Fall Foods

How do you decide what foods are best for you when you are inundated with so many differing philosophies on intake? Personally I extract what I like from various professionals, friends and clients. This month I asked a few colleagues to recommend some food and snacking ideas for energy and for staying healthy. I hope you will learn and try something new! Acupuncturist Janis Feichtmeir, co-founder of Clouds Rest Healing Center (www.cloudsresthealing.com) approaches food recommendations based on the principles of Chinese medicine. According to Jan, lungs are the organ associated with the Fall season. The Lung system corresponds to our immune system, our skin and sinuses. Do you know anyone who gets rashes when the cold and dry of autumn set in? This would indicate that their Lung system is weakened. Ditto if you get sick frequently. Your Lung system is showing signs of weakness. The weaknesses of the Lung system show up more in the Fall. But Fall is also a time when the Lung system responds most to strengthening. How to strengthen Lungs? Eat apples and pears, preferably cooked. If you're eating them raw, eat them at the end of a meal, when the digestion has been warmed up by other cooked foods. Add a little spice to your foods, like ginger and cinnamon. The change of seasons are considered crucial times in Chinese Medicine. A lot of change is happening. How well we adapt to change is a sign of how strong our Lung system is. So, if you're under a lot of stress going into the Fall, do your best to get enough rest, exercise and eat well in order to help your body deal with not only the stressors in your life but the stressors of seasonal change. Make an appointment with Jan to learn more and get through this time of year by calling 415-661-0608. Shona Curley is officially back from maternity leave and looks phenomenal! She credits her minimal weight gain to snacking on foods high in fiber and protein. Here are her favorites (good for the non-pregnant as well): Greek yogurt with honey and ground flaxseed Sprouted Manna Bread toasted with almond butter "Active Greens" Organic Food Bar . Shona is now working just three days a week, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and has a few coveted openings in her schedule. Shona is looking forward to teaching more pre and post natal work after having such a positive experience with Pilates during and after her pregnancy. Ami Jampolis, owner of Focus Fitness Personal Training (www.focusfitnesspersonaltraining.com) recommends the following snacks because they are well-balanced and help stabilize the blood sugar: *cup of 0% greek yogurt, fresh berries, and 1/4 cup Kashi Go Lean (add Splenda to taste) *Apple with 18 almonds or 2 pcs of light string cheese *Protein bar - Luna, Dr. Melina.....(Look for bars with at least 5 g of fiber) *Celery with 2 Tbsp peanut butter *Raw veggies with 3 Tbsp hummus Ami is available to see clients at Informed Body by appointment. For more information, click through to her website. Katie McMahon is constantly on the go. Between teaching three mat classes and taking two semi-private sessions each week at Informed Body she works full time for Starbuck's Coffee in Corporate Sales and Marketing. As if this doesn't keep her busy enough, she is training for her first full marathon after completing four half-marathons. Katie's office is often her car and she knows what it is like to not have time to eat. To keep herself from becoming "homicidally hungry" Katie keeps the following snacks on hand at all times: - A huge bottle of Crystal Geyser Sparkling Water - A piece of whatever transportable fruit is in season - Handful of raw almonds - Lara Bars. Larabar is a delicious blend of unsweetened fruits, nuts and spices - energy in its purest form. Made from 100% whole food, each flavor contains no more than six ingredients. All bars are dairy free, gluten free, soy free, vegan, kosher, non-gmo, unprocessed, raw and contain no added sugar. They come in amazing flavors such as chocolate coconut, cherry pie, lemon bar, key lime pie and peanut butter cookie. You will swear you are eating the real thing! It is always a good idea to keep a few healthy staples around to prevent you from overindulging. A few of my favorites are: Sugar Free Hot Cocoa Zen Bakery Apple Cranberry Cakes (80 calories) Apples Almond Butter Laughing Cow Light Wedges Light String Cheese Low Fat Cottage Cheese Akmak Crackers Whole Wheat Pita Bread Instant Oatmeal (pay attention to sugar or buy the heart healthy Quaker version) Walnuts Baby Carrots Snap Peas

Eyelash Update Month 1

Before plastic surgery was as prevalent as it is today, it was hard to tell what was different about a person. Next thing you know, you are on an escalator at Barney's in NY saying "rhinoplasty, boob job, chin implant, eye lift" as each person passes you on your way up. Then there was botox and you couldn't take your eyes of the lack of movement in people's faces. Now you can be obsessed by sky high eyelashes thanks to Revitalash, Jan Marini etc....

