Click the play button ▶️to listen 🎵
Who Cares?...I Do. So Give Me 5 Mins & 💃🏼
If 2020 taught us anything, it’s SEIZE THE DAY! Today is a gift, use it to your advantage. Move your body in a way that makes you HAPPY 😀
And all I'm going to ask is for you to commit to 5 minutes a day...
5 minutes of what, you ask?
5 minutes to Get Up & Dance!
I don't want to hear:
"I have two left feet."
"I feel self-conscious."
"I don't have time."
"My family will look at me weird"
"I'm too old."
"I can't do that."
Nope...I'm not taking any of those excuses.
5 Minutes a day for the next 7 days...that's what I'm asking for.
You know why?
Because putting on your favorite song, standing up & even just tapping your foot to the beat would make you feel better, with all the CRAZINESS we have had to endure lately.
Shovel that CRAP right out the door and for 5 minutes...
ENJOY YOURSELF IN THE MOMENT!
Okay, rant over...But CHALLENGE ON!
I'm serious with this one.
Each day for the next 7 days I want you to pick a song and JUST DANCE!
Shake your hips.
Stomp your feet.
Laugh.
Be Silly.
Have FUN!
❤️Janine
P.S. Click the video below & check out my HAPPY dance!
P.P.S. Extra points for sharing your fav song or better yet, a video of you rockin' it out on facebook or instagram #jbirdfitness
Dance With Me…
There is NO LIMIT to what we can do, when we truly SHOW UP in life! But man, it’s so much more FUN when we do it DANCING!!!
And we have options for EVERYONE at JBird, from in-studio classes to LIVE workouts & On-Demand videos. You show up & I promised to make you SWEAT 💦 A HAPPY Sweat 😉
For more information about JBird Fitness Workouts:
(click the links below)
Studio Classes:
Virtually LIVE Streamed Membership:
jbirdfitness.com/become-a-virtual-member
On-Demand Workout Videos:
jbirdfitness.com/on-demand
You can also email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com , if you have any questions.
One Word...To Make a 🌍 of a Difference
On New Year's Day I sent you an email talking about setting intentions. It was my way of whispering in your ear and get you excited for what’s to come.
This upcoming year can be about whatever YOU want it to be…
But even such a broad thought can be overwhelming, so how about simply focusing on one word.
One word to give you inspiration for the next 365 days.
Here are some ideas…
fearless. driven. calm. empowered. accountable. aware.
discovery. grateful. open. discipline. empathy. strong.
focus. determined. outgoing. clarity. adventure. social.
organized. learn. motivated. debt-free. optimistic. peace.
renew. consistent. inspire. flourish. believe. confident.
explore. self-care. prosper. mindful. create. breathe.
The possibilities are endless.
I’m going to give these & others some thought and share what mine will be for 2021 in the days ahead.
When you decide, I’d love to hear your pick. So when you’re ready email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com
With ❤️
Janine
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
While we're preparing to get our mindset straight, let's keep moving as well.
We have workout options for everyone at JBird, so take a glance below, click on the one which BEST suits your needs/wants and know you have a community cheering you on, every step of the way.
Studio Classes: Doylestown, PA
starting January 11th
for more info, click HERE
NEW Private/Semi-Private Sessions: one-on-one or small group classes now available by appointment.
Email me to schedule your special class at janine@jbirdfitness.com
LIVE Stream Workouts:
Want more info? Click HERE
On-Demand Membership:
Click HERE for more information
Have a question? Email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com 😁
And cheers to flying on a fitness high!!!
The Great 2021 Reset! 😃
I’m DONE! Finished. Over It!
While everyone is saying good riddance to 2020, I’m saying...
HELLO 2021!
Yes…I’m finished with feeling crappy and dwelling on my inconsistency.
It was completely acceptable during this past year’s uncertainty, but enough is enough.
The clock striking midnight is not going to magically change where you are, but…
Setting your intentions, committing to yourself, and focusing on the positive have the power to change the minutes, hours & days ahead of you.
It’s now time to reflect on what you’ve learned about yourself, be forgiving & push the reset button.
And don’t forget to…Smile 😁
You will need to work for the happy changes in your future. But a smile will give you the boost to propel you in the right direction.
From there…
You are bound to fly!
Happy New Year JBirds. I'm in it with you. And together we are unstoppable. ❤️
Love,
Janine + my family, who continue to drive me crazy & bring me the greatest joy.
Join in the FUN! Get a Jump Start on 2021!!
We have been having FUN over here with our "12 Days of JBird Fitness" and even though we are in the last few days, you can continue to play with the ideas & stay on a healthy track until the end of 2020.
I have been sharing on social media, but here is the run down:
Take deep breaths & enjoy being in the moment.
Turn up the heat by moving & shakin' your booty.
Get tipsey & challenge your core with balance challenges.
Fill your belly with healthy choices, so you can fully enjoy the treats.
Keep up your strength, so you can have FUN wrapping & tearing open those gifts.
Break out & DANCE, it'll put a smile on your face for sure!
Grab a partner & stay motivated TOGETHER!
STAY HYDRATED & Drink that water, water & more water.
Take a walk & enjoy the fresh air, even on the coldest of days.
