Blaize Dance & Fitness April 2015

Blaize Dance & Fitness

April 2015

40 Plus Dancers

Best Exercise for Arms and Upper Body

B.I.D.E.

What type of learner are you in a group fitness class?

“A personal journey of dancing through the pain�

On The Scene

Starting dance at age two?

What is Hip Hop Dance?

Real Life Stories Jovette Muniz Independent Beachbody Coach

UT $4.50 ET $5.00

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Photograher: Grayam Scott

Nina Gleyzer Designer

Contents Dance April 2015 20 | What is Hip Hop Dance?

26 | B.I.D.E. On The Scene

32 | I have a question.. “Starting dance at age two�

Fitness 44 | What type of learner are you in a group fitness class?

52 | Dance it Off 54 | Blueprint to a Healthy Lifestyle 56 | Best Exercise for Arms and Upper Body

Lifestyle 62 | Finance:

Finding your lemonade

70| Safiyak by Krystal Carson

Dance

&

&

Fitness

Features

14

68

Backstage Etiquette

Profiles: Ann Thomas

34

73

40 Plus Dancers “A personal journey of dancing through the pain”

Let’s Eat Healthier A New Twist on the (Chicken) Burger

From the Editor I have waited a long time for this dream to come to fruition. Finally, the launching of my very own magazine that consist of two of my passions- dance and fitness! This magazine is also a place where I can continue to explore my journalism skills and bring to you- the readeroriginal works of other great writers who undoubtedly have subject matters of relevance that will change your lives. You will find that Blaize Dance and Fitness magazine (BDF) is in a unique class by itself as the entertainment world of dance meets the much needed physical activity world of fitness. This is a place where you can plug into the latest and greatest dance news, in addition to how you can reset your life by adopting a healthy lifestyle change via fitness and nutrition.

While dance and fitness is our main focus, we have adopted a holistic approach seeking to touch every aspect of your daily living by incorporating other subject matters such as; spiritual guidance, beauty, fashion, mental health, finance, mentoring, technology, philanthropy, business and host of other topics of interest. So as you dive into our magazine, I am sure that there is something that will speak to you as an individual. And if you cannot find it in our pages, send us a note via our “Let Us Know” section and we will do our best to find our experts in this area and bring a quality article to you!

In this issue, you will take a spiritual journey in our Spirit Speak section with the amazing Minister, Ann Thomas as she creatively expands our spiritual knowledge. There will be financial guidance for little girls via our Butterfly Ballerina’s Club for girls section. From the Speaker and Financial Guru himself, Dr. Craig Bythewood. Read his inspiring article- Finding your lemonade: “Where desire and community come together” in the Butterfly Ballerina’s Club™ section.

If you are a dancer 40 years and older, you will

enjoy “Dancing Through the Pain”. While reading our wonderful articles, you’ll receive a visual treat as you feast your eyes on amazing photos of Nina Gleyzer, Award winning Designer from Atlanta. In addition, a sneak peak of women and men’s fashion from Florida designer, Lacey B. Smith of The Fashion Movement.

Thank you for picking up our magazine and adding us to your reading portfolio. We look forward to bringing you a variety of articles as the years pass in hopes that what you are reading will impact your life in the most positive way. “Blaize Dance and Fitness Magazine. All about fitness, dance and much, much more!”

Constance Blaize-Shorter EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Contributors EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Constance Blaize-Shorter

Valerie Blaize

FOUNDERS

Ann Thomas

Joseph W. Shorter

Joseph Shorter Rupert J. Blaize

Constance Blaize-Shorter

Launchland Samuel

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sylvia O’Mard, Esq.

Janet Samuel

Joseph W. Shorter

Laura Shorter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PICTURE CREDITS

Ann Maria Thomas Dr. Lawanda Ford-Johnson Jovette Muniz Carol Burgan Rupert J. Blaize Valerie Blaize Sonia Ava Marie Daly Dr. Craig Bythewood Dr. Lisa Piccione Janice Toussaint Willnette Lightfoot Marlene Whitlock Peterson

“Cover” and “From the Editor” Jean Pierre Dillard Funkmation Studios MAKE-UP Cover photo Make-up Andrea Fairweather-Bailey of Fairweather Faces

Dance

THE LION KING - BROADWAY Experience the circle of life as Disney’s belov

www.broadway.com

ved film comes to eye-popping life onstage.

m/shows/the-lion-king

Backstage Etiquette It can be really crazy backstage when it comes to production time. I found it extremely crucial that all the cast members (dancers, actors) have a document in hand prior to the show that I call "The Backstage Etiquette Check List" Below are helpful hints anyone can use for their production: 1. Pack your garment and show bag the night before the production. Make a checklist and mark it off as you place all of your necessities for the show in your bags.

