I also know all too well that when we allow ourselves to listen to these negative thoughts that we have we can easily start to begin thinking that they're true, and that's just not the case!

It's no wonder so many people are so unhappy, and why we have a tendency to get so stressed out.  When I realized that so many other people were experiencing the same self doubt that I had it made me feel so sad, because I know that we are all so much more than what we sometimes think of ourselves.

I just started reading an incredible book by Gabriele Bernstein called "Super Attractor".  In this book the author takes this problem a step further and suggests that when we align ourselves with these negative thoughts that we are actually inviting "the universe" to create more resistance and difficulty in our lives.  When we align ourselves with positive thoughts we invite the universe to bring more joy, and more intuitive creativity, problem solving and overall ease into our lives.

This may seem like a bit of hokum, to steal a word from the infamous Sheldon Cooper, but I have experienced this phenomenon in my own life.  I've noticed in over decades, and in all different periods of my life.  I can't believe it's just a coincidence.  

Have you ever noticed how when you're operating in a low frequency of negativity that things are just harder, and when you're vibrating at a higher frequency things come easier, life feels more fulfilling, and success feels more attainable? 

The concept around the power of attraction makes so much sense to me because I have experienced it first hand.  As a new business owner I've found myself going down the rabbit hole of these feelings of self doubt.  Starting a business is the hardest work I've ever done and I just don't have time to make things harder for me by listening to this nonsense that sometimes takes up residence inside my head, and neither do you!

What is incredible is that we have the ability to consciously redirect our thoughts to those that bring joy, inspiration, and soul fire enthusiasm to our lives, and through those thoughts increase our vibrational frequency and therefore attract more high frequency outcomes.  

Gabriel Bernstein offers up a simple three step process to help redirect your vibrational energy.  This advice can apply to so many areas where we struggle in our lives.

Step 1:  Acknowledge the negative thoughts that you have.
Step 2:  Be thankful for the experiences that have led you to these negative thoughts, because it is through those experiences that you are able to know what you want and don't want in life. 
Step 3: Choose a different Path.  Imagine your life absent of the fear, insecurity, and any other negative emotions that are tied to these thoughts.  Imagine all of the pieces that would change your current situation into one of joy, freedom and love.  This could mean making major life style changes, removing negative influences from your life, getting a different job, asking for help and support from those you trust, etc.  Once you get a clear vision of the life you want start making steps towards living that life.

This may seem overly simple, but that's just it!  Being happy doesn't have to be complicated.  For some reason we feel like happiness requires hard work and sacrifice.  But in reality we are creating hard work and sacrifice for all that we love through the negativity that we allow in our minds.

My challenge to you this week is to bring awareness to the negative thoughts that you have in your head.  Call that voice out and tell it that you don't believe what you're being told.  Choose a different path.  A path of joy, happiness, freedom and love.

I hope that this provides you with some helpful insights that will give you the power to take control of the thoughts you have and how you feel about yourself.  I know that you're awesome.  The people around you know that you're awesome.  And I want you to know, without a doubt, that you are awesome.

Lots of Love,

Allison

When attending INDOOR Training Sessions:

ARRIVAL:

1)    You will need to sign a COVID-19 waiver when you attend your first in-person training session.  Subsequently, enrollment in a training session confirms your commitment to the terms of the waiver (waivers are located at the front desk counter).
2)     If you have traveled out of state you are required to follow the guidelines set for by the Keep Maine Healthy Policies before returning to the gym.  See below for more information.
3)    As of November 4th, 2020 masks are required to be worn at all times when at the gym, including during your training session.
4)    You are encouraged to take some time before the start of your training session to perform some foam rolling!  Let’s get back into the HABIT of giving our bodies this extra love – it will surely enhance your training experience!  You may arrive early so you can perform some SMR with a foam roller or lacrosse ball on your own.  Blue tape is on the floor in the warm-up / cool-down area to help maintain 6' of distance while you foam roll.  Please be respectful of other's space and wear your mask at all times.
5)    Bring INDOOR SNEAKERS and change your shoes when you arrive. 
6)    Leave your belongings in one of the provided chairs when you arrive.  DO NOT use the cubbies. 
7)    Use hand sanitizer when you arrive and before entering the gym.
8)     Showers are available for use.  Please follow instructions for cleaning after use, which are posted in the shower rooms.  Please ask if you have any questions.