Love your body...roll (rolls, "flaws" & ALL), You're BEAUTIFUL!
You've been working hard, hug someone & show off how strong you've become.
Smile at yourself! Not only are you beauitful, you are a SHINING STAR who makes a positive difference in this world just by being you!
Keep moving & stay connected, my friend.
With ❤️
Janine
P.S. if you want to see the videos & workout ideas on Instagram click HERE or on Facebook click HERE
It's a 7-Day Fitness Challenge
Thought a pandemic would slow the holiday season down?…nope
It’s up to you to stay focus, motivated & MOVING!
What?!?
I know it’s a lot to ask, especially when you’re juggling a 100 things, but it’s important. You’re important. And I don’t want to hear any arguments about it.
Time?
You don’t have the time, you say.
Hum…what can we do about this.
Okay, I’ve got it.
I know an hour is unrealistic but you can handle 15 minutes, right?
Say YES!
One more time with a smile please 😁
Good, let’s do it! Click HERE...
and sign-up for the 15 minutes a day fitness challenge, starting this Monday.
It’s FREE. All you need to do is log-in to the JBirdFitness.com Challenge page everyday for 7 days and MOVE YOUR BODY for 15 minutes.
This is not a negotiation. I need you to realize how important you, your body & your well-being are. And just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean you deserve anything less than the BEST.
Go on…click HERE to sign-up & then share this with a friend.
See you Monday for your 1st workout,
Janine ❤️
Today is YOUR Day...
I wanted to send this yesterday but I figured I’d wait until all of the Black Friday//Cyber Monday emails started to clear out of your inbox.
So now that you have de-cluttered, did you get everything you needed?
I hope so because I need you to bring your attention back to yourself right now.
It’s never easy during this time of the year but it’s more important than ever to keep move &…stay connected to what’s really important.
With the way 2020 has been going, it would be easy to “take a break” or “just keep hanging in there” until the New Year, but that isn’t good for anyone.
Not you.
Not your relationships.
Not your health.
So...
If you could stay committed to one daily habit that you know would make you feel better everyday, what would it be?
For this mama it’s getting up 30 minutes before the kids need to wake up for school, so I have "me time"…before my day even begins.
It’s the time I take to do the essentials like pee (sorry for the visual but that’s usually the 1st thing I do 😆), brush my hair (don’t worry, I washed my hands after I pee’d), wash my face, brush my teeth, get dressed, etc…
But more importantly, it’s when I think.
I think about what I want from my day. And I envision how I’m going to make it happen.
It sets the tone for my day & allows me to start on a positive note.
Thought I was going to say "working out" right?
Trust me...moving my body is always high on the list. But it's a habit I have already built into my day. So I'm choosing something I know is challenging but do-able, yet will undoubtable uplift my day to keep me focused, motivated & happy 😁
The commitment doesn’t even have to be checked off the first thing in the morning.
It can be something you fully commit to getting done between wake up and head down, pull the covers up & get cozy time.
So, I’ll ask again.
"What is the one energizing daily habit you are going to commit to from now until 2021?"
Don’t wait for the New Year to feel AMAZING...
Feel HAPPY Inside & Out starting TODAY!
Love,
Janine
P.S. I'd ❤️ to hear your answer, so email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com. And if moving your body was part of your answer, I'd love to help keep you motivated. Check out your JBird workout options below. But either way, make TODAY THE DAY!
For more information about JBird Fitness Workouts:
(click the links below)
Studio Classes:
Virtually LIVE Streamed Membership:
jbirdfitness.com/become-a-virtual-member
On-Demand Workout Videos:
jbirdfitness.com/on-demand
You can also email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com , if you have any questions.
@jbirdfitness on Instagram
Get Your Jolt of Positivity, Right Here Right Now
Have you ever stopped doing something, missed it, started up again and felt AMAZING once you did?
It’s a story I have heard over and over again throughout my years of being a fitness instructor.
A student walks in weary because they’ve been off “the wagon” for a bit, feel a little rocky the first few days back, but then can’t remember why they ever stopped working out in the first place.
Well I had a similar experience a couple of years ago. Of course exercise wasn’t the piece of the puzzle I had been missing. But teaching in-person classes was.
When we first moved to PA (5 years ago), I was looking forward to not working (meaning teaching classes) & excited to simply be a student. I had never really had a chance to experience just being a student.
When I got involved in fitness 25 years ago, my transition from being in the classroom to standing at the front of the classroom was lightening fast.
So when we got here I thought it would be a great time to step off the podium, be among the group and enjoy Nora being a baby and Sierra’s years in preschool.
Happy I did 😊
But oh...did I miss you!
Creating the JBird Fitness website, during those years, gave me a great outlet to continue doing what I love. But...
There is something special about standing in front of a classroom, teaching the same group of students week after week and building a relationship with them.
For me, it is like breathing the freshest pure air you could ever imagine. I’m not joking here. It gives me an energy I can’t even put into words and I cherish every moment every student has ever given me.
It’s funny how something can make you feel so excited and giddy but also connected, calm & bring out your strongest self EVER.
Unfortunately, with the current state of the world I needed to step away from teaching in-person classes for the last several months.
