Dandelions and Disco

Dandelions (taraxacum officinale) have been around for centuries and used in everything from health remedy’s, to cooking additives, to cleansing drinks.  

It’s packed with a high content of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, niacin, zinc, iron, lutein, and beta-carotene.

Who knew this little backyard weed inhabited so much good?

I did my research, and as a result, have been drinking Dandelion Root Tea for the past two weeks. And I am loving it.

mixed with the juice of 1/2 a lemon and 1 packet of Stevia in the Raw.

When I first started, I could definitely feel it’s detoxifying (flushing) capabilities. However, the more I drink it (up to 2 cups per day) my body has begun to adjust and I feel great.

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Here are some of the amazing benefits that are found in this common flower, herb, and antioxidant power plant

  • Acts as a blood purifier and organ cleanser, helping both the kidneys and liver remove any toxic congestion that has built up in our body over time.
  • Removes bile from the Gallbladder
  • Can be used to help wean oneself off of coffee.
  • Aids in digestion, weight loss, and treats both constipation and diarrhea.
  • Helps clear the skin of many common conditions such as acne and eczema.
  • Controls cholesterol and blood sugar levels, making it a great choice for diabetics
  • Has anti-inflammatory capabilities, perfect for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Reduces water retention in the body.

Just to name a few.

Before you add Dandelion to your diet, seek the opinion of your doctor. Those with gallbladder problems like gallstones should avoid this herb, as well as those currently taking any diuretic medications.

Always do your research and do what works for YOU!

Now I bet you’re wondering where the “Disco” part of this post comes into play.

Well…on a totally different topic, here is this weeks Spin Playlist that will take you back to the 70’s Disco Days!

We had a blast Spinning and sweating to these memorable hits, and you will too!

Enjoy!

Disco playlist

Adding on Abs

Countdown Abs

Plank Jack Crossovers: In plank position, Jack your legs out to the side. Bring legs back to starting point, then bring your knee to opposite elbow. Repeat on the other side. That’s 1 rep

Plank Shoulder Taps: In plank position, alternate tapping your shoulder with the opposite hand.

Total Body Crunch: Crunch your knees towards your chest, as if curling into a ball. Do not pull on your neck.

Thirty Thirty Flash Card Workout

Bring this workout wherever life may lead you.

It’s guaranteed to get your heart rate up, make you sweat, and work your entire body in only 30 minutes.

All that’s needed is your own body, a timer (I use the Gymboss app on my iPhone), and some jumping room.

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What is your excuse? Get to it!

Ultimate Spring Workout.

Join Ultimate Bootcamp, popchips, and other fitness companies on Saturday, April 27th, for a slate of FREE workouts on the beautiful Rose Kennedy Greenway in the North End of Boston.

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ULTIMATE SPRING WORKOUT BRINGS BOSTON TOGETHER FOR A FREE DAY OF FITNESS & FUNDRAISING!

In light of the tragic events of the Boston Marathon, Ultimate Bootcamp and popchips has committed to donating $2 for the first 500 people to show up to the event. There will also be raffle prizes worth thousands of dollars to raise additional funds.

All proceeds will go directly towards the One Fund, helping those most affected by the Boston Marathon Attack.

Attendees will be able to try 45 minute workouts such as Ultimate Bootcamp, Z-Spot Zumba Fitness®, Prana Power Yoga and Redline Fight Sports Kickboxing, as well as treats like frozen Greek yogurt from Yasso, fresh juice from Joos and complimentary chair massages from Joint Ventures Physical Therapy.

The first 150 arrivals will also receive a goody bag.

Here are the details!

WHAT: The Ultimate Spring Workout

WHEN: Saturday, April 27th starting at 9:30 a.m. (Rain Date: May 4th)

WHERE: The Rose Kennedy Greenway, North End, Boston

REGISTER: This event is free, but space is limited! Register at www.ultimatespringworkout.com to reserve and receive updates. $2 will be donated to The One Fund for every attendee at the event.

Visit www.ultimatespringworkout.com for up-to-the-minute details and schedules, and to register.

Come workout in Boston’s historic North End and support our beautiful city!

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The Ultimate Spring Workout is presented by Ultimate Bootcamp. Sponsors include Joint Ventures Physical Therapy, popchips, Yelp Boston, Yasso Frozen Yogurt, Joos and Attune Foods.

Spin Playlist For the Week

It’s another busy week over here!

But here is this week’s Spin Playlist for you to rock out to at the gym!

Enjoy!

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  • Warm up
  • Standing Flat into Climb
  • Standing Climb
  • Jumps
  • Recover
  • Standing Climb
  • Sprints on a Hill
  • Recover
  • Alternate Seated Flat to Standing Flat
  • Seated Climb to Standing Climb
  • Alternating Seated Flat-Standing Flat-Running with Resistance-Standing Climb. Switch positions every minute.
  • Cool Down

Spring Fever

Spring has officially sprung, even though there is still snow covering the ground, which means that bathing suit season is right around the corner!

Find a fitness routine that keeps you wanting to come back for more.

Have fun, tone up, lose weight, feel great.

Spin

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This week’s Spin Playlist

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At home Cardio

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Strength Train

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Clean Up Your Diet.

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1/3 cup oats, 3/4 cup egg whites, 1 cup kale.

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shaved chicken breast

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  • Sunwarrior vanilla
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 1/2T almond butter
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 4 ice cubes

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Bib lettuce with carrots, broccoli, chicken breast, hemp seeds and my new fav. mustard…

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spicccyyyy!

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mixed greens with ground turkey, peppers, onions and cannelloni beans. Topped with sriracha

And lots and lots of decaf tea…

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Variety is key