tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64535512675124472292024-03-14T02:15:11.113-04:00Namaste MariA NYC Girl Enjoying Her Zen...Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09435820427136822934noreply@blogger.comBlogger912125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-33649068881148807962019-08-26T10:06:00.003-04:002019-08-26T10:07:35.821-04:005 Tips To Get Over Your Gym Fears...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mjzmkJfxQFhrVmX-6HY9eeEuAhbLNZH4CFcxisOJW8W-2TpBFGB8LJQLq9O3SMa_pXKTGARcmlihyphenhyphen-FWbOmjmAqPVNkpCaYi7Tp-a8dl0-zvd-id_Gxz7rAAi4jypcUmUs2kNEeL8QI/s1600/b82619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mjzmkJfxQFhrVmX-6HY9eeEuAhbLNZH4CFcxisOJW8W-2TpBFGB8LJQLq9O3SMa_pXKTGARcmlihyphenhyphen-FWbOmjmAqPVNkpCaYi7Tp-a8dl0-zvd-id_Gxz7rAAi4jypcUmUs2kNEeL8QI/s320/b82619.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Recently my friend mentioned that when she watches my vlogs, she wishes that she could go to the gym and do similar workouts but she is intimidated. She then proceeded to ask if I had any tips to get over these fears. Ironically the reason that I workout from home <b><i>is </i></b>because I do suffer from anxiety but with that being said, I have been in the fitness industry for 13 years and want to offer 5 tips that I've learned through the years and have offered to my clients.<br />
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<b>First Tip:</b> Get a training program. Going to the gym without a program is setting yourself up for failure, imagine driving somewhere new without directions. You would be completely lost.<br />
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<b>Second Tip:</b> Do your homework! Before heading to the gym, review your program and learn the exercises for the day. One of the biggest things that people worry about when working out in public is "looking stupid". Bodybuilding.com has an extensive library of exercises where you can see videos, photos, and step by step instructions.<br />
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<b>Third Tip: </b>Get up early and head to the gym! Now I know that most of you reading this, probably rolled your eyes but "Linda Listen". Gyms are much quieter in the morning which means less people to intimidate you and more access to the equipment that you need. Also, I know first hand that people that workout in the morning are there for one thing and one thing only...WORKOUT! Gyms are usually crowded in the evening and half the people are there to socialize. No, thank you.<br />
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<b>Fourth Tip:</b> Record your workouts with your phone. I know this may sound a little silly but you want to execute your exercises to the best of your ability and the best way to do this is by watching yourself. You want to correct these small adjustments before they become bad habits.<br />
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<b>Final Tip: </b>Plug in so you can zone out. Listen to music or podcasts while you workout to drown out the outside chatter<br />
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And here is BONUS tip! If you decide to get a Personal Trainer or Coach, do your homework. Where did they get certified from? Have they worked with people in the past that had similar goals to yours? It has to be a good fit for both the trainer and client.<br />
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I hope this helped and just think; if you start now, you will have a head start before the "resolutionist" make their way on January 1st!<br />
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Watch my video below for more on these tips as well as my September Goals<br />
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Namaste...<br />
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<br />Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-51473748915622551002019-04-15T03:14:00.002-04:002019-04-29T09:50:28.605-04:00I Have Been Lying to Everyone...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Did I get your attention? haha. That title was so dramatic.</div>
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So as most of you know, I am in my late 30's (my birthday is in July if you want to get me a gift xoxo) which means that I was a teenager in the 90's when eyebrows were pencil thin.<br />
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Thanks Drew..thanks.</div>
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<a href="https://www.perfect365.com/wp-content/uploads/drew-barrymore-thin-eyebrows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for 90's eyebrows drew" border="0" class="irc_mi" data-iml="1555270739024" height="353" src="https://www.perfect365.com/wp-content/uploads/drew-barrymore-thin-eyebrows.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="235" /></a></div>
I remember being allowed to get my eyebrows done for my 8th grade graduation and being ecstatic. I went from looking like Einstein to looking like an extra on 90210. They were perfect...<br />
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By the time high school rolled around, we were all rolling like cholas and my pretty eyebrows turned into Hatchet Face from Cry Baby.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oUNtWYcfsQSGCJUJolDC1fCz4HhDnEEqUdIHc1lp-uy-Gpl2d9Qtw3MgpVgyj5MIMJxVzh7otqcR-ve2z9H0GeLmLOAJZT12ZjXGGb0SQdhWDrfgjkN6eCo_nU1iPZtPY9dBUAfg2co/s1600/hatchet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="500" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oUNtWYcfsQSGCJUJolDC1fCz4HhDnEEqUdIHc1lp-uy-Gpl2d9Qtw3MgpVgyj5MIMJxVzh7otqcR-ve2z9H0GeLmLOAJZT12ZjXGGb0SQdhWDrfgjkN6eCo_nU1iPZtPY9dBUAfg2co/s320/hatchet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I guess karma wanted to teach me a lesson because my eyebrows never fully grew back. For quite some time, I have been wanting to get microblading done but I was always hesitant because I was terrified of how they would turn out.</div>
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Thankfully the Universe gave me a little nudge in the right direction. My stepmother is in the process of opening up her own bakery and one day I went with my dad to see the progress. While we were leaving, I noticed a sign across the street... </div>
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I immediately went on Instagram to find her profile and I instantly fell in love.</div>
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After doing some research AKA stalking her feed (and being obsessed with her work); I finally <a href="https://thebrowtendernyc.setmore.com/">booked </a>my appointment. I decided to go with ombre instead of microblading because it had a more realistic look to me. </div>
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On Friday afternoon I finally took the plunge and went in for my first session and y'all I could not be happier with my results. Jenny took her time to make sure everything turned out perfectly and the pain was almost non existent which was quite surprising. She walked me through every step and answered my 100 questions about my eyebrows (and pop culture ha).</div>
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Below is a photo of my eyebrows with makeup, bare, and with ombre.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVIlQEmOCfmc-dVgAh3gWTqtq-Q69auqF6yHubOjH4Qp4zBX7zUDzsRzJQrt7HOJNhy1v5cuWg4H8OuzKmhbO92bSvNRSXPGAqVuJsSIUL0ztUQfiHKK5iySBbWSWBsBQgPIz_5FFsPQ/s1600/micro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVIlQEmOCfmc-dVgAh3gWTqtq-Q69auqF6yHubOjH4Qp4zBX7zUDzsRzJQrt7HOJNhy1v5cuWg4H8OuzKmhbO92bSvNRSXPGAqVuJsSIUL0ztUQfiHKK5iySBbWSWBsBQgPIz_5FFsPQ/s320/micro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They are wedding ready! If you are in NYC and looking to get a cosmetic procedure, head over to Jennisis...you won't be disappointed. </div>