Don't get me wrong...We’ve been having an amazing time staying connected via our LIVE streamed workouts and On-Demand on JBirdFitness.com, but the time has come for me to get back to the studio.
I realize this is an iffy time.
There are those of you ready to get back in the swing of things, others constantly shifting to find a balance with what you need & staying healthy and even those content to continue riding this wave out in your own space.
And I respect ALL of it.
For me, getting back to the studio is not only going to be great for my physical well-being but even more so for my mental health.
For you, it may be joining me in-person. Or…
It could be chattin' & sweatin' with us during a LIVE class.
And you even have the option to roll out your mat on your own time to workout with an On-Demand video.
There are no judgements here on JBird.
Whichever one you choose is GREAT! As long as you are taking time for yourself to move and more importantly stay connected.
Connected to your body.
Connected to this amazing Community.
Connected to your ❤️
When you do, you tap into that sweet spot in your soul that even during this crazy time, brings happiness, a sense of freedom, and a jolt of positivity.
With that said, curious…
Which workout is for you?
In-Person Classes
LIVE Streaming Workouts
On-Demand Videos
Let me know by clicking one of the above.
And if you haven’t been working out with us and want more info on your JBird workout options, check out the links at the bottom of this email.
Have I said how excited I am to get back into the studio? Well, I am 😆
And all I want for ALL OF US is to be happy, to keep moving & to stay connected!
With the greatest of intentions,
Janine
For more information about JBird Fitness Workouts:
(click the links below)
Studio Classes:
Virtually LIVE Streamed Membership:
jbirdfitness.com/become-a-virtual-member
On-Demand Workout Videos:
jbirdfitness.com/on-demand
You can also email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com , if you have any questions.
Be Strong! Be Flexible! Be HAPPY! 😆
Hope you had a HAPPY 4th 🇺🇸
Although my family & I had a much different day than years’ past, we made the most of it and by nightfall we all had smiles on our face as we spun around on the grass, watching fireworks from afar happen in every direction around us.
We’re so used to going to the celebration, that we thought we may miss out this Independence Day. But the 360 degree surround sound, multi-colored sky with a super moon to boot, made it magical in it’s own way. And once again, we were reminded…
There are times in life when things are out of your control, but if you stop to breathe & open your eyes wide enough, you may experience something beyond your own expectations.
With that said...
The first step is simply showing up.
My JBird peeps, including you, have been showing up in spades the last several months.
By doing the Motivational Monday video workout Challenges on our FB Community page, joining our Virtual Member LIVE workouts, and even just opening up this newsletter, shows you care.
You care about looking to the positive & making the most of what’s right in front of you.
And for that, I applaud you 👏
It hasn’t been easy.
And we’re not completely out of the woods.
In fact, there is always “work” to be done.
But I choose to think of it as, there is always FUN to be had!
And summertime has a way of sprinkling in more opportunities to enjoy life.
So, let’s honor our independence by creating our own fireworks and excitement.
And remember, I’m here to help make you laugh, move your body & bring a smile to your face 😃
With ❤️ & admiration,
Janine
Did You Hear That?
What Type of Movement Speaks The Loudest To YOU?
Last Fall I hosted an Athleta Girls event at the store in North Wales, PA. My mission was to inspire the participants to experience moving in different ways, so they would have the opportunity to tap into THEIR unique body.
I encouraged them to take the time to listen to their body & in the end have a better understand of who they are, what kind of movement speaks to them the most but also have an appreciation for all movement types & respect other girls inner voices as well as their own.
It was AWESOME! And I was lucky enough to have the most AMAZING assistants by my side. My daughters, Sierra (9) & Nora (5).
Sharing with all of you, to help spread the word of…own your body, respect your body & love your body with the “Own Your Power" Workout.
It includes movement inspired by Sports, Pilates, Martial Arts, Dance & Yoga.
Finding your inner voice is beneficial for every soul. So even though the workout originated from a young girls event, the exercises & movement practice is INCREDIBLE intell for everyBODY.
If you don’t have kiddos or they have left the nest...
THIS WORKOUT IS FOR YOU!
Give it a go & let me know, “What Type of Movement Speaks The Loudest To YOU?” by replying to this email or emailing me at janine@jbirdfitness.com
Janine 😀
Your Summer of Smiles Awaits...
“Life is short”
An adage which has taken on a whole new meaning the past few months.
I’ve learned a lot about myself having a stay-at-home order in place, becoming a home school mom and once again, needing to re-invent how I'm going to balance work, family & fun.
As I'm sure you have too.
Something I have always know...I like people.
Sounds funny, but it’s true.
I miss people.
I miss my students.
I miss the silly banter before & after classes.
I miss seeing you.
But with life on hold still here in PA, I’ve needed to look inward to find a way to look forward to each morning I wake up.
I am beyond grateful to all of the LIVE classes I have been teaching.
You may not be in the room with me but trust me when I say, I can feel you with me.
The comments on the Facebook feed & even the simplest gesture of an icon wave, thumbs up or heart brings a huge smile to my face.
With summer starting, I want shake things up and continue to be inspired by your energy.