 DURING YOUR TRAINING SESSION:

1)    Please go directly to your training station when you arrive.  
2)    You will have a “Training Pod” where you will stay for the entire duration of the training session.
3)  These bubbles are spaced to ensure that you can ALWAYS maintain 10’ of distance from your training neighbors. NOTE: The Maine CDC currently requires 6' of distance between participants when wearing a mask (as is currently required), yet we have chosen to maintain 10' of distance as an added precaution to keep everyone safe.
4)    Hand sanitizer will be provided at your station.  Use it frequently and avoid touching your face.
5)    Please observe the white "X" in your station.  Always use the "X" as your starting point for any exercise within your station.
6)    Equipment will be dedicated to YOUR use.  Please sanitize ALL equipment with the provided EPA approved sanitizer BEFORE and AFTER use.  Please use the provided Alcohol Spray (green label) to sanitize the TRX after use.
7)    If you need lighter or heavier weights please ask the trainer and they will get it for you.
8)    MASKS MUST BE WORN FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR TRAINING SESSION PER EXECUTIVE ORDER OF THE GOVERNOR (16 FY 20/21).  Masks may be removed for brief periods of time to recover and drink water.  Please turn your back away from others and step as far away as possible when removing your mask.  You may also step outdoors as needed to catch your breath.
10) Training sessions are being adapted for the need to wear masks when exercising in order to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible during your training session.

 DEPARTURE:

1)    You may use the warm-up / cool-down area to extend your cool  down at the end of your training session.  Please maintain 6' of distance from others and keep your mask over your mouth and nose.
2)    If you would like to leave your sneakers in the white cubbies please sanitize them before storing them.
3)    Please use the sanitizer to clean the chair where you left your belongings.

Q:  What are the policies for visiting the gym when returning to Maine from out of state or international travel?
A:  We follow all of the current Maine CDC Guidelines for quarantine and/or testing when returning to Maine from Travel.   More information on the current state requirements can be found HERE.
If you have traveled out of state you may return to the gym under the following conditions:

DOMESTIC OUT OF STATE TRAVEL: If you have traveled out of state and have been fully vaccinated* you do NOT need to quarantine or test in order to return to the gym.
THROUGH APRIL 2021: You do not need to test, quarantine, or be vaccinated in order to return to the gym IF you have traveled to an exempt state (NH, VT, MA, CT, RI)
AS OF MAY 1st 2021: You do not need to test, quarantine, or be vaccinated in order to return to the gym UNLESS you have traveled to a flagged state.
Check the state website to determine current flagged states (link below)
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL: Upon return to the United States from International travel you must TEST AND Quarantine for 7 days OR Quarantine for 10 days if no test is performed.
Testing and quarantine is not required if you are fully vaccinated*.

*Fully vaccinated means that you have completed the 14 day period following your 2nd dose or 1st dose of J&J upon your return.

*If you received a positive COVID test within 90 days of your travel you are considered protected and do not need to quarantine or test upon your return.

Q:  Will a warm up and cool down be included in the training session?
A:   Yes it will!  Feel free to arrive 15 minutes early to perform your SMR - foam rolling.  Then the trainer will take you through a dynamic warm up.  A cool down will also be included at the end of the training session.

Q:  Can I continue my cool down after the training session is over?
A:  Yes, you may continue to cool down in the carpeted area.  Please observe the blue tape on the floor to help you maintain 6' of distance from others.  Please keep your mask on until you leave the gym.

Q:  Where can I put my mask when I take it off?
A:  At the present time masks must be worn during the training session.

Q:  When can I remove my mask?
A:  At the present time you must wear your mask while in your training session.  This is per executive order 14 FY 20/21 which was issued on November 5th, 2020.  You may remove your mask for brief periods of time during your training session in order to recover your breath or have a drink of water.  Please distance yourself as far away from others as possible and turn your back to the group when lowering your mask and return it to your face as quickly as possible.

