We asked Christ
i Anne Franck, one of Sage’s knowledgeable yoga instructors in LA, about her fitness and nutrition practices. She shares of her helpful, holistic health hints here:
1. What’s your go-to recipe for an easy, healthy meal? My go-to recipe grilled or sautéed asparagus with olive oil, salt and pepper. It is one of my simple favorites that goes well with rice, pasta or quinoa. Take your asparagus and toss it in with enough oil to lightly coat and add salt and pepper to taste. Add a splash of lemon juice or parmesan cheese after you have cooked the asparagus for a savory flavor.
2. What are your favorite pre- and post-workout foods, for energy and recovery, respectively? Best food for before and after workout is water. I know that it is not really a food, but drinking water, especially after working out, is so important: It helps with energy and recovery by rehydrating and flushing toxins out of your body. I try to stick with light to no food at least an hour or two before I workout. Keep it simple after workouts with light veggies or fruit. I always keep some Trader Joe’s 100% Natural Fruit Wraps with me if I need a quick snack.
3. Spill your secrets—what’s the top fitness “secret” that really enhances your fitness experience? Get up early, drink a big glass of warm water and get moving. It’s not always fun and I still give myself a day or two to sleep in, but if you get up by 6 or 7 am and get your day started with 15 – 30 mins of deep breathing and gentle stretches, your entire day goes smoother and that not only improves my fitness experience but my entire well-being.
4. What is favorite LA fitness spot? Yoga Blend, in Burbank. It feels like home, there is always a friendly smile to greet me and a class for whatever mood I am in. I enjoy exercising outdoors, and support local parks and gardens like the LA Arboretum. As a member I am not only helping to preserve nature, but I have a place to enjoy long walks, meditate or even picnic. As an anti-gym rat, my “workout” needs to not be any “work” and to just be a part of my life and the things I enjoy. Taking a 30 minute walk after a healthy homemade lunch is a choice that is not only good for me, but also fun–so it’s a healthy habit that sticks.
5. What’s your best stress-reducing strategy? Breathe deeply. Try 7 One Minute Breaths: Inhale to a count of 15 seconds, hold your inhale for 15 seconds, then exhale to a count of 15 seconds and hold out your exhale for 15 seconds for a count of one. Your breathing controls your mind, your mind controls your body, and your body controls your breathing. One cannot happen without the other, so when you can focus one piece then you can focus all of the pieces. Achieve a place of wholeness and realize that stress is a choice you make and that you can actively decide to make happier healthier choices instead.
6. Travel, especially on business, can be very stressful. What have you found to be good ways to maintain balance while traveling? My go to video when traveling or trying to squeeze in a few relaxing moments is Daily Dose of Dharma with Danica McKellar. It’s just beautiful to watch and the short segments make it great when your on the go. The 2 disk set includes meditations as well, but personally its my teacher Christy Marsden, who’s sweet voice guides you through the poses and reminds you of life’s bliss.
For more wellness tips from Christi Anne, visit our blog for the full interview, and check out her Practical Happiness Yoga site for holistic and healing wisdom.
–Abby Gould, Sage Wellness Intern