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Watch my vlog below to see part of my treatment</div>
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-3796504796526911182019-03-18T11:24:00.001-04:002019-03-18T11:32:46.002-04:00Stop Waiting For The Other Shoe To Drop & Enjoy The Abundance...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTusZFGDrugRYCNklhE8nx-R1wvtXRC9KoLCM0LCFSf9EGDP2UHhpPo3kGiUdmoVhDnNAoTTqiEryW4G_OGcgJaCbIKeJ6vbe5BrZiPRUCJWbmhN9WyQBC-5A3vaOH8izwHW5MbCgOAs/s1600/MMR+31819.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTusZFGDrugRYCNklhE8nx-R1wvtXRC9KoLCM0LCFSf9EGDP2UHhpPo3kGiUdmoVhDnNAoTTqiEryW4G_OGcgJaCbIKeJ6vbe5BrZiPRUCJWbmhN9WyQBC-5A3vaOH8izwHW5MbCgOAs/s320/MMR+31819.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have you ever watched a movie or television show and the protagonist is walking around as happy as a clam (<i>I don't really get that saying but let's just go with it</i>) and BOOM something bad happens.<br />
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I guess I have seen this play out one too many times because whenever I am extremely happy, I am always waiting for something bad to be right around around the corner.<br />
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Not anymore..I want to shift my mindset.<br />
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Instead of waiting for the other shoe to drop why not be fully embraced in the abundance that is coming your way. Every single morning I start my day by writing down my gratitude list because I want the Universe to know that I appreciate all that is sent my way. Imagine if I went about my daily life with this same exact gratitude...damn that would be epic. The Universe would have no choice but to send me more things to be grateful for.<br />
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So if you need me...I'll be the girl walking around; dancing to the music in my head without a care in the world.<br />
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Make sure to check out my vlog below because Monday Morning Rambles is back (at least for this week ha!). I speak more about this mind shift as well as some changes in my life and of course other rambles....<br />
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-44001547341728611052019-03-08T13:40:00.000-05:002019-03-08T16:58:28.708-05:00Questioning My Integrity?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4whP8U3BHxafi7e32m57cKEBRKnorGvNqRiM037jVeJwKtWM1PhFETfZADw9ztb-XZJWg87ak3_M3w6ttFDKV_RjHRnYlWrqm4hlWqXQKJb9XZTMwY6xXiAqyOtX-qo5ZSgpVcv5H8E/s1600/3819.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4whP8U3BHxafi7e32m57cKEBRKnorGvNqRiM037jVeJwKtWM1PhFETfZADw9ztb-XZJWg87ak3_M3w6ttFDKV_RjHRnYlWrqm4hlWqXQKJb9XZTMwY6xXiAqyOtX-qo5ZSgpVcv5H8E/s320/3819.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The other day, I was having a conversation with my friend who is also a fellow yoga teacher;
which stemmed from a post on Instagram in regards to teachers sharing
images/video from their classes. The post pointed out, that this could be intrusive to students when you share these images. </span><br />
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I honestly started to question my own integrity as a teacher. I am
<i>"guilty" </i>of this as well but my students are always aware of the camera and I try
to blur the images etc. to protect their privacy and I always keep it tasteful. I even had someone comment on a video that I shared on Instagram that it was too dark and I had to let
them know that it was done purposely for my students privacy. Even though I do
follow all these steps, I still wondered if perhaps I was not being a “good”
teacher. But then I remembered that I account my entire life on social media. I’ve been blogging for 10 years...the good, the bad, and the ugly. </span><br />
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
chronicled my entire yoga teacher training experience so this next step only
seemed natural. Also, I’m not sitting there posting on social media as I
teach...that would be absurd.</span>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">An
artist shares their masterpiece in the form of a portrait. A writer shares his
words in the form of a poem. A dancer shares their heart in choreography. Yoga
is my art and I share it because I love the energy from my classes. Times have
changed and social media is how we connect with the world. I know my character
and I know that my intentions are only pure. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
never think that me posting my classes is “advertisement” for myself. It’s
advertisement for Yoga. Yoga saved my life and if I can help one person find
their way onto a mat, I did my job. And like I always tells my students “Don’t
take it so serious, it’s just yoga...have fun”.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Check out my vlog below where I discuss this further as well as share a pescatarian full day of eating.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Namaste...</span></div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-71110484761779528422019-03-03T14:12:00.002-05:002019-03-03T14:12:46.564-05:00Shifting My MindsetDo you remember when you were a child and your parents told you not to do something and it was the only thing that you could think of?<br />
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<i>Dad: Don't talk to that boy</i><br />
<i>Me: Talks to boy when dad isn't looking</i><br />
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I don't know about you, but I still find myself doing this at times. <br />
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That is why I wanted to change my mindset when it came to certain foods that I "couldn't eat". Tell me that I can't eat pizza and watch me eat an entire pie because it is forbidden...hmm I am starting to relate more and more to Eve. <b>Eat the apple girl, eat that apple!</b><br />
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One way that I am changing my mindset with nutrition is with my outlook on carb cycling days. Instead of thinking of it as I can't eat a certain amount of carbs, I want to shift my thought pattern to focusing on eating more fat and protein grams. By making this one small shift, I am no longer thinking of it as a deprivation and associating it to a negative emotion.<br />
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So how did that switch, work out for me? Click on my video below to see my latest full day of eating...<br />
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Namaste...<br />
<br />Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-8788539934494500472019-02-24T12:49:00.001-05:002019-02-24T12:49:26.686-05:00Ten Years In The Making...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPPmEbtcbz5GqP3wDn4JTrfaLpNacUND3lJAXxA0iaU1UqKm-2FpgVs1M0gxJlkndNatfIS9Es3WAi4apzfWZNzFnJE0y0kp9NSObvvfeiKFOiPT4L2_BDxUEAk-CsfrQQHj0Wydbi5o/s1600/ten+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="640" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPPmEbtcbz5GqP3wDn4JTrfaLpNacUND3lJAXxA0iaU1UqKm-2FpgVs1M0gxJlkndNatfIS9Es3WAi4apzfWZNzFnJE0y0kp9NSObvvfeiKFOiPT4L2_BDxUEAk-CsfrQQHj0Wydbi5o/s320/ten+2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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10 years ago <a href="http://www.namastemari.com/2009/02/blogging-virgin.html">today</a>, I decided to start this blog to help me stay accountable and through the years it has morphed into so much more. So many things in my life have happened because of this site and I am truly grateful. I have discovered so much about myself like my love for yoga and helping others. I have formed amazing friendships that would have never happened if it wasn't for Namaste Mari.<br />
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One of the best thing about these past 10 years is YOU! Thank you for taking the time to read my endless rambles, follow my different journeys, and support me through some low moments in my life as well as cheer me on during the highs.<br />
