Thursday, January 28, 2010

Love YOU more in 2010



It’s a month after we all pledged to do better, we swore to the New Year’s resolution genie that if we could have one more year we’d “be the change”, live at the gym and love salad based fare. How’s that going?
Are you still popping out of bed with an increased resolve? Valentine ’s Day is around the corner and will include foodie decadence specifically for your palette. Will your commitment to health survive it? Sensitive topic, I know but I’ve decided - this is my year and the goal is simple. FITNESS!!!

No, I’m not a personal trainer but I’ve spent enough of my hard earned cash on trainers and fancy fitness programs to have learned a pretty expensive lesson. Here goes, body transformation is a marathon not a sprint. It’s not one size fits all and it begins when we claim the responsibility to be our own agents of change. I’ve blossomed into a vegetarian vixen and from stocking my kitchen, weeding out unsupportive “fren-emies”, meal planning to create simple cardio routines that work- I’m your girl!
I’m well versed enough to know what IFBB is and my “bodies of inspiration list” includes names like Ava Cowan, Alicia Marie, Tosca Reno and Margaret Diuablo. I know what it’s like to consult an amalgamation of wellness resources, in order to create a fitness plan that jibes with my vegetarian lifestyle. Like many readers, I’m still relentlessly chasing the hallmark of fitness- “toned abs” and as we overcome the frequent tests of our will, who doesn’t want support on that journey?


Here are four ways to kick start your fabulous life:

The Zone: What excites you about fitness, who are your “bodies of inspiration” and virtual mentors? Be honest about what motivates you and live in that zone, fact find, make a refrigerator collage and do what it takes to stay motivated.


Honor Your Heart: Weight loss isn’t just about pushing away from the table, it’s emotional. Listen to your emotions and acknowledge them, use a diary when you feel the need to jot down why you over eat, at least once measure your correct portion sizes and get disciplined about adhering to them. Are you eating smaller meals 5 to 6 times a day? There is a plethora of free information courtesy of the web. If you understand your behavior a good offensive strategy will ensure success.

Double “O” YOU : It’s okay to lead a double life and from one former member of cubicle nation to another, it’s okay to be an employee by day and gym rat by night. However, your choices have to be complimentary. It’s not okay to go to yoga class then visit Krispy Kreme. Don’t tease yourself with edible treats instead opt for a spa day, visit www.whatissuitetabu. com or buy a pair of “Form and Fauna” shoes!

A Passion Poster: I’m a visual person and sometimes I do need to see it in order to believe it. I have a huge board in my home that has inspirational quotes, magazine cut outs, an image of the Prius I hope to buy soon and other motivating items on it. My sister and I once super glued our faces over the cover model of our favorite health magazine, we giggled but posting that picture on the refrigerator really helped me avoid late night snacking. What’s your visual diet?


For more information on Asperger’s Syndrome and to make a donation visit GRASP.org/donate Please select “Ms Maryland 2010” as your program of support. All funds go directly to the 501c3 organization.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Its SEXY to . . .


Blogger: Akidah Njuzu, the Veggie Vixen

A new year for us, equals a new attitude. Specifically, a new attitude about

S-E-X-Y.

Maybe you've noticed the updates at http://www.whatissuitetabu.com/, from the new silk collection to the bamboo jersey dresses. Only for you, do I scour the planet for the the best hand selected array of luxe, eccletic items- anywhere!

Our goal in 2010 is to be "the" Green boutique for the global fashionista and her "eco- chic" sphere of influence!

So, what is S-E-X-Y in 2010? A soy based candle enhanced by moonlight while you unwind? Skin, healthy and smooth, compliments of a sugar scrub routine,done to your favorite world music cd- Safri Duo or Jamiroquai anyone?

Maybe-- we've got all that

but dry off and step into a natural fiber robe.

Meditate on this,

the new S-E-X-Y,

is a life-long curiosity about saving the resources of our planet, it's committment to a cause of passion, it's taking action, one step at a time towards a healthier and greener life.

The new S-E-X-Y is being a better version of the current "you"! Whatever you define yourself as,right now. S-E-X-Y isn't a privilege of the chosen few, you choose it and here are five ways to redefine your sexy,

right now:

1) Make them Green with envy: Be creative, style yourself! You've read enough fashion magazines and have been following Angelina, Amber Rose and Shania Twain long enough to know a few things about what works for you! Take a leap of faith and define your own look! Buy a few "eco" accent pieces and add some flair to your wardrobe!

2)Be a Disciplined Diva: Just say "NO" to non-organic goods and non fair trade goods, reuse a grocery bag, make cool gifts and re-use printer paper. Small steps help lower your carbon footprint. If the "Bling" isn't "conflict free" return it!

3)Share the Love: forward our site to 100 of your closest friends and leave a comment. Teach others how to GO GREEN!

4) Be Kissable: Start small, buy an organic lip gloss then replace your "Mac" with mineral based cosemtics. Do you know that your skin absorbs more harmful elements that your body does via digestion?

5) Embrace the unusual: Be daring help another human being! We love GRASP.org, but many local organizations and adults need support too!

Live "Suitely" & Be Well,

Akidah