Q:  Can I stop wearing my mask to the gym once I am fully vaccinated?
A:  At this time you are still required to wear your mask even if you are fully vaccinated.  This policy will remain in place until the State of Maine makes changes to the current industry guidelines.

Q:  Are there masks that you recommend for use when exercising?
A:  Yes, there are several masks that we have tested and like for use when exercising:

• BocoX is a mask designed for running and is quite comfortable for exercise.  You can purchase these masks at Fleet Feet on Maine St or online.

• Many people like the Under Armour Masks.  These masks can be purchased at the outlet in Freeport or online.  These masks are a thick material and some people find them to be hot, but others love them.
• The Outdoor Research Mask offers a great fit and a snug nose clip for those with glasses.  The material is breathable and comfortable for exercise.  This mask also accepts a filter for added protection when out maintaining distance in public places is difficult.  You can purchase this mask at L.L. Bean or online. 
• Cotopaxi makes a CDC approved, double layer cotton mask that is very thin.  I would not personally wear this mask in public places but believe that it will offer sufficient protection to you and others in the gym environment where we are maintaining distance and taking other safety precautions.  This mask can be purchased at Eastern Mountain Sports in Freeport or online.

Q:  Do I have to choose INDOOR or LIVEStream Training Sessions?
A:  No - we want to keep this as flexible as possible for you. In our group training program, you may attend any of these sessions - just sign up as always via Pike13 with a 1-hour notice. 
​Note:  All Early Bird Sessions require enrollment 8 hours in advance so that the trainers have time to prepare for you.

Q:  Do I need to buy new shoes to wear indoors?
A:  No - we want you to use clean indoor shoes. The idea is that you aren't tracking germs from places like the grocery store into our facility, and as always prevent tracking dirt into the gym.  You can clean an "old" pair of shoes and dedicate them to the gym going forward.

Q:  What if I forget my indoor sneakers?
A:  Please use the sanitizer provided at the front to clean the soles of your shoes before entering the gym.

Q:  How do I know that the equipment I'm using is clean?
A:  We ask that you clean the equipment that you are using during your training session BEFORE and AFTER use.  This ensures that it is completely clean and you can be confident in the cleanliness since you did it yourself.  The disinfectant provided in all stations is EPA approved as a disinfectant that will kill viruses.  

Q:  What if I need a heavier or lighter weight than what's provided in my station?
A:  No problem!  Just ask the trainer and they will get you a different weight.  Although the new weight was previously cleaned we recommend cleaning the weight again before you start using it.

Q:  Why is Alcohol used to clean the TRXs?
A:  Lysol spray may also be used for spraying the TRX, however Lysol spray is currently hard to come by.  The aerosol allows for a "less wet" sanitation method compared to using the "pink" cleaner.  Alcohol is also an approved chemical for disinfecting and because it evaporates quickly it will prevent the TRX from getting sopping wet throughout the day.

Q:  Can I use the showers?
A:  Yes.  Please follow the sanitization instructions that are posted inside of the shower rooms.  Ask if you have any questions.

Q:  What if I have seasonal allergies that are causing me to have a cough or sore throat?  Am I not allowed at the gym?
A:  Please consult with your physician to determine if they believe that your symptoms warrant a COVID-19 test and to confirm that your symptoms are consistent with allergies.  Please refrain from in-person training sessions while you seek additional guidance from your doctor.

Do you have other questions not addressed here? 
​Please email me at allison@wilcoxwellnessfitness.com and I'll gladly address your questions.

I'd throw in a couple of bags of cookies and a chocolate bar or two. After all, this should all last the month, and we are in a national health crisis so it seems reasonable to have a little extra guilty pleasures on hand to help us find our way through it, right?

This was all well and good for a month or so, but for me things have been relatively "back to normal" for a good month.  The grocery store is a civilized place again and I don't feel as if I need to consolidate my shopping.  I've regained my routine, and a sense of control of the situation.  But I have NOT regained a sense of control when it comes to sugar.  

