Running, Eating and Racing…

There are a few races I am preparing for. 

The first is the Chinatown Firecracker Race…It is Year of the Dragon…seems as though this promises to be a year that is on FIRE!  This race is followed by the Brea 8k – February 26, 2012! The race that will present itself with HEART RATE HILL! Ugh!

Last year The Chinatown Firecracker race totally surprised me and took my wind the initial first mile and a half of the race!  You can read that experience HERE

Well not this year!  I am going to be ready!  I am soooo excited about it!  I keep visualizing it over and over again.  Let’s just hope they don’t change the course!  I had said that I wouldn’t do this race again.  All year I kept thinking about the race and how the hill was a challenging one!  I didn;t like the way that felt!  So as anyone who is happy to take a challenge, I am running this race AGAIN!  I am hoping to have a better time.  I think I should do a bit better.  I feel like my running is stronger this year.  But let’s see how this goes on Sunday…

Here is my bib and fancy Dragon T-shirt set for tomorrow!

All I have been running are hills for the last 7 days!  Up hill, Up hill, Up hill!  The new 2012 course my taste tester and I made has been working out wonderfully.  Quite honestly that hill kicked my butt last year!  All races that I am repeating in 2012 were all positive experiences, however the Firecracker race is more of a “I SHALL CONQUER!” type of race.

I completed 7 days in a row of more than a 5k distance uphill and I am happy. 

There are a few things I have changed this year!  1) I have been running during the day.  I have happily been able to experience the opportunity to see so much of the city I normally miss.  I see so many wonderful birds throughout my run and I love it.  I hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy birds.  (Can you believe there is a company dedicated to having bird free zones?  How horrible is that!) With the onset of global warming and air pollution I worry about generations to come…

As I was running this last week, I kept thinking about the Pepperdine Coastal race.  I remember hitting mile 2 vividly!  The reason it was so vivid?  The 10kers were passing me at such an accelerated pace it was wild!  One day Veg Blogger…One day you will be faster!

I saw the most divine and gorgeous peacocks.  They were feeding and flying into pine trees all along the route!  One of the best things about living in Arcadia are the peacocks and the parrots!   They call out and are so alive.  It is amazing to see how much life can truly be a beautiful experience.  Sometimes as individuals we forget to be thankful for what we do have.

I am thankful for a roof over my head, a wonderful city to live in and the opportunity to experience my body and all that it is capable of each time I run, eat great food and am happy to say thank you for another day of being alive!

Depression can effect many people out there in this world of ours and there is FREEDOM from such a mind set.  Raw Foods, excercise and meditation can really make ALL the difference in the world.  How many of us actually take the time to do those things? I would imagaine the percentage is low! 

The revolution begins with what we put in our mouths and what we do with the opportunites we are given each day.  Each day we have the opportunity to be kind and loving. Each day we have the opportunity to live life to it’s fullest. 

Look at the moon the next time you feel depressed.  If it is full than you know, IF you have been hanging around here that the parasites are alive and well within!  Grt rid of them and I guarantee there will be a BIG CHANGE!  I write about parasites alot and have been doing more and more research regarding things horrible mongers!  If you are interested in what I am saying, then look up the posts Recipe for Illness Part 1, 2 and 3! or START HERE!

If you take care of your body..Your body will take care of you!

I have eaten more fruit this week than I have in awhile and i can really feel a difference in my sleep, running, and yoga.  I can place my body into various asanas (positions) a bit easier and I am quite thankful for that!  Yoga is my saving grace when it comes to running!  The more alkaline, the easier it should be for me to reach my goals!

I have also been enjoying quite a bit of these…

Thanks for Reading!

Wish me luck.  By this time tomorrow I will be celebrating my sisters birthday at her favorite Indian Restaurant!

Namaste!

EXTRA – XTRA Read All About It!

Here are some interesting stories I read today!  I love to read about various topics DAILY and I thought I would share!

RAW Vegan/ Vegan News Today

1. Tennis Star Venus Williams has decided to adopt a RAW VEGAN Diet!  Venus is hoping to manage her autoimmune disease issues with this latest change in her lifestyle. This is a phenominal answer to her problem.  Very PROACTIVE!
2. Larry Hagman has decided to embrace an all VEGAN diet to combat Cancer. I am really excited to see an 80 year old man make changes as well.  Change your diet.  Change your life.
3. Fiber rich vegan/vegetarian diet help your micro flora.  This is very much paying attention what goes in must come out!
4. 8 Ways to Detox! You can’t have a headline with the number 8 and me not mention it on this blog!
5. Food Trend Pioneer from cooked to RAW!

News of Vinegar, Oil & Spices

1. Check out the book titled “Extra Virginity” by Tom Mueller.  He talks about the History of Olive Oil and the best types to eat, cook, un-cook, or dip with!
2. In the winter blahs can be highlighted with spice! This is a nice article geared toward the positive side of spices!
3. Experiment to spice up your diet and your health! We know that spices help our health, but this article goes into some options that will lead you to more adventures in the kitchen!
4. Global Warming may be threatening the TRUFFLE industry in FRANCE!A Truly sad day it will be when there are NO MORE TRUFFLES….EVER!

