Wednesday, February 24, 2021

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO HIKING



It is not a secret that I love hiking. Hiking is an excellent low-impact workout. Unlike walking on a treadmill or paved path, hiking involves more, sometimes unpredictable variables. Of course, the variables are part of what makes it so enjoyable. Use the following hiking tips to make your first hike successful:

HYDRATION

Staying hydrated is one of the most important ways to make sure you enjoy yourself outdoors, no matter what season it is. Hiking is 100 times more enjoyable when you have water... and you actually remember to drink it. For water intake, about a half liter per hour of moderate temperatures is a good starting place. These amounts depend heavily on several factors, such as the intensity of your hike, the weather, your age, your sweat rate, and your body type. 


FOOD

As a beginner hiker, it can be tough to know how much food you'll need. A good general recommendation for how much to eat is 200-300 calories per hour. As you gain more experience, you'll get a better sense of just how much you need. 

SHOES


Painful feet can ruin a hike. You do not need to buy new shoes on your first hike. Let's make sure you like hiking before you make the investment. When you are ready to invest, invest in quality hiking shoes and socks. This doesn't mean heavy leather boots, there are a lot of "light hikers" available that require little break-in. Also, not skimp on socks... and please NO COTTON!! I know this way too well. Wool or synthetic socks are the way to go. One last foot tip, pack blister dressings just in case.

FIRST AID 

You don't need to be a medical pro to take a hike, but it is wise to know some basic first aid. Always carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. The farther afield you go, the more important it can be to have medical training. 

PACE YOURSELF

When you first get on the trail, you may feel like powering forward like a hero. However, you'll be a zero by the end of the day if you don't pace yourself. Instead, pick a pace you can maintain all day. It might feel a little awkward at first, but after a few miles, especially uphill, you'll be glad you saved your energy. 


KEEP TRAILS BEAUTIFUL

The beautiful trails we love will only stay beautiful if we care for them. Take time to read the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and follow them. It's up to every outdoor enthusiast to take care of our natural spaces. 

XOXO, 
Happy Trekking Homies
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Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Why I Started Yoga Teacher Training

The first time I sought out a yoga class, was a few months after I delivered my daughter. I was craving adult company with some sort of movement. I was given a gym membership for my birthday, (best/worse gift for a new mom) so I figured that will be the best place to start my yoga journey.


I walked into the yoga studio at my local gym wearing an oversized t-shirt and running shorts and was ready to go. 


So long the days of working out in cotton t-shirts, I miss you dearly. 


I laid out the mat provided by the gym, sat in criss-cross applesauce eagerly awaiting the class to start. We were instructed to lie on our backs, close our eyes in preparation for pranayama (breathing) and grounding. The next thing I knew there was a tap on my shoulder, I slept through the entire class!! I was mortified and felt horrible. The embarrassment must have been written all over my face because the yoga teacher looked me in the eyes and gently stated You Look Like You Needed It. 


I don't remember the type of class or the teacher's name but I am incredibly grateful for her to allow me space to do that. 

Throughout the years, I have learned how not to fall asleep at the beginning of classes (savasana... that is a different story). I practice yoga because I have always felt better physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually after yoga. So when I became a fitness professional in 2012, yoga teacher training was always in the back of my mind but, the cost was an issue. Who knew training would cost over USD 2,000.00? Sticker shocked, I had to evaluate my wants and save up for this investment because that price is a damn investment. 


In June 2020, I finally got a cost-effective opportunity to start yoga teacher training. I received a scholarship through My Vinyasa Practice, The course was virtual and I could complete it at my own pace. Ummm, can we say blessing??!! I was stoked to get an opportunity to do something I wanted so badly. 



Yoga teacher training and my personal practice were the gentle nudges I needed to sit, see, and be with myself. I was able to physically measure my growth when I saw improvements in asanas (poses). I was also able to give myself grace when needed. I noticed less judgment for myself and others. When I started to let go of judgment and notice the things that kept me bound, I felt free.


The asana was my gateway drug into loving yoga. It tricked me into breathing. It forced me to move. It quiets my mind. It taught me to be present. I believe in the transformational power of yoga. I have experienced it myself. Who doesn't want to bring that to others?


I care about my students, I am passionate about teaching and I feel called to share yoga with my community. I am ecstatic to share my yoga teaching journey with you guys so stay tuned. 


Xoxo, 

Tikima Renee 

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