So starting this week, I will be teaching 2 Transform (dance inspired strength & tone) classes and...(drum roll please) 🥁
Cardio Dance Dance Dance 💃
(Ok, so it’s just one dance, but the “So You Think You Can Dance” song popped into my head)
And...I am beyond EXCITED!!!
If you’re not a member yet, I would ❤️ for you to join us. (details below)
But either way, the point is...
Seize the day!
I know I have brought this philosophy up in newsletters past, but one thing I have also learned from life itself...little reminds from friends, to nudge you in the right direction, is the best way to stay on a happy track.
So set yourself up for success & happiness by...
Focusing on the positive things you can do every week that will put a smile on your face.
I certainly will be 😀
With love,
Janine
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
LIVE Workouts (via our private facebook group)
All Classes start at 9:30am
Transform: Tuesdays & Saturdays
Cardio Dance: Thursday
Only $10/week
No worries if you miss a class, ALL workouts are recorded & posted for viewing, after our LIVE session.
Includes free access to our On-Demand video library.
Join or take advantage of our FREE 3-day trial by clicking HERE
On-Demand Workout Videos via JBirdFitness.com: Click HERE to join.
The video library on JBirdFitness.com offers:
Quick 15 Minute Workouts, to fit every schedule
85+ Video Library, plus easy to follow Workout Programs
Exercise Routines can extend up to 60 minutes
Mix & Match Capability for your fitness needs
Fitness Tips filled with exercise techniques & motivation
An AMAZING Fitness Community at your finger tips
Join Our Facebook Community: It's FREE! Click HERE to join.
In the weeks to come, I'll be sharing fitness motivation, workouts and FUN!
Our Weekly Schedule will include but never limited to:
Mondays - a new 15 minute workout video will be revealed for #motivationalmondays. Challenge: You’ll have 24 hrs to complete the workout before it disappears.
Tuesdays - Community Fit Tip, Exercise Break-downs & Workout Ideas
Wednesday - Stretch/Yoga video of the week for #wellnesswednesdays
Thursday - I’ll be sharing my favorite music to "Move It Move It"
Friday - FUN Fridays where anything can happen, but most likely it’ll be a DANCE PARTY! 😉
Hi...My name is Janine.
I have ALWAYS taught classes with the most important message being we are ALL equal.
Just because someone next to you may be flying through the air or powering through a workout looking like a champ and you are just starting out, modifying every move & taking more breaks for water, YOU ARE MADE OF THE SAME EXACT AMAZING HUMAN-NESS as everyone else in the room.
It’s why I ❤️ group fitness. We have the opportunity to feed off of each other’s positive energy, which makes us stronger as a community and as an individual, it allows you to see an abundance of possibilities.
In my classroom & now when I teach virtually, I create the workouts for...
Every-BODY.
My sole purpose is to help you see the incredible light that shines within you. It’s there at every given moment of the day. But during challenging & uncertain times, you need to have practiced tapping into your inner strength, to not just get the most out of a workout…but to make an unwavering connection to your human-ness.
Movement and connecting your body & mind has the power to create clarity.
It helps weed out the crap. And make you realize the skin you are in is just cells. A layer to keep your vital organs, muscles and inner workings in tact. A vessel to move you around this earth. So your mind can expand, learn and feel every bit of your human-ness.
When you tap into this extraordinary gift, you see no limits. You see no boundaries.
You only see possibilities.
Life no longer becomes black & white.
Even the colors in the rainbow become even more expansive and their visionary gift is way more valuable than the pot of gold you were once told sits at the end of the arc.
The light endlessly glows around you and then…YOU HAVE THE ABILITY TO SEE IT, IN ALL BEINGS.
I see YOU.
Not your skin. Not your muscles I ask to engage.
I SEE...
YOU.
Your energy inspires me. And when you trust in that
OUR HUMAN-NESS IS UNITED.
Love,
Janine
Keep Moving. Stay Connected.
P.S. You can read this as simply a fitness instructor’s classroom view, but the truth…this is ME. Me re-introducing myself (in case you missed it the first time we met) I wear my philosophy on my sleeve, not only when I am teaching, I live it everyday in every moment & I speak with great respect to all, from the depth of my heart.
"It's nice to meet you" 😀
Workout Video For You To Play With...Have FUN 😃
During the past several weeks, we have all had to make changes. And for me it meant juggling being a mom, still being here as your fitness trainer and then becoming a home-school teacher.
The change was quick. Overnight.
There wasn’t much time for thinking. Just jumping in head first and doing.
Knowing I had to take on a whole new role for my children, I decided to continue teaching my Transform (dance inspired strength & toning) class via online but delayed teaching a virtual dance class.
There was a number of reasons for the decision but one thing kept tugging at my heart.
I had left my teaching job back in October to pursue building my own community because I wanted to dance. And the opportunity was not available where I was.
Flash forward to quarantine time and now I am finding myself in the same predicament.
We have now gone through the thick of it and with “summer vacation” fast approaching and a better idea of what is possibly ahead for us, I can’t ignore the whispers in my ear to “Dance” “Dance” “Dance” anymore.
So, starting June 15th I will be adding Cardio Dance to our LIVE workouts on our Member Facebook page.
I don’t have all of the details. As this week I will be taking the time to work out (no pun intended 😛) the schedule of classes and looking into the possibilities for those who do not belong to Facebook to participate.