Running Highlights

1. The Olympic Trials will be underway this weekend.  For any information about who will be there and what’s is happening with them head over to THIS website!
2. FOUR AWESOME WOMEN are Olympic hopefuls this weekend in Houston! You can read their stories HERE!
3. Pick up a copy of the latest issue of RUNNERS WORLD and read a wonderful article about MY FAVE – DESIREE DAVILA! Go Desi!(She will be there this weekend and I wish her the very best!)

Day 3, RUNNING & Counting!

It is hard to believe it is only the 6th day of 2012!

How are you? Did you have a good time this New Years Eve?  It seems as though the holidays were upon us as quickly as they were over…

A FEW THINGS…

This was the second year my taste tester and I literally ran into the new year.   We decided on a new route for a new year.  Happily a good course to prepare for ANY hilly 5k/10k and the option of tearing it up on a flat course!  My times should show an improvement…

The run was absolutely exhilarating! It was however VERY QUIET!

No bhangra or dancehall music in the distance, no house parties with their 80′s/90′s music anywhere!  Absolutely quiet! EVERYWHERE!

The economic downturn is my reasoning as to why there wasn’t much of a celebration.  Things seem to be hard on everyone these days.  Many people are affected financially right now.

It is displayed at simple places you would normally see loads of people!  Many retailers are suffering and closing large stores.  Blockbuster has been closing stores for awhile, as well as Kodak possibly having a downturn.  People just don’t have extra money to spend!

I have NEVER seen so many people on bikes, commuting here and there and quite honestly everywhere.  Sometimes the need to be more frugal can actually be healthier!

My taste tester and I were discussing riding our bikes to and from the shop when the weather gets better….

RUNNING

2012 will happily result in running races for the SECOND time! Clap Clap Clap and a big smile for races coming up!

The Pepperdine Coastal 5k 10k is approaching.  The last time we ran that race we also had International Vegan Pizza Night!  I think I will have the events on different days!  It was too crazy that night to do it again!

Races to follow: Chinatown Firecracker Race and the Brea 8K.  These are some hilly courses!  I have committed to better times AND to make those hills my B_TCH!

I have learned so much from my commitment to 12 races this last year.

Here are the HARD LESSONS from my first year of running and races…

Lesson #1 – DRINK WATER!

DRINK LOTS OF WATER!  I know it probably sounds simple…maybe even stupid but it is the truth.

At any given moment during a run you may be confronted with feeling that your legs are as heavy as two concrete blocks!  For me and many the feeling is generally in your thighs! This is definitely dehydration.  Also, when it is difficult to take hold of your breathing pattern and break into your endurance mode it is usually water related.  (That’s not to say nutrition isn’t a variable but that is further on down the list!)

MY ANSWER FOR ME: Make sure to drink more thank 64 oz a day if not more!  Drink most of your water within a 12 hour period PRIOR to your run.  Don’t jam on water trying to get it all in before a run! I repeat DON’T DO IT! You will definitely make yourself ill and that defeats the purpose! Just be aware of your water intake! And PURE water! None of this colored tinted or flavor hinted nonsense out there! PURE WATER!

LESSON #2 - KEEP IT CLEAN!

Any physical activity that places demands on your body like running, yoga, cycling and/or any other endurance sport should not occur after a cup of coffee!  If the caffeine effect is your desire then go for some sort of tea, energy bar and/or natural supplement. I have found both the Vega Supplement to be quite helpful!

Coffee is extremely acidic something you DO NOT WANT for your body  if you are going to race within a few hours.

You want to stay as ALKALINE as possible to curb injuries!

This year I read many articles on the internet, in running magazines and my beloved world of blogs about injuries  people sustained while running.

Keep your diet and liquids clean! Your body will thank you and you will be happy with your endurance levels and overall performance.

CLEAN FOODS = CLEAN BODY!

Lesson #3 – BEWARE OF YOUR INNER WHINER !

When embarking on a run invariably you I will feel various things.

My inner whiner will enter my mind and tell me all kinds of things! For some the whiner begins sooner rather than later.  It is the whiner that is often called “THE WALL”.  Well here at the Veg888 blog…we call it “your inner whiner”.

A few examples are:

I have to go to the bathroom you should stop and go back … (My reaction: What are you talking about you just went to the bathroom before you ran for this specific reason.  Keep running. )

My knee hurts…ouch my ankle…or some other type of pain… I can’t do it…i’m tired…it’s cold…(My reaction: Stop with the whining already just run.  That is all you have to do.  You just finished one hour of yoga madame..you are more than prepared!)

I think I will run a shorter distance than originally intended…(My reaction:  Do you have a goal? If you do meet.  Be about it…Don’t Just talk about it!)

There are many more examples but these usually hit me the first 1/4 mile.

Whenever that little nagging whiner rear it’s ugly head…I work through it! Shut the whiner down!

Lesson #4 – STRETCH IT OUT AND WALK IT OUT!

It is absolutely imperative to stretch!  In the long run, (no pun intended) you are far better off when you stretch than when you don’t!  Take the time to do it! If you don’t you will be sorry.

