I am also now certified in the Meeks method, level 1 as an osteoporosis exercise specialist.
I will continue to strive to be the best teacher I can be through continuing education and studies. Thank you to all of my clients, teachers and angels helping me out on my personal journey!
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( 3.1 / 83 )All Saturday morning mat classes this coming Saturday, August 14th are canceled. I am sorry for the inconvenience.
See you soon. Have a wonderful day!
Penny
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( 3 / 724 )OK. So far I've been able to complete 6 out of my 11 tasks on my personal wellness list. It's getting late and I'm tired so clearly not all of them got done today, BUT, I feel good. Having the list is keeping me on track and I was able to accomplish some other things that needed to be done. I stayed a lot calmer today and didn't feel overwhelmed. Tomorrow is another day and we'll see how that goes...
Smile, Breathe, and Have a nice day!
Penny
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( 3 / 76 )OK, this is my personal wellness list. Hope it helps give you a jump start on making your own. Wish me luck because I'm one of those overwhelmed with daily life women trying to fit EVERYTHING into each day. Notice too that doing the laundry is NOT on this list!
1. get 7 hours of sleep
2. wake up early enough to walk
3. drink fresh carrot-apple juice in the morning
4. write down my thoughts in a journal before I speak to anyone
5. take my vitamins
6. drink enough water
7. practice Pilates exercises
8. do my Karen Voight workout
9. check on my goals & visualize positive outcomes
10. practice QiGong healing sounds before bed
11. this is actually the first thing I do each day upon awakening. I thank God in a prayer that goes 'I am grateful to you source of all that lives and exists for restoring my soul with compassion, great is your faithfulness, Amen.' This is a Hebrew prayer that gives me great comfort and spiritual strength.
These all help me have a happy, pain free day. I don't always get them all done but I try my best. I have more energy and I think my family likes having me around better because I am happier and less stressed when I take care of me... It's taken some practice to allow myself to take this personal time but when I do I find that life in my world flows along gloriously.
Now, no one in my family but me would thrive on my wellness list so I don't try and encourage them to. Just because these activities work for me doesn't mean they will work for you. That is the personal part. What I can tell you for sure, is that once you find the magic ingredients to your own list (and it will feel like magic because you are functioning so much better) simply follow this list to the best of your ability everyday. Once you begin to make yourself your number one priority you will feel better and life won't seem like such an overwhelming job. It shouldn't be about the effort of getting through each day but the joy. Life is a gift and it is our personal job to make each day the best we can for ourselves through our unique perspectives.
Good Luck!!! Let me know how this works for you.
Thanks.
Penny
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( 3 / 665 )I speak to so many people each week and they all have similar frustrations. Everyone is trying to find a balance in their lives and juggle the demands of daily living. Many of us find that at the end of the day we have taken care of everything and everyone except ourselves. A lot of us are doing this without enough sleep and are perhaps afflicted with chronic illness. Whether it be migraine headaches, food allergies, pain management, emotional or financial stresses, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, IBS, back pain, hormone changes...(Do you see where I'm going here?) Our activities of daily living both physical and emotional are constantly being impacted by our physical health. It may not occur to you but our posture and breathing habits have a tremendous effect on our physical and emotional well being. Yes, another reason to practice Pilates and QiGong but what I suggest for everyone today is DEVELOP YOUR OWN PERSONAL WELLNESS PLAN!
What is a 'Personal Wellness Plan'? For me it is a list of between 3 and 10 tasks that I try and make a habit of DAILY that I know will make me feel better and have a good day. This is personal because my list won't necessarily be what helps you and yours may not help me. Part of making your list is a journey into self discovery. WHAT makes you happy and brings you joy? It is a good idea to have one item on your list that you can't physically accomplish but forces you to use your imagination. See yourself fulfilling one task in your mind's eye. For example I love to be at the ocean but I live in Albany so I like to imagine the beach. The sand on my feet, the sound of the waves and the smell of the salt air. Never underestimate the healing powers of your imagination and creativity at work. If one of your daily objectives is to go for a 30 minute walk but you didn't get outside that day then imagine yourself doing the walking. Try to get all of your senses involved. Smell the fresh air. Feel the breeze against your skin. See the colors of the sky and trees. Listen for sounds of nature around you as you imagine yourself on your walk. Our bodies are 70% water. Try to feel the fluidity in your gait as you move effortlessly on your walk. Of course if you're actually able to go for the walk that day then Please allow yourself to experience all of these sensations. Don't use your walk to go through a mental list of what you need to do next...Try to be in the moment as you perform each task on your wellness list.
Another important part of the list is being grateful for the opportunity to complete each task. For example when I am walking I am thankful for the ability to walk and that I have made the time in my day for such a healthy choice. You get the idea. Don't take anything for granted...
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( 3 / 623 )Do try this at home!