2. Please arrive to the production location two hours before show time. This will help you get organized and leave room for any last minute instructions or changes.

3. Pack a robe to throw over your costumes while you wait for your scenes.

This will prevent, make up, hair products, water and energy snacks from getting on your costumes.

4. Absolutely no colored drinks allowed backstage. Gatorade is allowed, however it must be the clear kind. Water is the best dehydration source.

5. Make sure that you have all the makeup that you will need for the show. Little girls’ ages 2-8 really do not need make up. Light dusting of face and light lip gloss is all that is necessary, unless there is some theatrical make up required for the number. Example, a design on the face etc.

6. Once you are fully dressed in your attire for the first scene, please do not go out in the audience to visit friends and family. If you have an emergency and need to see a family member right away, contact a staff member or stage mother and they will assist you.

7. Please bring bobby pins, hair spray, gel etc. .for your hair. Do not place last minute hair items in your hair that was not discussed with your teacher. Example, bows, clips, headbands, and the like.

8.

If you are able, bring two pairs of dance

shoes in the event that something happens to the one you are wearing. Example, the heel breaks, the rubber on ballet shoes unbinds‌ 9. Label all shoes, costume pieces and the bags that they are carried in with your first and last name. Make sure that you place your items in the assigned dressing rooms or area provided. NOTE: Children will be helped by staff or volunteers with their costume placement and putting on their costume.

10. Please remove all jewelry that is not a part of the production costume. Married women may wear their wedding rings. Please no other jewelry, as special as it may be, bracelets, lockets and the like. Leave these items at home to ensure that you do not lose them backstage.

11. Great hygiene is necessary! Shave areas that can be a distraction (underarms‌). Wear clear deodorants and proper dance undergarments. Please do not spray perfumes on your costumes or wear lotions or oils that are greasy and may mess up your costumes or props.

12. No parents and or family members are allowed backstage unless they have been authorized by the dance teacher.

13. Cameras and Videos- Please take pictures at the dress rehearsal. No flash photography or video taping is permitted. As it distracts, dancers, cast members, and stage crews. Thanks in advance for your corporation. DVD’s will be available for purchase via order forms were provided during dress rehearsal.

14. After the performance, please make sure that you have cleaned up behind yourself. Pack your bags with all of your items. Should you see an item left behind without a name on it, please toss in the loss and found bin that will be available back stage.

15. Please have patience parents at the end of the show. No one is allowed on the stage for liability reasons. Your children will come to you and we will set up an area for picture taking.

16. Prior to leaving the production site, parents of beginner and junior dancers, let the teacher or staff know that you are taking your child home to ensure that everyone is leaving with the right person!

Constance Blaize-Shorter

THE PHANTOM OF THE This haunting love story is Broa

DESCRIPTION Winner of seven 1988 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterwork is a timeless story of seduction and despair. Set at the Paris opera house, a beautiful soprano becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius.

PLAYING AT MAJESTIC THEATRE 247 West 44th Street New York, NY 10036

E OPERA - BROADWAY adway’s longest-running show!

STORY Based on the 1910 horror novel by Gaston Leroux, which has been adapted into countless films, The Phantom of the Opera follows a deformed composer who haunts the grand Paris Opera House. Sheltered from the outside world in an underground cavern, the lonely, romantic man tutors and composes operas for Christine, a gorgeous young soprano star-to-be. As Christine’s star rises, and a handsome suitor from her past enters the picture, the Phantom grows mad, terrorizing the opera house owners and company with his murderous ways. Still, Christine finds herself drawn to the mystery man. Audiences agree—The Phantom of the Opera is Broadway’s longest-running hit. Ever.

Paradise

The number one destination for weddings!

What is Hip Hop Dance?

Hip-hop dance refers to street dance styles primarily performed to hip-hop music or that have evolved as part of hip-hop culture.

It includes a wide range of styles primarily breaking, locking, and popping which were created in the 1970s and made popular by dance crews in the United States. The television show Soul Train and the 1980s films Breakin', Beat Street, and Wild Style showcased these crews and dance styles in their early stages; therefore, giving hip-hop mainstream exposure. The dance industry responded with a commercial, studio-based version of hiphop—sometimes called "new style"—and a hip-hop influenced style of jazz dance called "jazz-funk". Classically trained dancers developed these studio styles in order to create choreography from the hip-hop dances that were performed on the street.

Because of this development, hip-hop dance is practiced in both dance studios and outdoor spaces.

