Article by Make The Days Count Contributor Stefanie Johnson

There are magical places that exist within each one of us, inside our minds, hearts, and souls.  By visiting these places, we can tap into the infinite and bring peace and abundance into our lives.  Each journey will be unique, as we are unique, so you may want to have a notebook and pen nearby to record your experience afterward. You may choose to have another person read the meditation to you so you may experience it more fully.  Find a comfortable place, close your eyes, open your mind, and prepare yourself to travel within.

This week, we will explore the Moonlit Waterfall. Inside the Moonlit Waterfall, you can find serenity, cleansing, and relaxation.

It’s a beautiful evening, warm and balmy.  A round, silver, full moon hangs in the soft indigo sky above you. Read More »

Article by Make The Days Count Contributor Blake Cothron

As the weather outside dips well below freezing and coughing and sneezing become common place, there are simple natural ways you can maximize your health now to stay healthy through winter. 

Through the years I’ve battled more colds, infections, and childhood ills than you can shake a bottle of Echinacea at.  As I’ve gotten older, I’ve taken my health into my own hands and have discovered through much experimentation, old-time advice, and scientific evidence the great benefits of “natural healthcare”.  From diet to herbal supplements, there is an array of healthy, synthetic-chemical free ways to stay robust, energized, and healthy during the winter months, while minimizing discomfort and sickness. 

Attacking Weak Links

First off, we must understand that infections such as the cold and flu first attack weak links.  If you have a weak immune system, lack enough sleep, and have an unhealthy diet your risk for colds and disease rises exponentially.  People who follow very healthy, organic lifestyles get sick less.  Of course, everyone gets sick sometimes, period.  Scientists are discovering the age-old wisdom that diet is one of the foundations of good health.  In 431 BCE Hippocrates said “Let food be thy medicine” and I couldn’t agree more. Read More »

Article by Make The Days Count Contributor Stefanie Johnson

Editor’s Note: This is the first in a regular meditation exercise that Make The Days Count will publish.  These are meant as exercises you can do without much preparation and are therefore excellent for home or office.

There are magical places that exist within each one of us, inside our minds, hearts, and souls.  By visiting these places, we can tap into the infinite and bring peace and abundance into our lives.

Each journey will be unique, as we are unique, so you may want to have a notebook and pen nearby to record your experience afterward. You may choose to have another person read the meditation to you so you may experience it more fully.  Find a comfortable place, close your eyes, open your mind, and prepare yourself to travel within.

This week, let’s explore the Ancient Forest.  Inside the Ancient forest, you can be cleansed and replenished, connect with your spirit, and reclaim the abundance that is rightfully yours.

It’s a beautiful, sunlit day.  You are walking on a path through a lush forest … Read More »

Article by Make The Days Count Contributor Stefanie Johnson

Many different people practice Tai Chi.  If you happen to come across a class and you have never seen it before, stand back and watch them.  You won’t be able to help but notice how beautiful the movements are, especially in a larger, synchronized group.  There is something haunting and elegant about watching Tai Chi.  Sped up, it could cause injury to another.  However, that’s not what Tai Chi is about.

Tai Chi is a non-competitive form of martial arts that was developed in China about 2,000 years ago.  Legend claims that it was begun by a Taoist monk who found inspiration in the lithe, fluid movements of animals, and decided to use these movements to direct the flow of qi - life energy - throughout the body.  It contains 100 different movements. Read More »

Article by Christian Nanz

Everyone’s worried about saving money these days, but is exercise really something you want to give up?  You can build a better body on a budget.  From simple workouts with no equipment to getting some of the benefits of a trainer for free with the click of a mouse, there are lots of ways to stay (or get) in shape and still save money.

Partner or Group Training

Personal training is a great choice when you need guidance and motivation.  Sharing your session with a friend or family member can save you money and give you extra motivation for your workouts.

Dust Off Old Fitness Equipment

If you haven’t ventured into your basement or garage lately, now might be a good time to see what you have been storing there. Read More »