Author: MANA Wahine Fitness

MANA Wahine Fitnesshttp://hoomalamalama.wordpress.comFamily, Food, Fitness and Fun

No resolution, No problem

I decided to be selfish in January

As we celebrated the dawn of a new year I wasn’t trying to make a resolution, start an eating program or pressure myself into a ridiculous workout regiment.

I just wanted to enjoy the new year and step away from the previous one. What I chose to do was…

  • No live-streaming in my private Facebook group.
  • No online fitness.
  • No hula sessions.

All I did was meditate, practice hot yoga four times a week and explored new recipes. I felt like I had to work on me and ground myself.

Stir fry portobello mushrooms with nori and sesame seeds, over spinach. The dark coloring is the nori.

Be more YOU

I suggest that you take time to ground yourself and reconnect to your beautiful soul. It doesn’t make sense to draw water from an empty well and we all should have learned some important life lessons from 2020.

Covid19, elections and civil unrest contributed to an emotional roller coaster ride. Depression, oppression and worry knocked us off our feet. The last one standing were people who developed a strong sense of self-worth.

Which is why I decided to be selfish and work on being me in January. However, in February I’m launching a new fitness program that involves helping families develop a holistic lifestyle. Woohoo!!!

Stir-fry: kale, sesame oil, sesame seeds, nori and fried tofu. Next to one of my favorites… steamed kalo (taro).

I did a first…

I bought my first microwave oven… seriously! Yes it’s a staple in North American culture but it’s one of the things I’ve rejected. I don’t really need it to cook for me and I don’t like microwave popcorn. Although I do luv kettle corn, yikes!

My retro microwave oven.

I bought it for two reasons. It’s great for melting products to make my salves and my husband has to heat up his meals. (I’ve been meal prepping for him and he’s been eating it cold.)

Can you see my “shaka” in the reflection.

I figured that owning one doesn’t have to be an eyesore. So I actually found something that looked cute. Who knew that a microwave could be this stylish? I’m happy with it.

PS:

If you’re not getting my newsletter join on the link below.

Click to join.
Advertisement

Don’t YUCK my YUM

I didn’t create the title, it was something a friend of mine shared. You see my business is in the wellness and fitness realm but from 8am – 4pm I’m an educator at a local school. My department is in cultural education specifically Native American’s of the Pacific Northwest.

Since returning I purposed to incorporate holistic lifestyle and social emotional well-being through traditional teachings. The best part is that I’m not alone.

Made by a fellow teacher Davina, it’s nettle soup with squash, organic potato and corn. Learn about nettles. She made this while our students were watching virtually.

Nettle is part of the traditional foods of the PNW and is high in vitamins and minerals. There’s an old teaching that if you eat the food from your region it will give you what is needed for that climate.

I’m in the Superman beanie on my friends property, Payette, who is talking to Davina. Meanwhile our other coworker, Carl, is preparing his bag for nettles.
Most people mow down this lovely delicacy and consider it a pest. They don’t realize that under all of the sting is a nutritious gift from Mother Nature.
When the shoots are young we’ll gather 1/3 from the area, leaving the rest to mature. Young shoots are delicious but you have to cook it first to remove the sting.

My goal is

To share wellness through holistic teachings just like that old saying, “You are what you eat.” If I can help one student embrace plants like nettles then I’ve succeeded.

I’ve noticed how the students have visibly suffered health wise during covid19. Lack of motivation, not playing outdoors with friends, instant breakfast and lunches are the perfect storm for obesity and learning difficulties connected to nutrient deficiencies.

A solution

Is to host virtual cooking sessions where we incorporate traditional foods of the PNW tribes with other local products.

Carl showed his class how to cook salmon.
Added simple herbs.
Incorporated more veggies.
Made it look pretty.

Fit Foodie

Is recognizing that what we consume is just as important as a workout… probably more so. Food should grown in good soil or roam in an organic environment, not processed in a lab. (Labs create a majority of our food supply, yikes.)

I’m not hating on labs, they serve a purpose. Which is to supply a large quantity of people at an affordable price. However if more people read labels and shopped accordingly it would force our food source to reconsider how they grow and feed us.

Here’s previous post I made titled…

If I workout do I need to eat healthy?

Aloha Friday Newsletter

Join my newsletter and I’ll see you on the other side.

PEACE In The Journey, Ho’omālamalama

Save local studios.

Sol Health Yoga & Wellness

Many of us join an independent fitness studio because they’re part of the community. You’ll often see other members at the grocery stores or farmers market.

Before each session you’re greeted by someone at the front desk who actually knows your name.

The sign-in process isn’t some key code, app or card swipe, it’s an actual human checking you in for your session. In fact the owners mop floors, restock shelves and manage the website. Why? Because they want to serve their community.