The commercialization of hip-hop dance continued into the 1990s and 2000s with the production of several other television shows and movies such as The Grind, Planet B-Boy, Rize, StreetDance 3D, America's Best Dance Crew, Saigon Electric, the Step Up film series, and The LXD, a web series. Though the dance is established in entertainment, including mild representation in theater, it maintains a strong presence in urban neighborhoods which has led to the creation of street dance derivatives Memphis jookin, turfing, jerkin', and krumping.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hip-hop_dance

MISTY COPELAND, Ballerina Misty was first introduced to ballet on a basketball court at the Boys and Girls Club. By ballet standards, she was too old, too curvy, and too dark to be a premiere ballerina. She didn't fit the ballerina mold. So, she broke it and cast a new one. Fifteen years later, Misty’s a soloist for the American Ballet Theatre.

Runway

Designer Nina Gleyzer www.ninagleyzer.com

Photograher: Grayam Scott

Photograher: Grayam Scott

Nina Gleyzer www.ninagleyzer.com

Blaize International Dance Ensemble In 1998, Constance Blaize-Shorter founded the electrifying gospel dance ensemble called “Blaizing Grace”. The group consisted of males and females who were skilled in various styles of dance and acrobatics. Their performances were filled with so much passion and energy; that it literally established Blaize Dance Productions, Inc. (BDP) as a house hold name in the Tampa Bay community.” I remember that after every “Blaizing Grace” performance, people would approach me and ask- “Where is your dance school located? Since we did not have a dance school, I decided to offer private lessons”, Says Constance, Founder and Artistic Director.

Through many hours of private and group sessions, Constance realized that there was a huge

From Left to Right: Aisia, Samantha, Constance, and Kerri Ann

demand for a dance school that catered to both suburb and inner city. Having built up her clientele, Blaize Dance School opened their doors in 2006 offering traditional and non-traditional classes in Ballet, Jazz, Modern Lyrical, Hip Hop, Caribbean and Dance It Off. By the end of 2006, BDP hosted several auditions for “Blaizing Grace” which was now being called Ensemble 2 (E2). The response was great and E2 expanded their membership and now incorporated all styles of music into their act.

In 2009, Constance was asked by Ambassador Rupert Blaize, her father, to take part in the renaming ceremony in honor of President Barak Obama in St. Johns Antigua, W.I. After performing in her home country and interacting with local dance groups there, Constance decided that it was time for E2 to go international.

And that led her on a quest to hold auditions for the ensemble worldwide. Shortly thereafter, E2 was renamed the Blaize International Dance Ensemble (B.I.D.E.), to better fit the transformation that the ensemble had gone through. To date, B.I.D.E has members from various cities, states and countries. “My goal is to one day have hundreds of B.I.D.E dancers of different nationalities, who are able to express their true theatrical passions via movement”, says Owner and Artistic Director, Constance.

Performances •Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration for Tampa Organization of Black Affairs (TOBA)

•Mount Obama Dedication Ceremony, Antigua and Barbuda W.I. •Dare to Dance Workshop •Dance Unto the Lord Conference (DUTL) •Love Out Loud Sunday

•Super Bowl XXXV Halftime Show

•International Love Day

•Delta Sigma Theta Jabberwock‫ ‏‬Pageant

•Talents Blessed By God “I Thought She Was My Mother.”

•REDEEMED Women’s Conference

Free to be me

From the BlaizeDance.com Blog

I have a question...

What age is too young for dance?

I would like to enroll my 2 year old in dance school. Is she old enough?

Lisa from Tampa, Florida wants to know Traditionally Lisa, most dance schools will start children at four years old, due to their higher attention span. However, when Blaize Dance School was open, we accepted students as young as two years old. This is not the norm-however, there are other dance schools that do cater to this age. And these classes may come in the form of “Mommy and Me” sessions. At two years old, toddlers can be fickle and you should seek a dance school with instructors who are passionate about teaching children. In addition, these classes should incorporate play along with traditional technique. “Dance should be fun and not stressful at this age!”

If you have a question, visit our Blog at www.BlaizeDance.com

40 Plus Dancers “A personal journey of dancing through the pain” Arthritis is was definitely something that my grandmother would have. Surly not me! But as he explained the condition more, I began to see how this could be happening to me.