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Speaking of journeys, let's catch up from my last post. Last week, I spoke about finding a coach to help me get to my goals but unfortunately the coach that I was hoping to work with doesn't work with women with PCOS. She was kind enough to recommend someone that did but their prices were out of my league. Thankfully my friend, Sarah came to the rescue and suggested that I try the paid version of Myfitnesspal and ya'll it is awesome.<br />
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One of my favorite things is that I am able to adjust my daily goals for calories and macros instead of only weekly. Also, when I am eating throughout the day it begins to deduct the macros and calories from the total so I know what I have left for the day. I did WW many MANY years ago and this is very reminiscent to that. My friend Angie joked that I am a tad OCD and love structure which is probably why I love the paid version so much...she is completely right.<br />
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I am still looking for a coach but for now this is working just as good and I have an amazing support team. Also I am still going on strong with my Peloton streak...I hit 27 days this morning!<br />
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Check out my latest vlog for a day in the life as well as full day of eating aaaaand how writing a letter to yourself can help you reach your goals.<br />
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-71342201892623592882019-02-12T11:12:00.000-05:002019-02-12T11:36:08.647-05:00I'm Ready For My Sequel...If you read my last post, you know that I went for my first Dexa Scan and I was hoping that it would jolt me back to my goals. It did.<br />
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Honestly, I haven't been happy in my skin for quite some time since I've been somewhat lax with my nutrition. Obviously I KNOW what I have to do since I work in this industry but the drive wasn't there.<br />
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With my sister's wedding 12 weeks away, I need to get my sh*t together. Is this a vanity goal...maybe but it is so much more than that. I want to continue to inspire people, I want to be the best yoga teacher that I can be..I want to be the best version of myself that I am MEANT to be. I want MORE<br />
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So how am I going to do this? Well first let's discuss some things that I won't be doing. I won't judge myself. I won't do crazy detoxes. I won't restrict myself. I won't do crazy hours of cardio.<br />
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Okay now let's discuss my plans to help me succeed. I am currently searching for a coach to keep me accountable. I know for a fact that I do better when I have someone to check-in with and they hold me to my word. I can hear the naysayers "<i><b>but aren't you a health coach</b></i>" duh yes. But doesn't an Olympic athlete have a coach to help them get the gold?<br />
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Now don't get me wrong...for quite sometime I was hesitant to look for a coach because I thought that I was weak for doing so but I am leaving my ego at the door and doing what is best for me. I reached out to a coach that I truly want to work but I am yet to hear back from them...le sigh.<br />
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Now let's talk about my workout program. I will be switching some things up, first I am focusing more on volume instead of load. Honestly my workouts need to match my goals and right now my goals aren't lifting the heaviest weights possible. My goals are to move my body the best way possible and also to be kind to my body so I am able to be the best teacher (read above ha). Oh another thing that I will be implementing are daily Peloton classes. If you follow me on MFP, you know this girl loves herself a streak and I would love to have a streak with Peloton...even if it means a 10 minute warmup before I lift weights.<br />
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I can't compare this journey to my past but I am soooooo ready for my sequel...<br />
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Check out my vlog for more details on my plans as well as a full day of eating! </div>
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Namaste...Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-31197355299257155642019-01-28T11:52:00.001-05:002019-01-28T12:40:05.244-05:00What Did I Think Of My First Dexa Scan Experience? Fun fact about me, the main reason that I went from 220lbs to 138lbs was because my doctor said he wanted to put me on medicine for my cholesterol. I was around 26 years old and refused to go on medication so I decided to change my lifestyle and in 8 months, I dropped 80lbs. Gotta love that twenty year old metabolism...oh how I miss thee.<br />
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Fast forward to 10 years later and I am once again in search for that scared straight moment...enter Dexa Scan. <br />
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Here is some information about Dexa Scan from their website:<br />
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<i><a href="https://dexascan.com/"><b>DEXA Scan</b></a> gives you the most precise information
about you body fat, muscle, and bone composition, and lets you track
changes in body composition over time. Fitness enthusiasts, athletes,
and dieter often use body composition scans to get a baseline of where
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<i>Results show you:</i></div>
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<li><i>Overall body fat, lean tissue (muscle), bone weight and percentages</i></li>
<li><i>Breakdowns for both legs, arms and your torso</i></li>
<li><i>DEXA scan image showing where your body fat and muscle is distributed</i></li>
<li><i>Visceral fat (the dangerous fat around organs)</i></li>
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I currently measure my body fat with my scale, calipers, and I also have a handheld monitor which I use with my clients that I sometimes use as well. Suffice to say that I had an idea of where my body fat was but as the years progressed so has the body fat. I am a little more fluffy than I'd like to be.<br />
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If you have been reading my blogs for some time, I always speak about setting <b>SMART</b> goals for the new year (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time Bound).<br />
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Before we set a goal, we need a starting point.<br />
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I went to my Dexa scan appointment on Friday and honestly the hardest part was the paper work. This was such a simple "procedure" and it gave me so much feedback. And y'all I got my scared straight moment because the dexa scan body fat percentage was about 6 percent higher than what it measures at home. Dr. Jean-Pierre even had me use his hand held monitor to compare it to the Dexa scan. He warned me before hand that this was going to happen but seeing it on paper was like "daaaaaamn" <br />
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Example of results:</div>
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I am really happy that I finally went to get this done and it was so helpful to see where my fat is distributed. I would love to go back in a few months to see if I made any improvements now that I have a foundation to work with. </div>
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Check my vlog below where I bring you guys along with me to my appointment</div>