For me when this happens I know that I just need to cut out the sugar for a week or two and regroup, and I'm always glad that I did.

I don't know about you, but mustard with sugar and mustard without sugar tastes the same to me and I prefer to not waste the sugar that I eat on something that doesn't even bring me some extra joy.

​The thing about sugar is that it causes way more problems than a little weight gain.  Sugar is a major contributor to inflammation.  Inflammation is a major player in healing, but if it runs wild it can lead to big problems.  With chronic inflammation , your body is on high alert all the time, and this prolonged state of emergency can cause lasting damage to your heart, brain and other organs.  Sugar can also lead to painful joints, lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, mental health struggles such as depression and anxiety, increased risk for diabetes, and increased risk of certain cancers.  It's easy to ignore these concerns until they become a big problem, so if a little vanity will help to encourage you to decrease the added sugars in your diet you may find it interesting to know that sugar is a major cause of acne and it interferes with collagen and elastin, which effects how firm your skin looks, and will increase the rate of aging!

Sugar fills up your body with empty calories and has no nutritional benefit whatsoever.  These are such good reasons to give it the boot!

Another topic that often comes up when I'm talking about nutritional habits with new clients is a strong determination to reduce or even eliminate fat in the diet.  We've been told for a long time that fat is bad, and we've gotten into a bad habit of paying closer attention to fat in our foods than we do sugar.  And the thing is, we need healthy fat in our diets.  Our brains are made up primarily of fat and it needs to have fat in the diet in order to function properly, sending signals across synapses.  Furthermore, when inflammatory cells, which are exacerbated by sugar, hang around for too long in blood vessels, they promote the buildup of dangerous plaque.  For so long we think about plaque in our arteries as a problem with fat in our foods but it's actually sugar.  

And what's worse is that all of those low fat foods have a lot more added sugar than the full fat version because without it the food would taste terrible!  The next time you're at the grocery store compare the amount of sugar in a full fat version of a food compared to the low fat version.  I bet you'll be surprised!  

Kicking sugar is HARD!  It is literally an addiction and the first few days of eliminating added sugar can feel pretty brutal, but it's totally worth the effort!  I came across a little tidbit of information my reading over the years about how sugar and gut health are related, and when I think about this it gives me a little extra incentive to kick the sugar habit.  I'll share with you in hopes that you can use it to your advantage too!

When we eat sugar we are literally feeding sugar loving bacteria that exist in our gut.  Although these bacteria are simple organisms they're smart enough to stay alive, and they do this by sending signals to our brains that tell us to eat more sugar.  When we are not eating sugar those bacteria can get pretty upset.  They are fighting for their lives, sending strong signals to our brains in order to preserve their life.  When I'm feeling those cravings I just think about how I'm literally killing off those bacteria that are serving to be a very bad influence on my decision making.  On the flip side, when we eat healthy nutritious foods we are feeding the bacteria that thrive on healthy, whole foods.  Just as with the sugar loving bacteria they will send signals to our brain that tell us to eat more healthy, nutritious foods.  Have you ever noticed how once you get into habit of eating better foods that you actually start to enjoy those foods more and start craving them?  This is why!  So just remember, when you are craving sugar it's because you're successfully killing off those bad bacteria, and when you start craving broccoli it's because you're doing an amazing job feeding those good, beneficial bacteria!

I hope that I have provided a little extra inspiration to take a look at the sugar that may be sneaking into your diet!

I wrote in this blog about how our gut health plays a big role in how we crave sugar, but it also plays a huge role in our overall health, affecting not just our digestion and sugar cravings, but also our mood, energy, aches and pains, and even our brain function.

Your gut is the host to an entire microbiome of bacteria – an estimated 100 trillion of them!  Keeping those bacteria happy, healthy, and in balance is a big part of a wellness lifestyle. As you can imagine, what you eat plays a very important role.

If you're looking to learn more check out our Gut Health Guide.  In this guide, we outline the basics of gut health. Plus, we've included lots of delicious recipes. I hope you LOVE IT!