When I turned 40 years of age, I had no intention of slowing down in respect to my professional dance career. I love choreographing and teaching for my dance company and would not trade it for the world. However, there are realities to aging and how it affect the bodies ability to function on the high level that it is used to in your teens, 20’s and 30’s. One day as I was rocking my new born daughter to sleep, I bent over to place her in her bassinet. After I lay her down and began to walk back to the family room, there was a loud popping sound and my knee felt as if it shifted out of joint. It was very painful! I walked with a limp for the rest of the day and was not quite sure what to do as there was no swelling or bruising to indicate what type of treatment was necessary. So I made an appointment with an Orthopedic Specialist and was definitely not ready for the diagnosis that he gave me. Through several x-rays, the doctor told me that I had early signs of Arthritis of the knee called, Osteoarthritis. The first thing that I said was; “What!?” I could not help but think that

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of knee arthritis. OA is usually a slowly progressive degenerative disease in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away. It most often affects middle-aged and older people. “It was official, I was middle aged” (sigh). The doctor told me that I had knees of a 50 year old and that the impact of dancing for so many years has just taken its toll on my joints.

He explained that this is an injury that However athletes, even younger than me, would eventually get due to the impact that ed to respe sports and dance has on the body, especially the knees. He gave me options that my bo regarding treatment and prevention. the same a When I left the office, I had two knee my 20’s a braces in toe and a prescription for pain pills.

I must admit I was a little depressed for a while as the doctor told me that high impact dancing would progressively make the deterioration worst. But I decided to to do my own research and found out with good nutrition, proper preventative methods like (medications, building up the muscles around the knee with exercise and consistent usage of knee braces), that I did not have to stop dancing. However, I needed to respect the fact that my body was not the same as it was in my 20’s and 30’s . Therefore, proceeding with caution when dancing (not overtaxing my joints) would be now a part of my routine. The things

that became common place for me when preparing choreography for productions consisted of the following: Plenty of water- 2-3 18 oz bottles before during and after warming up before and stretching after wearing my knee brace(s) during high impact moves.

Taking more breaks to care for muscle fatigue (rest and massages)

r, I needect the fact dy was not as it was in and 30’s .

When teaching- limiting the times that I gave examples of a step (use more verbal queues and video to instruct dancers) NOTE: These are things that worked for me. Please consult your doctor regarding what your limitations are regarding dance should you receive an OA diagnosis.

To date, I still have issues with my knees and have learned to respect what my body is telling me when I am doing too much. Nevertheless, I am blessed to be still dancing and do not intend on slowing down any time soon!

Photography: Marvin Striggles

Living L Debbie Allen

Deborrah Kaye “Debbie” Allen is an American actress, dancer, choreographer, television director, television producer, and a member of the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities. Wikipedia Born: January 16, 1950 (age 65), Houston, TX Siblings: Phylicia Rashād, Andrew Arthur Allen Jr, Hugh Allen Spouse: Norm Nixon (m. 1984), Winnfred Wilford (m. 1975–1983) Children: Vivian Nixon, Norman Nixon Jr. Parents: Vivian Allen, Andrew Arthur Allen Sr.

Legends Phylicia Rashad

Phylicia Rashād is an American Tony Award-winning actress, singer and stage director, best known for her role as Clair Huxtable on the long-running NBC sitcom The Cosby Show. She was nominated for an Emmy Award for this part in 1985 and 1986.

Born: June 19, 1948 (age 66), Houston, TX Spouse: Ahmad Rashād (m. 1985–2001), Victor Willis (m. 1978–1982), William Lancelot Bowles, Jr. (m. 1972–1975) Siblings: Debbie Allen, Andrew Arthur Allen Jr, Hugh Allen Children: Condola Rashad, William Lancelot Bowles III Parents: Vivian Allen, Andrew Arthur Allen Sr.

The Fashion Movement Featured Designers: L to R - Naje Designs; Malchijah Hats; Naje Designs

by: L

Haut Accesories Week

Lacey B. Smith

“Spring Flower�

Model: Alisha Photographer: Marvin Striggles

Photography: Marvin Striggles

Fitness

Ditch the Workout, Join the Party

W

hat type of learner are you in a group fitness class?

Have you ever been in a group fitness class and everyone else is moving to the same beat but you? And you start to wonderAm I slow? Is there some secret code that I am not getting? My downfall was Step Aerobics classes. I had no problem following the feet movements. But when the instructor added the arms, I began to be challenged as the dynamics of moving my arms and legs - at the same time- posed some issues. Being a dancer, I can marry movements using the upper and lower extremities of my body just fine. In addition, isolating one body part from another is done with the greatest of ease. So why was this step class so challenging to me?

Well, the problem is not always you. It may be the instructor. Fitness instructors must remember that when they are teaching

a class, their students all learn differently.

They must use all the cues possible in their resources to ensure that everyone in the class is able to follow along. For example, I am mainly a visual learner, but I am also a verbal learner. Unfortunately, if I am not in the front of the class, I may miss a queue or two if the instructor is moving too fast or not speaking clearly.

So whenever I teach a dance or group fitness class, I make sure that I apply the skills that I have studied to ensure that I am meeting the needs of each student in the class.