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*This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my ownMarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-32183836209457784762018-11-30T11:29:00.002-05:002018-11-30T11:42:20.206-05:00On The Mat With Mari: Receiving The Worst News Of My Life...This blog chronicles my healthy living journey but most importantly it chronicles my life. If you have joined me since the beginning or if you recently stumbled across my site, you may have noticed that I am extremely close with my niece, Hailey whom most of you know as Homefries. She has grown up on this blog...<br />
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10 years ago...</div>
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Monday began just as any other day, I picked up my camera and decided to do a FDOE on my vlog. Around 2:40, my niece sent a message in our group chat "I left" (school) and my sister replied "ok mama...be careful" and 20 minutes later my sister received a call from an EMT...my niece was hit by a car. She immediately called me and instinctively I facetimed my niece not knowing if she would answer, she did. The minute that I saw her, my heart broke. She was crying uncontrollably and she kept wailing "<b><i>I looked both ways...I looked both ways</i></b>"<br />
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They live in New Jersey now, so my mom and I rushed over there...that was the longest car ride of my life.<br />
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I am so grateful that she is back home recovering from her injuries and I just want her to heal quickly; physically & emotionally. I pray that this doesn't crush her spirit and she continues to bring her light into this world because she is meant to shine.<br />
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This past Thanksgiving...</div>
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I speak more of the incident on this week's vlog as well as participating in the <a href="https://www.blackironnutrition.com/blog/2018/11/15/30-day-mindful-eating-project">Mindful Eating Project</a></div>
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Namaste...</div>
<br />Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-8431828269903526982018-11-05T10:45:00.001-05:002018-11-05T10:45:42.415-05:00On The Mat With Mari: Day 20 Of Keto Challenge...Hot damn, it feels like it was just yesterday that I was telling you guys that I would be doing a Keto challenge and this past weekend, I already hit the twenty day mark.<br />
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I have to be honest, when I first began this 30 day challenge, I was very diligent with my macro breakdown but as the days progressed...I became a little more lax. And the scale hit a plateau.<br />
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I went from staying under 50 grams of carbs, to about 60 and then last week, I finally ate the pumpkin Halo that had been haunting me in my freezer for the past month. The thing about Halo is that sometimes you can't stop at just one serving and boom I went over 80 grams of carbs.<br />
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With less than 10 days left, I am going back to basics and pulling in the reins for the next few days. Before I started the challenge, I gave myself a goal and I would love to come as close as possible to it.<br />
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It's funny because in the past, the weekends were usually where I went balls to the walls and had the "<i><b>treat yo self</b></i>" mentality but this past weekend was a little different. I still treated myself but my macros were on point. Check out my vlog below, to see a day my life as well these delicious keto taco bowls! <br />
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-34210576516030557062018-10-30T10:25:00.000-04:002018-10-30T10:25:25.602-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Halloween Moon Salutation, FDOE, & Learning to Accept Compliments....<div style="text-align: center;">
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I don't know about you guys but I absolutely love this time of year (why do I hear Pauly D's voice when I say that?). Leaves are changing, mornings are crisp, and the best part...the holidays are finally here. I just want to stay under the covers and watch scary movies all day.<br />
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Imagine how excited I was when I discovered that Halloween is going to be on a Wednesday this year, when I teach Yoga. I started to think of ways to make my class Halloween themed and it hit me...Moon Salutation.<br />
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I try to always incorporate Sun Salutations into my class (it's a great warmup) so I thought it would be fun to show my students this sequence as well. They say that the Moon Salutation is perfect for the evening because it calms you since it channels the feminine energy of the Moon. My plan is to start the class with the Sun sequence which channels masculine energy, do a Halloween themed vinyasa flow, and then end the class with the moon sequence. I hope they enjoy it.</div>
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Speaking of enjoying...this weekend was all about enjoying some delicious home cooking...</div>
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I am still doing my 30 day Keto challenge and I have to be honest, the cravings are making their way to me. I succumbed one day and had a couple of blow pops but I got back on track the next day...remember not to beat yourself up if you have a slip up.<br />
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Since I shared some things that I enjoy, it only seems right to share something that I don't enjoy at all...and that is compliments! The other day a guy from my gym mentioned something to me and I knew that he meant well but instead I wanted to crawl under a rock...<br />
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Watch my vlog below to hear what he said and what<b><i> I heard</i></b>. I also talk you through the Moon Sequence that I will be teaching tomorrow.<br />
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-855122977822803312018-10-23T15:52:00.001-04:002018-10-23T15:52:17.773-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Keto Inspired Low Carb FDOE<div style="text-align: center;">
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Sooooooo I'm doing a thing...a thing that I swore that I would never do. My mom always had this saying when I was growing up "don't spit up (in the air) because it will hit you in the face". I got hit in the face.<br />
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For about a year, I have been hearing about the Keto diet and I had an involuntary response which usually came in the form of an eye roll. I would go on my usual rant on how our bodies run on carbs etc etc.<br />
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My clients would ask me my opinion on it and my answers were always based on nutritional facts. I would speak on how carb cycling which worked great for me but honestly I could never truly speak on Keto because I myself have never tried it.<br />
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As most of you guys know, I suffer from PCOS and <i>for m</i>e; a low carb diet is beneficial. So when my friend Angie mentioned that she was going to do keto for 30 days, I jumped on the opportunity to join her (it is always easier to have a partner when doing things like this).<br />
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I decided to do this for two main reason; see how my body would react to this change and also I wanted to integrate it into my life so that I could be better informed for my clients. <br />
