And,  I also believe that 2012 will be another year of reinventing and redefining who we are.  Our ‘to do’ lists will be different, however I believe we have a common goal of being the best we can be.  Have you started your creation list for 2012?  Each year I find there’s a bit of a ‘rollover’ from the previous year and then a few new goals.  I’m finding a greater sense of urgency to accomplish these goals the older I get and it sometimes feels like a 2×4 is hitting me to move toward the direction of these dreams vs getting stuck in just thinking about them.  It’s so empowering to reach even the smallest of goals and so with that said, here are a few plans I’m getting ready to work on for this new chapter, new year and what I hope will be an amazing journey moving forward.

1 Planning: This is an annual tradition – the purchase of a new day planner.  A place where I can enter as much as possible for the new year.  Birthdays, anniversaries, special dates, appointments and goal setting.  If it’s written down, I find the odds are in my favor.   I still have a book called, “Write it Down and Make it Happen,” and it works.

2. Vision Board: A must have moving forward.  If you have one, you can easily refresh yours with new photos and new words, phrases and/or symbols.  If you don’t have one, consider creating one that you can view every day.  It works and I’m excited to see how the new one will unfold.

3. H2O: Yes, every year I make an effort to drink more water and I have to say that 2011 worked out okay, however I must refocus on this one.   If this isn’t on your list, think about it.  Are you getting enough water to stay hydrated and healthy?  I picked up a water carafe to help me out – always keeping water on my desk ensures I’ll stay with this.  For more on the benefits of water, perhaps some things that you haven’t thought about, check out this article.

4. Spa Cooking at Home: Let’s face out, going out to dinner is fun, great for socializing (outside the four walls) and it’s relaxing, however this year I intend on cooking at home more.   Since part of my business is working with destination spas, I know how simple, healthy and enjoyable ’spa cooking’ can be and it’s really about cooking healthy – fresh veggies, organic products where possible and portion control.  With that said, I’m going through my Spa Cook Books and staying in more…and will hopefully shed a few pounds.  Check back here from time to time for some healthy spa meals, photos of my efforts and notes on how they turn out.  And with the help of my new KitchenAid blender, healthy spa-like smoothies are on the menu!

Here is one Spa cookbook to consider from Canyon Ranch, a destination spa:
Canyon Ranch: Nourish: Indulgently Healthy Cuisine

And, if you’re a fan of Miraval Arizona, their much awaited Mindful Eating Cookbook will be available in May 2012.

5.  Journal: This is always on my list.  I have a Gratitude Journal and another journal for ideas, and day to day entries.  I keep both the Gratitude journal and the Idea Journal by my bed.   Begin yours by entering what you’re thankful for each day – it could be one, two, five or more things.  A sunny day, connecting with an old friend, drinking your water, anything and everything you’re grateful for.  A Gratitude Journal is about awareness – reflecting on what we’re thankful for keeps us in a positive mindset and that is what will help us move forward.   Your journal can be a notebook, however if you’d like something special, consider this one Gratitude: A Daily Journal

If you’re looking for a journal that will help guide you to rediscovering yourself, this may be another to consider Soul Catcher: A Journal to Help You Become Who You Really Are

These are just a few of my personal thoughts, plans, ideas for 2012.  What is on your list?  Perhaps one of these will inspire you to Plan to Cook More at Home, Begin your Gratitude Journal, Create a Vision Board and Drink your Water.  And, a carry over for me from 2011 is to write my book…looking forward to taking the first step to chapter one.  (And, yes, exercise and moving more are always on the list!)

“The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a Single Step.” – Lao Tzu
What step will you take today to begin this new journey in your life?

May 2012 be a year of good health, joyful living, new adventures and much prosperity!  Believe in yourself, continue to have faith and trust that you are exactly where you’re meant to be.  Happy New Year from Mindful Adventures.

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The links for the above are also on the home page.

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Photography by Donna Adinolfi.  Copyright 2010.

1.  Shop locally
Now that I live in Michigan I’ve been paying more attention to what I can send from this area.  Michigan is one of the largest producers of cherries and for that reason, I like Cherry Republic, located in Traverse City, otherwise known as ‘The Cherry Capital’ of the world.  Cherries are also healthy and one of my favorites is the Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries – double dose of goodness.   And, I must not leave off another Ann Arbor, MI institution – Zingerman’s!  There’s still time to send out some delicious treats and you’ll love the choices – so many to consider.  Both of these Michigan options are offering flat rate shipping.

