Like most of you, I have been receiving e-newsletters from various businesses – both big and small – in regards to the COVID-19.  Some of these emails have focused on how the business is supporting customers/clients during this time.  Other offer suggestions on how to maximize the time at home both for business and family.  Still others are simply giving information on closures and modified hours.  Many give information on hygiene.  But the most compelling e-blast I received today was from Richard Davidson, the founder of an organization called The Center for Healthy Minds. In the newsletter, Davidson reminded his readers that social distancing not only limits the exposure of the COVID-19 virus to ourselves, but is also an “act of generosity and compassion towards others.”  By limiting interactions, staying home, opting for online or virtual meet ups, we are thinking of the greater good and how these choices can help others stay healthy.  He sums up the letter by saying …”even with the stress and anxiety and unprecedented challenges that we are facing with this pandemic, we can be grateful for the many opportunities to recognize our basic good nature and to extend our self-care to the caring for so many others.”  His words gave me pause, enabled me to re-frame my thinking.  For this I am grateful.

In this same realm, the owners of Camarillo Pilates have chosen to close their doors this week even as other gyms are continuing to stay open. At their request, I have copied their email below.  I know it wasn’t an easy decision by any means, but I applaud Cori and Jimmy for doing their part to help stop the spread of this virus.  As you all know I am on maternity leave, but please keep in contact with your subs and with the studio as the days and weeks unfold. They will be the best ones to let you know of new developments and when the studio will reopen for privates and group classes.

For my part I continue to be home in my little cocoon with my boys.  Besides a mild cold that my 4 year old has, we are all healthy.  Thank you for the texts and emails, I enjoy hearing from you all!

As always – be well, breathe well and stay in touch,

xo
Francine

Eliano León Hernández was born January 25th, 2020 (Chinese New Year!) at 5:45pm weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces, and measuring 21 inches long.

Greetings everyone!

Thank you so much for your good thoughts, prayers, check-in messages, gifts for Giove, and excitement for us these last couple weeks. Eliano came two days early (just like his brother!), and we have been recovering and getting to know our little guy ever since. The team at the hospital was awesome – everyone from our delivery doctor, the nurses, and our super compassionate and caring postnatal nurses. We are grateful for the outstanding care we had. Yesterday afternoon we came home and by some miracle we all got good sleep our first night in!

So far our oldest is a confident, curious, and eager big brother! He couldn’t wait to hold his sibling and check out is tiny tiny toes and hands. (Oh, and his diapers. He is facsinated by his brother’s poop. Must be a boy thing.)

What’s in a name?

Many of you who know us personally know that name choice is a big deal for us! We love unique names that have meaning to us, our personal past, or our adventures together. Eliano is a name that my husband thought of, and I loved it immediately. León is a city in Northern Spain, that we stayed in for a week in 2017 when we completed the Camino de Santiago with our first son, Giove. We loved that city, felt very cared for there, and it left a special place in our hearts. Eliano is derivative of “sun” in ancient Greek (Hugo calls him our little bundle of sunshine), and of course, León, like Leo, means lion. I should mention that our first son named him “Baby Jet” while he was in my belly. When his teachers asked him this morning what we named the baby he reported “Jet”.  🙂 We happily accept Jet as his nickname, but it didn’t quite make the birth certificate.

How am I feeling?

So happy, relieved, and contented that he is here, that I am not pregnant anymore, and that we have a bit of time together as a family!!  Some of you have asked if you can make us a meal, and that is so kind of you. I do not have a meal train set up, as I don’t want to impose, but because some of you have offered, we graciously want to acknowledge and accept. Just send me a text and we can sort out a date. It’s so nice to have a proper appetite again, so thanks a million!

I hope you all are well and in good health and spirits.