We all get used to doing simple things the same way all the time. Start to think about how you go about your simple ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING and change them.
Put on your shoes or lace them up different foot first.
Put on your shirt a different way.
Brush your teeth with the other hand.
Take a different route to work or school.
It's the simple things that I want you to try and change in order to stimulate your brain in a different way than normal.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHANGE YOUR HABITS...
See if your memory improves by doing this. I think it will...
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( 3 / 870 )OK...This entry has taken way too long to post. I apologize!
The studio is finished and our new room is beautiful. The fireplace makes things extra cozy and everyone is thrilled with our new, peaceful space.
Beth Foster is teaching NIA classes on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. She is fantastic and so are her classes. Come and see for yourselves...
Dr. Oz says if you want to live to be 100 than practice qi gong! Need I say more? Steve is teaching Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons here and is also available for individual sessions so what are you waiting for?
I am now practicing the Healing Sounds daily and I consider this AS important as my daily Pilates practice.
The cd's are in production and I hope to have them available soon for everyone to purchase. For now look me up on www.sellaband.com for more information, sound clips, pictures, and soon a music video of the "heel-toe" song!
Happy February!
Best in bone health and good posture!
Peace and Light,
Penny
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( 3 / 828 )2010 is off to a wonderful start at the studio and I hope with all of you as well...
The construction is in progress for our studio expansion so please forgive our "growing pains" while the work is going on. It's very exciting to see the progress and I hope everything will be done by the middle of January.
On another note, we began production on our CD series through Indian Ledge Records. The Skele-toner audio mat class to build strong bones will be available for sale soon. 10% of profits will be donated to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
Make 2010 the year you re-commit to yourself! Pilates is the perfect way to begin. Class sizes will soon be increasing due to our newly renovated space...Currently mat classes are offered Thursdays @ 9:30am and 5:00pm and Saturdays @ 10:00am. A specific osteo mat class is offered on Saturdays @ 9:00am. We will be adding more classes in the future.
Whatever your fitness level, come have fun and be part of the Pilates Playground family!
Thank You.
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( 3 / 920 )The Monday 12:00pm Osteo-Mat class is permanently canceled!
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( 3 / 906 )The 5:00pm mat class on Christmas Eve is canceled due to the holiday.
There is still a 9:30am mat class that morning if you are available.
Merry Christmas!
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( 3 / 77 )I'm very excited to announce that our studio space will be expanding in the near future! That means more room in our busy mat classes and more classes in general.
We will be adding more qigong with Steve and osteo-tap will be back!
Also in the works is a NIA class with Beth.
Keep checking in for dates for our opening celebration in the New Year!
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( 3 / 864 )New in the studio are some lovely gift items beautifully merchandised by fashion consultant Deborah Lane!
Look for more goodies from Deb each week for you and the special people in your life...
Deb also creates one of a kind gift baskets and beautiful theme oriented party favors.
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( 3 / 821 )The studio will be closed on December 25 and 26 for Christmas. Have a blessed and joyous holiday season!
There WILL be classes on New Year's Eve. I hope you'll be there. What a great way to usher in 2010!
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( 3 / 801 )Good Morning!
The studio is closed today due to inclement weather. Just a reminder that if Guilderland School District closes than so does Pilates Playground.
Drive safely and stay warm!
Thank you for your understanding.
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( 2.9 / 775 )This is from the November 2000 issue of Cooking Light magazine. It's really good so make a lot! I always taste and add more of my favorite ingredients as I go along (like cilantro!)
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
3 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon finely chopped green bell pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 habanero pepper or 1 serrano chile, seeded and minced
Dash of black pepper
To prepare salsa, place cranberries in a food processor, pulse 3 or 4 times until chopped. Combine cranberries, onions, and the remaining ingredients is a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate. Yield: 1 cup (serving size 1/4 cup)
Calories 60 (2% from fat) FAT 0.1g; PROTEIN 0.4g; CARB 15.8g; FIBER 0.7g; CHOL 0mg; IRON 0.3mg; SODIUM 76mg; CALC 9mg.
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( 3 / 798 )This Thursday is Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for. My children, family and friends and of course my Pilates Playground family! Thank you all for being such a big part of my life and for making each day of seeing and teaching all of you something I look forward to very much!
As most of you know things have gotten much busier at the studio and away. I travel to New York most Tuesdays to teach clients in the city and am busy working on the studio's first educational CD. This will be ready early in 2010 and I'll keep you posted. I can't wait to share the music with you!
As the holidays approach we will be adding some unique and special gift items to help you with your shopping ideas. Also ahead are some select and special workout clothes that will soon be available for sale in the studio.
A reminder that the studio will be closed from
Wednesday through Saturday of this week. We re open on Monday, November 30th. Have a lovely holiday!
Lots of Love and Light from my family to yours!