While I’m noodling all of this over, your feedback would be AMAZING.
Let me know if you have any questions, suggestion or thoughts.
This is not just about me. In fact, it’s always been about YOU!
Having you actively be a part of JBird Fitness inspires me to wake up every morning & create workouts to not only make you stronger and healthier, but also to have FUN & put a smile on your face.
Let’s move into the Summer of 2020 doing just that…TOGETHER!
With Love,
Janine
P.S. Below I am sharing with you a 45 minute Pop-Up Cardio Dance class from this past Friday morning. I have uploaded it to You Tube for all to have access for the next 7 days. Don’t just take a look. Grab a full glass of water, click the video & get ready to move. Move & Have FUN!!! Then email me at janine@jbirdfitness.com and let me know how you did.
15 Minutes to Wake Up Your Body
The other day a threw a question out to the JBird Fitness Community group on Facebook…
“How many days a week do you dedicate to doing "a workout"? And what do you do?”
I wasn’t expecting the answers I got.
"7 days a week"
"3 days doing this, 3 days doing that & another doing this"
"Everyday"
Nearly every single comment was answered like the above.
Yes. I was excited to hear people are movin'.
Yes. I was beyond happy to hear they were working out with me on JBird most days.
Yes. When this whole pandemic hit home, I was cheering you on to keep moving.
But...
"Could everyone else be doing more than I am?"
"Have I not been doing enough?"
"As your instructor was I letting you down by saying...
3 days a week, then the rest is improv?"
Then it hit me…
Those who have stuck to their plan were excited to answer this question.
And they should be. That’s GREAT!
But those who haven’t may be feeling less of themselves for it. And the question itself could possibly be amplifying that feeling.
I am here to say the focus should be on the 2nd half of the Community post.
“What do you do?”
Those answers consisted of walking, HIIT workouts, yoga, biking, Zumba, strength training, indoor cycling, hiking, pilates, bootcamp and, I’m proud to say, JBird Fitness.
Their accomplishments started off by them committing to #1 moving their body and #2 being resourceful.
No one has been able to stick with their pre-pandemic routine. Even if you always “worked out at-home”, life’s routine has changed.
If you aren’t one of those people who shifted gears quickly and dug down deep to make it happen right away...It’s ok.
I would hate for you to be feeling "I'm not doing enough"... to then have that feeling add to the intensity of what's happening around us.
Like I have been telling Sierra (my 9 year old) starting to learn how to ride a skateboard. "Take it one day at a time. One step. One stride. One push off...at a time"
Begin with 15 minutes a day or 3 days a week, as a goal.
Starting with a manageable, realistic amount of time will give you a taste of success, encouraging you to keep going.
I know it’s Memorial Day Weekend. But waking up tomorrow and taking care of your health will not only jump start your summer...
It will re-energize your body & bring happiness to your heart.
Make a commitment to yourself & start 😀 bigger NOW.
With Love,
Janine
P.S. For those who have been rockin’ it & been on the “I am exercising EVERYDAY during this insanely crazy time”, take a look at your routine and consider switching things up a bit. Look at the list above for inspiration, ask on the Community page for suggestions or click on one of the options below. Altering just one day, can have a GREAT impact. Keeping your body & mind challenged, invigorated and inspired!
Keep Moving. Stay Connected.
A Mother's Day Letter
This newsletter is a special note to all of my fellow mothers out there. If you’re not one, I'd love for you to stay and read too, as I assure you the moms of the world would appreciate you knowing why we act a little wacky sometimes 😊
It’s Mother’s Day!
And holy crap olla, does this day stir up a boat load of emotions.
First, I lost my mom over 11 years ago and I miss her dearly. But even though I wish she was still with us, I am so thankful for the years we did have & feel like I am a better mama because of her love.
So...GRATEFUL starts the list.
Hummm, what else am I feeling?
HAPPY. Thinking of all those moments, when my kids have no clue I am watching them and I can't wipe the smile off my face.
PROUD. It's amazing how, as a mom, you start or restart to appreciate the smallest of accomplishments through your kids.
SILLY. Who ever thought I would crawl on the ground and growl at my daughters to make them laugh or speak in 3 different voices to read a bedtime story or paint all of our toe nails in the colors of the rainbow so we'd be "twinses".
I sure didn't!
These are the FUN emotions. But it's not always fun and games. There is also the worry, especially right now during this crazy time, the frustration when they don't listen to me and the exhaustion at the end of each day.
The roller coaster ride of emotions & uncertainty as a mother definitely makes us feel like we are losing our minds at times and as I was looking back at newsletters past, I found a story to showcase just how nutty it gets.
I apologize to anyone who's already heard this story, but in the wake of our quaratine days we can all use a chuckle. So here you go...
The Time I Lost My Phone
Sierra was still an infant and we had recently moved into a new house in NJ.
I was juggling working in NYC, being a new mom and now taking care of a house rather than an itty bitty apartment. Needless to say, being tired was par for the course.
So I was proud of myself one evening when I had gotten my to-do list done, fed the baby, and was now preparing a lovely meal for Ryan & I.
Right before I was about to take our dinner out of the oven, Ryan walked in from a long day of work and said ,"Is everything ok? I've been trying to call you."