I look forward to hearing from you as time permits.  In the mean time, keep up your practice! Keep moving!
xo,
Francine

I’m still here! 39 weeks and counting 🙂

I’ve received a lot of questions this week

…asking me if I am “ready.”  It is a fair inquiry, completely appropriate and understandably sincere. Yet it is quite hard to answer! Am I ready to not be pregnant? Yes.  Am I ready for a completely different pace with two children rather than just one? Hmm….I hope so! Am I ready to meet this little human whom I have been growing inside of me and who has dictated what I eat, how I feel and how I look? Um, double yes. Am I ready for inevitable sleepless nights, newborn surprises/concerns and ‘new’ parent worry? Come on, can one ever really be ready for that?  At 39 weeks pregnant, I know this for sure: I am ready embrace whatever this next adventure brings forth for myself, my family and my career.  I am ready to integrate this little being into my life.  And that, my dear family, friends, and clients, feels really good to write down.

What’s going in the Gratitude Journal tonight? Definitely this:

This pregnancy has not been without its ups and downs with how I have felt week to week, but I am beyond grateful I was able be with so many of you in the studio during the past 8 months.  The picture above was taken on my last full day of teaching, last Thursday, a day that felt so satisfying and fulfilling that I can happily say there is no filter on my smiling face.  To teach up the 38th week of my pregnancy, including my Buff Bones mat class, had been a goal of mine all along and I was elated to complete it.  And, I’ll admit, I wanted all your good vibes and well wishes as close to my labor and delivery date as possible! I don’t know who wouldn’t!

Of course I’ll miss you…but I always come back!

So many of us have been together through life’s ages and stages.  Ultimately, that means we support each other even when we have to be out of the studio.  Colleagues and clients alike – THANK YOU SO MUCH for supporting me throughout my pregnancy and now during my leave.  Please keep in touch, send me texts and pictures and keep me updated on how you are doing.  I know some of you have some important doctor appointments coming up, family trips, anniversaries, etc. and I want to hear about them as you can.  For my part I will post a bit on Instagram @yourdailypractice, but really the best way to stay in touch is via email or text. I am just a smart phone away. 🙂

Please continue to keep me and my family in your best intentions, prayers and thoughts as we make this transition into a family of five. (We count Lulu, our dog, in case you are wondering where I got that number 🙂 The next newsletter will be a baby announcement so stay tuned!

Till then, in love and life –

xo,
Francine

Happy Fall & Thanksgiving dear friends!
This time of year always has me reflecting on the gratitude I have for every aspect of my work.  The practice of Pilates & Yoga are very satisfying to teach, but moreover, the connection I feel working with people one on one is incredibly fulfilling. Thank you all for showing up, being you, and committing to improving your quality of life through movement.

So, who is excited for turkey and pumpkin pie? I know what I am excited to eat…a fresh green salad with permissions from my tree and my mom’s *famous* cheesecake!  But before I load up on that (as well as turkey & mashed potatoes, of course) I am looking forward to hosting my Second Annual Thanksgiving Pilates Mat Class at Camarillo Pilates. This class will be all level, so that everyone feels welcome to join. A sweaty workout it may not be, but a feel good movement practice with core strengthening, stretching and both challenging poses and modifications it will be.  I’d love to have you join this holiday class. Like last year, this year’s class will be solely donation based to a non-profit who’s dedicated work is needed more and more each year. Please see below for more details.

Thanksgiving Day Mat Class

Where: Camarillo Pilates
Time: 8:30am-9:30am
Suggested Donation: $15
Sign Up: Reply to this email, limited to 12 participants
Thank you Camarillo Pilates for donating the space!

100% of the donations for this class will be sent to the Sandy Hook Promise which “educates and empowers parents, schools and community organizations on how to prevent gun violence BEFORE it happens by providing mental health & wellness early-identification and intervention programs, gun safety storage practices and advocating for sensible state and federal violence prevention policy.”

Celebrating the…

One Year Anniversary of ydp apparel!

This November marks one year since Your Daily Practice launched it’s first design.  In 12 months we have created a number of Pilates Inspired tops that I am so happy to say many of you have enjoyed in and out of the studio or purchased as gifts for your Pilates enthusiast friend or family member. Thank you so much for your patronage and support! What better way to celebrate than a beautiful new logo designed by Carol Gravelle Graphic Design specifically for YDP apparel.  Isn’t it pretty?

Last but not least, since I love birthdays and anniversaries, I have little gift for both my local and online shoppers.

