Wednesday, May 30, 2012

"HERBAN" GARDEN


I am literally swept off my feet when ever I walk past my new herb garden. The aroma of Sweet Basil, bushy Peppermint, and three different varieties of Lavender have such a calming effect on the mind. So... as the cars drive past and the sirens scream through the city, I can just take a deep breath and get lost in the fragrances, imagining myself in a secret garden olfactory vacation.  I am so excited to watch them grow throughout the summer months. They have each been potted in unique and unconventional ceramics instead of plant pots, which gives the look of the garden a contemporary edge. Once they have adjusted to their new habitat, I look forward to taking lavender baths, making fresh peppermint tea, and using as much basil as possible in every dish!

Monday, May 21, 2012

JAR BAR IS HERE!!!



Jar Bar is here, and we are all so lucky. I have heard all the rage about the Catalyst Juice Cleanse. It is well deserved because the juices are both delicious and effective. The Catalyst Juice Cleanse now presents JAR BAR, a cafe specializing in fresh pressed organic juices and raw foods. I was most pleasantly surprised by the creamy texture of the CARRACODO soup ( carrot and avocado) and the frothy sweetness of their GLOW juice blend ( no sugar of course). The best part of the whole experience is leaving the the cafe feeling neither full nor guilty, only satisfied. It is a must for anyone who is vegetarian, vegan or on a restricted diet. You will be thrilled when you realize you can eat everything on the menu! This never happens in my world so it is very exciting! Must, must, must try Jar Bar.www.jarbarphilly.com

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

WHAT IS SCULPERE???





Sculpere is a ballet based workout braided with yoga technique. I developed this concentrated regime to unite the rigorous physicality of classical ballet training with the enlightening practice of yoga. As the classes evolve, the relationship between yoga and ballet become more and more comprehensible to me. When I relax into deep, joint opening stretches in yoga, the focus of my mind turns internally and as the breathe slows down the mind is able to become quite. In ballet when practicing at the barre, I use the breathe as a guide to expand and contract as my body moves through different positions. Similarly my minds eye also travels inward to survey technique, integrate my muscles deeply, and challenge the limitations of my body. Connection of the mind and body in a workout is a critical component. Sculpere is a wonderful way to achieve a full body workout for both body and mind. Enjoy the video! 

Thursday, May 3, 2012

SUNSET WALKS...



The cement, right angles, and exhaust in the city can definitely dull your senses. I think it is important to give your eyes a treat once in a while…actually more than once in a while. A sunset walk at the Philadelphia Art Museum is a treat indeed. The bright golden light at dusk makes you feel like you walked into a Monet painting or a Tolkien movie set. The beautiful flowers encourage deep breathing and a smile from ear to ear, like eye candy. Watching couples walk hand and hand is so endearing. Even more charming is the smile on my Lola’s face as she walks through the gardens.