10 Online Resources I Love For The Body and Mind
As a follow-up to my article about embracing a changing body and seeking an exercise routine that’s more well-rounded and mindful, I thought I’d share some of my go-to online resources. What I like about each of these is that they are taught by experts who are meticulous about form and capacity, which as we know as we grow older is much more important than an ego-driven, driving-the-body-into-the-ground routine. I also believe that a diverse workout, incorporating multiple disciplines is critical for the overall health of the body and mind. Plus it keeps monotony and boredom at bay, which is always a plus when it comes to exercise.
Some of these are free so please do donate to the artists/trainers if you can.
CARDIO
Rhythm and Motion Dance Classes:
I’ve been going to these in-person for about a decade in San Francisco and searched all over the world for them — you cannot find a duplicate program, I promise. A variety of teachers bring in eclectic songs and choreography for a 45-minute dance set followed by strength training. It’s literally made for all ages, body types and dance levels so you have no excuse.
You can now do the classes online or join a Zoom session. If you’re a dance fan, this is the workout for you. I do it 3–4 times a week and it never fails to lift my spirits (while I sweat my face off).
Kickboxing
I discovered boxing five years ago and have never looked back. The combination of movement and weights really works for me plus I feel like a I can dismantle a predator in under 15 seconds. Crista’s workouts are strong and well-paced, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
YOGA
Vinyasa Flow:
The blessing of COVID-19 has been gaining access to experts in different geographies and Mark Morford in San Francisco is a keeper. A strong class admittedly, Mark will build you up, work you out and melt you down into a sweaty puddle of sustained breaths and wider perspective. Mark was one of my first teachers when I moved to San Francisco in 2003 when I thought I was a hotshot Indian kid with a killer backbend. I had my ass handed to me and then I was ready for some real growth.
Join online or download videos.
Yin Yoga
I’ve recently come to do a lot more restorative yoga (thank you, aches and pains) and really do look forward to an hour of yin, particularly in the evenings as the day winds down. If you’re too restless for meditation, Yin is also a good place to start as simply staying in the poses forces your body to release and your mind to quieten.
I like Kassandra because she guides you into the asana and then lets you sit in silence. That’s harder to find on YouTube than you would think, yet that’s what most of us need.
PILATES
Pilates scares me because you can so easily do it wrong and not only miss the entire benefit but you could do some damage. While I do believe its popularity is well-deserved, the specificity that is pilates must be taught by someone knowledgable and that to me is Erika Bloom. Erika’s style is calm and strong without gimmicks and noise.
I watch her on Instagram but you can also sign up for a virtual private session.
WEIGHT TRAINING:
Weight training is essential for toning and strength (yes, even for women — we’ve been taught we will develop big bulky muscles which is not true at all). Form, however, is key to hitting the target areas and preventing injury. I like Hasfit because he pays attention to the details.
STRETCH
If you want a completely aspirational stretch class, join Adji Cissiko of Alonzo King LINES Ballet on Fridays via Zoom. Her legs are #goals and the stretches are a behind-the-scenes view into how professional dancers keep supple and healthy.
MEDITATION
It’s been advised to everyone for everything and it’s true, it works. But it’s hard to get into a practice and to find what works for you. I’ve listed some options below from various schools of thought because while we all envision old men wrapped in robes sitting at the top of the Himalayas when we think of meditation, the truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all. The good news is that there is truly a wealth of resources online. You just have to be patient as you weed through them.
Intuition 101:
I liked this video because it’s short, lightweight, not overly preachy and not overwhelming. It helps you simply learn to follow your breathing and let your mind drift into alternative worlds. If you’re a beginner you may find guided meditations helpful until you hit your stride.
Moving Meditation/Ecstatic Dance
For some people, energy flows better when they move and that’s where ecstatic dance comes in. No shame in your game if this is how you find peace. More power to you in fact.
I turn to this track when I’m feeling particularly agitated. Sometimes after I find I’m able to settle for a seated meditation but that is by no means the goal.
Vibrational Tunes
I’m more spiritual than religious but I was raised Hindu which is why I probably have a subconscious connection with this track. Nonetheless, I find this version of the Ganesh mantra wonderfully soothing. I play at home first thing in the morning, my son has started asking for it at night.
Music is powerful when it comes to energy manipulation. This selection is not made with your brain. It’s made with your heart.
There you have it. I know there are a gazillion videos and practitioners out there but I thought I’d share what works for me because I’ve spent hours sifting through the available options. If you’d like to share a resource with me, please drop it in the comments below. I’d love to check it out!