I then said, "Sorry. I've been so busy I haven't even looked at my phone. I don't even know where it is."
So Ryan called my phone.
We heard it faintly ringing and started running around the house, tossing pillows and searching through bags. But we couldn't find it,
Until....
We both meet up in the kitchen.
He dialed again.
Our ears got closer to the sound.
Now both of our ears were up against the frig.
"Are you kidding ME?" he says.
Yep, my phone was on the top shelf sitting right next to the ketchup.
And the insanity hasn't let up since...
Good one, right?
I know I'm not alone. I've heard all kinds of stories through the years to validate that my brain is not the only one feeling like mush most days. And ...
Doing wacky things is a part of motherhood.
We're expected to know everything for everyone, yet walk into a room and can't remember why we even came up the stairs in the first place.
And our plate is always full.
Even when we're in a lockdown & can't even leave the house.
Being tired comes with the territory. But I assure you, your efforts do not go unnoticed.
Every other mother out there knows exactly how much time, energy & love it takes to be a great mother.
I see you.
I see all that you give.
And I appreciate you.
Tomorrow is another day. And you are bound to feel the intensity of motherhood knocking on your door at one moment or another.
When it does...remember,
YOU ARE STRONG & BEAUTIFUL!
And the rest will fall into place.
❤️,
Janine
P.S. A picture of my mama & me on my wedding day. Now I know why she answered the way she did, gave advice when I didn't think I needed it and the reason I would look over at her every once in a while & catch her smiling. She may not be here anymore, but I love her even more today than the day we said goodbye.
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
**NEW 3-DAY FREE TRIAL**
LIVE Workout Classes NOW AVAILABLE!!
(via our private facebook group)
Transform (aka Barre Fusion) - Strengthen, tone, and work on your mobility & flexibility all-in-one workout. Join us for this total body conditioning class, inspired by dance, barre, yoga & pilates. It will get every muscle in your body moving, leaving you in a feel good fitness vibe for sure.
Class times: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am and Saturdays 9:30am.
No worries if you miss a class, ALL workouts are recorded & posted for viewing, after our LIVE session.
Includes free access to our On-Demand video library.
Join or take advantage of our FREE 3-day trial by clicking HERE
On-Demand Workout Videos via JBirdFitness.com: Click HERE to join.
The video library on JBirdFitness.com offers:
Quick 15 Minute Workouts, to fit every schedule
85+ Video Library, plus easy to follow Workout Programs
Exercise Routines can extend up to 60 minutes
Mix & Match Capability for your fitness needs
Fitness Tips filled with exercise techniques & motivation
An AMAZING Fitness Community at your finger tips
Join Our Facebook Community: It's FREE! Click HERE to join.
In the weeks to come, I'll be sharing fitness motivation, workouts and FUN!
Our Weekly Schedule will include but never limited to:
Mondays - a new 15 minute workout video will be revealed for #motivationalmondays. Challenge: You’ll have 24 hrs to complete the workout before it disappears.
Tuesdays - Community Fit Tip, Exercise Break-downs & Workout Ideas
Wednesday - Stretch/Yoga video of the week for #wellnesswednesdays
Thursday - I’ll be sharing my favorite music to "Move It Move It"
Friday - FUN Fridays where anything can happen, but most likely it’ll be a DANCE PARTY! 😉
This Is What My Family Has Taught Me ☀️
Last week I mentioned our family going on a hike and we have actually been going on hikes the past several weeks whenever we get the chance.
If you missed my newsletter last week, click HERE to read how Alaska inspired my love for hiking & yoga.
But for this week, I thought I’d share...
A few things I have discovered on our “family hikes"
The kids are way more capable than I thought.
As a parent you worry, “Can they make it? Are they strong enough? Will we get back to the car in one piece?” But I quickly learned they’ve got what it takes. Especially when we are doing it together.
Nora (who’s only 5) is eager to get to the top because she loves heights and being able to look far out & down. Terrifying for mama, exciting for her. 😬
And even though Sierra is nervous being up so high, she’s super competitive and overlooks how high we are going because she’s too busy proving she’ll get there first 😂
This is a GREAT opportunity to get us started on building up our endurance.
When Ryan & I started dating, our first trip together was to Yosemite & Sequoia National parks. I know…super romantic, right? Ha…I know it doesn’t sound it, but it was a great way for us to get to know each other and we realized then how much we both loved getting outdoors, challenging ourselves and seeing new places.
But having kids put a pause on those trips.
Now that the girls are getting older, we talk about going up to Acadia in Maine and Yellowstone. And just like any other fitness feat, I know we’ve got to work up to it (for all of our sakes 😊).
Even though this is a crappy situation, where we’re all feeling “stuck at home”, we’re taking advantage of the time we do have to get out and build our stamina for the trips we’re looking forward to in the future.
The hikes make us ALL happy. It’s that simple.
When we’re in the house, there are times we all feel like, "I can’t spend one more minute with these people!”
But then we get out, do something different , and we’re all laughing, showing each other things we see along the path, and it turns that ugh feeling into “hey, I actually like you again."
Next thing I know, we’re back to the car, with all of our limbs in tacked and how about that…we all have smiles on our faces.