Penny
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( 3 / 817 )ADVOCATES FOR BETTER BONE HEALTH ON CAPITOL HILL
FOR WORLD OSTEOPOROSIS DAY
Local resident visits Senators Gillibrand and Schumer and Representative Paul Tonko on
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 to raise awareness of osteoporosis and bone health
Albany, NY October 26, 2009 — On October 20, 2009, Penny Shure visited her Members of Congress as part of the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s (NOF) World Osteoporosis Day activities. NOF’s Strong Voices for Strong Bones on Capitol Hill event brought together patients and health professionals from across the country to raise awareness of osteoporosis and bone health in Congress.
Penny Shure owns Pilates Playground, Healing With Movement in Voorheesville, NY which specializes in modified Pilates for Bone Health and The Meeks Method. She runs the Albany support group for the NOF through her studio and provides osteoporosis education, prevention and management information for the community.
During her visits on Capitol Hill, Penny represented the views of the osteoporosis community including patients, family members, those at risk for the disease, health professionals and others who work with those living with or at risk for the disease.
“This is an issue that is close to my heart. My mother, brother and I all have osteoporosis. My mom has had multiple fractures and has lost inches. My grandmother had osteoporosis. It runs in families but quite often goes undiagnosed until later in life. It is important to me to teach everyone I can about the lifestyle and exercise modifications that can not only prevent the progress of this debilitating and silent disease, but can actually re build bone and increase height. I have grown an inch! All of my clients have seen improvements in posture, flexibility, strength, breathing and range of motion. People are getting stronger and standing taller with these exercises.”
Penny is currently producing a CD of children’s songs to teach bone health and good posture at a young age. She believes that encouraging healthy habits early will ultimately prevent osteoporosis in many adults. “It is the childhood and teen years when bone is building and getting stronger. I think of this as building a bone savings account to last a lifetime! What you do before the age of 21 directly effects how your adult bones will carry you through life! This is why diet, exercise and lifestyle modifications learned early are so important.”
Osteoporosis is a disease in which an individual’s bones become weak and are more likely to break. One in two women age 50 and older and nearly one in four men will break a bone because of osteoporosis in their lifetimes.
There are 44 million Americans living with or at risk for osteoporosis. More than 3 million New York State residents are estimated to live with or are at risk for osteoporosis. But osteoporosis is largely preventable and treatable through a bone healthy lifestyle.
Everyone in our community can incorporate simple steps in their daily lives to help prevent osteoporosis and improve their bone health. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends the following steps for better bone health:
• Get your daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
• Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle strengthening exercise
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about bone health and find out if you are at risk for osteoporosis.
***
The National Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health. Its mission is to prevent osteoporosis, to promote lifelong bone health, to help improve the lives of those affected by osteoporosis and related fractures, and to find a cure through programs of awareness, education, advocacy and research. For more information on osteoporosis and bone health, contact NOF online at www.nof.org or by phone at (800) 223-9994.
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( 3 / 836 )
October 20, 2009 Washington, DC office of Congressman Paul Tonko.
Roberta Biegel, Senior Director of Public Policy and Government Relations for the NOF and Penny Shure, patient rights advocate after meeting with the Congressman to discuss provisions for osteoporosis prevention, education, funding and patient access to dexa testing as part of health care reform.
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( 3 / 848 )Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder with compromised bone strength that predisposes an individual to increased fracture risk. This is important because people are developing this silent and deadly disease at an alarming rate. Half of all women and ¼ of all men over the age of 50 will suffer an osteoporosis related fracture in their lifetime according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (2005). That adds up to 10 million Americans living with osteoporosis and an estimated 34 million with low bone mass, putting them at risk for osteoporosis and bone related fractures. The statistics on recovery and quality of life post fracture are alarming and are raising many red flags as to the efficacy of how the current healthcare system can best deal with this disease. On average 24% of hip fracture patients over age 50 die within the year following their fracture. The functional and emotional impacts of living and dying with osteoporosis cause devastating consequences and fear in patients and their families. In my opinion, these numbers are unacceptable and can be greatly reduced through lifestyle modification, specifically exercise, nutrition and how we approach our activities of daily living.
Although many of the risk factors for osteoporosis are non modifiable, there are a wide range of dietary, lifestyle and exercise modifications that enable people to both reverse and prevent bone loss. I teach these exercises at my Pilates studio in Albany, New York and practice them myself. Everyone has improved their posture (some of us have grown taller!), and increased their flexibility, strength and range of motion. It is both remarkable and wonderful and I see proof on a daily basis that movement heals.
