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To Stretch or Not To Stretch that is the Question
 So, spring is here which means fun things like gardening, and getting back into shape with more activity after a sluggish winter.
While these things are wonderful; body, mind and spirit, they require you to become more conscious about stretching during and afterwards to avoid muscle strain.
That's right, I said during and afterwards, NOT before. You want to be mindful to always warm up your body before focusing on deep stretching, or it could be counterproductive.
Instead of stretching before activity, try gentle joint rotations, moving each joint in your body in a few clockwise and counterclockwise rotations to lubricate the joints and begin to increase your circulation. Then, after a few minutes of warming up the body you should add in your favorite stretches! |
Reduce Stress while Improving Strength & Flexibility 
While light stretching on your own can make a difference in your well-being, Yoga can, in my opinion, change your life. Ok, Ok, Ok, I know, it sounds so cliché, but I really do mean it! I have had the privilege of the benefits of yoga over the years as well as the repeated feedback of how Yoga has made a profound impact on the lives of many of my clients.
"Focusing on the breath brings a sense of presence that allows us to tap into what we are thinking and feeling in any given moment. From that place of presence, we are able to realize the full essence of ourselves, thus leading happier and more fulfilling lives." says Adrienne Totino.
Some benefits of yoga:
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Improved strength, flexibility and muscle tone
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Stress reduction and stress management tools
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Pain relief and pain management
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Relaxation techniques
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Improved stamina
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Improved general health and sense of well-being
If you are not currently practicing yoga, why? Is it a limit on time, particular health issue, injury, or do you feel self conscious learning something new in front of others?
Over the years I have had the opportunity to study with an amazingly gifted Yoga teacher, Adrienne Totino, who offers private and semi-private yoga. While I definitely encourage you to get into a group class somewhere in the city, if you have never had a private or semi-private session, you may be missing out on the next level of well-being that comes from having individual attention. In this way, just like we customize all of your massage sessions here at PCCHH, during a Private Yoga Session Adrienne is able to customize your session towards your individual goals for relaxation, a particular health issue, to balance out your workout regimen or to generally increase well-being.
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Our Mission
At the Pittsburgh Center for Complementary Health and Healing our mission is to positively impact our community through improving the health, well-being and quality of life for our clients and the world in which we live.
Peace,
Nikki Remic
Founder
Pittsburgh Center for Complementary Health and Healing
www.pghhealthandhealing.com
www.pghhealthandhealing.com/blog
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Only 5 Days Left to Vote!
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Last year you voted, and they listened! We would really appreciate if you took the time to show your support again.
You have through April 30th to Vote for the Pittsburgh Center for Complementary Health & Healing, for Best Massage and Best Spa for the 2010 Reader's Poll from Pittsburgh Magazine!
Click Here to Vote by April 30th
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Posture Tip 101 |
It is easy to get into the habit of poor posture, so it is always good to check in with yourself and see how you are standing.
1. Ground your feet to the earth.
2. Engage your abdominal and thigh muscles.
3. Position:
-Ears over Shoulders
-Shoulders over Hips
-Hips over Ankles |
Lifeworks Nutrition & Healthy Living Series
Are you looking for a healthier, happier, body and mind? Would you like to lose weight and have more energy? Are you confused on all of the media fuss on what foods are healthy and what is not? Are you suffering with a health condition that might benefit from diet but do not know where to begin? Check out our upcoming Nutrition & Healthy Living Series starting in May
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PCCHH is Now on Facebook and Twitter!
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Are you or someone you know participating in this year's Pittsburgh Marathon? If so, bring us proof of your participation and this coupon to receive $5.00 off of a post marathon sports massage.