I often say it just takes one moment of change to turn things around and there’s the proof. I’ve learned my kids are growing up strong & adventurous, we’re excited for trips & the days ahead of us, and by doing something different, we changed our perspective.
So what does this have to do with fitness? And what does it have to do with moving & exercising during this quarantine?
Everything!
We’ve all been thrusted into this massive change. Most of us have doubts. Most of us feel limited. Most of us feel a cloud hanging over us.
I’m not about to tell you the doubt, the limitation or the cloud is going to magically disappear forever during this quarantine time just by exercising. But I know, not just from my family hikes...
But from finding a place I can feel connected to myself & others has helped tremendously in…
Easing the doubts.
Feeling a sense of freedom and…
Filling my days with some Sunshine ☀️
Take advantage of every chance you get to do something different with your day and seek out weekly rituals to feel happier in your body & your heart.
We will endure...but to do it with a smile would feel oh so much better.
Join us (us being me, my family & the other JBird peeps) 😉
Janine
P.S. Below are a few pics from our hikes.
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
**NEW 3-DAY FREE TRIAL**
LIVE Workout Classes NOW AVAILABLE!!
(via our private facebook group)
Transform (aka Barre Fusion) - Strengthen, tone, and work on your mobility & flexibility all-in-one workout. Join us for this total body conditioning class, inspired by dance, barre, yoga & pilates. It will get every muscle in your body moving, leaving you in a feel good fitness vibe for sure.
Class times: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am and Saturdays 9:30am.
No worries if you miss a class, ALL workouts are recorded & posted for viewing, after our LIVE session.
Includes free access to our On-Demand video library.
Join or take advantage of our FREE 3-day trial by clicking HERE
On-Demand Workout Videos via JBirdFitness.com: Click HERE to join.
The video library on JBirdFitness.com offers:
Quick 15 Minute Workouts, to fit every schedule
85+ Video Library, plus easy to follow Workout Programs
Exercise Routines can extend up to 60 minutes
Mix & Match Capability for your fitness needs
Fitness Tips filled with exercise techniques & motivation
An AMAZING Fitness Community at your finger tips
Join Our Facebook Community: It's FREE! Click HERE to join.
In the weeks to come, I'll be sharing fitness motivation, workouts and FUN!
Our Weekly Schedule will include but never limited to:
Mondays - a new 15 minute workout video will be revealed for #motivationalmondays. Challenge: You’ll have 24 hrs to complete the workout before it disappears.
Tuesdays - Community Fit Tip, Exercise Break-downs & Workout Ideas
Wednesday - Stretch/Yoga video of the week for #wellnesswednesdays
Thursday - I’ll be sharing my favorite music to "Move It Move It"
Friday - FUN Fridays where anything can happen, but most likely it’ll be a DANCE PARTY! 😉
I Challenge You To Try It & See What Happens
Ryan, the girls & I went for a hike yesterday and it got me thinking about the time when I had been working on cruise ships and spent a summer in Alaska.
Looking back, I remember how that experience dramatically changed my outlook on the world and my fitness life.
Alaska is a magical place and something about its untouched beauty inspires people the moment they step foot on its land.
As my musician friends would go off somewhere quiet to write lyrics and others would be snapping pictures of breathtaking landscapes, I would tighten up the laces on my hiking boots and explore a different trail every week.
The shift in listening & moving to music, as my dancer/fitness self only knew, to trekking up a mountainside solely with the sound of the huffing & puffing of my breath...changed me.
That same summer is when I started to play with yoga. I say "play" because I thought there was no chance in hell I was going to get into this thing they call a practice.
It wasn't even my idea.
I had just left another ship where a friend showed me a book on yoga sequences & postures saying, "You need to try this."
I thought she was nuts.
At the time we were partying our butts off in the Caribbean. And all of the classes I had ever taught were high intensity, jump around like a crazy person until you are drenched in sweat, style.
But something in the Alaskan air made me curious about yoga and moving to my breath. And so another chapter in my fitness life began.
Since then, I have come to love yoga's ability to help me fine-tune my movement skills and I even, dare I say it, enjoy being still.
Especially after having kids.
They can drive me batty. And during this quaratine time, it's elevated to a whole new level.
But even steal away just a few short moments of quietness & connection to my body has been glorious.
The amazing part is it spreads like wild fire into your daily life the more you do it.
Even your other types of workouts get better, strong and more fulfilling.
You attack your cardio differently. Your posture changes when you're lifting weights. You have more energy, more endurance, more strength. And the big one, better mobility. Better flexibility.
I promise I haven't drank any kool-aid. I just get so pumped up talking about this because it will transform how you look at your fitness regiment and your body.
I know because I have experienced it and I am deeply grateful for it.
Yoga, meaning union, is all about connecting the mind & body. It helps establish a positive self-awareness and heightens your appreciation for everything around you.
So, when I discovered yoga in Alaska...it was a magical time.
But you don't need to be in a mystical place to enjoy who you are and your surroundings. Tapping into the amazement of the human body is within you every day.
And getting to know every little nook & cranny within your body will elevate YOUR awareness for the positive too.