It is my dream to teach children worldwide through music and movement the healthy exercises that will strengthen their erector spinae muscles, encourage proper gait, core control and good posture. I believe that if we teach our children alignment awareness now that we will help them to develop healthy habits that will carry them through life standing tall, walking fluidly, and sitting up straight. This will improve bone health, aerobic capacity, attention in school, and increase energy levels and productivity. Their bones will remain strong into old age, chronic back and muscle pain will decrease, people will maintain active, fulfilling lives as they age, and healthcare costs will be greatly reduced. The cost of postural awareness exercises is nominal compared to the cost of post fracture treatment!
I have created this CD in an attempt to raise awareness in all of our communities as to the need for early intervention when it comes to preventing osteoporosis. This was stressed by the National Institute of Health Consensus Development Panel on Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy. March 7-29, 2001. JAMA 2001. They concluded that “The bone mass attained early in life may be the most important determinant of skeletal health later in life. Modifiable life-style factors can play a significant role in influencing peak bone mass. Maximizing bone mass early in life offers a critical opportunity to reduce the impact of bone loss related to aging.” They went on to stress a list of issues and concerns that need to be addressed as part of directions for future research in osteoporosis management which included: “Strategies to maximize peak bone mass in girls and boys., The most effective method of educating health care professionals and the public., The cost-effectiveness of programs encouraging bone health., and The long-term effects on health, function, and quality of life.” My music addresses all of the above concerns!
In 2009 I served on the American Institute of Biological Sciences Peer Review Medical Research Program (PRMRP 2009) where I gave critiques of proposals submitted to the U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command (USAMRMC) based on my experience as a consumer reviewer. During meetings with leading scientists and medical professionals who had convened from across the nation we evaluated and assessed the impact that successful DOD funding of these proposals would have not only on the military but the entire US population. In October I served on a patient panel for Eli-Lilly to help them get a deeper perspective on the effects of living and working with osteoporosis. We discussed the emotional and functional impacts on a patient and their loved ones of living with osteoporosis and brain stormed ideas the drug company could come up with to help on a deeper level than drug development. I spent World Osteoporosis Day, October 20, 2009 in Washington, DC visiting members of Congress as part of the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s “Strong Voices for Strong Bones on Capitol Hill” event that brought together patients and healthcare professionals from across the country to raise awareness of osteoporosis and bone health in Congress. Although we urge the government to get more involved in patient access to testing, education on osteoporosis prevention, management and lifestyle modifications as supported by the NIH, there is so much we can do as individuals to support our own health. We can and must be pro-active. Of all I have accomplished this year, I believe my most effective way of helping so far though has been teaching one person at a time these simple and effective exercises.
My experience in movement education through dance, Pilates, the Meeks Method and over years of working with children and adults of all ages has guided me as I’ve written these songs. As an NOF support group leader and osteoporosis patient myself I have developed insight and awareness into this disease. I hope that my music and the projects that grow out of it will enable me to reach out to a much larger group, specifically the children. By the time kids reach adulthood it’s too late. We have to act now to build strong and healthy bones early. It’s like compounding interest in a savings account. You reap the benefits if you start early!
I am so happy to share these songs with all of you! To all of the children, parents, teachers, health teachers, gym teachers, dance teachers, physical therapists…..I hope they make you smile and have fun singing, dancing, and walking along with them. All of you “skele-toners” out there: Keep moving, keep toning your bones and sending them good vibrations! Let’s eliminate osteoporosis together by setting good examples for our kids. We have to learn the modified exercises ourselves too. So sing along and make the changes in yourselves first. The grown-ups will feel terrific and everyone will feel and see a difference! Although the statistics are alarming with experts predicting that by 2025 the costs of living with osteoporosis related fractures will have surged to approximately $25.3 billion (NOF 2008), the importance of prevention cannot be overstated. Together we can halt the progress of this disease.
Thank You!
Penny Shure.
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( 3 / 869 )***Thursday 12:00pm osteo mat classes are canceled.
***Just a reminder that the studio will be closed Thanksgiving week. Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving to all of you and your loved ones wherever they may be.
It's easy to overindulge with the holidays upon us. Try to remember your healthy habits. I find that if I keep a written schedule for my personal workouts that I am more likely to stick to the program!
Plan your workouts on your calendars and make yourself come first!
Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. You'll be less likely to over eat.
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( 2.9 / 827 )There is some controversy as to whether or not Pilates classes should be taught outside of traditional studios. This is understandable because frequently the classes are too large and are taught by inexperienced teachers.
However, believing that Pilates should not be taught in gyms is tantamount to suggesting that the alphabet only be taught in private schools.
Pilates is meant to be the foundation upon which all of our movement patterns, activities of daily living and athletic performance are based. Everyone benefits from doing these exercises daily. Think also of the positive effects on health care costs if people were taught to do these exercises as a part of their pro-active regime to promote good health. A Pilates class is a small price to pay in comparison to post surgery or post fracture care and of course the high cost of living with back pain that millions endure. Imagine the savings in health care spending if everyone practiced the Pilates method and more specifically the Meeks method in combination which is what I teach!