Local shoppers: Enjoy 10% percent off all merchandise! Browse on my Etsy Shop, but message me with your style and size preference and I will send you your adjusted bill.  Pick up at Camarillo Pilates in Camarillo, CA.*

Online Shoppers: Free shipping on all US orders with no minimum.  Because Free Shipping is AWESOME!*

I hope you have fun shopping for yourself or holiday shopping for the person in your life that is obsessed with Pilates.  (Don’t we all know someone?)

Again, thank you for your style choices this past year.  Stay tuned for a new design being released in the coming months!

Cheers!

Francine

*offer through November 25th, 2019

…because we all really do love the Wunda.

First of all, thank you for your patience!  Carol and I have been SO EXCITED about this shirt for some time but we had a few pauses along the way.  But here it is!!  I have produced it in a breathable 100% cotton racerback tank and (by popular demand) a flowy style made up of polyester and vicose. The cotton tank is a more fitted look, while the super soft scoop neck tee is a more relaxed style. Both would look adorable on their own AND you know I am a big fan of layering.  Throw on a cute jean jacket over that racerback tank on your way to the studio, or slip a fun sports bra or thin shirt under the flowy top.  Wouldn’t that look great?

And here is more good news….unlike previous shirt releases these tops are ready NOW! No pre-order wait necessary! Wahoo! That being said, tops and sizes are limited to current inventory. So how do you order? Visit my website to view the available sizes and sizing chart.  Then fill out the order form and await your email that your order has been processed. Simple enough, eh?

Happy shopping!

SO soft and flowy…almost hides my 18 week Baby Bump 😉
I can’t wait to see you in yours!!

In health, fashion, and gratitude,
Francine

Hey everyone!!

July News

Established by my mentor and faculty advisor, Carolyne Anthony, founder of the Center for Women’s Fitness, July is Diastasis Awareness Month.  It was created to educate women (and men) on a relatively common but much less talked about issue.  So what is it? The diastasis recti (DR) is most commonly talked about in terms of a separation or stretching of the rectus abdominus muscles.  This can cause a host of issues if left unresolved such as weakness, instability of core muscles, back pain, and even bladder dysfunction. A DR separation can be caused by various events such as a trauma to the body, childbirth, a C-section, and perhaps most surprising to you, my reader –  repeated incorrect body mechanics in exercise.  In our practice of Pilates, a simple example would be allowing the abdominals to “pouch” rather than properly engaging during an exercise such as abdominal curls, hundreds, or teaser. When I first heard of DR separation I was told by a well meaning physical therapist that the only way to fix it was by surgery.  But this is simply not true! If you are concerned you have a diastasis separation I encourage you to bring it up in our next session. We can check.  Not all separation is significant, but if yours is I will suggest exercise modifications and recommendations to release, realign and restore this important abdominal fascia.

Thank you Carolyne for encouraging us teachers to spread the word that help is as close as one’s next Pilates session!

Local Spotlight: Acupuncture for what ailed me

Most of you know that I got quite sick in the beginning of June while traveling in Italy. It took several weeks to recover from the digestive distress I experienced due to the severity of the symptoms, and some genetic issues with my liver. While I am grateful for my doctors who promptly saw me upon my return to California and ordered the appropriate labs, I have so much appreciation for my appointments with Christina Pabers, L.Ac. at the Acupuncture Natural Health Center here in Camarillo.  Christina treated me with traditional Chinese acupuncture, acupressure, a couple supplements and many dietary recommendations.  I truly feel a positive turning point in my recovery was because of her knowledge and expertise, and after her sessions I had significant improvements.  Many of you have asked me for Christina’s contact information, so here you go! If you have any questions on what a session is like I happy to share more.

Acupuncture Natural Health Center
Christina Pabers, L.Ac.
215 E. Daily Dr. Camarillo, CA
805-383-0636

So is the new shirt out yet?

Not yet! But they are coming, I promise!  I just can’t rush the process – lots of time, care and detail go into creating each design. From the exact color tone of the image to the right feel of the fabric, everything needs to be just right before I give the printer the go ahead.  But spoiler alert: I will tell you there is going to be a tank and a flowy top option (by popular demand) so that you can chose the fit and style that is good  for you.  Remember that you can shop the current styles (like the one shown above) on my website at http://yourdailypractice.com/shop/.  Enjoy free shipping on any purchase. 🙂

————————————

Yup, I could definitely keep writing but I will stop there for now and save more information for future newsletters.  As always thank you for reading! If there is someone you know who might benefit from the information here please feel free to pass it on or direct them to my website or Instagram page @yourdailypractice.   To all my clients, I look forward to seeing you the studio or online at our next session!

