Change is in the air! And with that comes a shift in the foods we eat, weekly workout routine, and our overall mindset. Autumn is an energetic season where the brisk air whisks us to move a little faster but also an introspective time to stay in, spend some time with loved ones and yourself. Whichever mood you’re in, embrace this time and enjoy every moment of it. Our Pros of the Month, have some inspiration on their fave healthy recipes and what motivates them through the season. Please meet Yoga Pros, Kasey Kilmer and Sarah Wyrough.

KASEY KILMER, Yoga Pro LA

Kasey believes that living a healthy, active lifestyle will put you on a path to happiness. She believes that staying fit and healthy can be fun and strives to make it enjoyable and exciting for her clients. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball, tennis, hiking and spending time with her family and friends. She is also a Texas Hold­em tournament champion.

QUESTION #1: WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever gotten was from my dad. He said, “If something doesn’t feel right in your gut, it probably isn’t.”  Those words have replayed in my head many times throughout my life. It’s so important to listen to our inner guides, intuition, and honor what it is trying to tell us. I have found that this rings true in many life situations, as well as in my yoga practice and fitness routine. Letting go of ego and listening to our gut instincts can help prevent injury and, most importantly, help us to grow spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.

QUESTION #2: SHARE WITH US YOUR FAVORITE HEALTHY (AND EASY) RECIPE.

My favorite healthy recipe is so simple and easy to prepare. I take a bag of mixed greens and add arugula, red onion, strawberries, some balsamic vinegar and a drizzle of honey, topping it with grilled chicken breast, or pan seared tofu, for a balance of protein and vegetables.

QUESTION #3: WHAT DO YOU DO TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF TO WORK OUT AFTER A LONG, TIRING DAY?

I find music, and my dog, Makai, my best motivators. I put on my headphones and take Makai for a light jog. The fresh air, jogging, and music give me the energy I need for a 30-45 minute workout. Even when I’m super tired, I always feel better after a workout. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and makes my doggie super happy too!

SARAH WYROUGH, Yoga Pro NY

Sarah teaches vinyasa flow with uplifting music and lots of hands on and amazing assists and adjustments. She utilizes traditional yoga practices in modern and accessible ways to make an enjoyable and challenging experience for anyone.

QUESTION #1: WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?

First of all, identify what you’re good at. Then go for it. You should be serious but not narrow-minded. Always be open to new things and new people. Look for inspiration everywhere and eat more vegetables!

QUESTION #2: SHARE WITH US YOUR FAVORITE HEALTHY (AND EASY) RECIPE.

Red Lentil Soup with Lemon has been a favorite lately. It’s delicious and warming, perfect for this time of year. Here is the New York Times recipe that I love.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons olive oil, more for drizzling
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch of ground chile powder or cayenne, more to taste
1 quart chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 cup red lentils
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
Juice of 1/2 lemon, more to taste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

PREPARATION

1. In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons oil over high heat until hot and shimmering. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until golden, about 4 minutes.
2. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, salt, black pepper and chili powder or cayenne, and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
3. Add broth, 2 cups water, lentils and carrot. Bring to a simmer, then partially cover pot and turn heat to medium-low. Simmer until lentils are soft, about 30 minutes. Taste and add salt if necessary.
4. Using a blender or a food processor, purée half the soup then add it back to pot. Soup should be somewhat chunky.
5. Reheat soup if necessary, then stir in lemon juice and cilantro. Serve soup drizzled with good olive oil and dusted lightly with chili powder if desired.

QUESTION #3: WHAT DO YOU DO TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF TO WORK OUT AFTER A LONG, TIRING DAY?

We all know living a healthy lifestyle involves a daily practice of eating well, thinking well and moving well, but some days can be hard. I recognize that everyone is dealing with different circumstances, including our health, location, free time, income, family dynamic, and psychology, to name a few. Do what you can and know that anything is better than nothing. 

Listening to music really gets me moving. On tough days I’ll motivate with an incentive, a treat after my workout. Usually something self care related; a massage or a manicure. Find what works for you. I don’t always end up indulging but knowing I can is usually enough to get me out the door. 

Amazing advice and recipes. Thanks, ladies!
Get to know the Provita Family by checking in monthly for the Provita Pros of the Month. You can view more information on Kasey and Sarah on our site here or please email us with any questions.  You can also book a session with our Provita Pros here for a personalized one-on-one session!