Shim Sung (Finding Your True Self)

Last week, CGI hosted the Shim Sung (Finding Your True Self) workshop. This workshop focuses on self-empowerment by seeing one's patterns and letting them go. The main goals of the workshop are to shed the aspects of life which hold us back (emotional baggage, hurtful memories, etc.) and to encourage oneself to be the master of his/her life. Nine members attended Shim Sung, all of them curious to see what would happen in just two days.

What a change they saw!
Moved by the staff's genuine care and attention, as well as each participant's own struggles and victories, the nine participants discovered their true value from within. Tears were shed as they realized that every one of them was valuable.  Through various games and activities meant to show them their habits and preconceptions, all of the participants discovered how they treat themselves and others, as well as what they want to change in their lives.

Shim Sung is a motivational workshop that is recommended for anyone. Moved by themselves, all of the participants decided to challenge their obstacles, each taking his/her own path in the endeavor. Genuinely touched by what they felt, two participants decided to become ki yoga instructors and two other participants decided to become ki yoga masters. It was a very exciting time as everyone shared their new goals and outlooks in life.

Winter Workout

Now we are in the middle of winter season. When the weather is cold and day is short, it is hard to get out of the bed and to go outside to exercise. Many studies show that average activity level of people is much lower in winter than it is in spring and summer.  This is critical moment of the year especially for those on a diet plan. While exercising less, many holidays for family dinner and party do not help you to eat less and work out. If you have been working out for the past summer but now found yourself cuddling your pillow and comforter instead of exercising, you need to break that routine as soon as possible. If that goes on, all your labor and sweats you shed for the better during the year will eventually becomes nothing and you will be right back to where you were. Then, what should you do when the cold weather is continuously sapping your motivation to work out?

Well, who says you have to go out or hit the health club to work out? Thanks to the technology! Now there are so many sources you can utilize to work out at home. Check out all the home fitness options. DVDs, Youtube videos and even video games.  There are many different types of exercises and levels of intensity so, choose one you feel most comfortable with. Now get an exercise mat for your living room and you are good to go! Yoga or Tai Chi is usually good for home fitness and for all age groups.

Also, there is good news. Online yoga class will be soon available. This is ideals for those who have a busy schedule and were not able to go to a gym on a regular basis. This will be available in March 2014.

What is your new year’s resolution?

As the New Year has begun, many have made their resolutions. Many of them also resolve to become healthier and happier than they were in the past. This is great, but what’s important is to make detail plans to achieve them one by one, stick with the plans and eventually fulfill them. What are your resolutions? Did you make them yet? Have you started anything to accomplish them? If you haven’t, take a look at what others say they want to do in 2014 and make your own. This is the first step to become healthier you in this year.

1. Lose weight               
2. Eat healthy                
3. Do exercise               
4. Get more Sleep         
5. Cut down on alcohol  
6. Quit smoking            
7. Learn how to swim    
8. Family vacation         
9. Learn a new language
10. Help others              

Is any of this in your new year’s resolution list?

Perhaps, many of them are your wishes or became yours after you read the list. Some are less measurable than others, but I think they are all great and important to make healthier you.

Half of this month has already passed. In January, try to find some time to make detail plans to achieve your resolutions and maintain them as long as you can. You will then be able to fulfill one or two, or maybe all of your goals for 2014. Let’s fulfill all of them and also help others achieve theirs. Helping others is also a great way to have a happy heart.  

I wish you happiness, health and prosperity in this year.

It’s kind of late but still in January…lol  So, Happy New Year!

What is your favorite tea?

I am kind of hoping that everyone has found their ten minute break for the daily tea time by now.  Here is a list of different teas that are easily accessible and that you might want to consider to drink in your tea time for your health.

Green tea: This has been popular in East Asia, India and recently gaining its popularity in the U.S for its health benefits. Some studies show that it prevents certain types of cancers, risk of stroke and some mental disorders. It is also known to control the cholesterol levels and help burn fat in the body. Since this tea contains caffeine, those who are sensitive to caffeine should be cautious about drinking it 

Black tea: Probably the most popular tea. This tea is known to help reduce risk of some heart disease like stroke. It also has abundant antioxidants, some of which are believed to help protect lungs from cigar smoke. This tea has lots of caffeine as well so drink it with caution if you are sensitive to caffeine.  

White tea: made from immature tea leaves, it is the least processed tea. This is becoming very popular. This tea has the most polyphenols, a type of anti-oxidants that is believed to be a powerful anti-cancer substance.  

Oolong tea: Good for weight loss. It boots metabolism and catalyzes the body to burn fat. A popular tea in China. Some say this tea helps maintain the body weight especially after consuming greasy food because they believe this tea flushes away the fat from their bodies.  

Please remember that putting any sweeter like sugar will eliminate the benefits of the tea. Try not to add anything else when you make your tea.