Hello and welcome to Breath of Balance where we talk about how to balance personal health and wellness in our daily lives.

For the relatively short amount of time I have existed in this crazy thing we call life. I have come to understand that it is not the great declarations of change that move us forward on our journey of discovering who we want to be in this life. It is the small practices, the moments that we spend in the pure presence of self, with a deep breath and smile knowing we got this.

It’s in those moments that we turn another degree closer to our true life’s direction.

Thank you, for choosing to come along with me.

In this weekly newsletter I will talk about the small things. The practices that I have used that have allowed me to find balance and the new topics and practices I will continue to learn along the way.

Joy in Motion

Have you ever thought about it? Why do we wiggle? What is it about seemingly random assortment of noises finding a rhythm. That makes us, almost involuntarily, start moving those hips. It makes me laugh thinking about how it could’ve of started. A group of Neanderthals’ flint napping, making stone tools, accidently flow into a rhythm. Unaware to their new discovery they continue their work, then a head bob, a toe tap, a little shoulder shimmy. Now aware but still unsure what is happening the nappers look up to see the women and the children on their feet, arms moving in a peculiar way. Slowly gliding to the center of the cave as if by some unseen force. The first ever dance party must have been truly something to behold.

Movement and emotion have a bond as old as time. The correlation between physical movement and emotion is strong, deeply rooted in both biology and psychology. Movement doesn't just reflect our emotional state it also shapes it. Physical movement offers profound psychological benefits, primarily because it activates brain systems that regulate mood, motivation, and stress.

Movement stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and endocannabinoids which help reduce anxiety, lift depression, and create feelings of well-being. Movement also lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol, promoting a sense of calm. Psychologically, engaging in physical activity boosts self-esteem, enhances emotional resilience, and provides a sense of control and accomplishment—especially when setting and achieving fitness goals.

Movement often serves as a form of mindfulness, redirecting attention away from negative thoughts and anchoring the mind in the present moment. Social forms of movement, like group classes or team sports, foster connection and belonging, which are critical for mental health.

Movement has taken up a large, deeply meaningful part of my being in the last few years. What started out as an effort to simply loose weight, turned into something more profound then I could have ever imagined. It went form something that I had to get done and wanted to get it over with. To something I look forward to everyday. Dancing like no ones watching while cooking my breakfast. The connection between my breath and the cadence of my foot strike when I run. The stretching sensation in my muscles during my mobility sessions. I cherish these moments because they bring me to the present moment and fill me with peace and joy. I hope you take some time to be with yourself in movement. When you find your movement I promise you won’t regret it.

Movement

• Movement as a mood enhancer: Exercise triggers the release of brain chemicals like dopamine and endorphins, which can reduce anxiety, lift depression, and increase feelings of happiness.

• Social connection through movement: Group activities like dancing, running clubs, or fitness classes foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose, strengthening community bonds.

• Empowerment and resilience: Physical challenges, such as long hikes or endurance races, help people discover inner strength, build confidence, and cope with adversity.

• Mind-body harmony: Practices like yoga and tai chi highlight the link between breath, movement, and mental focus, enhancing self-awareness and calm.

• A deeper sense of purpose: Movement can be a spiritual experience, helping individuals feel connected to something larger than themselves—whether it’s nature, humanity, or a sense of the divine.

Book Nook

Weekly recommended reading from my bookshelf.

I am one of those people that I need to understand the why behind something before I can fully embrace it. A lot of people know that physical activity and exercise are good for their “health”, but this simple idea is not enough to get most people moving. It is not until you find your why, does a behavior change like starting an exercise program take place. This book came into my life at a point where I viewed exercise as something you do to lose weight and get fit. A structured block of time where you got it done and got out. The Joy of Movement shifted my perspective of what exercise is. It showed me how to find joy in the movement. It helped create a mind body connection in which physical activity goes beyond fitness, acting as a powerful tool for emotional well-being, social connection, and meaning in life. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and real-life stories, McGonigal presents movement as a natural antidepressant and a source of hope, resilience, and joy.

Healthy Recipe

Grilled Pork Burgers with Creamy Thai-Inspired Slaw

Don’t get me wrong I love a classic cheeseburger. However, keeping things fresh and crispy with things like this slaw topped burger are a must for me. Cooking unique meals like this is a great way to break up the monotony of our “9 to 5” eating habits. Click the pic to get the recipe.

Share the Buzz Now!

Share the Wellness with Your Friends!

I hope you’ve found value in this newsletter, wisdom grows when it’s passed on. By spreading knowledge and inspiration, you’re not only supporting others on their journey, but also reinforcing your own path toward a bountiful and balanced life. When we uplift one another, we create a ripple effect of growth, connection, and well-being that benefits us all. Let’s thrive together—share today.