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Tag: Exploring

  • Unlock the Power of Yoga: Exploring the Physical, Mental, and Emotional Benefits (Target keywords: yoga benefits, physical benefits, mental benefits)

    Unlock the Power of Yoga: Exploring the Physical, Mental, and Emotional Benefits (Target keywords: yoga benefits, physical benefits, mental benefits)

    As she stepped onto the yoga mat, Sarah felt a sense of calm wash over her. She had been practicing yoga for months, and she couldn’t believe the transformative impact it had on her life. From improved flexibility to reduced stress, Sarah had experienced the numerous yoga benefits that had been touted by her friends and family. But what exactly makes yoga so powerful? Let’s delve into the physical benefits, mental benefits, and emotional benefits of this ancient practice.

    Physical Benefits: A Stronger, More Flexible Body

    One of the most obvious physical benefits of yoga is its ability to increase flexibility. By holding various poses, or asanas, yoga helps to stretch and lengthen the muscles, tendons, and connective tissue. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who lead sedentary lifestyles or have jobs that involve repetitive movements. Regular yoga practice can help to improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and even alleviate chronic pain. For example, the downward-facing dog pose can help to stretch the hamstrings, calves, and spine, while the warrior pose can help to strengthen the legs and hips.

    In addition to flexibility, yoga can also help to improve balance, coordination, and overall physical strength. Many yoga poses require engagement of the core muscles, which can help to improve posture, stability, and balance. This can be especially beneficial for older adults or individuals who are at risk of falls. Furthermore, yoga can help to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, increasing circulation, and boosting the immune system.

    Mental Benefits: A Clearer, More Focused Mind

    The mental benefits of yoga are just as impressive as the physical benefits. One of the most significant advantages of yoga is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. By combining physical movement with deep breathing techniques, yoga helps to calm the mind and quiet the nervous system. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with anxiety or depression, as yoga can help to reduce symptoms and improve mood. For example, the child’s pose can help to calm the mind and reduce feelings of overwhelm, while the tree pose can help to improve focus and concentration.

    In addition to reducing stress, yoga can also help to improve cognitive function. Regular practice has been shown to improve memory, attention, and processing speed, making it an excellent activity for individuals of all ages. Yoga can also help to improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall mental and physical health. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, yoga can help individuals fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized.

    Emotional Benefits: A Deeper Connection to Self

    While the physical benefits and mental benefits of yoga are well-documented, the emotional benefits are just as profound. Yoga helps to cultivate a deeper connection to the self, promoting self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love. By tuning into the body and mind, individuals can develop a greater understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This can lead to increased emotional intelligence, empathy, and compassion, which can have a positive impact on relationships and overall well-being.

    Yoga can also help to promote emotional healing and release. By releasing physical tension and emotional blockages, individuals can experience a sense of liberation and freedom. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma or are struggling with emotional pain. For example, the eagle pose can help to release tension in the shoulders and chest, while the pigeon pose can help to release emotions stored in the hips and lower back.

    Beyond the Mat: Bringing Yoga into Daily Life

    While the benefits of yoga are numerous, they don’t have to be limited to the mat. By incorporating yoga principles and practices into daily life, individuals can experience the benefits of yoga in every aspect of their lives. This can include practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing, which can help to reduce stress and improve focus. Individuals can also bring yoga into their daily routines by taking breaks to stretch, practicing gratitude, and cultivating self-awareness.

    In addition to individual practices, yoga can also be incorporated into relationships and community. By practicing yoga with others, individuals can experience a sense of connection and belonging, which can be especially beneficial for those who feel isolated or alone. Yoga can also be used as a tool for social change, promoting unity, compassion, and understanding.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the benefits of yoga are numerous and far-reaching. From physical benefits such as increased flexibility

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  • Diving into the Deep: Exploring the Wreckages of the World’s Most Remote Islands

    Diving into the Deep: Exploring the Wreckages of the World’s Most Remote Islands

    Diving into the Deep: Exploring the Wreckages of the World’s Most Remote Islands

    The world above the waves can be a beautiful and wondrous place, but it’s the depths of the ocean that hold the most secrets. For divers and explorers, the allure of the unknown can be too great to resist. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of remote islands and explore the wreckage of the world’s most isolated and fascinating oceanic treasures.

    The Uncharted Islands of the Pacific

    The Pacific Ocean is home to some of the most remote and inaccessible islands on the planet. One of the most famous and historically significant is the island of Pitcairn, located over 2,000 kilometers from the nearest major landmass. This tiny island, with a population of less than 50, is nothing short of a hidden gem for divers. The around-the-world voyager Ferdinand Magellan was the first European to sight the island in 1592, and since then, its strategic location has made it a hotspot for pirates, smugglers, and even British naval forces.