2. Tea
Do you enjoy tea?  This is another favorite gift because tea is more than a beverage to me, it’s ceremonial and all about mindfulness.  Think about the old Tea Houses and Afternoon Tea.  Nothing is rushed.  It’s a time to be in the moment and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea with friends or on your own for a few moments of solitude.   Check out Tea Forte for some last minute ideas and consider one of my favorite books Tea Here Now.

3.  Nourishing & Natural Body Products
Most of you enjoy chemical-free, natural products and one of my favorites for this is Burt’s Bees.   Their Cranberry & Pomegranate Sugar Scrub is great for this season as well as the Bee Pampered Spa Set.   There are great gift ideas for everyone and they’re affordable and so well received.

4.  Uplifting Books
Another favorite gift is a Day Book.  It’s the gift that keeps on giving year round because each day there’s an uplifting message and when I find one I like for myself I often gift it to friends, family or colleagues.   One of my personal favorites is by Mark Nepo titled The Book of Awakening.

And, if you or a loved one is going through a difficult time due to the loss of a loved one, or other personal loss, this one came into my life and helped me and I feel compelled to share with others, especially at this time of year.  It’s by Susan Barbara Apollon and is titled Touched by the Extraordinary and her second book, Book 2: Healing Stories of Love, Loss & Hope

5. Wine & Dine with a different twist
These are some of my favorite vino finds.  Some can be ordered online and others can be found at your favorite wine store.  In addition to giving the gift of wine, consider making it more of an event – include a note to enjoy a wine-pairing dinner that you prepare at home, or perhaps a private wine tasting with your friends. These aren’t new ideas, however perhaps they’ll spark another idea for a last minute gift with more meaning and an opportunity to get out more and enjoy the moment with your friends and family.  Okay, the list… Tres Sabores Vineyard – I love their Red Zinfandel; Husch Vineyards – check out the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon; and Cline’s Cashmere – this one has a limited supply available for both the ‘09 and 2010.    And how about an added link for some wine pairings for that special wine & dine gift at your house!

6. Gifts that Give Back
The best gift is the one that keeps on giving.  These are few to consider:  Rails to Trails Conservancy, Feeding America, Bread for the World, American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.

7. Relaxation and Rejuvenation
Well, this one is on my list every year – it’s the gift of spa.   A gift card to their favorite day spa to enjoy a relaxing massage or revitalizing facial, or perhaps a year of Yoga or Pilates.  There are so many options to give the gift that enhances their health and rejuvenates their body, mind and spirit.   Another favorite is a destination spa – an opportunity to immerse into a week or so of activities, healthy meals, hiking, fitness and services that uplift, rejuvenate and inspire.  If you’re looking for more insight on a destination spa like Miraval Arizona, Canyon Ranch, Red Mountain Spa, Rancho la Puerta or other last minute ideas, e-mail me at donna@mindfuladventures.com.

There you have it – a short list with some ideas to get you going or help you finish up your holiday shopping.  Thank you for stopping by. – DMA

A couple of months ago (June), Spa Week and Jillian Michaels (celebrity fitness expert), partnered to give one winner a wellness retreat at the famous Golden Door Spa in Escondido, CA.

Because of the success of this last effort another opportunity is being presented and I hope you’ll consider taking action as this health-focused giveaway can be life changing in so many ways.  For instance, obesity is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one third of adults are obese.  Resources such as fitness centers, nutritionists and personal trainers are key to conquering this growing epidemic, however  aren’t always an affordable option.   And that is why Spa Week has partnered with Joy Bauer,  the TODAY show’s resident nutritionist and diet expert, to kick-start a new, healthy lifestyle for one deserving winner by entering the Fast Track to Health Giveaway.

“Millions of people tune in to watch Joy Bauer on the Today show and The Biggest Loser to get inspired and motivate their own fitness goals, so it is extremely rewarding to host such a life-changing giveaway on SpaWeek.com,” said Spa Week Media Group CEO and President Cheryl Reid.