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I am on day 9 and honestly it hasn't been that hard to maintain even while eating out with friends. I am conscious of eating my micro-nutrients with my meals. I haven't felt sluggish and my workouts haven't suffered. Also I should mention that my goal is to stay under 50 grams of carbs which adds up quickly throughout the day. I know some people go down to 20 grams. <br />
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Like I said, this is currently a 30 day challenge and I am not sure what I will do after the 30 days. It <i>has </i>been easy to stick to it but is this something that I could do long term? Hmm this girl loves pizza.<br />
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I will say, that we are entitled to eat how we choose which is why we have so many options out there to choose from. So yeah, perhaps keto works for some people but that doesn't mean everyone needs to do it. I would never tell a vegetarian to eat steak...stop judging and start living.<br />
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Below I share my FDOE as well as a workout and fun yoga class.</div>
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Stay tuned to hear about the rest of my 30 days...</div>
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-32731544125679020912018-10-04T11:55:00.002-04:002018-10-04T11:55:35.301-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Being Completely Transparent...Have you seen the commercial with the girl sitting in the doctor's office and he is asking her about her symptoms (in regards to endometriosis) and she is saying that she is okay but another version of herself is telling her to speak up and let him know what is really going on. Well that happened to me last week while I was sitting at my doctor's office.<br />
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I went to see my doctor for my yearly physical and while we were catching up, she began to go down her list of questions and she arrived to my <i>favorite </i>one "How has your depression been?" and I instinctively answered "everything is going well".<br />
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Sometimes when you wear the happy mask for so long, you forget to answer honestly because you don't want to bore people with your problems. I caught myself giving the knee jerk reply and after a long sigh, I answered honestly "I've been struggling lately". It's hard to pinpoint what has been "off" recently but I have seen myself withdrawing from the world and having several binge episodes as a coping mechanism. <br />
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I was on Zoloft about 10 years ago and didn't think that I would ever need it again. My ego almost made me turn it down when she asked if I wanted to go back on but I know that this is the best decision for me right now. I've been on it for about a week and ya'll my body is not happy about it...my anxiety has been through the roof but I know that in about a month or so, I should be feeling back to normal.<br />
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CBD oil has been a life saver the last couple of days. Last week when I began the medication, I had to teach yoga and I felt horrible because I noticed that my body felt extremely agitated. I decided to use my CBD oil before heading out my house and its been extremely helpful. My classes have been so much better.<br />
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Side note, have you guys ever heard of a yawning orgasm? Well I discovered that those were a strange side effect of my medication...check out my vlog below to hear all about it as well as a mini clothing haul.<br />
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Namaste... </div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-53691182050968765942018-09-20T11:38:00.004-04:002018-09-20T11:38:55.752-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Sharing a Couple of My Fave TJ Pumpkin Products & Mini Rant...I am all about sharing fun facts about me with you guys so let's keep the ball rolling.<br />
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When I was in junior high school for a short period of time, I was given the nick name "<i><b>Mucha Maraca Mariette</b></i>". Imagine being 13 years old and given a nickname based on the fact that you were well in doubt...obviously that stuck with me because here we are 25 years later and I am still talking about it.<br />
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The other day, I posted this photo on Instagram with the caption "<b>I am not this body nor this soul. I am that which animates both. I am that which animates this entire universe</b>" <br />
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Unfortunately<b> </b>my body<b> <u><i>was </i></u></b>the focal point of this post...well my "girls" were and the caption was lost. <br />
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Here is another fun fact...I got a breast reduction when I was in my early 20's because of back pain and honestly mental health. Prior to that, I was always so ashamed of my breast and walked around hunchback to hide them. In my early teens, some of the other girls thought I was a slut...yup excess fat on my chest, automatically made me a slut. I was hit on by much MUCH older men and had to grow up faster than I should have.<br />
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So when I received DM's in regards to my cleavage or noticed that my female friends didn't double tap the photo, it took me right back to 7th grade.<br />
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I am not sure where I am going with this post but I just want to help erase the stigma of breast. I wish that women weren't judged because of them and I wish that moms could breast feed their children in public without feeling ashamed or receiving negative attention. They are <i>just </i>breast...and we <i>are </i>more than that.<br />
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Check out my vlog for even more of my rant, upper body workout, and some of my favorite Trader Joe's Pumpkin products! </div>
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NamasteMarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-18201753458346436762018-09-10T10:59:00.001-04:002018-09-10T11:26:44.784-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Hitting An Accidental PR!?!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Fun fact about me, math has always been my nemesis. I have vivid memories of myself crying in class during math exams and trying to keep down my sniffling so none of my classmates would hear me.<br />
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Well once again math has failed me <i>or wait did I fail math</i>? I kid, I actually passed...<b>in summer school. </b><br />
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This past Saturday was my heavy (for me) lift day for squats and deadlifts. I have come to the realization that lifting 215 for more than a one rep max, is not happening right now...but I started to wonder "hmm maybe I can lift even heavier". I added two more plates to my bar and attempted <i>225</i><br />
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That sucker was heavy but I did it! I sat down and looked at the bar and then it hit me; I placed TWO more plate for a total of 20 pounds! But of course I was doubting my math skills...actually I don't think anyone should be allowed to do math at 5 am. Anyways, I whipped out my calculator (opened the app on my phone) and added each single plate and yup, I lifted 235 an not 225! Woohoo to a new PR! You know what is funny? If you would have told me to lift 235 prior to this, I would have said <b>"NO WAY" </b>but because I didn't know how heavy the bar actually was, I wasn't <i>that </i>intimidated by it. So maybe sucking at math isn't such a bad thing and maybe we should try the things scare us.<br />
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Check out my vlog to watch me hit my new PR and also FDOE</div>
