Balance.

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: Mindful Moment - I guide you through three deep breaths, enveloping you in a sense of calm and presence. Together, we embark on a grounding gratitude practice, cultivating a profound connection to the present moment and embracing the power of gratitude to uplift our spirits. Mindful Reflection - I answer this week's question from the Generational Wellness Digest: "How do I handle challenges and setbacks, and are there any patterns or habits that hinder my growth and resilience?" Learn about the mindset that has propelled me through setbacks, my relationship with procrastination, and the transformative steps I've taken to overcome obstacles and foster resilience. Check-In - I share my enriching experience at the 2023 National Wellness Institute's Conference. I discuss the highlights of the conference, including the breakout session I facilitated and the honor of receiving the Multicultural Competency Award. I explore the importanc

Pause, and observe a DEEP breath. Do you find yourself striving for perfection? In this episode, Nick and Ray bring the Stress Awareness Month Series to a powerful close with a conversation on an age-old struggle—peace versus perfection. In a society where perfection is glorified, join Nick and Ray as they challenge this notion and dive into how it impacts our lives. Uncover the truth behind the belief that greatness hinges on flawlessness, and how these patterns of thinking can hinder our true potential and magnify the stress we face. But fear not! There's a ray of hope to balance out the burdens of perfection. Discover the transformative power of prioritizing peace in our daily lives. Nick and Ray open up about the habits they cultivate to embrace peace and self-acceptance, ultimately recognizing their wholeness and inherent worth. Join us for an episode that will challenge your perspective and leave you feeling empowered to embrace peace over perfection. Unleash your inner greatness as you prioritize

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through three deep breaths, and an awareness practice to release attachment to the thoughts we think and the emotions we feel. Experience the liberating power of letting go, cultivating a sense of inner peace and presence. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the latest prompt from the latest volume of the Generational Wellness Digest: "What are my core values, and how am I aligning my actions and choices with them?" I share my personal process of identifying core values and the strategies I employ to ensure alignment between my values and actions. Gain insights into creating a meaningful and purpose-driven life through conscious choices. 3. Check-In - I share the exciting results from my latest InsideTracker bloodwork test. Explore the concept of biological age and my journey of lowering my inner age since the beginning of this year. I discuss the significance of investing in collecting bloodwork data and leveraging

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through three deep breaths, accompanied by a soothing awareness practice. Experience the power of these techniques as we relieve tension throughout the mind and body, cultivating a sense of inner peace and balance. Unlock the transformative benefits of mindfulness and embrace the present moment. 2. Mindful Reflection - Sourced from the esteemed Generational Wellness Digest, we delve into the prompt that asks: "What aspects of my life bring me the most joy and fulfillment, and how can I cultivate more of those experiences?" Explore the profound impact of cultivating joy and fulfillment in our lives. Gain insights into the personal fulfillment I feel as a result of guiding others through mindful moment breathing exercises. 3. Check-In - I share the valuable data from my June WHOOP Monthly Performance Assessment. Explore how prioritizing rest after completing the 50K race influenced key metrics such as strain, sleep, a

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that future episodes return to their normal quality. We appreciate your patience. Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through three deep breaths, accompanied by a powerful visualization practice. Experience the profound impact of this practice on cultivating inner peace, tranquility, and a sense of grounding. Unlock the transformative power within you and nurture a harmonious connection between mind, body, and spirit. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the prompt from the Generational Wellness Digest that asks: "What does self-love mean to me? Do I feel like I love myself?" Gain insights into my personal perspective on self-love and how I demonstrate this love through practicing self-care that promotes well-being. 3. Check-In - I discuss how prioritizing rest since completing the ultramarathon has impacted my abilit

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. We appreciate your patience. Welcome to Wellness Wednesdays! Join us as we embark on a journey of mindfulness, introspection, data-driven insights, and a commitment to creating a healthier and more equitable world for generations to come. Here is what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through three deep breaths and infuse a powerful mantra into our awareness practice. Experience the profound impact of this practice on enhancing our self-esteem and cultivating a positive mindset. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the prompt sourced from the Generational Wellness Digest: "How do I feel about growing older? Why?" Delve into a contemplative journey of self-discovery, as we examine our perspectives on aging and the reasons behind our feelings. Embrace the belief in our capacity fo

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. We appreciate your patience. Welcome to Wellness Wednesdays! Join us on this enriching podcast episode as we embrace mindful practices, explore the depths of self-reflection, analyze data-driven health insights, optimize our digital well-being, and empower ourselves through self-belief. Here is what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through five rounds of deep breathing, allowing each breath to ground us in the present moment. Together, we will embark on a thought awareness exercise enhanced by visualization techniques, expanding our self-awareness and fostering a sense of calm and clarity. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the prompt sourced from the esteemed Balance Period Newsletter: "What is my first thought when I wake up in the morning?" I share the impact that my life

