Yoga - Relief for Tensed Shoulders

I was suffering from some severe neck and shoulder pain these last few days and so I tried yoga to relief the stress and the pain. It really helped. I never thought that yoga could actually help me clear my mind, but it helped with that, too.

Try it, if you want to, Tara knows what she does.

OZ - The Great And Powerful

A friend and I went to see Oz the Great and Powerful. It was a great movie, not only did the make-up department do their best (my friend is an aspiring make-up artist, so she knows about these things), but also did the actors know what they were doing and the story was - basic but - good. It was one of these growth stories I relate to far too easy.

Oh. And it didn't hurt that James Franco played the title part *coughs* I'd so marry his brains. Doesn't hurt that he's good looking, either :P
And I love Mila Kunis, so there were enough reasons to go see the film. And it was totally worth the 13e we had to pay. The visual effects were fantastic and everything was so colourful and magic, it was the perfect movie for an escapist such as myself. So, go see it, if you can.
btw, I loved China Girl. She shows that strength comes in all shapes and sizes.

The Joys Of Muay Thai (or martial arts in general)

that is thaiboxing. and poledancing. Three weeks without these two and I really managed to forget - or rather suppress the memory of - how easy you get bruises. Well, back into the game, after my first poledancing and second Muay Thai class since my break, I do remember oh too well. Why can't I love sports that are less bruisy? :D
and this is just my side. My legs and arms look even better.

Motivation

Motivation can be a tricky thing. Especially if you have to fight your own demons, may they be tests, heart break, family drama or something else entirely (I've worked out through all of the above and felt better for doing so). Actually, you just have to get your butt up and to the gym. You know what to do. Go through the motions. At some point the tension fades and you can enjoy not only your workout, but life, too, again.

Morning Yoga Routine

with this short and easy yoga sequence, getting up in the morning is quite nice :)

Gym Etiquette

Don't do this. Don't be this person. Just don't. :D

Those Last Ten Pounds

So:
- skip the booze
- don't go for a deficit of more than 500 kcal
- use your common sense when it comes to what you're eating (no processed foods, whole grain, etc.)

And I'm off to a massage. Today is my recovery day, I won't do any sports, because my body is too sore and all I'd do is risk an injury. Plus, your body needs some days off to recover, to build new muscle etc. A massage is another good way to take care of your muscles, especially if you're doing a lot of working out and sports and other fitness stuff. And well, if you feel better, you have a more positive attitude toward your body. So, treat yourself and your body to something every now and then.