The Deeper the Roots...

I'm at Starbucks in between clients, and I need to confess that I found a new favorite quote from a poster in the bathroom - "The deeper the roots, the higher the reach."

One could apply that quote to nearly anything, but naturally, I like to think of it in a body/spirit approach. The more connected you are to your body and self, the more connected you are to the world and possibility - the more able you are to reach past the glass ceiling, the more able you are to "break these chains that hold me back" (thank you, Dixie Chicks, for another borrowed quote).

On Friday, I presented to a team of specialists who treat eating disorders. Oftentimes, it's a quite a job to explain my method of personal training - how I like to encourage cross training (cardiovascular, resistance, flexibility training + rest) as well as Listening to Your Body. Every day is different, every body is different, so we need to learn to tune into our energy, what our body needs. We need our muscular, cardiovascular, bone and metabolic health, yet we also need to respect the wealth of information and sensitivities that reside in the individual body and spirit. We need to marry science and spirit. We need to build a foundation of trust between the person and healer/trainer/therapist/doctor as well as the spirit and the body.

Well, as you can see, that's a lot to explain, but it can be done. Or, maybe another creative way of explaining might how intuitive eating relates to intuitive exercise. If you're craving a tomato, eat a tomato. If you feel like flailing your arms, do it (or take a dance class!). If you feel like a cold glass of tea, drink it. If you feel like getting on the ground and breathing, soak up child's pose. If you feel like enjoying pancakes, savor them. If you feel you need direction, power or a mental break, take a hike or power walk.

The idea is to connect. It takes practice, but it works. Listen to your body, and it will tell you. It will give you the balance and strength you need. If you truly listen, it will give you the nutrients you need and the energy you deserve.