Welcome to Wellness Wednesdays! Be prepared to experience the transformative effects of mindfulness, harness the potential of self-perception, and witness the remarkable results of dedication and commitment. Here is what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I will guide you through five rounds of deep breathing, infusing each breath with renewed energy and intention. Together, we will embark on a thought-labeling exercise, allowing us to observe our thoughts and emotions from a place of mindfulness and self-awareness. Experience the profound impact of this practice on your well-being. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the prompt sourced from the esteemed Balance Period Newsletter: "When I look at myself in the mirror, what do I see?" Engage in introspection and embrace the power of self-perception. Discover insights into self-image, self-acceptance, and the transformative potential of self-reflection. 3. Check-In - I share my personal journey of training for and completing a 5

Here’s what I’ll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I lead us through three rounds of deep breathing and an empowering affirmation practice. Experience the transformative power of these techniques as we nurture self-esteem and foster self-compassion. Develop a positive mindset and embrace a greater sense of self-worth. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore the thought-provoking prompt sourced from the Balance Period Newsletter that asked: "What aspects of life am I loving most right now?" I share how the communities I am a part of have played a huge role in promoting my mental health. 3. Check-In - I share where my mental and physical well-being is after successfully completing my 50K training program. With over 100 hours and 580 miles of running since the end of January, I talk about the impact this journey has had on my belief in my ability to finish the race. I also discuss how I respond to any doubt that may arise as race day approaches, and discover strategies to overcome challeng

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. Here is what you can expect in this week's episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I will lead us through three rounds of deep breathing and an invigorating awareness exercise. Experience the grounding power of the present moment and gain a new vantage point to observe and understand our thoughts. Through this practice, we continue to cultivate mindfulness and develop a greater sense of clarity and inner peace. 2. Mindful Reflection - We delve into this thought-provoking prompt from the Balance Period Newsletter: "Do I have boundaries? If so, what are they and how do I honor them?" Engage in introspection and explore the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries. I share where I focus my boundaries and my journey to honoring them. 3. Check-In - I provide updates on my mental and physical well-being as I approach

Note: We had some recording issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through three rounds of deep breathing and a breath-counting practice. Immerse yourself in the power of the present moment and strengthen your mindfulness skills through these transformative techniques. 2. Mindful Reflection - We delve into the thought-provoking prompts from the Balance Period Newsletter: "What's the one thing I'd like others to remember about me at the end of my life?" Explore profound insights and embark on a self-reflective journey to leave a lasting impact on the world. 3. Check-In - I offer a comprehensive view of my monthly weigh-in data from my FitIndex Scale. I discuss metrics such as body weight, BMI, body fat, subcutaneous fat, visceral fat, body water, skeletal muscle, muscle mass, protein, and me

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I lead us through three rounds of deep breathing and an awareness practice. Discover the power of being fully present and cultivate a sense of tranquility in your daily life. 2. Mindful Reflection - We explore thought-provoking prompts designed to foster personal growth. Drawing inspiration from the Balance Period Newsletter, I delve into last week's prompt: "If I could talk to my teenage self, the one thing I would say is..." Uncover profound insights and engage in introspection as we navigate the path of self-discovery together. 3. Check-In - I unveil the results of my Monthly Performance Assessment from WHOOP. By analyzing metrics such as sleep quality, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, training behavior, stress levels, and behaviors impacting recovery, I gain valuable insights into optimizing my 50K training and overall health. Join me as I discuss trends and adjustments I can make throughout May to enhance m

Pause, and observe a DEEP breath. Pause, and observe a DEEP breath. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we've curated an exceptional collection of clips from our previous episodes, each featuring remarkable Black women who share their profound stories and offer invaluable strategies to empower us in maintaining optimal mental health and overall wellness. Throughout this episode, we delve into a wide range of experiences, triumphs, and challenges that Black women encounter on their mental health journeys. These inspiring voices provide a unique perspective, addressing the specific barriers and systemic issues that often affect their well-being. By amplifying their narratives, we aim to create a platform where their stories can be heard, understood, and appreciated. As we listen to these powerful testimonies, we gain insight into the diverse experiences and perspectives that shape mental health within the Black community. The importance of destigmatizing mental health conversations, seeking professio