It is imperative to maintain the integrity of Pilates by demanding classically trained, knowledgeable and compassionate instructors. Gym owners must understand and not trivialize the depth of this bodywork for the safety of their clientelle and the reputation of the method.
This should be the standard they strive for.
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( 3 / 821 )October 16th and 17th I had the pleasure of being in Indianapolis, Indiana at Eli-Lilly for a patient summit. Eight women from around the country including myself got to know each other and share ideas with Lilly staff on how to make life for patients better. I have the utmost respect for the integrity of Eli-Lilly and am honored to have been able to contribute to this panel.
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( 3 / 841 )October 20th was World Osteoporosis Day and I had the pleasure of spending the day in Washington, DC visiting the offices of Senator's Gillibrand and Schumer, and Representatives Lowey and Tonko. I was there as a lobbyist for the National Osteoporosis Foundation to let our NYS legislators know about the need for their votes on the "Medicare Fracture Prevention and Osteoporosis Testing Act of 2009" and the "Bone Health Promotion and Research Act of 2009". It was one of the most important days of my life. The experience of being able to speak not only for myself but for everyone made me understand how privileged I am as an American to have a government that listens to all the people! The highlight of my day came at the end when I got to discuss these important issues with our own hometown Congressman Paul Tonko. I am looking forward to having any or all of the legislators stop by the studio and learn how to exercise their bones safely! Stay tuned for more information, photographs and press releases to follow.
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( 3 / 824 )We had a wonderful time traveling into the city for the NOF luncheon honoring Dr. Marie Savard and Paula Zahn. It was terrific to be with so many mothers, daughters and a few dads and learn more about what is going on to help educate our community and raise awareness on so many levels. I was able to bring my mom Myrna who like me also has osteoporosis. There were 2 other mothers and daughters at our table and 4 girlfriends. Photographer Kelsey Lane was their with her mom Deborah and fotos will be posted soon. Local chiropractor Dr. Kerstin Medwin came with her mom Cathy Bellino. Barbara Lecakes and Susan Sneeringer joined us along with New Yorkers Leslie Newman and Amy Moses who found out they live across the street from each other. It's a small world! Thanks to all who contributed to this special event. The Pierre Hotel is lovely and we look forward to attending and hosting future fundraisers.
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( 3 / 877 )I will be participating in "Strong Voices for Strong Bones on Capitol Hill" this October 19th and 20th! The National Osteoporosis Foundation is bringing together patients and health professionals from around the country to celebrate World Osteoporosis Day by raising awareness of the physical and economic impact that osteoporosis and poor bone health have on the nation with Members of Congress.
I will be meeting with our state Senators and Congressmen on the 20th and am eager to share with them my passion for osteoporosis education, prevention and management through exercise and lifestyle modifications. It is imperative that the consequences and severity of impact of this disease be understood, especially in light of the health care issues in our country today.
Anyone who would like me to add their point of view please let me know.
I am really honored to be a representative for the NOF and for everyone I meet in our support group meetings and through the studio. Thank You all for giving me this opportunity to be your advocate!
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( 3.1 / 901 )There are no more Tuesday morning 9:30 mat classes for the time being.
Please join us for one of the other classes whenever you can!
Thank You!
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( 3 / 871 )This Monday the 21st and Wednesday the 23rd I will be teaching a basic mat class @ 5:30pm! Thursday's 5:00pm class is canceled this week due to the NOF fundraiser.
Hope you can make it!
Thank You and have a nice week.
Penny
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( 3 / 83 )We are looking for people who would like to be photographed demonstrating modified Pilates exercises for osteoporosis. All ages and body types are desired. The photographs might be used in an upcoming "how to" book. Please email or call the studio if you are interested in getting involved.
Thank You!
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( 3 / 860 )Hi Everyone,
I want to wish all of my clients, readers and friends, Jewish or not, a very happy and healthy new year. Rosh Hashanah is this coming Saturday. It's a time for me to give thanks for all of my blessings and all of you! Enjoy some apples and honey and have a sweet new year...
This is a favorite time of year for me. The end of September marks our 6th year anniversary. The studio has grown from just 1 mat and a magic circle to a fully equipped "dungeon"! I've had and continue to have the pleasure of teaching the most amazing and wonderful clients and continuing with my own education. I am so excited about what the future holds!
Remember, life is an occasion - rise to it!
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( 3 / 804 )So, two monthe ago I had the pleasure of speaking with some of the medical experts at NYSOPEP at Helen Hayes Hospital in NYC. We were discussing my diagnosis and I was asked what other tests I had taken along with the dexa-scan. My answer was none. I had simply been given a diagnosis, a prescription for drugs & told to take calcium. They said that pre-menopausal women need other tests and it was good that i didn't take the meds. The suggestion of celiac disease came up. After looking online at the symptoms I realized that I had quite a few of them so I began my own dietary self experimentation by eliminating gluten. I don't see my doctor for another month but after 2 months of being gluten free, my symptoms have completely gone away.