I’m blessed to teach at such a location and have the freedom to add my island heritage into their list of services. I came up with the idea to offer a four part Hula series that includes a soulful practice called, “Umeke Mālamalama” or bowl of light.

The class was fully booked then the governor of Washington state shut down all studios. Mind you, plenty of other stores stayed opened such a as liquor and smoke shops. Why gyms and boutique studios? (Including dance and martial arts.)

So many inconsistencies such as chain stores and fast food are enjoying a profitable season while closures affect small business owners. Schools shut down while daycares are over crowded. From the time of this blogpost eleven (11) studios closed their doors and are out of business.

11 Local Shut-downs

These owners served their community and struggled through the first six months, they were happy to reopen at a smaller capacity. To only succumb to the sad reality that nine months of zero income and a growing lease would be the end.

Many of these shops support other local business and allow them to sell their quality products.

Bottom Line

I’m 100% about being safe and cautious, don’t miss understand, but it should be the same for all businesses. We need to support what is left… we need our small business owners because they are invested into the community.

You can help

Here’s some things you can do to help your local studio…

  • Instagram, Facebook the owners and leave them an encouraging message. Show love.
  • Give them a good review on Yelp and Google. Help increase traffic.
  • Post your testimony. Heartfelt messages are powerful.
  • Join their online sessions and maintain your membership.

CAUTION: I have to mention one bad apple. I’ve heard of one gym that kept charging their clients during the shutdown and when the member tried to call NO ONE was manning the phones. Yikes.

Last suggestion, you can help them fundraise. The beanie above is made by a lovely yoga member. The sale goes towards a scholarship fund to help people maintain their membership.

So much good in the world and we need to shine a light on it!

I look forward to filling these spaces again but for now I’m content to try their online sessions.

At the end of the day we need to practice good vibes only and remember that LOVE does.

I’m currently working on an online fitness program for Mom’s to help our bodies cope with this world. If you would like more info join my newsletter and I’ll even throw in some digital goodies.

Good Vibes Only

Bonus

I was able to redesign their website and you can visit it here: https://www.solhealthyoga.com Since covid19 it’s been a roller coaster ride due to our State’s leadership. There’s actually a Facebook page dedicated to listing all the businesses that closed due to certain ordinances. (Keep in mind that liquor, marijuana, fast food and other chain stores are thriving.)

If you know a local fitness, wellness, dance or martial arts studio that needs website help you can send them here https://www.hoomalamalama.com/design I’m doing free assessments during January 2021.

PEACE Be The Journey

Ceremony of the Soul

I usually spend winter solstice reflecting and once the New Years bell rings I’m refocusing. I’ll ask myself…

  • What do I want to create?
  • What do I want to be known for?
  • How do I want to SHOW UP in this new year?
  • How will I improve?
  • Why is this important to me?

December in the PNW is a combination of chill and rain, lots of rain. I’ve grown accustomed to the clouds and learned to stick to my plans regardless of the liquid sunshine. On this particular day the sun made it through. Which is perfect because every year during winter solstice we join the Nisqually Tribe to welcome the change. [Scroll down and watch part of the ceremony.]

It’s a two day celebration called Winter Moon and the McCloud Ohana have been the caretakers of this ceremony for many years.

Solstice

A time just before great change, for example summer solstice is the longest day in the northern hemisphere signifying abundance, harvest and beauty. Meanwhile winter solstice is the catalyst to regeneration, self-reflection and rejuvenation. It’s also the shortest day of the year.

Our inner being understands solstice and change which is why we look at the new year as a chance to regenerate and start over. We’re wired to do this.

During this time the Elders share their wisdom and we reflect on their words.

Success

Good things come to those who pay attention to their inner voice. If you remove the distractions, blinking lights and phone chimes to focus on…

What do you desire in the new year?

What do you need to make it happen?

When will you start?

Mack and Joyce McCloud have been hosting this for generations and taught their children to carry on. The two pictures above are the two of them.

Healthy body comes from a healthy mind.

Start by taking time to nurture and listen to the cravings of your soul. Then make a food and fitness plan for the coming year. Don’t spend a dime on workout equipment or nutritional products until you answer the questions I posted above.

After everything is done the children hang god’s eyes in the trees to decorate them for the new year.

Commit to a plan once you’ve

  1. Completed a self-reflection session. (Basically answer the questions above.)
  2. Designate time towards intentional movement.
  3. Assign someone to be your accountability partner.

Above all keep your word! Do not break the promise you make to yourself. Whatever you choose to do in the near future be consistent to show-up for yourself, even when the going gets tough and you want to give up.

