TIPS TO STAY ON TRACK THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer! As many of us have started to up the sweat sessions and lighten up the grub, it can be tough to keep it consistent with the start of scrumptious summer shindigs.
THE DETOX AND RECOVERY EXPERIENCE AT EXHALE
As you walk into the Recovery class, intensions set and an open mind, you are immediately brought to a level of calm. The class begins with an inward reflection. You are instructed to take inventory of how your body feels. The outside noise is silenced, and little-by-little you awaken the energy from your head to your toes. Throughout the class, the focus shifts from mindful meditation, to active stretching, and restorative foam rolling. Throughout the progression of these healing elements of the class, your body and mind undergo a transformative recovery experience. Muscles are limber and relaxed, the mind is centered and calm, and from the inside out you feel completely restored. Now that the mind and body are set to a state of balance and revitalization, it’s time to apply the elements of recovery to the imperative care of your skin. The Detox Facial offers a very similar experience of awareness that stems from the inside outward. Beginning with the pre-facial moment you have to yourself in the zen lounge, all tension immediately begins to dissipate. Deep breathing and mindful stillness in advance of your detox prepares you mentally and physically for the restorative therapy. Throughout the 60 minute therapy, your skin undergoes a series of cleanses, 3-layer chemical peel, exfoliation a vitamin C mask, and more. Throughout the facial, you can feel the sensation of toxins leaving the surface of your skin. With a combination of soothing steam, warm compresses, and a soothing environment, you have no choice but to fall into a complete sense of tranquility and wellbeing. Both The Recovery Class and the Detox Facial are brand new offerings at Exhale, and both fully encompass the importance maintaining a routine that not only challenges, but restores and revives your wellbeing from the inside out. Toxins, tension and strain inevitably build up within us over time. Taking the time to clean the slate and refresh your wellbeing is a total must.
THE DEEP ROOTED BENEFITS OF YOGA
by Edward Vilga There’s an ancient parable about blind men encountering an elephant for the first time. Each feels a different part of the animal––tusk, side, legs, tail, etc.––and each has a completely different take on what he’s experienced. Depending on one’s version of the story, they either come to blows or remain baffled, each person convinced they’ve tasted the absolute truth, yet each confined to his limited experience. The same can be said about experiencing yoga for the first time — you may have heard a lot about its benefits — ranging from increased flexibility to sweaty calorie burning and strength building, to deepened serenity — but you aren’t quite sure where to begin. In fact, yoga classes at Exhale range from offering something deeply sweaty (like POWER), to emphasizing graceful and expansive movement (like FLOW), to exploring stillness and ease (CHILL). How is it that so much can fall under this very broad “Yoga Umbrella?” Indeed, it’s fascinating that something as rigorously demanding as Power (where students could be holding forearm plank for a minute or attempt a challenging push-up variation) to Chill (where 90% of the class is spent lying down and using props), can share the label of YOGA. And yet, oddly the distinctions seem to be relatively minor, given the stronger commonalities the classes share. First and foremost, in any yoga class, there’s a strong and continuous emphasis on BREATH. While in other Exhale classes such as Barre or HIIT, the breath might be mentioned, it’s not usually a continuous part of the instruction. In yoga, however, it’s absolutely central. In Flow and Power, I’m calling out “Inhale” and “Exhale” pretty much every moment, particularly in the sun salutation flow. In Chill, I’m continually bringing the breath into the class’ awareness while holding a deeply still pose or while offering a guided meditation. Blog_0415 Another hallmark of what “makes yoga, yoga” is obviously an emphasis on stretching and increased FLEXIBILITY, even though that can look quite different in each type of class. (One aside: by far, the most common objection I hear about someone NOT taking yoga is that they aren’t flexible enough; ironically, that’s EXACTLY the reason they should begin practicing. No matter what your starting point is — even if when bending over, your fingertips are in a different zip code than your toes — yoga will meet you where you are and allow you to expand and lengthen over time.)