So, just something for you to think about if you find out you have osteoporosis at a young age. It was a huge shock to me because I thought I was in perfect health. But then again, that is the danger of osteoporosis. It effects us at epidemic proportions and we don't feel sick.
That is why doing the exercises I teach every single day is soooo important. They, along with other lifestyle and diet modifications will keep our bones healthy and strong.
By the way, I don't miss the pasta or the bread and I've taken up cooking, which is making my family very happy!
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( 2.9 / 970 )Hello,
I am absolutely thrilled to let you know that Pilates Playground is sponsoring a table at the NOF luncheon this September 24th at the Hotel Pierre in New York. Thank you to everyone who has helped to contribute our $1,750.00 donation to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. I'm sure this will be a huge success and a lot of fun. Keep posted for photos and details of this future event.
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( 3 / 841 )Hi Everyone,
As of September 1st Pilates Playground is only open at the Voorheesville location. All classes formerly at Plaza Fitness will be offered in this location. We have also added a Saturday morning 9:00am osteo-mat class and a 10:00am basic mat class. Please call Penny if you have questions. The prices remain unchanged.
Have a terrific end of summer!!!
The studio will be closed on Labor Day.
Thank You!
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( 3 / 851 )9:00am Osteo-Mat
10:00am Pilates Basic Mat
All classes $15.00
Classes will be in the Voorheesville studio.
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( 3 / 1001 )Monday July 27 2009 8:10 am mat class at Plaza Fitness is canceled.
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( 3 / 1002 )This looks good to me as another way to increase bone density! Check out www.walkvest.com to order. Advertised benefits of wearing the vest while walking are accelerated weight loss, increased cardiovascular strength, increase bone density, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reduce stress and anxiety, increase energy & stamina. I like this vest because the weights are evenly distributed around your core so it is a safe way of adding weight without throwing off your posture, gait and internal plumb line. A vest is much better and safer than holding hand weights or wearing wrist weights. It is also much more reasonably priced than other vests I saw online. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
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( 3 / 957 )I bought my MBT sandals from a shop in Reston, Virginia. The owner, Jean Sook Kim was very helpful and I plan on calling her when I buy my next pair (different style). Her phone is:(703)435-1600, www.jccomfortshoes.com. They also have a terrific selection of other shoes as well!
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Here I am in my new MBT sandals walking all over Washington, DC and Georgetown. Now I really resisted buying these sandals because they are ugly! If you know me and know how much I love shoes than you understand already! They are also expensive BUT…they are absolutely worth it and yes I was wearing them with my LBD! (little black dress) Sara Meeks recommends these shoes for walking, core strengthening, bone health, balance and more and I thoroughly trust her opinion so I bought these “medicine shoes” and decided to give them a try. Instantly I was standing taller, engaging my abdominals for balance and could feel the muscles in my legs firing up. I plan on getting a pair of the walking shoes too and the rocking chair (convex) sole makes standing still my little game. Go figure! Give these a try and let me know what you think…
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( 2.9 / 988 )Osteo-K is a calcium supplement that I first read about in the May 2009 issue of Bottom Line Personal, which I will have posted here for you to read. I like this supplement so much that I am taking it myself and will soon have it available for sale both online and at the studio. Along with eating well this is an essential part of my health care regimen.
More than 10 million Americans
have the bone-weakening
disease osteoporosis
—approximately 15% of women and
4% of men over the age of 50. Another
34 million or so have osteopenia—
bone density that is below
normal and may lead to osteoporosis.
And every year, two million people
with osteoporosis have a so-called
“
osteoporotic fracture,” usually of
the hip, spine or wrist.
New finding: Experts know that an
osteoporotic hip fracture is disastrous—
12% to 40% of victims die
within six months (partly because
they tend to become depressed and
more sedentary). But when Australian
researchers studied more than
4,000 people age 60 and older for
18 years, they found that almost any
kind of osteoporotic fracture increased
the risk for death. Focusing
on people over age 75, they found
that breaking a wrist increased
mortality risk by 40% in women
and 80% in men…a spinal fracture
doubled mortality risk in both sexes…
and a hip fracture more than
doubled mortality risk in women
and tripled it in men.
Another recent finding: Bone mineral
density (BMD) does not accurately
reflect fracture risk. A dual
energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)
test measures the BMD in your hip,
spine and wrist. A score of –1 to –2.5
indicates osteopenia…a score under
–2.5 signals osteoporosis. But in one
study, 82% of women who reported
fractures of the wrist, forearm, hip,
rib or spine in the year after a BMD
test did not have scores indicating osteoporosis
(scores of –2.5 or lower).
