TERSUS ANIMUS | CLEAN SPIRIT

One of my new year's resolutions was to create more routine in my life and re-introduce a consistent schedule of working out and having more "me time."

So far, so good! In the last week I attended a boxing-class fundraiser at Fuel Fitness, had my weekly core-strengthening session at Ulimate Sports Therapy (continued maintenance after a back injury from the summer), and a private session of sport-specifc kickboxing today with one of my good friends at Kombat Arts.  One of my favourite pass times and martial art of choice is Savate Boxe Francaise. An injury and congested schedule slowed my training down in the last six months. After six years of training on a regular basis, six months off from weekly kickboxing was a disappointment.

One thing I learned during this time was patience and acceptance for my physical self. Working in the field of energy healing and spirituality, a healthy holistic lifestyle is encouraged. The break I took from intense martial arts training gave me a perspective on my fitness I didn't have before. As well, I had the chance to focus more on another physical activity which was a source of great joy and a different way to move physical energy: belly dancing. Taking private lessons with an amazing teacher, Habeeba Hobeika, gave me a great sense of confidence, and a softer view of my physical body. Dance and martial arts and dance is a perfect yin and yang balance. A balance I didn't have before this time.

Incorporating my new routine of balanced physical activity into my schedule has been a challenge, but so far it's working and rewarding too!

Getting in shape is a fairly common New Year's resolution... was it yours? If so, how are things going for you?

Below, on left me preparing for dance in Egyptian Temple, and on the right is me with my Savate Professeur Salem Assli.