Take Action:
Now through September 11th, visitors to SpaWeek.com can enter for a chance to win a seven day, six night stay for two at The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge in Malibu, CA to delve into the rigorous fitness and weight loss regime.    This powerful weight-loss journey offers  daily fitness and exercise activities, healthy low calorie meals, relaxing spa services, educational lectures and a private cooking class with the resort’s on-site executive chef.   One important key to sustaining weight loss and continuing on the path of wellness will be to stay on track upon returning home, so the winner will also receive a take-home package including Joy’s bestselling book, Food Cures, a personalized nutritional plan designed by Joy, and $175 in SpaWeek Gift Cards.

Good luck!

Resources:
SpaWeek
Biggest Loser Resort

Photo credit: Biggest Loser Resort, Malibu, CA

Mind Over Fat Matters:: Conquering Psychological Barriers to Weight Management

The original review is included below so this is more of a refresher of the original tips Dr. Rodriguez shared for adding fitness to your day despite the warmer temperatures.  Whether you’re already engaged in a consistent fitness routine or looking for more ways to add movement to your day, these tips may motivate you to take more steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

Back to Basics.
According to Dr.  Rodriquez, “going back to step one and establishing realistic expectations and obtainable workouts is key.  Not only does having a solid understanding of how exercise effects weight loss empower you to make better decisions, you’ll also see better (and faster) results.  A solid understanding of how to exercise properly goes a long way in getting your desired results.  The objective is to move at a pace that gets your heart rate up where you experience heavy breathing, but not to the point of pain.  As always, exercise should be enjoyable or you’ll never be able to make it part of your daily routine!”

Take advantage of the great outdoors.
“Summer is the perfect time to make exercise a part of your daily routine,” says Rodriguez.  “For one thing, the weather is warm, so outdoor exercise is much more fun – especially in the milder mornings and evenings.  Also, the days are longer and sunnier, giving you more time to enjoy Mother Nature.  Remember, there is no better fat burner than an active lifestyle.”

Find a way to  fit fitness in.
“Think about it this way,” suggests Rodriguez.  “If you had a doctor’s appointment, you would make sure nothing interfered with that time.  Your exercise time should be given the same priority.  If anyone asks to see you during your exercise time, decline and reschedule.  Creating healthy habits only increases your chance of slimming down.”

More from Mindful Adventures:
So what are some activities you like to do during the summer?  Tennis, swimming, hiking, kayaking, perhaps yoga on the beach or by a lake may be of interest.  Make a list of what you like to do and get started, change it up and take that first step if it’s been a while.  Schedule time each day to focus on your health – plan your healthy menu, include activity and enjoy relaxation.  As we all  know, there’s no time like the present.  Forget about what you didn’t do yesterday and what you might do tomorrow, it all starts with now!

Mind Over Fat Matters:: Conquering Psychological Barriers to Weight Management

Listen to my podcast from my recent interview with Brant Secunda, a shaman, healer and ceremonial leader in the Huichol Indian tradition of Mexico and Mark Allen, a six-time Ironman World Champion, also known as “The World’s Fittest Man” by Outside Magazine and “The Greatest Triathlete of All Time” by Triathlete magazine as we discuss more about Fit Soul Fit Body.

We discussed overexercising, Seasonal Affective Disorder, giving ourselves permission to “go within and find the light inside ourselves,” the benefits of a spiritual process called Nerika and more.

Interview with Brant Secunda and Mark Allen

** Recording volume differs from computer to computer – You may need to turn up your volume.
You won’t want to miss what Brant and Mark have to say.

For more information: Visit www.fitsoul-fitbody.com and return here often as I’ll be including some of the tips and keys that both Mark and Brant present in their book.

Personally, I found Fit Soul-Fit Body to be very insightful and recommend it as a go-to holistic guide for your own personal well-being.

Enjoy your journey!

In The Happy Body you’ll see detailed step-by-step photographs, charts and formulas with written instructions.  The book is beautifully illustrated and also offers a spiritual component.  The Gregoreks believe that as people perform the exercises on a daily basis, their lives develop a rhythm that helps them become calmer, more meditative, more relaxed and more mindful.

This is one of six of those tips I mentioned earlier and I’ll continue to present more in the days ahead.   Set achievable goals and each step will take you closer.

1. Change your idea about it.
Stop thinking about exercise as a way to burn calories and counteract overeating.  You will never lose weight through exercise.  Start thinking of exercise as a way to combat aging.  With this vision, you can learn to exercise properly.  Start by measuring your current flexibility, strength, speed, body type, and posture.  Now you can set meaningful exercise goals.