Overall, BMD predicts only 44%
of fractures in elderly women and
21% of fractures in elderly men.
New thinking: The BMD test indicates
the hardness of bone, imparted
by the minerals calcium and magnesium.
But flexibility is what helps
bones resist fracture—the bone’s
ability to bend a bit and not break.
Flexibility is created by the bone’s
collagen, the protein-rich infrastructure.
To build bone collagen, you
need vitamin K.
THE SECRET BONE-SAVER
Vitamin K (phylloquinone) is a
fat-soluble nutrient (like vitamins
A
and D) found abundantly in leafy
green vegetables. Vitamin K helps
the liver manufacture proteins that
control blood clotting. Vitamin K-2
(menaquinone) is formed in the
body from vitamin K. Vitamin K-2
has many functions, including building
collagen in bone—and preventing
fractures.
New finding: Scientists at Harvard
Medical School analyzed 10 years of
health data on vitamin K intake and
bone health in more than 70,000
women in the Nurses’ Health Study.
Those with the highest intake of
vitamin K had a 30% lower risk for
hip fracture, compared with women
who had the lowest intake. They
also found that women who ate the
most lettuce—the biggest source of
vitamin K in most diets—had a 45%
lower risk for hip fracture than those
who ate the least.
What to do: The government’s recommendation
for daily vitamin K
intake
is 90 micrograms (mcg) to
120 mcg. How do you maximize
your intake? Eat your vegetables!
Top vegetables include kale (1,062
mcg per cup), spinach (889 mcg),
turnip greens (851 mcg), collard
greens (836 mcg), Swiss chard (299
mcg), broccoli (220 mcg), brussels
sprouts (219 mcg), butterhead lettuce
(167 mcg), cabbage (163 mcg)
and asparagus (144 mcg). Among
vegetable oils, soybean oil (3.4 mcg
per tablespoon) and olive oil (8.1
mcg) score highest.
Don’t worry about cooking—it
doesn’t destroy the vitamin.
If you want the greatest peace
of mind about getting sufficient vitamin
K to prevent bone fractures,
you may want to take a daily supplement
of the nutrient.
THE POWER OF MK4
Doctors from England analyzed
the data from 13 studies on osteoporosis
and a form of vitamin K
called MK4. They found vitamin
MK4 decreased hip fractures by
73%, spinal fractures by 60% and
nonspinal fractures by 81%. Compare
those results to the average
John Neustadt, ND ¦ Montana Integrative Medicine
Fracture-Proof
Your Bones
The Most Important Nutrient
Isn’t Calcium
John Neustadt,
ND, a naturopathic physician,
clinical director of Montana Integrative Medicine
and cofounder
of Nutritional Biochemistry, Inc.,
both in Bozeman, Montana. Dr. Neustadt is coauthor
of A Revolution in Health Through Nutritional
Biochemistry and A Revolution in Health
Part 2: How to Take Charge of Your Health (both
from iUniverse). www.montanaim.com.
Copyright © 2009 by Boardroom Inc., 281
Tresser Blvd., Stamford, Connecticut 06901-3229.
www.BottomLineSecrets.com.
www.BottomLineSecrets.com
Sign up for Bottom Line’s FREE e-letters at www.BottomLineSecrets.com/eletters
Reprinted with the permission of Bottom Line/Personal
19% decrease in fracture risk from
taking supplements of calcium and
vitamin
D (which aids in the absorption
of calcium).
To help my patients, I developed
a supplement that contains the same
amount and type of the nutrient (45
mg of MK4) used in the clinical trials.
The supplement, called Osteo-
K, also contains calcium, vitamin D,
magnesium and boron (available at
www.nbihealth.com).
If you’re taking corticosteroids:
Medications called corticosteroids
(cortisone, prednisone, hydrocortisone)
are powerful anti-inflammatory
agents. They are synthetic versions of
cortisol, an adrenal hormone. They
often are prescribed to help control
the symptoms of chronic diseases
with an inflammatory component,
such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory
bowel disease, lupus and severe
asthma. Taken regularly for six
months or more, corticosteroids can
cause osteoporosis. Additionally, taking
these medicines for more than six
months increases the risk for vertebral
fracture by up to 200%. Clinical
trials have shown that taking 45 mg
daily of MK4 decreases bone loss and
fractures caused by corticosteroids.
Caution: If you are taking the
anticoagulant
warfarin (Coumadin),
talk to your doctor before taking
any type of supplemental vitamin
K, which can block the action of
the drug.
DO DRUGS WORK?
You might think that a vitamin K
supplement
would be a lightweight
compared to the widely prescribed
bisphosphonate drugs, such as
alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate
(Actonel), raloxifene (Evista) and
zoledronic acid (Zometa).
But drugs are less effective at decreasing
fracture risk than vitamin K.