I pose this question to myself – Which would you rather do? Take the time to stretch and then run? -or- Get an injury because you didn’t stretch and then you can’t run for a few days/weeks/months and have loads of time nursing your injury?

 

Lesson #5 – PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT IS GOING IN

& WHAT IS COMING OUT!

Okay so this is where the uncomfortable moments begin in this posting…

1) Whatever your persuasion regarding what you choose as your general menu, make sure you are no less than 60% alkaline!  (I once read someone say “…there are two subjects that will make people not like you in any discussion.  Talk to someone about their diet or their god and you will definitely encounter hostility!) In all physical activities, the more alkaline your system is the better your body will perform, repair, and continue comfortably.  Experiment with your diet.  It is the best way to fine tune your fitness goals and your quality of life.

2) Pay attention to what is coming out and how often! You should be able to have 1 or more bowl movements a day.  If you skip a day drink more water, add more salad, add fruit, take a probiotic, something! Do not allow a day without a bowel movement!  This is where many of diseases will end up living!  Your colon, your digestive system and any of the filters our wonderful bodies have to assimilate food. I have been getting a colonic once a week since I first started.  I feel better, my “movements” are better and my entire life is changing.  Seriously.  I certainly am not telling you you have to get a colonic.  I am simply telling you to be aware of what is coming out. Be kind to your body and keep it clean!

This topic can be an uncomfortable subject, but I do feel it is important!  I think when we as humans realize that we are in control of our health we will grow by leaps and bounds!

Our bodies are miraculous machines.  Our bodies work better than any new technological gadget that can be imagined!  Anything going wrong with your body is like a crime.

We have an amazing healing system within and remember to use it!  We NEVER get sick for no reason!  There is always a reason!  Get CSI on the problem and I guarantee there is a natural cure! Anything you eat should not stay in your body for more than 8-12 hrs.  So just be aware and love your body!

I don’t want to have too long of a post so I will end here!

Thanks for reading!

Namaste!

 

What are your goals this year?    What goals did you meet last year?

Experience life and enjoy each adventure you find yourself in!

Chapters in Life

Chapter 1 - Tuesday – July 26,2011

It was 78 degrees last night during my run.  It did however seem more tolerable since the sun had long been gone and the beauty of night was glimmering!

Unfortunately, my taste tester is still dealing with an a slight injury and unable to run with me…or so I thought!

The run was a simple 4.5 mile run.

I recently have begun to really push myself the last mile or so of the run. I figure next month I will push at 1.5 miles prior to the end and continue until I am running at a faster pace each mile of the run!  This should help me on race day…

My mind was thinking about so many topics while I ran.

Things like: Fueling my body ALOT better.  - Making the “FUEL” commitment to my running is really important.  The fact is I haven’t taken THIS particular commitment seriously. BOOO for the Veg888 Blogger!

That’s not to say I am eating sugar, candy, soda, sweets, etc.  It’s just that I know I need to take my consumption up about 5 notches!  But I am aware and I will do something about it!

As I approached the end of my run, I saw my taste test jogging toward me.  He finished the last mile of the run with me.  Unfortunately he was in pain and sniffling like he had a cold! Hmmm….

Once we were inside and I looked at him, I knew it!  A cold had found him and I wanted NO PART OF IT!

Despite my diligent effort not to catch my taste tester’s cold – I GOT SICK! >:(  Very upset to say the least!  I tried cleaning everything after he used it with thyme and tea tree essential oil.  I sprayed the rooms and the bed with this same concoction…

Stop the Cold Bug Disinfectant Spray

10 oz Distilled Water

6 Drops Organic Thyme Oil

6 Drops Organic Tea Tree Oil

Fill a clean spray bottle with the distilled water.  (I use distilled since it won’t mold or smell after a few weeks time.)  Add the essential oil to the water and cover with spray nozzle.  Shake before each use.

NOTE: My taste tester and I generally use this spray on our bed in the a.m. when we are fixing it and getting ready to go.  This spray is also really good in the kitchen, however I add lemon essential oil to that spray.

Unfortunately, I didn’t think to get the light switches or the steering wheel to the car! UGH!

On Thursday I woke up sneezing and felt the germ coming on!  I was determined to fight it!

Chapter 2 – Sunday – July 31, 2011

By Sunday the cold had vanished and I was healthy again!  Luckily!

We had purchased tickets to see Ziggy Marley at the Hollywood Bowl that night and I was truly excited!

I made Jerk Tofu with Red Beans and Rice in honor of Jamaica!

We sat and enjoyed a truly moving, captivating and dynamic show by Ziggy!  A true professional and a true musician.

More often than not, I am ALWAYS disappointed when Bob Marley’s kids start singing their father’s songs! How many times is Damian, Stephen or even Ky-Mani for that matter going to sing “We’re Jammin”! Ugh! Bob did it – it was part of his repetoire! However, that was then – this is now!

Both Ziggy and Ky-mani have great works independently and DO NOT NEED TO SING BOB’S songs.  Anyone feel me on this one???

As the evening ended I was truly calm and serene.