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Namaste... </div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-12482304165765695312018-09-04T10:01:00.000-04:002018-09-04T10:06:55.044-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Back To School Juju?<div style="text-align: center;">
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I don't know if it's because it's the beginning of September or because the new school year is upon us but this weekend has been all about reevaluating my goals and making a plan.<br />
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It has been one month since I had a day off and ya'll I took full advantage of it. I finished teaching my yoga class on Sunday morning and I came home and got to work on my new workout programs. I have been solely focusing on strength recently but this month I decided to shift my focus to more of a body building program <b><i>but </i></b>I don't want to lose the strength that I have developed so I am going to try to merge them together. This week I will be doing 3 lower body days, two consisting of volume and one focused on load (squats and deadlifts). I will also do two upper body days; one volume and one load. I will also continue my daily yoga practice as well as LISS cardio on my spin bike. <br />
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Once I was done creating my strength program, I went on to the next thing on my list which was recalculating my macros. Now I just need to stick to them!<br />
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I always joke that I die a little bit in the summer and I am born again when Autumn rolls around and that's exactly how I feel as I write this. This feeling reminds me of when I began my marathon training...I had a an end goal and that fueled my fire. I feed off structure and it felt amazing to sit down and jot all of this down.<br />
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Do you guys have any new goals for this month?<br />
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Check out the video below to see some of my lower body volume workout and of course some other rambles...<br />
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Namaste...</div>
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-19587532596306075852018-08-28T11:07:00.001-04:002018-08-28T11:20:36.835-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Deadlifts, Yoga, and Celebrating Two Amazing Women....These past couple of days have been filled with connecting with people that I have been neglecting... bad Mari.<br />
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My guru, Mokshapriya celebrated her 75th birthday this Sunday and I had to make sure that I went to the Ashram after I was done teaching to give her a huge hug and wish her a "Happy Birthday".<br />
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(I got her orange roses...seemed fitting)</div>
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It was awesome to see her so happy when she saw everyone coming together to celebrate <b>her</b>. She has touched so many lives and with each person she has come into contact with, the ripple has continued on and on. Because of this woman, I am able to share yoga...she has changed my life in so many ways and I have so much gratitude and love for her. Each student that I teach, is touched by her as well and that makes my heart happy.</div>
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I am sad to admit that I almost missed out on the festivities because of my own hangups. I haven't been at the ashram for a bit of time...between work and teaching, I didn't make it over there. The longer that I wasn't around, the more left out that I felt. I have this issue where I feel that I never belong and this is something that I've struggled with since I was younger. So when I would see photos of everyone hanging out on social media...I would get into my feelings. But it wasn't that I was not invited, it was <i>me </i>disconnecting. Being back there on Sunday, all those insecurities washed away and it was good to be home with family. </div>
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Like I said at the top of this post...this has been a week of reconnecting. Fun fact about me, I was in a sorority in college...yup ME...and here is the kicker, my pledge name was "black widow". Let that sink in. </div>
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Anyways, after graduation I remained very close with one of my sisters. A few years ago, we began to drift apart and fast forward three years later and we haven't spoken except for her messaging me about a year ago to let me know that she was engaged. We always joked that I better not find out that she was engaged via social media haha. Her birthday was a few days ago and I decided to message her and I am so happy that I did because we both missed each other so much. We facetimed yesterday for over 2 hours and it was great to speak to her again. We spoke about why we have been MIA in each others lives and long story short; we were both hurt and instead of sharing our feeling we went to our separate corners and missed out on so many milestones in our lives. </div>
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So why am I sharing this with you? Maybe someone reading this is contemplating reconnecting with someone in their past and I am here to tell you...go for it. Yes some people are seasons in your life but others are the constant sunshine that you need. </div>
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Check out my vlog for the birthday celebrations including Angie's! I took her to our favorite spot to celebrate. I also share some deadlifts and of course some yoga. </div>
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Namaste...</div>
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-61638274675445311192018-08-13T14:05:00.001-04:002018-08-13T14:05:12.146-04:00On The Mat With Mari: New Adventures And Q&AYesterday I started teaching my new yoga class in Brooklyn and y'all I am so damn grateful for this exciting opportunity. So much so, that I gave up my only day off to teach it! <br />
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I arrived about 40 minutes before class began...since NYC transportation on a Sunday morning can be very finicky; I decided to leave my house super early. <i>(<b>Plus I always get lost haha, kudos to the awesome NYPD officers that pointed me in the right direction</b></i>). I rather show up early and kill some time than rush against time and get there all panicky. When I arrived to the area, I was pleasantly surprised to see how nice it was, I am teaching right near Brooklyn Borough Hall.<br />
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I had about nine people in my class which might be the norm for that area on a Sunday morning but I am hoping to attract more students. However, the strength class that was right after mine was completely full so I am hoping some of those members find their way into my class. Since I am new to this facility, I will need to build my clientele from the ground up through word of mouth. Another interesting factor was that the students definitely varied in experience "levels" so I have to be mindful to challenge the more advanced students so that they don't become bored but also keep it welcoming (and not intimidating) for beginners. <br />
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After class was done, I made my way back to BBH and sat down for a bit while I soaked up the beautiful morning. I can totally envision myself sitting here in the weeks to come, enjoying my breakfast or a snack after my classes. <br />
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Check out my vlog below because I take you along with me on my first day as we explore the area together aaaaaand I also have a Q&A. I answer some fun questions like "Would you rather have 8 nipples or an extra finger on your elbow" and "If you were able to be a Kardashian, whom would you choose?" As well as some more serious questions like "How has yoga changed your life and why did you become a teacher?" </div>