Example: Fosamax decreases vertebral
fracture risk by 47%, compared
with a reduction of up to 60%
for vitamin K.
And the latest research shows
that these bone-building drugs can
hurt your health…
¦ Esophageal cancer. In December
2008, the FDA said Fosamax and other
bisphosphonates might increase the
risk for esophageal cancer—and that
no one with Barrett’s esophagus (an
esophageal problem common among
people with heartburn) should take
these drugs.
¦ Heart problems. People taking
bisphosphonates are twice as likely
to experience life-threatening heart
irregularities
called arrhythmias.
¦ Increased fracture risk. New evidence
shows that people who take
bisphosphonates for several years may
have an increased risk for sudden
fractures during normal activity, such
as standing or walking. Bisphosphonates
improve bone quantity, not bone
quality—and may affect bone growth
in such a way as to eventually create
weaker bones.
¦ Osteonecrosis of the jaw. In this
disease—also called “dead jaw”—sections
of the tissue of the jawbone die
after a major dental procedure, such as
a tooth implant or extraction. People
taking a bisphosphonate have a 4%
risk for this side effect after a dental
procedure—and top dental experts
are warning that anyone about to have
such a procedure should stop taking
the drug at least one month before
the procedure.
Bottom line: Talk to your doctor
about whether a bisphosphonate is
right for you. You could take another
type of bone-building medication,
such as parathyroid hormone, which
decreases fracture risk by 65%. Or
you could add vitamin K to your
regimen.
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( 3.2 / 1079 )This week I had the privilege of serving on the American Institute of Biological Sciences Peer Review of Proposals submitted to the U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command in Reston, Virginia. I was a consumer reviewer on the osteoporosis and bone related illnesses panel. This gave me the opportunity to speak not just on my own behalf, but for all of my clients and for all Americans who suffer from a bone related disease. It was an honor and a tremendous experience for me to be part of something bigger than myself. I had the chance to discuss grant proposals with scientists and doctors who might not have otherwise considered how the work being reviewed for funding will truly effect the emotional well being and overall health of the patients they are trying to help. Although the work I reviewed is confidential, I can tell you that it was very re-assuring to know how thoroughly the government studies and works with scientists in order to find cures for disease. This work will not only benefit the brave members of our military and veterans, but also their families and the general population. It is all very cutting edge!
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( 2.9 / 825 )As my 11 year old son flushes his week old guppy, “Peanut Butter” down the toilet and gives a brief but heartfelt eulogy I give thanks that Pilates is a big part of my life. The mind, body, spirit connection is helping with my coping skills this evening as it does regularly! I take a deep breath, exhale even deeper, sit up a bit straighter and smile.
I have a unique and wonderful opportunity as an instructor to see the future possibilities that are achievable when we practice Pilates, Qigong, Yoga, and other exercises or even just go out for a daily walk! Combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, everyday can be joyous and aging can be embraced. What we eat is a big part of feeling good each day.
This week we had our most recent National Osteoporosis Foundation support group meeting and were fortunate to have nutrition counselor Brianna Harrington as our guest speaker. She had a lot of wonderful information on what to eat for healthy bones. I was thrilled to learn that dark chocolate (think magnesium) is medicinal and I can let go of the guilt! I am also adding kale to my smoothies since it’s a huge source of calcium and vitamin K and really helps build strong bones. They are very green and give a real energy boost! Look for more from Brianna on our website soon.
The Skele-Toner modified Pilates mat classes for bone strength and good posture are getting very popular. I am so happy about this. We are all standing up straighter and seeing improvements in flexibility, balance and core strength. Some of us have actually grown an inch and seen dexa-scan results improve from the mat classes alone! So, please come try a class if you haven’t done so already.
I will be continuing my studies with Sara Meeks, PT at her Scranton, PA workshop at the end of the month and look forward to sharing more of the “Meeks Method” with all of you…
Have a wonderful day & Thank You for your support!
Peace,
Penny Shure
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( 3 / 872 )No Pilates Friday June 12th, Wednesday June 24th, Thursday June 25th
and the week of July 6-10
New Voorhessville class times beginning Tuesday June 30th:
NEW Voorheesville Mat Class @ 9:30 AM Tuesdays and Thursdays
Voorheesville 4 PM mat classes will resume in the Fall
Voorheesville 5 PM mat class in Voorheesville on-going
Plaza Fitness Monday and Thursday Classes as of June 1 are 12:00 NOON not 11:30
Tuesday 10:00AM Mat Class is cancelled
Monday and Thursday Osteo-Tap Class is changed to 1:00 PM
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Penny has taught dance and aerobics since 1985. She has worked with people of all ages - young children through elderly adults as well as mentally challenged adults. She is careful in her approach and keenly sensitive to her clients' individual needs, whether they have physical limitations or are professional dancers or athletes.
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