So, check out the "What's Happening" section below and play with yoga during this week to see for yourself. No kool-aid drinking required. You've got the goods built inside yourself. All you need to do is shake things up a bit.
Janine ❤️
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
**NEW 3-DAY FREE TRIAL**
LIVE Workout Classes NOW AVAILABLE!!
(via our private facebook group)
Transform (aka Barre Fusion) - Strengthen, tone, and work on your mobility & flexibility all-in-one workout. Join us for this total body conditioning class, inspired by yoga, barre, dance & pilates. It will get every muscle in your body moving, leaving you in a feel good fitness vibe for sure.
Class times: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am and Saturdays 9:30am.
No worries if you miss a class, ALL workouts are recorded & posted for viewing, after our LIVE session.
Includes free access to our On-Demand video library.
Join or take advantage of our FREE 3-day trial by clicking HERE
On-Demand Workout Videos via JBirdFitness.com: Click HERE to join.
The video library on JBirdFitness.com offers:
Quick 15 Minute Workouts, to fit every schedule
85+ Video Library, plus easy to follow Workout Programs
Exercise Routines can extend up to 60 minutes
Mix & Match Capability for your fitness needs
Fitness Tips filled with exercise techniques & motivation
An AMAZING Fitness Community at your finger tips
Join Our Facebook Community: It's FREE! Click HERE to join.
In the weeks to come, I'll be sharing fitness motivation, workouts and FUN!
Our Weekly Schedule will include but never limited to:
Mondays - a new 15 minute workout video will be revealed for #motivationalmondays. Challenge: You’ll have 24 hrs to complete the workout before it disappears.
Tuesdays - Community Fit Tip, Exercise Break-downs & Workout Ideas
Wednesday - Stretch/Yoga video of the week for #wellnesswednesdays
Thursday - I’ll be sharing my favorite music to "Move It Move It"
Friday - FUN Fridays where anything can happen, but most likely it’ll be a DANCE PARTY! 😉
Are You In A Sugar Coma, Like Me?
I totally thought, being quaratined, I would escape the post holiday madness. But somehow the Easter candy found it's way into my shopping cart. And with social distancing and all, I couldn't walk against the supermarket arrows to return them, right? 😉
So, here we are again!
In a complete sugar coma. 🍫
The urban dictionary defines this as "the intense rush that happens after a sugar high". I call it a sugar low though, because I feel down in the dumps after the initial bliss wears off.
Don't get me wrong...when that Russell Stover's Chocolate-covered Marshmallow Bunny hit my lips, I was in heaven. ⛅️
But now that the jelly beans are settling in my belly, I'm thinking, "how did this happen, yet again?"
Listen...even if you didn't celebrate Easter last weekend, it's likely you've had a binge like this at one point or another, especially during this stay at home business.
It happens to all of us.
What we do about it, is what makes the difference.
So do me & you a favor...shake off this crudy feeling. Let's get movin' again and eating healthier.
Moving has a way of triggering the latter, so since that is my expertise, I''ve got a few ways to get you back on track below.
My goal is to keep you excited about your fitness goals, challenge you in different ways and have you looking forward to the weeks ahead.
Remember: Just one day of change can revitalize your spirits & create a shift, beyond a physical benefit.
Keep Moving. Stay Connected. ❤️
Janine
P.S. Talking about "physical"...I'm addicted to Dua Lipa's new album and she's got a song on their called, you guessed it, "Physical". You can hear it HERE on my Spotify playlist, we have been using to get the party started at our LIVE workouts. Take a listen. It'll get you moving for sure!
What's Happening with JBird Fitness:
**NEW 3-DAY FREE TRIAL**
LIVE Workout Classes NOW AVAILABLE!! (via our private facebook group)
Transform (aka Barre Fusion) - Strengthen, tone, and work on your mobility & flexibility all-in-one workout. Join us for this total body conditioning class that will get every muscle in your body moving, leaving you in a feel good fitness vibe.
Class times: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am and Saturdays 9:30am.
No worries if you miss a class, ALL workouts are recorded & posted for viewing, after our LIVE session.
Join or take advantage of our FREE 3-day Trial by clicking HERE
Can’t Wait To See You At Our Next Workout!!!
Join Our Facebook Community: It's FREE! Click HERE to join.
In the weeks to come, I'll be sharing fitness motivation, workouts and FUN!
Our Weekly Schedule will include but never limited to:
Mondays - a new 15 minute workout video will be revealed for #motivationalmondays. Challenge: You’ll have 24 hrs to complete the workout before it disappears.
Tuesdays - Community Fit Tip, Exercise Break-downs & Workout Ideas
Wednesday - Stretch/Yoga video of the week for #wellnesswednesdays
Thursday - I’ll be sharing my favorite music to "Move It Move It"
Friday - FUN Fridays where anything can happen, but most likely it’ll be a DANCE PARTY! 😉
On-Demand via JBirdFitness.com: Click HERE to join.
The video library on JBirdFitness.com offers:
Quick 15 Minute Workouts, to fit every schedule
85+ Video Library accessible 24/7
Exercise Routines can extend up to 60 minutes
Mix & Match Capability for your fitness needs
Fitness Tips filled with exercise techniques & motivation
An AMAZING Fitness Community at your finger tips