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Namaste...</div>
<br />Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-50649249999244168042018-07-30T10:30:00.000-04:002018-07-30T11:25:52.820-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Getting Physical With My Coworker, Exciting News, & Is The Fitbit Versa Tattoo Friendly?I recently received the Fitbit Versa for my birthday and I absolutely love it except for one "minor" hiccup...<br />
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<b>I don't think that it likes my tattoos</b>...lets backtrack a bit. I received the versa a little over a week ago and was super excited to use it but noticed that it would lose the connection with my heart rate. I let it slide but when I looked at my sleep insight, it would state that I only slept for about an hour. This lead me to believe that it completely lost the connection with my hr and could not give me my sleep insight.<br />
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I started to google this issue and came across all these posts...<br />
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FML!!!</div>
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I called customer service and honestly they weren't any help besides the typical IT answer "let's try to restart it" <i>really Becky</i>?</div>
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I started to wear the watch on a area of skin that was ink free which seemed to help unless it slipped down to a tattooed region. I then thought that perhaps I should wear it, inside my forearm which was bare or on my other wrist which was less tattooed. For a watch that costs around $250.00 (special edition version) it should not be causing me this much stress.</div>
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<i><b>Ready for the plot twist...</b></i></div>
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I tweeted to fitbit the other day, that I was going to talk about this issue on my site and I kid you not...that bitch is working now. Is "the man" watching or is it just a coincidence? I have no idea but I am just happy that all systems are a go.</div>
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Unfortunately, it is still not consistent and I honestly believe that they dropped the ball when they added only one light in the back for the hr detection, instead of their usual 2-3 lights. I never experienced this issue with my Charge 2 which had two lights and some people even stated that they used an epoxy sticker on their versa which has helped. </div>
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So does it work with tattoos? I have no idea ha!</div>
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Watch my vlog below for even more rambles about this issue as well the things that I love about this watch because honestly, I really <i>do </i>love it. I also share some exciting news aaaaand you get to join me while I do a private yoga class with my coworker/friend.</div>
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Namaste... </div>
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-79758024683675198132018-07-24T14:18:00.000-04:002018-07-24T14:18:37.792-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Happy 38th Birthday To Me!<div style="text-align: center;">
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This past Friday I celebrated my 38th this year on this earth and I've been celebrating with my family and friends the past couple of days. Of course I had to bring you along as well so I am going to keep this short and just just press play and enjoy the video below.<br />
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Namaste....</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-60865350423044015442018-07-16T08:12:00.000-04:002018-07-29T20:27:13.672-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Self Care With My New Acupressure Dosha Mat...Self care is so important and this past week I have been doing a lot of it, thanks to my new <a href="https://www.doshamat.com/">acupressure mat</a> from <a href="https://www.doshamat.com/">Dosha Mat</a>.<br />
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It arrived early last week and I have been enjoying it ever since. </div>
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<b>So what exactly is a acupressure mat? </b> </div>
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<i>"Acupressure is an ancient Ayurvedic treatment which
is similar to massage, acupuncture, and reflexology. Acupressure works
by massaging and stimulating key points on the body to promote deep
relaxation and healing. Acupressure mats benefit the body by relieving
tension, soreness and pain in the back, head, neck, shoulders, hips,
feet, and other parts of the body." </i>-courtesy of Dosha Mat</div>
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Based on various studies, the benefits from using a <a href="https://www.doshamat.com/">acupressure mat</a> are endless and include: relaxation, reduction of stress and anxiety, reduce pain and swelling, increased circulation, relief from fibromyalgia, and the list <a href="https://www.doshamat.com/">goes on.</a>...</div>
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One of the main reasons that I wanted to work with Dosha Mat was because their mats are 100% eco-friendly and made from the finest quality of hypoallergenic natural linen. Remember our skin is our largest organ and when you lay on the mat, your skin is coming to direct contact with it and you don't want to have to toxins touching you. </div>
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I have used the mat a few times this week, including right after my workout and before bed and I absolutely love it. When I first tested it, I wore my shirt because I thought the pressure points would be too intense but I ended up taking off the shirt and that's when I really felt the sensation. After 15 minutes of laying on it, I felt warmth spreading through my body and it felt oh soooo good. </div>
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Like I mentioned in the beginning, self care is <i>very </i>important (especially if you are extremely active) and by using this mat, now I have access to this from the comfort of my home. The people at <a href="https://www.doshamat.com/">Dosha</a> want you to experience this as well and are offering you guys 1<b>5% percent off your order</b> (valid until 7/30/18) with the code "<i><b>namastemari</b></i>" </div>
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<b><i>And not only will you "feel good" from this purchase but you will also "do good" because Dosha donates 15% of their proceeds to various non-profit organizations that work to provide exercise programs like yoga to children in need!</i></b></div>
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Watch the video below to hear more about the mat (as well as me using it for first time) and of course other rambles; like me trying out the new Strawberry Shortcake Oreos!</div>
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<b><i>Namaste... </i></b> </div>
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-34776702924136955332018-07-05T11:05:00.000-04:002018-07-05T11:05:53.768-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Why I'm Taking A Break from "IF" & FDOEAround the beginning of the year, I decided to give IF (intermittent fasting) a try since I heard so many positive things about it. IF is known to assist with fat loss, <i>can </i>reduce insulin resistance, help with heart health, and the list goes on and on.<br />