My verbal cueing sounds like this; "Stop and look at me, we will do four hamstring curls moving to the right.� My visual cueing is a demonstration of the hamstring curls.

Have you ever been in a group fitness class andAgain, everyone is moving to the same I mayelse motion with fitness sign lanbeat but you?

And start guage to look at you me or sayto thewonderwords "look AmatI slow?

Is there some secret code that me". As for the kinesthetic cueing, I will I am not getting?

My downfall was Step say; "Make sure that your feet almost hit Aerobics classes.

I had no problem the back of your bottom and feelfollowthe burn inginthe feet movements.

But when the your quad and hamstring muscle!" instructor added the arms, I began to be challenged as the dynamics of moving my This work and arms andtype legs of - atteaching the same takes time- posed practice. it must be done to ensure some issues.But Being a dancer, I can marry that your using students are getting the most movements the upper and lower out of their class.

As an instructor, you can extremities of my body just fine. In addiusually tell when this part method teaching tion, isolating one body fromofanother all types learning, asof the flowSoofwhy moveis done withisthe greatest ease. in your will look smooth wasment this step classclass so challenging to me?and uniformed to you.

Instead a cluster one Well, the problem is not always you. It of may individuals standing still must as they be or thetwo instructor.

Fitness instructors strugglethat to keep said that, remember when up. theyHaving are teaching readtheir the definition various learning a class, students of all the learn differently. styles whichinone They mustbelow, use alland the identify cues possible their(s) you are.toAnd if you not getting what resources ensure thatare everyone in the you from youralong. instructor, go to them class is need able to follow For example, I and explain what type of learner you are am mainly a Visual learner, but I am also a and learner. how you need them toif help get Verbal Unfortunately, I am you not in the most out of your sessions.

the front of the class, I may miss a queue or two if the instructor is moving too fast or not speaking clearly.

Styles of learning according to the American Council on Excercise (ACE): So whenever I teach a dance or group Verbal- Needs to hear words and sound fitness class, I make sure that I apply -specific cures. This learner mostthe often skillswaits that Iuntil havean studied to ensure that I instructor has finished am meeting thethe needs of each student explaining exercise set-up before in the class. My cueingtosounds moving intoverbal a position commence like this; “Stop and look at me, we will do to exercise. four hamstring curls moving to the right.”

My visual cueing is a demonstration of Visual - Needs toAgain, see specific This the hamstring curls.

I may cues. motion often joins withlearner fitness most sign language tothe lookinstructor at me or other participants as soon as moveor say the words “look at me”. As for the ment iscueing, observed. kinesthetic I will say; “Make sure that your feet almost hit the back of your bottom and feel -the burn in Kinesthetic Needs toyour feelquad specific and cues. hamstring muscle!”

This learner will most often will

wait until others begin moving and with the class, to and feel comThis then type move of teaching takes work fortable the crowd. practice.

But in it must be done to enConstance Blaize-Shorter

Real... life...Stories Jovette Muniz

Independent Beachbody Coach I am an Independent Beachbody Coach.

Beachbody is the creator of Insanity, T25, P90X, Turbo Fire, 21 Day Fix and many more programs. I am in the business of helping and teaching others to live happy, healthy and debt free lives.

My husband was the one who named the business, “Full of Life,” because I am always extremely happy. I am the President of the Happy Club, President of the Fitness Club and President of the Breaking the Chains Club, all self-appointed.

I am a wife and mother of 3 miracle babies. They are all adults now but they will always be my babies. When I hit 30 years old it felt like my metabolism came to a screeching halt and things only got worse in my 40s. In 2003, I reached my highest weight of around 180 lbs due to my injury from the Marine Corps. It took a lot of time to get down to 165 lbs but it still wasn’t good enough. It wasn’t until December of 2011, I told my husband I was done; my way was not working anymore and I needed help.

My journey began at 42 years old. I was obese and was sick and tired of being sick and tired. I asked for the Brazil Butt Lift Challenge Pack for my birthday and Christmas present and he said yes. I met my coach, Annette, we broke down my goals and I started the New Year off with a bang. After a month I was hooked and

I knew I was going to love this company, love the people, love the programs, and love the products. By February of 2012 I became a coach and it felt good to know I was going to be able to help others achieve their goals.

If a health and fitness journey was only about sweating I would be back to my old self, in the 120s, but it is not and I teach my clients this vital information. My long term goal is to live until I am 95 years old. I am trying to

beat my grandmother and her sister.

My Nana and great-aunt looked awesome for being 94 years old. If I plan on beating their record I need to start now.