In seeking our best health,

Francine

PS Thanks to all who took the time to vote for me and Camarillo Pilates in the Ventura Country Reporter’s Poll.

Happy Mother’s Day to Mamas everywhere!!! Whether you nurture children, animals, or even plants 🙂 I wish you a happy, wholesome day full of self care, a bit of indulgence and lots of love.

Did you know…

It took me ten years to be ready to become a mother.  Some decisions take time!! But as I reflect on that life changing move I am reminded how it has helped me have the confidence to take other risks in life. Like completing the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain with my husband and (then) 18 month old son.  Like leaving a comfortable work environment to manage my own clientele.  Like starting a line of Pilates inspired shirts simply because I have a creative streak and I want to try. And, on the daily, continuing to contribute to a community of people who love to be well, move well and consistently improve their quality of life. That’s YOU!

I thought you might be interested in…

Buff Bites™

Most of you know I am faculty for Buff Bones®, created by my dear friend and colleague Rebekah Rotstein. Her newest product, Buff Bites™, delivers a daily dose of exercise to your inbox Monday-Friday. Those of you who love attending my Buff Bones® class and want more should check this out!

Foot Health

I have been telling many of you about the clever little exercise ball I use to roll out my feet to avoid cramps and to keep plantar fasciitis at bay.  A client of mine has even found relief from acute numbness in the feet. This is not a paid endorsement (but maybe it should be!!!) – I simply wanted to share the link.  You’re welcome. 🙂

Last but not least…

As much as I love being your fearless leader I can’t grow this community of like-minded movers and cute T-shirt wearers myself! If someone comes to mind whom you think might benefit from this information I’d be so grateful if you share my website with them, send them to the shop page or direct them to my Instagram account.

And as always…

Thank you!

In health and love for our mothers,

Francine

*the following is a copy of the YDP March Newsletter*

March MATness? Don’t you mean March MADness?

You read that right! In the Pilates community the big buzz this month has been “March MATness.” It is a movement started by Benjamin Degenhardt, a classically trained Pilates instructor, celebrating the original 34 mat exercises created by Joseph Pilates.  For several years now, instructors from all over the world have participated via social media, posting pictures of themselves or clients demonstrating the exercises.  What a great use of Facebook and Instagram to motivate us to practice Joe’s mat work!  Check out the picture collage above of some my Instagram postings from 2017. 🙂

This year I asked myself, how can I can celebrate March MATness with in my own community? The answer? Offering a Classical Pilates Mat Pop Up Class, of course!

If you are free and able, join me March 31st from 10:15am to 11:30am at Camarillo Pilates.  This will be a Classical Pilates Mat working many of the 34 original Pilates mat exercises developed by Joseph Pilates.  The level of the course will be intermediate and the pace rhythmic and challenging.*  Be ready to sweat and practice exercises such as teaser, boomerang and swan dive! Details below…

Where: Camarillo Pilates
When: Sunday, March 31st 10:15am to 11:30am
Price: $20
To Register at www.camarillopilates.com

*Given the nature of the Classical Pilates mat work, this class is not recommended for those with osteoporosis, those in their second or third trimester of pregnancy, or those rehabbing a recent injury or surgery.

-A COUPLE OTHER UPDATES-

Buff Bones® In San Fran

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of teaching my 7th Teacher Training as Buff Bones® faculty.  Thank you EHS Pilates for hosting and good luck to all the new grads! Looking for a Buff Bones® class in your area? Visit www.buff-bones.com to search for a licensed instructor.

Buff Bones® in Camarillo

Join me at Camarillo Pilates each Thursday at 11:00am for Buff Bones® mat class! We strengthen our muscles, build bone and work on our balance.  Light weights, resistance bands and foam rollers are used and provided.

Thank you for reading and I look forward to seeing you in the studio or online.

In health and movement,
Francine