I really enjoy having a meal and watching live music.  Note to self: I think I will host a function at the store as such.  It is REALLY calming and healing! I have the back yard area…why not?

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – August 9, 2011

Today marks a few symbolic goals I have decided to fulfill!  Things have been changing around here at the Veg888 Blog…Within, Without, Interior, Exterior…

First – Today is the 8th – ( that’s right 8 – Don’t I love 8′s!) day of a 14-day Organic Detox!  I am embarking on a DETOX FEST for the next 6 months! I will take you on my journey of these Detoxes and discuss what is happening as a cause of this cleansing fest.

Second – Today was the third – ahem – Colonic appointment I had.  Yes Readers you read that correctly.  Don’t worry, I won’t give you much more information than that.  I will however discuss why I am opting to have a colonic each week for the next few weeks.

Third – The realization of age and keeping your body in working order!  I noticed there were a few uncomfortable poses while practicing yoga.  Not uncomfortable because I couldn’t do them, but much more of an organ pain…if that makes sense???  I decided to listen to what my body was telling me and make some poignant changes to my life.  Yes it will be hard work and I will need dedication, but I have to do it.  I got one body at birth!  I need to take care of it from head to toe!

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – September 5, 2011

I successfully finished the 14 day detox!  Next is the kidney detox!

I have also reached #6 in my Hydrotherapy endeavor.

Have any of you ever had a colonic before???

It is quite an interesting experience.  But I would have to say this will add another chapter to the “Recipe for Illness” Series I have going on the blog!

The Hydrotherapist I have been working with is a wonderful woman.  She is truly a beam of light!  I am happy with the results I am feeling and experiencing.

What are the changes?

1. Body odor has changed completely. Not that it was bad, just different.
2. Fatigue prior to menstruation TOTALLY gone.
3. Day1 or Day 2 Headache which usually comes with my menses – GONE!
4. My skin is clearer and my hair is growing a bit faster.
5. I am VERY aware of my chewing patterns.  Am I chewing enough, did I swallow that piece of food to fast, etc.
6. My desire for foods has changed.   I had already dropped the sweets thing, but now I don’t want anything that would “plug” my system up.
7. Although having a colonic once a week has effected my running a bit, I don’t think there is any need to worry.  Mostly my abdomen is sore the day after my appointment and I don’t run.
8. I have been CLEANING around my house.  Feeling the need to get rid of clothes, clean my fridge out and various other cleaning endeavors. Basically just get rid of JUNK!
9. Looking at everything I have in a new light.  A positive light!
10. I feel more in control of my body than I did a few weeks ago!

I could go on, but I will stop there for now.  If you have any questions about colonics feel free to email me or comment on the post!

The thing about my body is this.  I am willing to do whatever natural work I need to do!  The Detox, the herbs, the baths, Hydro-Therapy, Eating the Correct foods for my body, etc.  So I will keep you updated on any news, discoveries and findings.

Thank you for reading!  I have missed you!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Just a few more!

Hello Readers!

Yes, long time no write but living and loving along the way!  It is nice to be online and see the traffic within my site!

How are you doing?

Me?  I am still running!  My last race was in the City of San Marino!  The race took place on the 4th of July and it was totally positive!  This race is in honor of a fallen officer.

JP BLECKSMITH 5K

A large part of our proceeds go to support the Flintridge Prep’s J.P. Blecksmith ’99 Memorial Scholarship Fund which is given to a rising senior at Flintridge Prep. The Fund was established this endowment fund in 2004 to honor the memory of 2nd Lieutenant James Patrick Blecksmith ’99, who died while serving in Iraq. The JP Blecksmith ’99 Memorial Scholarship Fund offsets tuition for deserving students, funds special leadership opportunities for selected students of promise, and through the JP Blecksmith ’99 Annual Award honors a rising senior who personifies the qualities of leadership, scholarship, athletic commitment, and public service that J.P. embodied.

The Race

The race was a fast course with (2) very intense hills!  Although the hills were a BIG surprise, I am still happy I finished the race. Always happy when I finish a race and my taste tester is there waiting for me!  One day (fingers crossed) I will be able to keep up with him!  That will truly be a a wonderful day!

Mileage has been increasing each run and I am very excited about where we are in our running abilities!

The last few nights we have run over 5 miles each run and we still are not done with the week…yet!  I still have this evening and tomorrow!  I had mentioned a few weeks back that I wanted to shake things up a bit and run 25 miles for the week – I am happily right at this goal!  Next we will need to be @ 25-28 miles solidly for the next few weeks.  That is, if I would like to run the Half Marathon in the fall!  I will continue to add mileage!  Goals! Goals! They are good for me! Just a few more miles and I will be ready for the Half Marathon!

Reading

I just finished reading “Living with the Himalayan Masters” by Swami Rama.  Although a longer read than the previous book @ 454 pages, I enjoyed many aspects of this book.  It is always a pleasure to read books that really breakdown emotional barriers, give you insight to an ancient world and explain human nature in a very different way…a spiritual way!