As with any exercise or weight loss program, check with your doctor if you have specific questions about your personal needs and goals.

What is it you ask?

Working out together and that can mean a fitness routine, dancing, hiking and the list goes on as you’ll hear first hand as I recently had the opportunity to interview Jerzy Gregorek, co-author of The Happy Body book.  Jerzy and Aniela Gregorek  are world weightlifting champions and founders and head coaches of the UCLA weightlifting team. Aniela is a 5-time World Weightlifting Champion who holds 6 world records, and Jerzy is a 4-time World Weightlifting Champion with one world record.  They also own a successful fitness coaching practice in LA, and have written a new book called The Happy Body: The Simple Science of Nutrition, Exercise, and Relaxation.

We discussed a lot and I’ve included the full podcast below so you can listen to Jerzy’s wisdom and ideas for a healthier lifestyle.

Interview with Jerzy Gregorek

And below you’ll find Four Reasons to work out together from Jerzy and Aniela:

Creates “us” time. How often do you and your partner complain that you don’t spend enough quality time together? When you work out as a couple it doesn’t feel like a chore or an obligation. It’s an activity you get to share that feels great and creates a bond. Studies show the endorphins you get from working out also boost libido!

Keeps you motivated. When one of you is tired or feeling lazy, the other partner can boost your morale and cheer you on. Research has long shown that embarking on a health and fitness plan with a partner increases the likelihood that you’ll both keep at it and achieve your weight and fitness goals.  

Shows you care. Is your guy working hard to be healthy and vigorous for you? Does your gal make you proud to call her your wife? Investing the time, energy, and commitment in your health and your fitness is a beautiful way of saying, “I love you.”

Reduces stress. Life is stressful, and relationships can be too. But we’ve found that working out together each day is a great time to release pent-up frustration. By the end of a vigorous workout session with your partner, you will both feel relaxed and happy.  For us, it’s better than couples counseling!

More info:
The Happy Body: The Simple Science of Nutrition, Exercise, and Relaxation (www.thehappybody.com) is also the winner of six national and international awards in the category of health and fitness books.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Lavinia Rodriguez, PH.D.

Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez is a clinical psychologist, an expert in weight management and the author of Mind Over Fat Matters: Conquering Psychological Barriers to Weight Management. She has a lot of helpful information to offer anyone looking to make healthy changes and it all starts with our brain.  Mind Over Fat Matters is full of great insight, starting with Chapter 1 -  Friend or Foe: The Psychology of Your Brain and it continues to offer useful information with short chapters, tidbits and notes so you can also use the book as ‘your journal’ to success.   Lao Tzu said it best, “The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a Single Step!”   My goal is to give you another tool to take that step.  Baby steps!  That’s what we’re talking about here.

Take a few minutes and listen to my interview with Dr. Rodriguez.   Timely information and helpful insight to get you started or move you along on your personal journey.

Podcast interview with Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez

And, getting back to summer, Dr. Rodriguez offers some tips on why now is the perfect time to start pursuing your summer weight loss goals and I’ve included a couple below, however the larger nugget here is the amazing interview I recently had with Dr. Rodriguez about her book and also about life management.  I invite you to listen to our podcast using the link above or below.

The Interview with Dr. Rodriguez

Summer Tips from Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez

1.Take Advantage of the Great Outdoors:  “Summer is the perfect time to really make exercise a part of your daily routine,” Rodriguez points out.  “For one thing, the weather is warm, so outdoor exercise is much more fun – especially in the milder mornings and evenings.  Also, the days are longer and sunnier, so you’re probably in a better mood than you would be in the depths of winter.  Lastly, there’s a much smaller chance that you’ll be knocked out of commission by a sore throat or runny nose.  Remember, there is no better fat burner than an active lifestyle!”

2. Lose Weight Like you Brush Your Teeth:  “Losing weight ought to be like brushing your teeth,” she explains.  “You don’t get preoccupied by what the toothpaste and floss are actually doing to your teeth.  You just trust that if you perform healthy behaviors, you’ll get the desired results.  It’s the same with losing weight – if you focus on the behaviors of eating well and being active, the body will take care of the rest.”