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 3 DEEP breaths and an awareness exercise to help us tune in to our senses. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "When was the last time I cried? Why?" 3. Check-In - I share what I noticed about my body adapting to the changing of seasons and experiencing a lower recovery score on WHOOP. I then talk about the adjustments I've been making to my occupational environment and overall mindset. I discuss making changes to my sleeping patterns and using naps to help me manage my sleep debt and keep my sleep quality high. I also share my approach to being more intentional with what I chose to consume [eat, drink, watch, read, and listen to]. 4. System Updates - I briefly discuss WHOOP's latest feature, the Strength Coach. I also share one of the meditations from the Balance App that help boost your self-esteem. 5. Resource Review - I share the feature

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 2 physiological sighs and a body scan exercise to help us check in with what we feel. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "How am I doing, really?" 3. Check-In - I share the results from the follow-up appointment with my hematologist regarding the low iron levels found in my InsideTracker blood test. I then talk about what shifts I noticed in my monthly FitIndex weigh-in. Here are some measured metrics: body weight, BMI, body fat, subcutaneous fat, visceral fat, body water, skeletal muscle, muscle mass, protein, and metabolic age. I also share the growth I have experienced with my ability to be kind and compassionate with myself. 4. System Updates - I discuss how

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 5 DEEP breaths followed by a body scan exercise to get more in tune with what we are feeling. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "When do I have downtime and how do I spend it?". 3. Check-In - I share the results of my March Monthly Performance Assessment from WHOOP. I discuss some of the trends I notice in my data, more specifically the improvements I made in my sleep performance month over month. I also talk about what behaviors have had the highest positive impact on my recovery and my plans for keeping these behaviors consistent throughout April. Here are some measured metrics: sleep quality, physical recovery, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, training behavior, and beneficial behaviors. 4. System Updates - I discuss an app that I downloaded to help me gain a deeper understanding of my circadian health, Circadian. It provided me with

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 3 DEEP breaths followed by an awareness exercise to focus our attention on the physical sensations we feel as we breathe. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "When did I last push the boundaries of my comfort zone?". 3. Check-In - I share some updates on my 50K training program and my thoughts on breaking the 300 total mile mark. I then discuss my mindset on balancing investing in my self-care while also nurturing the relationships that matter most to me. I also talk about my current consumption habits and continue to align what I consume with my values and goals. Finally, I discuss the focus I am keeping on being kind and compassionate with myself. 4. System Updates - I discuss the latest feature added to the WHOOP platform, the Stress Monitor, and how it will allow me to continue to cultivate self-awareness by gaining a deeper understanding of how

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 5 rounds of deep breathing followed by an awareness exercise to focus our attention on what we feel in the present moment. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "What’s one topic I need to learn more about to help me live a more fulfilling life?". 3. Check-In - I share some updates on the current status of my mind and body and how my training program has helped me get more in tune with how I feel. I also discuss how I am balancing my time between training for the 50k and navigating this occupational transition by prioritizing proactive rest. I then talk about my current consumption habits and what educational resources I have been using to learn and grow. Finally, I discuss keeping curiosity and compassion top of mind as I interact with myself and others. 4. System Updates - I briefly give a preview of the new app I plan on downloading to support me i

Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 3 rounds of deep breathing paired with movement to relieve tension in our neck muscles. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "Which domain of my wellness am I most proud of? Which one needs more attention?". I also share my reflections on making it to the 5-year anniversary of launching the first episode of the Balance Period Podcast. 3. Check-In - I share some updates on the current status of my mind and body and how my Self-Care habits have been contributing to their optimal function. I also discuss my time-tracking practices and balancing my workload with my 50K training program. I then talk about expanding my awareness around the quality of what I am consuming. Finally, I discuss aligning my mindfulness practice with loving-kindness so I can continue to respond to myself with love and compassion. 4. System Updates - I share a new course that I am

Note: We had some connectivity issues during this live broadcast so the audio will sound a bit choppy at times. We are working to ensure that our next episode returns to its normal quality. Here's what I'll be covering in this episode: 1. Mindful Moment - I guide us through 5 rounds of deep breathing and an awareness practice to redefine our relationship with our thoughts. 2. Mindful Reflection - I answered last week's question from the Balance Period Newsletter: "What is something I am holding onto that I need to let go of?" 3. Check-In - I share some updates on what next steps I am taking after reviewing my InsideTracker data with my primary care physician. I also discuss some of the sleep trends I notice in the data I received from my Weekly WHOOP Performance Assessment. I then talk about what shifts I noticed in my monthly FitIndex weigh-in. Here are some measured metrics: body weight, BMI, body fat, subcutaneous fat, visceral fat, body water, skeletal muscle, muscle mass, protein, and metabolic age. 4. S