I am officially one month into my eyelash growing project and I can't help but notice everyone around me is two months ahead. Their lashes are ridiculous! The consensus seems to be two months to three months and you will notice huge changes. At one month I am noticing some growth, but not as much as I hoped for. It is the competitor in me which makes me think my eyelashes should grow faster than everyone else. The game plan is to continue diligently every night and hope that by next month, I will be rocking some serious drag queen-esque lashes.

What brand is working for you and how long did yours take to grow? Let me know!

Are You In The Know?

How do you stay Informed? Newspapers and blogs can take days to get through and you still won't be caught up on all that is new and exciting in San Francisco. Fortunately, a lot of our clients are moving and shaking up this city and we are the first to find out everything during their sessions. Because we are givers, we have decided to share their news with you. Whether you are a foodie, charitable giver or on a quest for eternal youth, you will find something or some business you have to get to know. Enjoy!

FOOD & WINE Ever wonder why you are always hungry during your Pilates session? It is because clients are forever talking about the newest restaurants! Thanks to the following four clients you will be chatting even more (but not with your mouths full please!) Lindsay Tusk is busy planning the design for the new Quince restaurant. She expects to open in the new location at 470 Pacific by the end of the year. Prepare yourself for elegance and an amazing dining experience! For those of you who are more casual, get excited about the cafe connected to the restaurant. Lindsay mentioned a string of descriptions which included lunch, brunch, pizza, open on weekends. Please note: your Pilates instructor might not have pull anymore to get you in at the last minute so book well in advance. Dade Thieriot, owner of Dee Vine Wines, is hosting a 2007 German Riesling tasting at his shop located at Pier 19 on the Embarcadero. 2007 was the longest growing season on record in Germany. There was plenty of photosynthesis for high sugar levels and cool weather for balancing acidity. Those with experience are comparing 2007 to 1971. In addition to the wines, a selection of artisanal cheese will be served. The tasting is informal, educational and most of all fun! The fee for the tasting is $25 ($20 if you bring your own glass). RSVP to otto@dvw.com or for more information about Dee Vine Wines go to www.dvw.com Saandra Nazzal of Burger Joint infamy, will infuse her energy and warm personality into their newest location in Burlingame located at 1401 Burlingame Avenue @ Primose. This location opens on the heels of another recently opened Burger Joint at 242 King Street in San Francisco. For those of you who are veggies, please note veggie burgers are cooked on a separate grill from the Neiman Ranch burgers. Not feeling like burgers? Try the french fries which are made from fresh cut potatoes and fried in peanut oil or a milkshake made with whole milk and Double Rainbow Ice Cream. Be sure you come to your workout after this meal. Traci Higgins, chef and owner of Dining In, expands her empire to include a new, healthy take out store called Lilah Belle's located at 3801 18th Street @Church. Experience fresh, seasonal and well-balanced meals seven days a week. The weekly selection will include hot entrees under 500 calories, fresh salads, sandwiches, vegetables a la carte and mouth watering desserts under 300 calories. Only organic meat and vegetables will be used. This is the perfect option for those of you who are constantly on the run and need healthy and quick meals. Opening date is September 27th.

