This holiday season I was able to spend some time with my
family in Vail, Colorado. While away from home, I challenged myself to new
exercises in my hotel, bonded with family over a healthy après ski soup, and
took advantage of the weather by waking up every day and hitting the slopes!
(I can attest that the
endless amount of Spider Kicks, Bungees, and Skater moves in Pilates class
helped prepare me for actually skiing DOWN the mountain. For those who haven’t
read my blog post titled, “How Pilates is Beneficial for Winter Sports”, I talk
about types of Pilates exercises that target the muscle groups used while
skiing.)
Skiing and playing in the snow reminded me of how much I
enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s the massive snow-covered Rockies, or the
beautiful hiking trails I frequent in Los Angeles, I love to get outside and
appreciate the beauty of nature.
As this New Year begins, I’m going to begin something new
for the blog, too. Each month I’ll be posting a list of my favorite moments spent
in nature! I’m lucky enough to live in an area with an extraordinary amount of
beauty just outside my front door and I’m looking forward to sharing my
appreciation of it all with you!
January 2014 Get Outside Highlights:
1. The sun was
shining bright as I started a day of skiing during my recent visit to Vail.
2. The open hillsides
were filled with beautiful, untouched snow during a cross-country ski excursion
in Vail. There are 17km of trails in the area just for cross-country skiing!
Check out the Vail Nordic Center at www.vailnordiccenter.com
for more information if you are heading to CO and want to give it a try!
3. Malibu beaches
never disappoint! I took a little break to take this photo while on a run this
past month along the Malibu coast.
4. Hiking Franklin
Canyon is a great way to fit in a workout AND spend time in nature. This spot
is so peaceful and tucked away that you almost forget you’re in the middle of
Los Angeles.
