Aphrodite
Aphrodite
body
1.  Slow it down - we are always in a rush. Do you hear yourself "hurry up, gotta go!"? Take a deep breath and be in the NOW!

2.  Wrap yourself in a fluffy robe and plush slippers. Give yourself a spa day. Try Himalayan Bath Salts. They are amazing for a natural detox.
Fit Tip:  Did you know that Himalayan Bath Salts in a solution of 1 - 8% salt has a cleansing effect equivalent to a 3 day fast! 

3.  Crank up the music and dance in the dark.  Pick girl power music!  Find you inner goddess and don't be shy.  Work and whip your hair around like a superstar. Enjoy it for as long as you can. Embrace your feminine presence!

beauty
4.  Cashmere is on sale - indulge in a new piece - it never goes out of style!
Fit Tip: Take care of your new cashmere with rosemary sprigs.  Place them around your clothes or create a  sprig and tie a lovely ribbon around for extra beauty!

5.  Pay attention to the details. Clean up your shoes & purses. The reality is, people do judge a book by it's cover - be ready. 
 
mind & spirit
6.  When was the last time you snuck out during the DAY to see a chick flick?  Just you alone!  Grab your Healthy Chocolate for a snack and settle in for the afternoon in the comfy theater seats! 7.  Can't find the time? Rent the classic "Roman Holiday" with Audrey Hepburn.  Pour a glass of Italian wine and enjoy!  She plays a princess who escapes for a day of "ordinary life'.  You will not only be entertained but you will learn princess (goddess) etiquette too.
 
8.  I am sorry - give it up! Forgive yourself for what ever is beating you up: weight gain, gossiping. Release the past shortcomings and move ahead!
 
9. Speak up - honor your true feelings to others, it will release so much stress. Refuse to accept anything but the BEST your life can offer!
 
10.   Museum stroll - nothing can be as serene or calming as strolling your local museum. Take your time and breathe in and feel the century of the work; the clothing,
the styles and ambiance, the genre of the work, and the awe of the beauty.
 
In good health,
Jennifer Ettinger, MA., CPT
 
Happy Solutions 01/25/2010
 
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Those of you who are avid readers, know I believe in Solutions vs. Resolutions.
We have offered our solutions programs for several years now!
What is the difference you ask?
Solution is an answer to a challenge.
Resolution is a declaration of a statement.
 
Although it is GREAT to send out your message i.e., "I AM going to lose weight", it is important to do more than that to get the job done!  The NY times has reported most resolutions cease by the end January. Why? Because resolutions create way too much pressure and we cave in.  I see so many women come through my studio or at events that have the interest to change but they stop there.
 
Let us look at the word interest - A sense of concern of curiosity about something.
YOU NEED MORE THAN INTEREST or RESOLUTIONS TO SUCCEED!!
 
 
Thanks again to Carissa Reiniger, Silver Lining, Mike Realba, PINK Magazine, Healthy Girl and Petite Fashionista, for giving me the opportunity to spend the day “job shadowing” CEO and co-founder, Cynthia Good!

Open the large foyer doors of PINK Magazine and another world awaits you. A sunny yellow wall welcomes visitors with the words “Bright House” (Cynthia’s husband, Joey Reiman’s, world known “ideation”corporation). Complimenting the wall is that of a bright pink wall with the letters PINK. The continental-style furniture is upholstered in a cheery floral pattern and in the center of it all, sits Ashley, who radiates the décor’s sunny disposition.
 
 
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 Building a wardrobe can be an overwhelming experience. Where do you need to invest your dollars and where can you “skimp?”  Every woman needs to have a good quality suit. This will be the “core” of her collection. Plan to spend in the realm of $300-500, depending on the designer chosen and fabric of suit.  We will then “build” onto this “core piece.” A simple pant in a neutral color will add versatility to the suit jacket, along with adding several button-down shirts, “separate’s”, simple sweaters and sweater sets, will make your wardrobe go a long way! Think neutral which never goes out of season and white is a must have!
Finally, investing in a quality black leather purse and shoes, can last a lifetime, with proper leather care. Studies show that people notice your shoes and purse, after your smile! 
Trendy season pieces can be purchased at an inexpensive price, for these items are not warranted for long term wearing. Always ask your self “How many times will I wear the item I am about to purchase and what do I have in my closet which will compliment this piece?” If the answer is “I will wear it very little and have nothing to wear with it” – pass it up!

Remember, classics never go out of style! Happy Shopping!  
 
 
The biggest complaint I hear is: "I am making the effort to workout and I am not seeing the results!"
Well, have a look at our Top 10 list of what NOT to do and see if you are falling prey to these mistakes!

1. Instant Gratification
We make a decision to begin to workout by sometimes taking the all or nothing approach, so what happens? We burnout and quit, saying to ourselves that working out is just too hard. Instead, it's smarter to workout in moderation. Break your workout into three 10 minute stints, which can provide important health benefits.

2. Unbalanced Workouts
Do you have a favorite body part that you tend to train over and over? When we only focus on our favorite, we are participating in an unbalanced workout, which can cause injuries. To achieve optimum results, make sure you work ALL body parts. Choose at least eight exercises, working the largest to the smallest muscles, which will result in obtaining muscular balance and improved posture.

3. How is Your Form?
Form is the key component to obtaining desired results. Whether you are new to exercise or seasoned, make sure you are educated on how to perform the exercises. If you are a visual learner, seek out a personal trainer who can teach you by the tell-show -do method. Reputable books and videos can also provide tips on how to avoid injury.

4. Progression, Not Obsession!
Are you going at your workouts too hard or too easily? Keep a fitness journal to record your progress and work within a healthy target heart range. Rest and give your body time to refuel between your strength training days.

5. Mix It Up Baby!
Do your love your cardio and skip out on the strength training or vice versa? It is important to have variety in your workouts. A proper combination of strength training (metabolism burner) and Cardio (for fat loss) will give you the bikini body you want this Spring! Performing the same routine will cause you to plateau and eventually cause burnout.

6. One Size Does Not Fit All!
When working out on machines at the gym, make sure you adjust it to YOUR size. Take advantage of most gyms' free orientation to learn what fit is best for you. This will reduce injury and be more effective in providing the results you want.

7. Focus -not Hocus Pocus!
Caught up in your favorite reality show while on the treadmill? Without knowing, you can become distracted by your TV, book, or magazine and this will show up in the lack of your results.

8. Warm Up AND Cool Down!
Do not skip these very essential steps. Warming up will safely elevate your heat rate for exercise and cooling down will lower your heart rate. Stretching your muscles improves your flexibility.

9. Etiquette Miss Fitness Manners Review
Are you courteous to others while working out? Hogging a machine, chatting on your Blackberry and not wiping down your machines after your workout are NO NOs! Be considerate to those around you.

10. Be Realistic
Set realistic goals. Rome wasnt built in a day and neither were your love handles or bat wings! Be kind to yourself and create small goals that will empower you and lead you to the results you are seeking!