I am trying to get the rest of my family and friends healthy because what fun would it be to live that long and nobody is around to live life big? A health and fitness journey is a LIFESTYLE change and I believe that is where most people miss the boat. It doesn’t take 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months or 3 years to achieve a ‘healthy’ lifestyle. I will be able to tell, in 30 years, if I have “arrived.” I am not deceiving myself into thinking I will be in the 120s by next month because slow and steady will ALWAYS win the race. I have come to the conclusion that I just have to work twice as hard as everyone else. My motto has always been never give up never surrender. I never allow my age to hold me back from doing anything, age is nothing but a number.

So last summer I went for my INSANITY certification and I became an instructor. When I got it I told all my family and friends- “It’s official! I am certified INSANE!” Yes I am a little crazy but in a good way.

www.beachbodycoach.com/Jovette42 Join in on the fun.

Dance it Off !

Studies show that dancing is a great way to stay physically fit! It is a mind-body workout. Research shows that physical fitness in general is not only good for your body, but helps to increase the level of brain chemicals that encourages the growth of nerve cells. When you use dance as a form of exercise, you will more than likely have to remember dance steps and sequences. This will help jump start your brain power and enhance your memory. So turn up the volume on your radio or iPod and get moving to your favorite jams! Enroll in a dance class, fitness center or choreograph your own routine at home. Take a chance and get fit while you are having fun. “Just Dance it Off!�

Constance Blaize-Shorter

Blueprint to a Healthy Lifestyle Here are a few tips to get you started on your journey. Don't forget to keep a journal everyday, personal home journal or blog written or video journal regarding what exercise you did and what foods you ate. Utilize your daily calendar and mark off each day that you are successful with exercising and eating right! NOTE: “If you have a bad day (cannot exercise or eat as healthy as you would like) log it, recomitt, and keep moving."

Drink Water Drink 8 to 9 (8 ounce) glasses each day. If you like, add sliced fruit to water for flavor.

(Citrus fruits, orange, lemon, and berries.

For 30 days, limit or avoid completely processed fruit juices that contain sugar and other sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup and other artificial additives. If you must have juice, only 4 ounces a day and juicing is permitted with natural fruits and veggies such as carrot, apples and ginger combined.

While exercising, water is the best way to rehydrate. TIP: Increase water as mild dehydration can decrease your energy- making you tired. This can decrease desire to exercise. Water is very important to overall optimal health. Tip: See more on water consumption per the Mayo Clinic http://www. mayoclinic.org.

Portion Control/Planning Decrease portion by eating all meals on a salad size plate verses a dinner plate.

Standard salad plate is approximately 7"(diameter).

TIP: If you eat at restaurants choose grilled and baked foods verses fried and request that your meal comes on a salad plate. Or just eat half of it! Avoid eating out if you are not able to find a restaurant that has healthy options on the menu.

Plan your meals- Breakfast, snack, Lunch Snack, Dinner and desert. TIP (Breakfast can include eggs, bacon, 1 toast w/jelly or an avocado spread on an English Muffin with fruit or plain yogurt.

Add variety to your meals by eating lean proteins, (Fish- Tuna, Salmon, Halibut/ Lean Meats (chicken breast, lean pork, lean beef (veal), and Tofu for vegetarians. Add meat, green leafy veggies to soups, stews and chili. Add cauliflower instead of potatoes for the stew.

Cheat Day No cheat days during the challenge! Your goal is to develop a healthier way of eating. No cakes, cookies, pastries, potato chips and the like. Look for options such as yogurt, nuts, protein bars with fiber, fresh fruits and veggies. Make your own healthy trail mix! www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for more tips on portion control and meal plans.

Exercise Prepare for your workouts by getting all of our workout gear ready the night before: Whether you are working out at the gym or home, pack your bag with the essentials (workout clothes, shoes, water, heart monitor, iPod and headphones, and change of clothes) Put it a place

where you able to grab it and go!

Fitness Buddies Having someone to work out with is fun, creates accountability, support, motivation and, even healthy competition. Having a work out buddy increases the chances of you sticking with this challenge.

Workout Plan Exercise for 30-45 minutes six days a week. You can do the full course of workout or break it into 15 minute increments.

Example of exercise- Walking, jogging, cycling, treadmill, elliptical, free weights, aerobics class, strength training class, and dance inspired aerobic classes (Zumba, Ballet Barre).

Select a program where you are combining both cardiovascular and strength training. Fitness professionals recommend that you find a workout that is within your fitness level but will still be challenging.

