Bench Pixie

11/08/2023

My new page is called Luminary Intuitive Movement and Nutrition.

This page will be deactivated when I have access to a desktop computer.

09/13/2023

01/03/2023

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Words are displayed in soft, natural colors on a peach background. The first panel features a drawing of a person in a yoga pose, and there are accent drawings from nature throughout. The text reads:

I am diagnosed with major depressive disorder and PTSD. For most of my life, I lived without a formal diagnosis or access to mental healthcare.

Exercise helped me through some of my hardest times before I had access to medication or therapy.

***It is not a substitute for medication or therapy***

I feel elated when I run.
I feel focused when I walk or ride a bike.
I feel balanced when I practice yoga.
I feel accomplished when I lift weights.

Some days, I move my body for just a few minutes and feel a sense of achievement and structure.

Exercise reminds me to breathe. It brings me to the moment I am in.

Research supports elevated mood and other benefits to mental health. Some exercise has a similar effect as using ma*****na.

See "additional reading" in description.

Exercise isn't the ultimate choice for everyone. It may be contraindicated or approached with caution in some circumstances:

*Eating disorders
*During manic episodes (for some)
*Physical needs
*Personal preference
*Other treatments are sufficient

Consult a trusted professional familiar with your individual situation.

ADDITIONAL READING: These are some scientific articles I found useful.

CONTENT WARNING: Some articles contain explicit discussion of mental health symptoms, including su***de. Some of the studies contain faulty biases, including ableism and fatphobia. The study on cannabinoids used animal testing.

Henriksson, Malin et al. "Effects of exercise on symptoms of anxiety in primary care patients: A randomized controlled trial." Journal of Affective Disorders, Volume 299, 15 February 2022, Pages 719, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032721010739

Pajonk, Frank-Gerald et al. "Hippocampal Plasticity in Response to Exercise in Schizophrenia." Arch Gen Psychiatry, February 2010, 67(2):133-143, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/210578

Dietrich, A et al. "Endocannabinoids and exercise." British Journal of Sports Medicine, Volume 38, Issue 5, https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/38/5/536

Grave, Riccardo Dalle et al. "Compulsive exercise to control shape or weight in eating disorders: prevalence, associated features, and treatment outcome." Comprehensive Psychiatry, Volume 49, Issue 4, July–August 2008, Pages 346-352 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0010440X08000023 (Only the study synopsis is available for free.)

Wright, Kim et al. "‘It's a double edged sword’: A qualitative analysis of the experiences ofexercise amongst people with Bipolar Disorder." Journal of Affective Disorders, Volume 136, Issue 3, February 2012, Pages 634-642 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032711006628

12/30/2022

January 2023 Special!
3 session package for $65
Includes initial consultation/goal assessment, and two full workouts

I am a NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach and have trained exclusively within LGBTQ and disabled communities.

My approach is focused on bodily autonomy and love. I believe each person's goals are unique and no one should face pressure or judgement about their priorities for their own body.

Since I have a background in yoga and in supporting clients through physical therapy, my skill set has a strong emphasis on balance and postural work.

Optional nutrition advice and accountability included, always with the approach of nourishment, not depriving yourself.

I can come to your home, or train in my patio gym. COVID protocols observed.

Pixie logo by

03/27/2022

I'm so excited to offer group personal training sessions; It's a great way to stay motivated and keep each other accountable.

Surround yourself with people who share your goals!

12/23/2021

Roasted spaghetti squash with fresh spinach-lemon pesto, soy chorizo, and parmesan!

09/02/2021

Now offering nutrition coach services!