To my HAPPY surprise there is a chapter about Anandamoyi Ma!  To anyone who has been around here, you know my affinity to this beautiful woman!  She was divine in nature!  This is the 3rd Yoga book I have read, with different authors I might add, where she is mentioned and the actual author has their own experience with her! Beautiful Ma!

If you like books about adventures in life, yoga, and/or the supernatural world, I highly suggest it!

Musical Meditations

Our latest adventure in the music world took place last Sunday @ the Hollywood Bowl!  A few years back we attended an event titled “India Calling”.  We wondered why there hadn’t been another show since!  To our surprise we discovered there was a show for 2011 called “Journey to India”!

The concert was a bit over 3 hrs!  We had taken Kale Wraps, Champagne, and sliced FRESH cucumber! We headed out to the Hollywood Bowl and expected a dancing, high energy crowd!

What we found was a very calm and serene show.  All of the music for this event was composed by A.R. Rahmen.  For those of you unfamiliar with this composer, you can hear his work on various soundtracks.  Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours, The Kings Speech, Inception, and The Social Network – just to name a few!

It was a wonderful night!  I felt so peaceful and calm after the show!  It is rare that my taste tester and I get to eat in such a calm and entertaining fashion.  A Great memory for the both of us!

This week we will see Ky-mani Marley @ the Roxy Theatr

Discussions, FYI’s and other musings…

1) I read an article called “Vegan becomes an “Ethical Butcher”.  You can read that article HERE. Quite honestly, I don’t know what bothered me more.  The fact that he WAS a vegan and ate meat again -or- the fact that he is alright with the killing of animals and chopping up body parts of animals. Before you decide, I do believe that each persons body is their own!  People can do what they want to it! Eat bad food, pierce whatever, tattoo whatever…it is OUR CONTAINER to do WHATEVER WE WANT, right?  Right.  But to kill another being on this earth for the pleasure of eating it -or whatever, that is where my problem is. One of the first Yoga practices to get a grasp of in this lifetime is Ahimsa.  Non-violence toward any entity.  I don’t feel the need to call him names, or say he is beneath any of us Vegans/Vegetarians, just makes me sad that this could be alright for him.  And to make it much worse-what does he stand for? Once a vegan – then a meat eater.  What happened to the commitment of not ingesting an animal product.  I wonder why he became one in the first place???  Hmmm.  What do you think readers?

2) While scanning the internet for information and interesting stories about general health and nutrition, I found a great new film!  You can read the summary regarding this DVD HERE.  I am really interested in seeing this DVD “May I Be FRANK” and if done well, I will more than likely offer it to my readers! Tell me what you think if you are able to go and see it!  Come on Ithaca – Talk to me!

3) HAPPY to see a Vegan NASCAR Driver with a goal! You can read that story HERE.  Always nice and uplifting to see others making and meeting GOALS!!! Go Vegans!

Write to you soon!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

the LIGHT of a new day!

Hello Readers!

Thank you for coming on by!  Lot’s of changes in the magical world of the Veg888 blog!  Lot’s of updates so I will get started and TRY and make this SHORT & SWEET! But if anything we will definitely get SWEET!

1) If you have seen – BOTANY OF DESIRE I am curious to know what you think. ?!  This documentary explores an opposing side of the life of Tulips, Apples, Cannabis and the Potato!  Originally a book, this film suggests these particular plants actually control us to continue their lives and growth, as well as further their abilities!.

I enjoyed the authors spin on things!  It was nice to experience another human being exploring feelings on a deeper level than the human experience alone.

I am eager to read the book and see what other information is included in the book!  These wonderful  life forms on earth are so magical and we are around beauty all of the time.  Even if we don’t PHYSICALLY SEE IT!

I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE books about FOOD HISTORY.  Early on Veg888 Blog used to cover a bit more history of food with recipes and logs of what was going on in the kitchen.  I started adding all of the different parts of my life with you!  It has become clear that I cannot just discuss food or yoga or any other ONE interest  I have in any SINGLE SENSE within a single posting!

I hope you will come along for the ride!

2) The Art of Joyful Living by Swami Rama – This was a quick and FRUITFUL read.  I am looking forward to read a few more books by this author.

Each month I buy magazines and look for interesting information about health, food, running, yoga, etc.  Over the past few years I seek out a magazine called Yoga+  International.  The magazine is a product of the Himalayan Institute in PA.

This last month there was an article written by Swami Rama about Inner Reflection.

The article was very kind and straight forward about battles we have as people.  Why we behave like we do, how to get past obstacles, how to be gentle with ourselves, how to have an organized calm mind, and other VERY HELPFUL TOOLS to everyday life.  The article is loosely based on the book –  ”The Art of Joyful Living “

After reading this book, it has left me wanting to make some changes in my life and I am trying to utilize the tools the book discusses. If you read this book I would love to hear from you!

3) Running in the evening seems to be extremely healing for me.  I enjoy running during the day, but I must say I am really LOVING the cool summer nights we have here in California.  Although it is in the 80′s at the moment, tonight is sure to cool off to a NICE and BREEZY evening!  I am still running and unfortunately I will only have 1 race for May and 1 for June.