HEALTH & BEAUTY Lisa Eddy, owner of Evolution Wellness Center, launched her new boutique website: www.evolutionwellnesscenter.com With her vast experience in the industry as an aesthetician/salon owner, and as an educator and consultant, she knows good skin care! If you are looking for serious results with more natural/pure products that are in line with your body then she has got something for you! Check out her extensive selection of top-notch skin & body care products for sale online. Not sure what is right for you? Cant make it in for a treatment or consult? that's ok you can do it all via email or phone. You can share what is going on with your skin and what your goals are & she will get you all set up from the comfort of your living room and on your time. Informed Body clients receive 15% off their first orders! Enter coupon code first15. Ok, so this is beauty and charity, but Frankee Uno is a busy lady! Frankee Uno, Owner of Frankee Uno San Francisco Salon & Gallery (www.frankeeuno.com) is working to make people look and feel great! When she isn't doll-ing up people and promoting the local art scene, she is busy with various volunteer efforts. This year, she is on the steering committee for the Annual Polo In The Park Events. Not only is there a Gala and Polo Event not to be missed, but the charities raise money for the James S. Brady Program, giving back to disabled and disadvantaged children. For more information on the charities and tickets go to: www.sfpolointhepark.com/tickets.html Julie Elliott, owner and creator of In Fiore, launches her newest skin care creation CREME DE FLEUR Complexe Rejuvene. Creme de Fleur is a nutrient rich moisture complex comprised of 30 effective ingredients that promotes cell renewal and deep hydration. Formulated for dry and mature skin types, and skin exposed to dry and harsh climates, Creme de Fleur provides a protective barrier from the elements while regenerating and strengthening skin tissue. Launches September 15th. For more of Julie's beautiful products, go to www.infiore.net Our favorite holistic nutritional health counselor Alice Moore led a group of us through an 8-week series where we learned gems like "sugar addiction is not your fault" and "you aren't too lazy to cook, you are busy" and "take a deep breath before you eat and look at what you are about to put in your mouth". Alice has 11 years experience in the art of inspiring women to do the things they know they need to do, but aren't doing. If you are feeling frustrated and wanting to improve your relationship with food and your body, there is a solution. She is offering Informed Body clients a free consultation to see if Emerge Healing (www.emergehealing.com) food programs are right for you. Alice can also be contacted via email at alicemoorehealth@gmail.com.

FASHION Diana Slavin always looks phenomenal when she shows up for her sessions dressed in clothes from her eponymous line Diana Slavin Womenswear. Her Fall line is to die for, particularly since it is always Fall in San Francisco. This season features layers of rich texture and luxurious fabrics. Her beautiful menswear inspired tweeds and stripes are mixed with soft cashmeres and silky charmeuses. The color palette includes dark neutrals accented with jewel tones of red, burnt orange and sapphire blue. Strong details, minimal silhouettes, and perfect accessories - including hard to find Martin Margiela boots, shoes and bags and Megan Park scarves and wraps. It is a feast for the senses! The shop is located at 3 Claude Lane. To see photos and get a feel for the designs visit www.dianaslavin.com

CHARITY When realtor Toni Thomas isn't busy selling houses, she is busy getting involved in causes that effect not just her, but the nation at large. She is organizing a private fundraising event for Barack Obama's Presidential Campaign. Toni is committed to raising $10,000. Besides getting involved at a critical time in our history; the event promises to be a great experience with music and an important surrogate guest. The event will take place in late September. Please call Toni at 415-351-4661 if you would like to get involved in an exciting campaign.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT My dance mentor Patricia Reedy has inspired and educated a whole generation of gifted teachers and performers. Her organization Luna Kids Dance is dedicated to bringing dance to all children and to training teachers to inspire creativity in children. The California Institute for Dance Learning (CIDL) a project of Luna Kids Dance, hosts a FREE reception for Bay Area Dance Teaching Artists. Let the CIDL faculty help you launch the 2008-09 with ideas, refreshments, collegial support. Bring your questions and curriculum ideas September 13th, 2008, 1:30-3:30. CIDL, 2138 Cedar Street, Berkeley. 510.644.3629. Those of you interested in this event or in supporting dance for children should definitely link to this fantastic organization at www.lunakidsdance.org. In addition to being an amazing food writer, chef and potential Martha Stewart rival, Dionne Wallick is a gifted soprano. She will be sharing her talents with the public in a recital "Songs From The Heart" on September 27th at 3pm at the African American Arts and Cultural Center located at 762 Fulton Street in San Francisco. Tickets are $20 at the door.

Product Alert! Eyelashes for days....

As a client was doing lunges on the chair I noticed her eyelashes were reaching the ceiling before her body was. Not one for subtlety, I asked her if she was wearing extensions. She stopped her movement, leaned forward against the handles and whispered "Revitalash".

For $160 you can buy this stuff, put it on your eyelashes before bedtime and it is like miracle-grow. Not convinced the output was worth the results, I dropped the idea until another client came in with some major eyelashes. Now I was really coveting this product. I asked Lisa Eddy, owner of Evolution Wellness Center if she knew of this product. She recommended the Jan Marini Lash Conditioner.

Jan Marini made the original formulation and others copied her. Apparently several of these formulas have been removed from the market due to safety issues i.e. you could go blind. Lisa tells me this latest incarnation is the best ever. I took the plunge and bought it from her - you can too by going to her store at: www.evolutionwellnesscenter.com If you can't find the product in her online store, call her or email her.