Best Exercise for Arms and Upper Body By: Constance Blaize-Shorter

One of the things that we notice on dancers, ballet dancers in particular, is their “Port de bras� carriage of the arms. Developing perfect Port de bra, takes years of practice in addition to specific exercises that will assist with the upper back and arm strength. Since the preferred dancers build is one of lean muscles verses bulky muscles, weight lifting needs to be done in moderation with lighter weights - (5 pounds recommended) - with three sets of 15 reps.

An alternative is good old fashion Push-ups as this will utilize your own body weight. (3 sets of 20 reps).You can make this exercise more or less intense based on a simply adjusting your arms or feet. For example, you can place your knees on the ground for a less intense workout. Or you can place the palms of your hands closer in a diamond shape for a more intense work out.

To keep your arms and back supple after your workout, do static stretches that involves

elongating the muscles by holding it in place and taking deep breaths.

Note: The exercises recommended in this article are the opinion of the dancer/trainer.

You should consult your doctor prior to starting any exercise plan.

I had the pleasure of interviewing the lovely ladies of Brickhouse Cardio in Scottsdale, Az. Owner, Melanie, Instructors, Tamaho and Jennie We had a lot of fun. Thanks to all of the ladies for an awesome video shoot. Your energy is contagious! “Tamaho, none of this would have happened without you. Thanks my partner in fitness!� Stay tuned for full articles on Brickhouse Cardio owner and instructors.

Crown of Glo

ory Hair Salon

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Haute Accesories Week The Fashion Movement

Finding your lemonade Where desire and community come together for young entreprenuers Every time we sit down to watch television, we see countless items that we wish we could have. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting what you want. Desiring things is fine. But, what does it take to get those things? M-O-N-E-Y! Well young ladies, there will never be a shortage of things that you desire. And, there will also never be a shortage of creative ways for you to make money. It is common for girls your age to think that you are too young to have a business. Trust me when I tell you that it is just as common for young, talented, motivated young people like you to find ways to not only make a little extra cash, but also to benefit your community.

It

We have all heard or seen the concept of a little girl selling lemonade outside of her house. It is not really about the lemonade or the stand.

What it is about is the concept for a successful business. The cost of making a huge pitcher of lemonade is small. When you add up the amount of each individual cup that you sell, you make what is called a profit. That is just a fancy business word which means that you are bringing in more than you paid out.

So, your first goal is to identify what your community needs. Then, supply it at a low cost, sell it at a fair price and you have just created your own lemonade stand.

area. Your lemonade may be doing odd jobs for an elderly person living in your neighborhood. Your lemonade may be offering to help with some household chores that can take the heavy load off of your parents. Your lemonade may be helping with a coach of a team sport that you played when you were younger.

is not really about the lemonade

Your lemonade may be babysitting for a household that does not have family in the

Please understand that any examples provided in this article really do not address the real issue. The real issue is that deep inside of you is a desire and ability that goes far beyond anything I could write about. My role is just to encourage you to wake up that napping idea that can get you the opportunity to provide a valuable service to those around you, as well as pick up some extra cheddar!

Dr. Craig Bythewood

Butterfly Ballerinas Club TM

Photograher: Grayam Scott

Nina Gleyzer Designer

Photograher: Grayam Scott

Nina Gleyzer www.ninagleyzer.com

The Fashion Movement by: Lacey B. Smith

Profiles: Ann Thomas Introducing our Spirit Speak contributor, Minister Ann Thomas

Ann Thomas, a powerful and sought after author, speaker, and mentor is the founder of Ann Thomas Ministry (ATM) - dedicated to encourage life transformation, equip with the truth of God’s Word, and empower individuals to boldly pursue their purpose in Christ.

Ann’s compassion, approachability, and bold transparency capture the hearts of diverse audiences of all ages, race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status.

Her unique gift of interweaving the Word, wisdom, humor, and personal experiences produces a tapestry of relevant, practical, and ready-to-apply principles. Led by the Holy Spirit, she sets an atmosphere conducive to reflection, laughter, tears, and note-taking all at the same time.

Born in the West Indies, raised in NY, and now residing in the Tampa Bay area, Ann is the proud mom of two sons, ages 22 and 18, an author, full time professional, a former radio host, transformational speaker, work-shop facilitator, mentor, serves in her local church, and ministers in the prisons on a weekly basis.

Her life-changing book, “The Consecrated Cocoon – Emerging from Intimate Isolation with

Power and Purpose” is a birthing place for revelation, deliverance, healing, truth, and freedom for those who struggle with rejection, disappointment, anger, shame, loss, and other emotions that are triggered by life’s adversities.

Author Drawing on the similarities of a caterpillar metamorphosis process, Ann introduces readers to a spiritual cocoon where in necessary isolation; God protects, prunes, refines, restores, prepares, and propels into purpose and destiny. When surrendered, isolation turns into deep intimacy with God where He lavishes his love and affirms his purposes.

new goals or what some call ‘new year resolutions.’