Young woman doing Uttanasana exercise
Interestingly, increased flexibility can be obtained no matter the style of yoga practice. In POWER or FLOW, one warms the body up through movement, allowing for deeper stretching, particularly towards the end of a class. In CHILL,
EXHALE’S FLOATING MEDITATION WITH RESTORATIVE POSES…EQUALS TOTAL TRANSFORMATION
Everything you want to know about Exhale’s Floating Meditation, straight from the creator, Elisabeth Halfpapp. Plus, a special Meditation Month offer at the bottom of this post! A weightless surrendering to yourself as you tune out and float effortlessly in a 30-minute guided meditation with your body being held and supported in a silk hammock. The first time I experienced this relaxing, calming effect was at Miraval Arizona (an Exhale’s sister resort) as just the meditative component without the restorative poses. When I developed a similar class for Exhale, I thought the addition of restorative stretches after a breathing meditation in stillness would help the physical body surrender deeper with more relaxed muscles and mind. When the mind is relaxed the body tends to follow, resulting in a deeper stretch. Also with some guided restorative stretches/poses, the transition back to the “real world” was a little easier. Some of the restorative poses inside and out of the silk, while incorporating the silks are: • Savasana • Hip/hamstring stretches • Child’s pose and extended child’s pose variations • Forward folds • Down dog, up dog, and plank variations During the meditation section, gentle rocking is an option, which is enables you to “float” better. Throughout the entire session, breathing is an active focus which helps to detangle the mind. You may start to fall asleep, which is fine, however, we do encourage you stay awake and aware in order to experience the full benefits. You can always sit upright if you tend to fall asleep or feel uncomfortable being cocooned. There is soothing healing music played through your own personal head phones that enables you to also hear the teacher guide you through the meditation while zoning out external noises — a true calming of the senses. Inhale inspiration…Exhale transformation…..equals WELLBEING as we “float’ together! SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: What should I wear? Comfortable workout attire is recommended. Socks are required. Jewelry that will snag the silks should be left at home. What if I’m sensitive to motion? Rocking is optional, but if you’re sensitive to motion we encourage you to opt out. What happens if I fall asleep? Due to the swaddling-like nature of this experience you may fall asleep. However, we encourage you to stay awake in order to experience the full benefits. Sitting in an upright position is an option. Who is this class for? Floating meditation is open to all level; no experience is necessary. Weight limit is 350lbs. So there you have it! No, you don’t need to be an aerial expert. No, you don’t have to be a meditation expect – you just need to give 30 minutes of your time to feel calm, recharged, and a better sense of overall wellbeing. And as a special for National Meditation Month, we’re offering our Chicago Guests FREE Floating Meditation Classes, May 13-19, 2019. Call 312.753.6500 to book your free class
WHAT’S YOUR WORKOUT MENTALITY?
By: Fred DeVito, exhale co-founder and the ultimate fitness aficionado
As a young barre teacher, back in the 80’s and 90’s, most students came to my class 4-5 times a week like clockwork. They loved the technique — because it challenged them constantly and it gave them fast and noticeable results. Back then, it was fashionable to be consistent with one method that worked.
I TRIED BARRE+YOGA
By: Emily McNeely, exhale enthusiast, copywriter, dancer and (newly committed) Barre + Yoga devotee
It’s why I fell in love with exhale in the first place: balance. Whether it’s the balance of spa and fitness, of energy and mindfulness, of strength and flexibility — or the challenging balance in chair position on the mat, heels up, arms stretched wide, finding your center. That’s why I fell in love with exhale’s new class, Barre + Yoga.
The latest brainchild of exhale’s co-founder, former ballet dancer, and barre legend Elisabeth Halfpapp, Barre + Yoga blends two classes into one powerful, balanced hour. For the first half of class, you’re in Core Fusion Barre mode — toning up with hand weights, planks, thigh and glute work.
Then, seamlessly, you switch gears and move into an athletic yoga flow. After a series of Warrior sequences, you move to seated yoga poses and a core section, complete with the classic Core Fusion curl. Then you end the hour with a mindful moment in Savasana.
THE 411 ON FLEX PACKS
For some, having fitness plan in place is a necessary step in actually booking your workouts. But commitment can be scary. That’s why we’re breaking down our newest fitness plan so you can determine if it’s the right pack for you! What is a Flex Pack? A flex pack is a discounted series of 4 or 6 classes that auto-renews monthly so you don’t have think about stocking up when your classes run out. Is a flex pack right for me? If you’re all about the hustle and bustle and you don’t always know what the following month’s schedule holds, then a Flex Pack is for you. You have the choice between taking class 4 or 6 times a month and you can cancel and restart anytime if your schedule changes. I’ve used up my classes this month. How do I add more? You can add additional classes to your Flex Pack at any time, at the same discounted flex pack rate (that’s up to an $8 savings per class*) — so, you always have the option to maximize your flex pack! Simply mention that you want more classes upon check in for your last class. However, if you find yourself adding more than 2 classes a month, then a membership may be a better option for you. Can I use my flex pack for all class types? Yes! With a flex pack, you can choose from any of our fitness classes. Try a little of everything for some well-rounded variety!