I am two days into this expiriment and am having major placebo effects. Maybe my mascara application was better today than it was yesterday. Whatever the case may be, I aspire to have the eyelashes my 2 clients do. Looking forward to sharing my results!

New Health & Beauty Recommendations

I am constantly searching for the best practitioners to keep me healthy, pain-free and as youthful looking as possible. Following is a list of my latest finds:

Chiropractic:
Dr. Matt Colman, Hayes Valley Wellness
190 Gough St.
415-621-1522

Matt's work includes chiropractic, cranial osteopathy, physical therapy and nutrition. What I really like about his work is that he doesn't just crack you and send you on your way, he looks at your whole system - muscles, organs, etc... and determines how best to proceed to make you well. Not sure what supplements you should be taking? He can test you to see what your body is in need of and make the necessary recommendations.

Skin Care
Lisa Eddy
Evolution Wellness
(See Hayes Valley Wellness for address)
866-933-9322

First of all, Lisa's skin is absolutely gorgeous and she is clearly healthy and radiant. The product lines she carries are fantastic and she will go through your make up and skin care products and test you to see what your body really likes and doesn't like. I was sold once she told me to get rid of my cleanser and moisturizer and recommended Sampar products and cleansing my skin for 2 minutes at least 2x daily. My skin irritations have disappeared!

In addition to skin care, Lisa does massage, Reiki, breath work and nutritional counseling. She and Matt are a great team and you will feel well taken care of in their hands.

Nutritional Counseling
Alice Moore
Emerge Healing
alice@emergehealing.com
646-894-4335

Alice was previously working with Fruition and though still connected, she has linked into another practice. As a holistic health counselor, Alice talks with you not just about what you should be eating, but about how to make sure your life is fulfilling you as much as your food. She guides you to make healthier choices and teaches you not to beat yourself up about mistakes like that entire tub of ice cream. A true nurturer and inspiration!

Kettelbell Workshops at Informed Body

Kettlebell Workshop with
San Francisco 7x7 Magazine’s “Best Taskmaster”

Learn how to use this amazing cast-iron cannonball with a handle to achieve superior cardiovascular conditioning, core strength, enhanced athleticism, and weight loss. No more slow, boring, ineffective “cardio” on the treadmill or endless grinds on weight machines that produce little functional carryover.

An introductory workshop presented by Cecilia Tom, the RKC HardStyle kettlebell instructor featured in the June 2008 “Best Of” issue of San Francisco 7x7 Magazine, at Hayes Valley’s premier pilates studio, Informed Body. Two identical sections are offered to accommodate your schedule.

Section 1 – Friday 6/27 & Friday 7/11, 3:30 to 4:30 PM
Section 2 – Sunday 7/13 & Sunday 7/20, 3:30 to 4:30 PM

Cost: $85

For more information about the workshop and to register, visit
www.praxiskettlebell.com and click on “workshops” – space is extremely limited so act soon!

Kettlebell lifting will open your eyes (and hips) to a whole new world of intelligent movement and strength training. Come swing some ‘bells with us and get a smoking workout! Appropriate for results-oriented men and women with no pre-existing injuries.

“This extreme hand-held gym delivers an unparalleled mix of all-purpose strength and conditioning, melts fat without the dishonor of aerobics, and forges a classic physique.”

- Pavel Tsatsouline

Kicking Sugar (again)

Supposedly it takes 21 days to form a habit. Unfortunately the sugar habit can be formed in much less time. After the In-8 workshop with Alice Moore, I made good food choices and was able to kick my nightly chocolate and daily biscotti habit. What killed me was vacation. The nightly glasses of wine, lovely meals and dessert put me over the edge in no time at all. I had to think back to what worked in the past and make the changes immediately.

For a few days I tried to eat my sweet potatoes, but wasn't thrilled. I bought a bunch of different squashes in the hopes this will work on crushing the sugar cravings. Tried a half an acorn squash with a little bit of Agave necter, but still craved sweets! Today is Tuesday and I am officially going to call this day 2 of theoretical sugar busting. My plan is to try acorn squash, butternut squash, sweet potatoes and spaghetti squash every day for one week and see if my cravings go away. Will keep you posted. Other than going cold turkey what works best for you?