The other day, I drove to a nearby neighborhood with the intention of reading and working in the sun.

Instead, I spent an hour transfixed on my view of the river.  I watched as the wind gently caressed the water as turtles plunked on and off of the floating branches, absorbing the same solar energy that sent goosebumps down my arms as solitary leaves broke away and wafted slowly to the surface of the water, much like a dance.  I could smell the richness of the earth, and forgot the city was only minutes away from where I sat.  Before I realized it, I had my shoes and socks off, discarded and forgotten, and I had made my way from the bench to the grass.

It was serene.

Mindfulness and Meditation have become one of the new crazes lately, and there are differing definitions to each, but there is strong support behind how beneficial "being still" can be for our psyche, our mental and emotional stability, and yes - even our productivity once we return to the hustle.

Fall has arisen.  The leaves are changing colors, the weather is cooling, but still warm enough to promote outdoor activities.  It is the perfect time to withdraw from the electronic world, hesitate for a moment, and look around.  Realize where you are, when you are, and that you do have control over many of the things in our lives that we tend to let control us.

This month, I challenge you all to "being still," outside, in nature, without an electronic device to distract you, for 15-30 minutes, time permitting, 1-3 days each week.  I promise you will return calmer, clear-headed, and re-energized.

Phil has been one of our studio personal training clients for years.  Originally from Enfield, North Carolina, he moved to Suffolk in the '80s to be with his wife in her home town.

Wanting an overall fitness program, he discovered C-FIT, "interviewed with Jeremy Oliver, and decided to give it a try."  That was 3.5 years ago, and "I look forward to my bi-weekly visits with Jeremy.  I know that even if I don't get in the workouts I need on my own, these are a tremendous help to my overall physical condition...  As a senior, my balance, tone, strength, and overall health is greatly improved." 

He continues: "The C-FIT experience is warm, friendly, and personal. I tried other facilities, but tired quickly of waiting in line for a treadmill or exercise machine. Also, the workouts are spot-on for my needs, pushing me to work harder than I would on my own. The focus is on doing the exercises correctly, to get the most out of the workouts.

"C-FIT is the perfect place for someone that wants a complete, personal workout experience but doesn't like working out in public. I know that Jeremy and the other trainers are totally professional and extremely knowledgeable. The workouts are enhanced by their knowledge of physiology, as well as nutrition and all areas conducive to a healthy lifestyle.

"I would highly recommend C-FIT to anyone who is interested in improving one's health, regardless of age. Give it a try, and I'm sure you will not be disappointed!"