July promises to be quite busy with races.  I will also be hosting some functions on behalf of the Veg888 BLOG and also on behalf of the store.  My taste tester and I have chosen about 4 races for the month of July and I am also hoping to conquer 10 miles.  Yes still trying to conquer 10!

I am always looking for a great discussion to feature on THIS Blog! Discussions are so enlightening at times.  On many different levels! Please comment or add to the information regarding anything on this BLOG!

Thanks for reading!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

a – MAY – zing!

Hello Longevity Seekers!

How are you out there?!

It has been quite some time since we last spoke!

Things are progressing nicely and I am finding myself quite busy these days.  What about you?

I had mentioned a few bothersome aches and pains due to running, but thankfully I have been able to work through ALL of them!

Various yoga routines have been the most KEY point in running without an injury.  Many of the poses have really opened my mind and in turn my body.

Usually I begin with forward bends and move on to various hip opening poses.  Many of the “running preparatory” poses, or so I like to call them, help enormously while I am in the act of running.

Allowing the hips, glutes and hamstrings to be stretched throughout any given session is REALLY HELPFUL when I am doing a long run! Usually 6-7+ miles.  (Hopefully I will be able to add about a mile or two this week to the 7 mile mark!)

So I usually start with:

Forward Bend – Uttanasana – To wake up the hamstrings!  I usually hold this pose for 3 minutes. Inhale. move into…

Exhale…Upward Salute – Urdhva Hastasana – Usually to rejoice I am about to RUN!!! BIG Inhale…

Exhale… Standing Half Forward Bend – Ardha Uttanasana – This is usually added as a variation to the forward bend because it allows me to check on my taste tester and at times feel the stretch in my back !

I usually repeat this series 3 more times before I move onto the next sequence of poses.

I begin in Tadasana and place my arms to my side palms down toward the floor and step one foot to the right.  This way I am ready to practice the next pose.

Prasarita Padottanasana I – Wide Leg Forward Bend – This is usually a very intense stretch for the hamstrings, calves, inner part of the thigh, glutes and part of my lower back.  Since this is usually challenging the first time I practice this asana I usually touch the floor with my palms and hold the pose for about 2-3 minutes.  Once I am warmed up, I place my elbows on the ground and really intensify this stretch.  However, when practicing ALWAYS stay in the present tense and B.R.E.A.T.H.E!!! Just stay comfortable!

From this pose I usually angle one foot and move into Parsvottanasana – Intense Side Stretch Pose – which is REALLY helpful on the inner part of the thigh, glutes and lower back.  I hold this pose on each side.

Although I move into more poses I am wondering if you are bored right about now??? If you would like more poses comment below and I can do a special sequence post for before and after a run!

With the exception of this evening, I would like to run a few times in the a.m. this week. Let’s see if I can’t shake things up a bit.  I say this because I am not usually a morning person!  AT ALL! But, I digress.

I would like to run 25+ miles this week.  That is the goal.  I am confident I will be able to run a half marathon by the fall.  I find it takes me until about mile 4 to feel warmed up, which is great on longer runs and not to good while running 3 miles or less.  That isn’t to say I can’t run, just not as warmed up I suppose.  Maybe that is why I see people running prior to a race….hmmmm.

I did meet my goal to run on my birthday!  This birthday was truly a wonderful day! I ran a 5k next to the beach, enjoyed a great dinner with my taste tester and GREAT friend Ignacio!  He is studying at the University of Santa Barbara at the moment and coincidentally enough the college was just across the street from the Beach where the race was! Yeah!

We talked and hung out until it was time to drive back to the LA area.  I hope to do a few more Wednesday Evening races.

It appears that many of the races in June and on are DURING THE WEEK and THE WEEKEND! Yeah!  The summer seems to invite more activity around these parts!

Lots of Yoga, Lots of Meditation and LOTS OF LOVE ahead this next month and beyond.  I am currently looking for some really cool giveaways this year and am so thankful to my SUBSCRIBER out there!  (You know who you are beautiful!  Look for something in the mail for you…)

and for the ZING…

Yoga Journal has recently written an article about a Homemade Sports Drink.  It is titled “Fix yourself a Drink” and can be found on page 28.  If you don’t receive Yoga Journal I have copied the recipe below…

Homemade Sports Drink (NOT VEGAN)

1/2 tsp honey

1 cup hot water

Juice from quarter of a lemon

Pinch Salt

Combine ingredients, stir, and chill the drink in the refrigerator to enjoy later.  Drink before and after exercise.

Write me, email me, comment or visit!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Fresh Fuel, Love and Success

I enjoyed a wonderful salad for lunch yesterday…

“Fattoush” - Cucumbers, Radishes, Sumac, Lemon Juice, Fresh Mint, Olive Oil and LOVE!:)

Wonderful Salad in all it's GLORY!

RULE #1

Eat as many greens as you possibly can!

I made up the above stated rule after reading a “blip” out of the THRIVE fitness book by Brendan Brazier!