10 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED DURING YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY
You are your own best motivator. This means that you are the only one that can truly keep yourself driven, inspired, and on track! No matter what your goal is, you have the power to guide yourself along your journey towards total wellbeing, as long as you keep yourself motivated. Here are some effective and fun ways to do that. Set a goal Set a course for yourself and establish what it is you want to accomplish. Having a goal in mind will keep you focused on whatever it is you are aiming for. Keep an extra set of workout clothes at work or in your car Always give yourself the option to fit in a workout session. You never know when motivation will hit! Get some cute new workout clothes The confidence that a great outfit gives you can fuel your fitness motivation and give you that extra incentive to gear up
10 STEPS TO CREATE YOUR ZEN LEADING UP TO YOUR WEDDING
In order to look and feel your best while walking down the aisle, it is essential to take the time to keep your stresses low and your spirits high. During the special time leading up to your wedding, you should take the time to take care of yourself rather than over-stressing about the details of the big day. In other words: try to worry less about the seating charts, and more about what’s in your heart. Here are some ways to turn that anticipatory energy inward and invest it where it really counts.
Get moving Getting yourself on a healthy fitness routine is a great way to feel strong and radiant for the big day. It’s also the perfect way to channel your hyped up energy!
Take a breath This is a special time, not a stressful time. Build yourself up to become the most cool, calm and collected bride anyone’s ever seen. Take a yoga class to re-center yourself, or dive into some mindful meditation. It’s all about love, so don’t forget to show yourself some.
Sleep Beauty sleep will bring you that natural, beaming glow that every bride wants. So get yourself to bed early with a cup of tea and a juicy reality show and get those Z’s.
Eat right Clean eating will keep your stomach happy and your skin glowing. Fight off those pre-wedding butterflies with calming foods that will not irritate your stomach.
Show your nails some love You’ll be looking down at your hands a lot (hello bling) so give yourself something beautiful to look at.
Manage your time Don’t let things build up and bite you in the butt. Set aside time each day to take whatever bridal duties you may have, but then set everything aside and allot time for focusing on yourself. Websites like Zola make registry and wedding planning easy! (Pro Tip: Add Exhale to your registry for spa therapies and fitness classes to help get you ready for your big day!)
Love your body The dress is meant to fit your body, not the other way around. So whatever your goals are, don’t let them get the best of you. Toning up before the big day can help you to feel fierce and fit is healthy, but don’t let it stress you out!
Embrace your friends Friendship is a big part of self-care. The people we choose to laugh with can bring a sense of comforting support that will keep you feeling like you.
Know that it’s okay to be selfish Don’t shy away from putting yourself first. Listen to yourself and give yourself whatever you need to feel strong and centered for your day. Get a rejuvenating facial or massage to refresh your skin and your body.
Treat yourself. That’s right, give yourself something special. Treat yourself to a weekend away with your girls, or splurge on that pair of earrings you’ve been eye-ing! That self-fulfillment will give you the confidence and spirit to enjoy your day to its fullest!
FIRE UP YOUR SUMMER PREP WITH A FLEXIBLE FITNESS PLAN
You made it. Winter has finally passed (thank you Arya Stark) and you are one step closer to sunny beach days, rooftop happy hours, and sizzling barbecues. Regardless of how you plan to spend your summer, now is the perfect time to step up your game with an active routine so you can feel strong, sexy, and confident for all that lies ahead! Our diverse offering of fitness classes will have you dripping in sweat one day, and restoring your muscles on a mat another day. You’ll lengthen your muscles and tone using your body weight as resistance in one class, and move through hard-hitting prop-based circuits in another. Keeping your classes diverse keeps your metabolism revving and your body feeling strong, but it also releases endorphins that can keep you in a clear and confident mindset. A strong body paired with a strong mindset will set you up for a healthy and fit summer. Keep yourself on a practical workout routine this spring and summer by creating a flexible regimen that works for you (and for your spontaneous summer plans). An Exhale Flex Pack is a great way to put your goals into action while still having the freedom to customize your schedule and keep yourself open to any impromptu summer adventures. Choose to take 4 or 6 classes a month. Every month your pack will auto-renew and you can cancel anytime. (No more having to think about re-upping your class pack or committing to a membership!) To help jumpstart your routine, when you sign up for an Exhale Flex Pack in May, we’ll give you bonus classes free of charge! Yes, we’re serious. Summer can’t come soon enough, but in the meantime let’s take the time to set ourselves on a healthy track that will give us the strength we need to enhance our overall wellbeing for a happy and healthy summer. LET THE SUMMER PREP BEGIN