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I started in January and have been very consistent ever since. I even downloaded an app to keep track of my last meal to know when I could eat the next morning. If we are friends on MFP you know that I am a little OCD with logging in; I have a streak of 2343 days...that's over 6 years, people. SIX YEARS!<br />
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I first started with a 16 hour fast but then I would be training clients in the morning and I couldn't break my fast, way after the 16 hour mark. I then decided to eat dinner earlier so that I could eat breakfast before heading out to train or teach classes which helped a bit. I eventually went down to 14 hours to see if that would help but I was becoming neurotic, stressed out, aaaaand instead of the scale going down it was slowly creeping up.<br />
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<b><i>But still she persisted</i></b> and not in a good way. I kept it up, in hopes that my body would finally adjust and my weight would go back down. Nope.<br />
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Here we are 7 months later and I am breaking up with IF. I spent countless of hours researching IF to see if it was beneficial for women with PCOS and I came up with a lot of conflicting opinions and honestly I think that it all depends on the individual (like everything else in life). I am going to take a break from IF for the month of July to see if I notice any positive changes. Of course, I will still stick to my macros and caloric goals but not focus on the time of day that I am eating.<br />
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Check out my vlog below to see a FDOE including all this deliciousness </div>
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As well as a snippet of my back workout while watching the Crossfit documentary and of course other rambles...<br />
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Namaste... </div>
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<br />Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-51281808350863901002018-06-24T07:10:00.001-04:002018-06-24T07:10:54.051-04:00On The Mat With Mari: Full Day Of Eating, Grocery Haul, & Exciting NewsSome days it's easy to put the words to go with the vlog but today, it is not one of those days. I have typed and deleted this post about 10 times and nothing has felt right. So here we are...me rambling about it.<br />
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I think I lost my writing mojo because I don't have my regular glasses. Did I mention that I destroyed them by accident because I watched a youtube video on how to correct the anti glare that was chipping away. PSA just because it is on youtube, doesn't mean that it will work...I learned this the <i>very </i>hard way. Never underestimate the power of your glasses...without them the world would have known that Superman was actually Clark Kent! <br />
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Instead of reading my rambles why not just press play and enjoy the video below. In today's vlog I show you a mini grocery haul...<br />
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I also share a little bit of my shoulder workout, a full day of eating, aaaaand I have some exciting news to tell ya'll. Remember the audition that I went to a couple of months ago? I finally have an update!<br />
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Namaste...</div>
Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-32935225691519982312018-06-10T13:47:00.002-04:002018-06-11T15:46:12.404-04:00On The Mat With Mari: What Did I Really Think of "Hello Fresh"...The other morning when I was getting ready for work, I had NY1 on in the background and I remember getting excited when they teased the story "<a href="https://www.hellofresh.com/">Hello Fresh</a> will soon be available in Supermarkets". I jumped in the shower and didn't hear what supermarkets but just assumed that it would be Whole Foods because they always get all the cool sh*t. Unfortunately I don't go to WF's often so I kicked rocks.<br />
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Well I was wrong! I went grocery shopping at Stop & Shop on Friday morning and the moment that I walked in, I saw the huge display and my heart skipped a beat. I have been dying to try a meal kit delivery service for a while but honestly I wasn't ready to make the commitment (I believe that you have to subscribe to it but I could be wrong) and I was also scared that it wouldn't taste good. I have been seeing them all over youtube on my favorite vlogs but most of the time,the vlogs are sponsored and I don't know how authentic their reviews truly are. <br />
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I grabbed a kit and skipped home instead of kicking rocks...but what did I think of it <i>after </i>I tasted it?<br />
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I freaking loved it! (again.not.sponsored.) The instructions were very clear and mostly everything that I needed was in the kit. I do recommend that you read the box thoroughly because I assumed that everything would be in there but I needed to have my own oil and butter which thankfully I did have and crisis was adverted (first world problems).<br />
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The main reason that I chose the meatloaf kit was because I knew that I would be lifting heavy the next morning and I wanted the carbs from the potatoes and the carrots but did it work?<br />
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Check out my vlog below to see if I hit any PR's today. Also, I share why I have been MIA and why the recent tragedies urged me to grab my camera and connect with you guys.<br />
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Namaste...Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6453551267512447229.post-63311501702574899522018-05-23T17:46:00.000-04:002018-05-23T18:13:31.238-04:00On The Mat With Mari: How Is She Already 15 Years Old?!When I first started this site, my niece was around 5 years old. I remember begging my sister after a few months, if I could finally share her photos with you, and in May of 2009...the world <a href="http://www.namastemari.com/2009/05/m-is-for-monday-and-migraines.html">met</a> "Homefries"... <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhB-y_ElV-OE-06aa5X1xNYHlg7jg1909JbmOtAzXB8fUaRWz8cER9R2K1GjwGUgzkkqLMInzuozaOv0opuTV7FR3WW61B9a1vraQsVSRw1DWd-GdrHQJdHT6QOt-xi8l4Evyq2HEVoOg/s1600/1st+homefries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhB-y_ElV-OE-06aa5X1xNYHlg7jg1909JbmOtAzXB8fUaRWz8cER9R2K1GjwGUgzkkqLMInzuozaOv0opuTV7FR3WW61B9a1vraQsVSRw1DWd-GdrHQJdHT6QOt-xi8l4Evyq2HEVoOg/s1600/1st+homefries.jpg" /></a></div>
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Through the years. you have watched her take yoga classes, flip boys in Karate, perform on Broadway...and above all, be a wonderful kid. But this kid, is slowly becoming a young woman and this weekend we celebrated her 15th birthday....<br />
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Homefries decided that she wanted to spend her 15th Birthday by going to <a href="http://www.momsastoria.com/">Mom's</a> in Astoria...did I mention that she was a very intelligent teenager. Mom's has incredible food and just typing this; makes my mouth water at the thought of their chicken and waffle which I enjoyed profusely this weekend. We might just have to go back in July for my birthday...nooooms. Did I mention that they were named the "Best new restaurant in Astoria", which is quite an accomplishment because that place is filled with amazing cuisine....<br />
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Check out my video below to see all the deliciousness (4:18 mark) as well as some new PR's<br />
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Namaste... </div>
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Marihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07670742765082241807noreply@blogger.com