Leafy vegetables are a rich source of chlorophyll, important in offsetting stress by alkalizing the body.  Chlorophyll also cleanses and oxygenates the blood, making it an essential “modern world” food and a true performance enhancer.  Having more oxygen available in the blood translates to better endurance and an overall reduction in fatigue.  In their raw state, chlorophyll-containing plants possess an abundance of live enzymes that promote the quick rejuvenation of our cells.  The consumption of chlorophyll-rich, leafy green vegetables combines with moderate exercise is the best way to create a biologically younger body.

Makes you think, huh?  I am totally down with the “younger body” and better performance vibe! What about you readers???

RULE #2 & RULE #3

#2 Drink Chia and #3 Drink Rejuvelac DAILY!

I shared my last Chia recipe with you HERE.  Last night I made another elixr that combines both Rule #2 and Rule #3!

CHIA – BANG!

6 Strawberries

6 Dates

2 cups Rejuvelac

1/2 cup Chia Gel

Directions: Place all ingredients in blender and drink!

In all of the research I read about the chia, many of the complaints were about the consistency and taste.  TASTE / FLAVOR don’t matter IF you are taking this into your body for nutritional benefits.  Luckily the seed is open to many many additions!  It mixes pretty easily with just about EVERYTHING!  I haven’t found anything it is bad with.  I have even taken shots of it by itself.  I must say say this – While it is not something that has flavor (bad or good), I am guessing it is the gel consistency that makes people not like it…drink it! Nutrition! NUTRITION! Nutrition!

As far as rejuvelac…I am still brewing this wonderful elixr.  Definite difference with this one – It can be a bit difficult to get down the “hatch” so to speak.  Not the flavor.  NEVER the flavor.  It actually tastes REALLY REFRESHING!  It is usually the smell that can keep me at bay for about 15 minutes.  Once I am drinking it, I usually just DOWN IT!  I usually take in approximately 20oz a day.  I would like to get to 32oz.

This wonderful sprout finds itself turning GREEN these days!  Even the Chia has been sprouting in the kitchen!  I love life and the definite presence it has in the VEG888 kitchen!

I was reviewing an Anne Wigmore book the other day and found this “blip” about REJUVELAC!

Rejuvelac – The Enzyme Drink

Rejuvelac is rich in proteins, carbohydrates, dextrines, phosphates, saccharines, lactobacilli, saccharamyces, aspergillus oryzae and they have the faculty of breaking down large molecules of glucose , starch, and glycogens.  This is the reason rejuvelac is an aid to your digestion.

The natural lactic acid and fermentive enzymes which are produced during the fermentation process have a beneficial effect on the metabolism and a curative  effect on disease.

Thanks for reading!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Questions, Experiences and Life!

Hey guys!  How are you this week?

I didn’t want this week to pass without sharing some pictures, experiences and articles!

Saturday – March 26, 2011

Saturday evening, my taste tester and I attended a concert.  Closed the store early and drove to UCLA.  The college was hosting an event called “Acoustic Africa”.

Each artist brought their own flavor to the performance.  I don’t know if you are familiar with the Putumayo company, but most CD’s produced by this company are GREAT.  The company itself was established to introduce people to the music of the world’s cultures. It is nice to have a compilation of world music when you are relaxing alone or spending time in a social setting.  I really enjoy music from ALL OVER THE WORLD!  What about you?  Do you like world music?  Do you get out to see performances of any kind? TELL ME!

The artists received a standing ovation.  I was hypnotized by the performance!  There was so much talent on stage!  Whew!

My taste tester and I drove to our FAVORITE late night spot – PURE LUCK!  To my extreme dismay they closed at 11:00!  They are usually open until midnight!>:( BOO!!!!

We got back in the car and headed home.  On the way home we saw a CRAZY 1 car accident!  Scary!  People were definitely driving drunk! Another BOO!  Don’t get me wrong, I am open to a wonderful cocktail or two but NEVER EVER DRIVE DRUNK!  Know what I mean???

SUNDAY – March 27, 2011

Sunday was the Buena Park Knott’s Berry Farm 10k Snoopy Run.  The race started at 7:00 am which meant we needed to leave by 5:30am.

Something happened between midnight and 6am…My taste tester and I were watching a movie, talking and laughing.

I got up to grab some water.

My taste tester asked “What time we needed to be out of the house?”

I responded 5:30 a.m  Why?  You don’t want to run anymore?

No, I do.  But it’s a little after 6am…

Needless to say we didn’t run!  We still needed to register and there would not have been enough time.  We went to bed after realizing the time.

We took advantage of being at home and I cleaned the fridge, he did laundry and I rode the bike 11 miles.  It was nice day!

~FAST FORWARD 7 Days~

FRIDAY – April 1,2011

Kept the store open until 9pm.  We headed to Whole Foods for pre race/post race goodies!

I wanted to maintain a light and ALL RAW theme until after the race.  We have been drinking rejuvelac and maintaining out rythem in that aspect. I also made a drink that helps us feel really energetic!

Here is our Salad we had for dinner the evening prior to the race!

The next morning we got up at 5am and began our usual stretching, morning elixr and “The Spirit of the Marathon” DVD playing.  I think I am ready for a new RUNNING DVD.  Any suggestions out there???

About 30 minutes before we left I made this MAGIC POTION!