Setting goals is one thing, but achieving and maintaining them is a whole other story. Being able to accomplish something new requires a NEW mindset. A new perspective. A new approach. And if one of your goals for this year (I hope) is to deepen your relationship with God - you must recognize that He is up to something NEW in your life (Isaiah 43:19).

In obedience to fulfill the mandate of Luke 4:18, Ann The old stuff is gone. By now you should have asministers across the world proclaiming the Gospel sessed last year’s most impactful events or experithat saves, liberates, heals, and delivers. ences, identified the lessons learned, and discarded any pain or resentment associated with them. You can’t take the mistakes of last year into the new mercies of this year. They just don’t work well together.

Speaker

Ann facilitates topic-driven workshops that are deLike the above scripture says, God is ALREADY signed to: doing something new. This means you will not be able to find Him in the old places. To find Him you • Educate participants to know the truth will have to deepen your prayer life, expand your • Challenge participants to assimilate the truth knowledge of His Word, and go to higher heights in your pursuit of His presence. No, He’s not going • Inspire participants to live the truth to be found where you used to be - God is going to • Motivate participants to point others to the truth be found where He needs you to be!

Workshop topics include, but are not limited to: re- If you’re feeling like you’ve lost your connection jection, soul ties, abandonment, divorce, unforgive- with God, it might be that you are trying to connect ness, adultery, abuse, abortion, rape, and self-esteem. in the old way and He’s waiting for you to connect with Him in a fresh and new way. I want to lovingly challenge you to make pursuing God all the more your top priority. The more you seek Him, the more “I am going to do something new. It is already happen- your other goals will fall into place. ing. Don’t you recognize it? I will clear a way in the desert. I will make rivers on dry land.” Isaiah 43:19

Minister

Precious Friends and Ministry Partners, as we attempt to settle into a new year, for many it’s natural to set

Out of a desire and need for healthy hair and skin came the inspiration of SafiyaK. All products are hand-crafted using all natural oils and 100% organic butters of the finest quality. Our products are filled with vitamin A which helps to improve skin conditions including blemishes, wrinkles, eczema and dermatitis. Also

included is vitamin E which benefits include anti-aging. The ingredients used add moisture and hydration to your hair and skin.

Our products are made by hand, the old fashion way. Using love, passion and creative inspiration, our all natural organic ingredients produce the finest quality in skin and hair products.

Krystal Carson owner, founder, and user of SafiyaK. Has taken the healing virtue given to her by God to enhance, empower, and reform the physical man. As a result of an injury, her painful scar and medical condition provoked the need for revolutionary products.

All products are made with organic shea butter and all natural oils proven to aid with skin conditions such as variations of Eczema and skin discoloration. SafiyaK products are also created for women who want healthy, vibrate, and luxurious skin and hair! As a suffer of Eczema Krystal understands the constant struggle of skin

irritations and persistent dry, itchiness, and physical appearance of skin disorder. Her personal struggle fueled her passion and drive to create effective natural products that actually work for the user holistically. As SafiyaK in it’s root means Pure.

Krystal delivers only Pure products to every customer the same purity she administers to herself. Krystal Carson has dedicated her life to serving and enriching others and now serves her all natural recipes for living a healthy happy life to the world.

Let’s Eat Healthier

A New Twist on the (Chicken)Burger

Recipe 1 lb of ground chicken breast 1 tbsp cyan seasoning 1 habanera finely chopped 3 tbsp commercial spicy seasoning 2 tbsp black pepper 2 tbsp sea salt ½ cup onions finely chopped ½ cup green peppers finely chopped ½ cup red peppers ½ cup barbecue sauce Editor-In-Chief ’s original receipe

Acknowledgements N G ina

leyzer has a distinct perspective, not unlike many great artists, masters, and visionaries. She laments the mass marketing of fashion and cheap clothes, and believes it relates to American's lack of self-esteem and hesitation to stand out of the crowd. Her clothes are made to last, and the combination of thought, craftsmanship, and details make each piece versatile and quite extraordinary. www.ninagleyzer.com

K C

rystal

arson owner, founder, and user of SafiyaK. Has taken the healing virtue given to her by God to enhance, empower, and reform the physical man. As a result of an injury, her painful scar and medical condition provoked the need for revolutionary products. www.mysafiyak.com

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acey B. mith

The Fashion Movement Haute Accesories Week Eye on Fashion 2K www.thefashionmovement.com

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alton Academy for the Performanace Arts

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arvin Striggles Photogtapher Take1 Photography

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