the 50Wh battery. I used the system's default settings for my rundown test, although in everyday use I might dial the screen brightness down a little to conserve power. Over three hours of a mainstream workload involving writing into web apps, browsing, and streaming video and music, the battery lost 30% from a full charge. On this basis, users might struggle to get through a day's work and then a movie, but rapid charging will get the battery from zero to 80% in an hour.
Lenovo's ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 1 impresses on several fronts, including its solid build, well-made 360-degree screen hinge, high-quality display, bundled ThinkPad Pen Pro, and configuration options that include smartcard and mobile broadband, plus screen security features.
On the downside, the latest 11th-generation Intel Core processors are not on offer, and battery life is distinctly average. Bear in mind also that if you want more than 128GB of storage and a 300 nits screen, or mobile broadband, you'll have to spend considerably more than the 1,097.99 (inc. VAT) starting price.
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5 Yoga Asanas To Try At Home To Get Rid Of Belly Fat – Femina
Posted: at 8:52 pm
Belly fat is not only unhealthy, but is also ungainly. It is hard to disguise, and the extra weight tends to make you feel sluggish and lethargic. Belly fat also makes you more vulnerable to diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, hyper tension and obesity. You can also increase your self-confidence with a toned stomach. If you want to know an effective way to shed the kilos, then yoga is akin to cardiovascular exercise that increases your heart rate and helps you burn off those calories.
The tummy contains the most stubborn fat, and can be targeted through specific postures that are included in yoga. Along with exercise, modify your diet to eliminate the use of unnecessary sugar, include more soluble fibre, and limit your intake of carbs to see those inches melt away. There are studies that show the dangers of sugar-sweetened beverages, linking them to 60 per cent increased risk of obesity (in children,) for each daily serving. While genetics do play a role in determining your height, and if you are prone to specific illnesses or even obesity, it is lifestyle that ultimately shapes you. Unhealthy eating habits, irregular sleep patterns, lack of exercise etc. all add up leading to the risk of abdominal obesity.
In yoga, surya namaskar or sun salutations are a great way to start off your practise. This full body workout strengthens tones and makes the body flexible. You could start with five cycles a day and gradually build it up as your stamina increases.
Formation of posture:
Formation of the posture
Formation of the posture
Formation of the posture
Formation of the posture
Himalaya Pranam is also the foundation for your Surya Namaskar and asana practice. This Pranam or salutation comes from the ancient Himalayan culture. This 11-step flow will help you to build your stamina, strength and flexibility. The Vinyasa of Himalaya Pranam consists of a combination of backbends, forward folds and dynamic movements. Perform this 21 times before you start your Sun salutation. Go slow in each posture with awareness on your breath.
Take care of your diet, and make sure you consume your daily requirement of calories. Minimize your sugar consumption including sugary drinks and replace this with whole fruit instead. Not only is extremely healthy, it also adds fibre to your system. An effective tip for reducing hunger pangs is protein. Proteinsare known to boost your metabolism as well which can aid in weight loss. With a sensible diet, sufficient sleep and regular exercise, you can be very successful in your belly fat loss journey.
Also Read: Beat The Bloat: 14 Effective and Simple Ways To Get A Flatter Belly
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5 Yoga Asanas To Try At Home To Get Rid Of Belly Fat - Femina