CHIA-FIRE-LOBO

1/2 cup soaked Chia

16 oz FRESHLY SQUEEZED LEMON JUICE

2 tbs Agave Syrup

2 tbs Cayenne Pepper

Directions:  Place all ingredients in a glass jar.  Make sure the jar you use has a lid.  Once all ingredients are in the jar, Cover it and shake it up. This makes (2) servings. (NOTE: To make the Chia gel – 2 tbs + 1/2 cup water – Allow to soak for 1 hr.)

SATURDAY – April 2, 2010

I attended the RUN SEAL BEACH 5k/10k.

The course receives 2 stars out of 10

PROS:

• Everyone out there got up to exercise and experience fitness!
• The course had A LOT of women show up today!  I always find that SOOOO positive.  I love to see women taking care of themselves, being social, and just pretty much happy!  Women are beautiful and I think it is important to be supportive and kind to each other!  To many people are negative toward other in life.  Let’s all be positive forces during these rather trying times in life and earthwise.
• A 15 year old holds the course record for the 5k as of today!

CONS:

• Horrible course.  We ran along the street and there were STRONG FUMES from all of the vehicles.
• All of the trash I saw along the way!  Especially the cups! Please runners hold your cup/stash your cup in your pocket! Something! PLEASE DO NOT THROW THE CUP ON THE GROUND! Better yet-come with water in a RECYCLABLE CONTAINER!
• GROUCHY SEAL BEACH OFFICERS!

This successfully makes the 7th race I have run since December! YEAH!

This weekend is the ARCADIA DERBY 5k – Saturday April 9,2011!  So exciting!  I am also hoping to do the Lake Balboa 10k on Sunday!

I will continue to eat superfoods, chia, and RAW this week!

Check in with you later!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

TEAZER and the FIRE-CRACKER CAT!

I will begin with…

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

I hope you are all rested and feeling good today!  Much love to you and your families!!!

This weekend was pretty busy!

Opened the store on Saturday and then went to a Birthday Party for my wonderful sister.  It was her 40th!!!  My taste tester and I left about 11:00pm from the restaurant and were in bed by Midnight.

Get up – It’s 6:20…said my taste tester

I sleepily opened my eyes.  It was race day and I wondered what I would learn from this race.  Agh! I wanna sleep some more…

I told my body – Get out of the bed and get ready…Yawn!

Alright I’m ready…

CHINESE FIRECRACKER RACE

Each race has taught me something new about myself.  Well, this one taught me A LOT about the  City of Los Angeles races, FALSE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS, determination, etc.

We began the race with a steep hill and ended the race with steep downhill!!!

The initial .25 mile of the race was a straight away.  The 1.25 – 1.5 mile was an ABSOLUTE UPHILL CHALLENGE!!! We climbed 200 ft in elevation.

It was entirely upsetting to many people in the race!  I kept hearing people saying:

“@#!%*…this isn’t like the online description at all!” Huff Huff

“How long are we going to go up this hill?  Huff Huff – Oh my gosh – we still have to climb up to the top parking lot of the stadium? Pant Pant

The course led to the top parking lot of Dodger Stadium!  It was BRUTAL. Not that I was unable to do it, but the road had small pebbles and many people began slipping and falling! It was starting to bother me mentally.  I must have seen 4-5 people fall within a 12-14 minute period!

After the initial 2 mile mark (ALERT thanks to my GARMIN – NOT THE USUAL RACE MARKERS!) Which I thought this kinda sucks.  We are declining rapidly down a hill people are slipping on…

Once my Garmin beeped at mile 2 – I felt alright.  I thought, although this race seems to be going at an INTENSE rate, I am soooo GLAD I committed to the 5k and NOT the 10k! Whew! 6.25 miles uphill? No thank you!

Yes it was quite challenging.  I ended the race in 40 minutes and 16 seconds.  Which I suppose isn’t too bad since it was ALL UPHILL!!! I was okay.  I don’t know IF I will do this race EVER AGAIN, BUT I am glad I finished it and saw it through.

Overall thoughts:

CONS:I saw many people cut across the loop, I saw people not even do the hill and wait for their friends to come down the hill, I also saw more dogs at this race.  Never before had I seen people have their pooches with them.  The race officials didn’t have enough PORT A POTTIES for people.  It was very disorganized in terms of the course being outlined.  Not many cones – human sheilds. BIG TEAZE OF A RACE!!!

PROS: Young Adults 18 – 28 were in FULL EFFECT!!! That made me happy and hopeful!  Happy they were out there taking care of their bodies and enjoying life.  Adults 65-80 years old were out in FULL EFFECT as well. YES!!! Photo Booth for all entrants!!!

My taste tester ran the race as well.  His time was 38 minutes 33 seconds.  AWESOME!!!

We went home and ate and showered.

Since it was the 13th I was scheduled to go to lunch with my sister and her NEW husband for her official 40th party with JUST FAMILY. Unfortunately, all of that was called off.

My cousin passed away at approximately 3pm on Sunday. Sad.

and

~IN MEMORY OF MY CAT~

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

I love you Grady!!!

You will always be my FIRE CAT!!!