Generational

Hau’oli Makahiki Hou to all of you beautiful MANA Wahine out there! Just keep moving.

https://youtu.be/pBzh6v9ChjY

3 Self-Love, Self-Care GIFTS 🎁

I’ll keep this one short and simple, in fact I’ll just post a bunch of pictures.

Blueberry, Elderberry, Raisins, Apple, Hibiscus & Cornflower Petals.

I have awesome friends who enjoy making teas and tinctures. This tea mix was made by Davina Barril and we share the joy of organic products.

I put some in a carry around tin and it’s delicious.

Elderberry, Nettles & Rose hips

The tea mix above was made by another friend and fellow nature lover Jennifer Vasilez. Both Davina and Jennifer appreciate the gifts of this land and find time to gather and create. The coolest part is that they’re rediscovering the teachings of their Native heritage.

Lucious Oils

Melt: Cocoa Butter, Unrefined Coconut Oil, Shea Butter… Cooling: Macadamia Nut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Argan Oil
Cooling Stage
Vitamin E for the skin.

Clay Mask

Fullers earth clay with rose powder, rose petals and lavender. To read more about clays click here.

It’s easy to pick out the petals and they add a wonderful fragrance.

Mele Kalikimaka

Watch the video

https://youtu.be/eJOyInauMVg

Gifts 🎁 for friends who teach Native Culture
Can you see the three I made?

Hacking Holidays

So I’ve been MIA but with legitimate reasons, listed below, but what brought me back to the game (so to speak) is my Luv of food and sharing. In fact I’ve involved my children on this quest to fight the COVID bulge and hack the holiday eating frenzy. It’s back to food, fitness and family on MANA WAHINE FITNESS.

Here goes my, “Where I’ve been” and “What’s happening” list.

1. I didn’t know if I had anything left to share in this space.

2. Started working at a school creating, developing and co-hearting a program for preK-12th. (I’ll share a video below.)

3. Wrote an E-Book and didn’t know what to do with it after publishing. Walk Inn Beauty

4. Played around with a podcast Walk Inn Beauty and haven’t touched it in awhile.

5. Raising 7 children (4 are teens) and co-homeschooling with my husband.

It’s my WELCOME BACK 🥳 to blogging, which I missed.

I’m still teaching Zumba and my online classes are so much fun. I even bought new gear to celebrate the new sessions.

I started LUNCH & LEARN sessions via Facebook group. Keep reading, I have a simple wild rice 🌾 recipe.

Good Vibes

Tried VLOGMAS for a couple of days and it turned out pretty good. (pictures below) I talked my teenagers into joining me and they did a fantastic job. Speaking of youth, they currently join me during my online sessions since we turned our Ohana living room into a dance studio. Lol.

Christmas Vibes (Part 1)

Christmas Vibes (Part 2)

How to make a Kanakaloka

How to make a Ninja Elf

Fit Foodie

The BEST holiday hack is to meal prep because the goal is to jump into 2021… seriously! The sweet temptations are everywhere so you have to arm yourself with good food. So add that extra fiber and plant based proteins because the more you prep the easier it will be to say no.

Wild rice with greens and salmon.

It’s literally the same three ingredients styled differently. I adore these containers from ELLO and bought several at Costco.

Wild Rice: A mix of protein and fiber, low in calories. Contains Manganese an antioxidant, it aids in keeping the mitochondria in your cells healthy.

Brussels Sprouts, Kale, Broccoli & Purple Cabbage: You’ve seen those salad bag mixes at Costco and Cash & Carry. They’re time savers because one bag can do so much!

I added can salmon, not my usual choice but I was trying to create from a menu that could live in your pantry. Everything except the salad could keep for months. Video tutorial on the link below. Enjoy

https://youtu.be/l_ivTRRszQQ

Teaching

This picture is in the gym at Chief Leschi Schools of the Puyallup Tribe, a PreK to 12th grade establishment.

I started fitness sessions back in March 2020 when the pandemic first hit. It was a way for teachers to keep moving and stay positive. My initial goal was to remain active until the students returned… but that didn’t happen. (Yet)

So far several of us have continued but I’m really concerned about the students. Every time I see them on screen 👩🏻‍💻 sitting back, sedentary and aloof I get worried.

If you have any ideas please comment.

Supercharge Your Body With Tea

Weather’s changing and we should all drink more tea 🍵. My goal of this post is to convince one person to invest in quality, preferably loose leaf, tea.

TWO CATEGORIES

Before I share my list of benefits, know that I view tea in two categories: physical health and emotion health.

PHYSICAL HEALTH

The herbs benefit your digestive system, improves circulation and boost your immune system. In many holistic homes you’ll find a tea cabinet dedicated to wellness.

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Tea is a ritual unto itself causing you to pause. Within a stressful environment tea-time offers a unique opportunity to create a ritualistic experience of relaxation.

POINTS IF INTEREST

The term, “You get what you pay for” applies to teas. So keep that in mind when shopping for your tea stash. Speaking of stash I had the opportunity of visiting Steven Smith Tea in Portland, Oregon. My friend Jackie took my sister and I for a special excursion. He created several tea brands including TAZO which was purchased by STARBUCKS.

Imagine walking into the Mecca of tea shops. The variety, blends and presentation was elevating to my senses. It was lovely.

INVEST IN THINGS THAT INVEST IN YOU

Their main building houses both a distribution center and tasting spaces. I was excited to try their Matcha & Ginger Latte which had an energetic taste. Matcha is known to improve attention, memory and reaction time. It’s caffeine and L-theanine, can improve brain function.

Then I tried a Masala Chai which contains an impressive collection of spices such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Many are used in Ayurveda treatments for digestive issues. I asked for hemp milk and it was delicious. (As I reflect on the drink it might have been almond milk. Lol)

However the winner of the best-in-show category belongs to their Chocolate Enfleurage Flight purchased by my sister. It’s a pairing of three blends and matching chocolates. A fit-foodies paradise!

#1

#2

#3

The basic truth is that organic teas have so many health benefits. You can find them at your local grocers or online.

TEAS ARE PERFECT FOR

  • JOINT RECOVERY
  • PRE-WORKOUT
  • POST-WORKOUT
  • ENERGY BOOST
  • RELAXATION
  • CLARITY BOOST
  • HEALTHY GUT

This is my work station while I enjoy my tea and schedule my classes. If you’re ever in Portland I suggest you visit Smith Teas and enjoy the flavors, here’s their menu.

If you’re near the Olympia, Washington I’m co-teaching a fundraiser September 29, 2019 Join the events list here. PEACE Be The Journey

Firefighter’s Workout!

You realize that firefighters are expected to be more conditioned & fit compared to police. I always see local police at coffee shops or sitting in their vehicle, or is that just me? Lol

I am a long time admirer of this profession (firefighters) and want to honor them. Especially after the memory of 9/11 😔 Images of men & women sacrificing everything to save one. It’s been 18 years but feels like yesterday.

To honor his fellow firefighters Aaron Zamzow in 9/11/11 competed in Ironman Wisconsin. Upholding the memory of the 343 that gave their all. Eventually he opened Fire Rescue Fitness encouraging others to live a fit life.

The city of Tacoma holds a memorial service every 9/11 at 9am for the past 18 years and will continue.

Complete with releasing of the doves. 🕊

It’s crazy to realize that there’s an entire generation of young adults who weren’t born & have no memory of this painful event. Eighteen years has gone by so quickly but it still hurts.

Retired Captain of NY Fire Department Stands with the Mayor & Tacoma’s Captain. Below is his story…

They lowered the flags, rang the bell & played the bagpipes. The crowd stood their in solidarity & silence, remembering their bravery.

Stay fit, eat well & peace be the journey. This is what I’m up to… https://instabio.cc/Walk_Inn_Beauty Hope to see you on IG, you’ll find me as Walk_Inn_Beauty

Fit 2 Paddle

From April – June I started conditioning classes to get paddlers ready to pull. Every year different tribes from the PNW host an annual Canoe Journey. This year it was Lummi.

On this particular 5:30 am sunrise we connected our minds to the 4-hour paddle ahead. It was exciting & overwhelming at the same time. Below are my thoughts on conditioning the mind…

  1. BREATHE – Sometimes we overthink the situation. To put it into perspective it’s not 4-hours but one dig at a time. [To “dig” is to put the paddle in the water a pull your canoe through.]
  2. FEEL – Connect with the joy and excitement of others & allow that to feed your motivation while squashing any doubt.
  3. DO – You’ll never know what’s possible until you try.

On this particular part of the journey I had the privilege to paddle with my two oldest children. They were ready! In fact this was their pre-paddle schedule…

  • 2x’s Week 6am Walk/Run
  • 2x’s Week a 60min STRONG Session
  • 2x’s Week Culture Lessons

When we lifted the cedar canoe into the water the sky greeted us with a few sun rays and a rainbow. Unfortunately I didn’t capture the rainbow but it was totally there.

We paddled from Port Of Tacoma to Alki Beach in Seattle. It was beautiful!!! Especially when we stopped on one of the islands for stacks & a quick toilet break.

My personal favorite was the lighthouses along the way. They inspire me to live simple and be the light in a dark world.

Vashon Island was so generous to host us for a 30min break. Each tribe was able to get refreshments & use the much needed toilets. 🙂

SEATTLE!!!

The best way to enjoy our shores is to paddle along it, almost as if you’re becoming one with nature. Remember to ALOHA ALWAYS https://www.hoomalamalama.com