    The real treasure, however, lies beneath the surface. Pitcairn Island is a magnet for shipwrecks, with estimated 1,000 vessels having run aground on its rocky shores over the past few centuries. Many of these wrecks remain intact, providing an astonishing glimpse into history. For the brave and adventurous, descending into the depths to explore these ancient wrecks is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    The Mysterious Islands of the Indian Ocean

    The Indian Ocean is home to some of the most enigmatic and isolated islands on the planet. One of the most fascinating is the Chagos Archipelago, a group of seven atolls and coral reefs that are part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). This tiny chain of islands, roughly 1,000 kilometers south of India, is home to some of the most remote and unexplored wrecks on Earth.

    The treasure here lies in the depths, where an estimated 2,000 wrecks lay scattered across the ocean floor. Many of these wrecks date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, providing a unique glimpse into the Age of Exploration. For divers, the Chagos Archipelago is a haven, with crystal-clear waters, an incredible array of marine life, and an endless supply of fascinating wreckage.

    The Forgotten Islands of the South Atlantic

    The South Atlantic Ocean is home to some of the most remote and inaccessible islands on the planet. One of the most intriguing is the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, consisting of three islands and one islet. This tiny volcanic chain, roughly 2,000 kilometers west of the coast of Africa, is often referred to as the "Call of the Wild."

    The real attraction here lies in the uncharted and uncataloged wrecks that litter the ocean floor. The history of this region is shrouded in mystery, making each dive a thrilling adventure. Divers can explore the remains of ancient ships, their hulls hidden beneath the waves for centuries. For those who dare, descending into the depths to explore these historical treasures is an experience that will leave you breathless.

    Conclusion

    The world above the waves is just the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of hidden gems, waiting to be discovered. The remote islands of the Pacific, Indian, and South Atlantic Oceans are home to some of the most incredible and unexplored shipwrecks on the planet. For divers and explorers, the allure of the unknown can be too great to resist. As we venture into the unknown, we find ourselves on a journey of discovery, peppered with secrets and surprises.

    FAQs

    Q: What are the dangers of deep-sea diving?
    A: The deep sea is a treacherous environment, with currents, strong waves, and low visibility posing significant risks to divers. Proper training, equipment, and experience are essential to navigate these challenges.

    Q: Can I explore the wrecks on my own?
    A: While it’s theoretically possible, it’s strongly recommended to dive with a reputable and experienced guide or operator. The ocean can be unpredictable, and having a guide can significantly reduce the risks.

    Q: How do I get to the remote islands?
    A: The majority of remote islands can be reached by plane or boat. However, for the most isolated locations, it’s often necessary to charter a private vessel or participate in an organized expedition.

    Q: What kind of equipment do I need for deep-sea diving?
    A: Diving in the deep requires specialized equipment, including rebreathers, depth gauges, and high-pressure hoses. It’s essential to have the right gear and training to operate in these extreme environments.

    Q: Is deep-sea diving for me?
    A: Diving in the deep sea is not for the faint of heart. It requires extensive training, experience, and a willingness to face the challenges of this unforgiving environment. Only those with the right skills and mindset should consider taking on this incredible adventure.

  • Exploring the Obesity Paradox 

    Exploring the Obesity Paradox 

    How do we explain studies that suggest overweight individuals live longer?

    Martin Luther King Jr. warned that human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable, and the same may be true of the human lifespan. In the 1800s, life expectancy was less than 40 years, but it has been “advancing steadily” over the last two centuries, “increasing at approximately 2 years per decade”—until recently. Longevity gains appear “to be faltering or even being reversed.” Thanks to the obesity epidemic, we may now be raising the first generation to live shorter lives than their parents.

    “This downward trend in longevity will almost certainly accelerate as the current generation of children—with higher body weights from earlier in life than ever before—reaches adulthood.” Current trends “potentially signal a looming social and economic catastrophe” if the obesity epidemic continues unchecked. In the coming decades, some predict we may lose two to five years or more of life expectancy in the United States. To put that into perspective, a miracle cure for all forms of cancer would only add three and a half years to the average U.S. life expectancy. In other words, reversing the obesity epidemic might save more lives than curing cancer.

    The evidence that being overweight increases our risk for debilitating diseases like diabetes is considered “indisputable.” However, surprisingly, there is controversy surrounding body weight and overall mortality. In 2013, scientists with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a meta-analysis in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggesting that being overweight was advantageous. Grades 2 and 3 obesity, such as being an average height of 5’6″ and weighing about 216 pounds (98 kg) or more, were associated with living a shorter life, but grade 1 obesity, weighing about 185 to 215 pounds (84 to 97 kg) at that height, was not. Being overweight (about 155 to 185 pounds/70 to 83 kg at 5’6″) appeared to be protective compared to those who were a “normal weight” of 115 to 155 pounds (52 to 69 kg). The overweight individuals, those with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 to 30, appeared to live the longest.

    Headline writers were giddy. “Being overweight can extend your life rather than shorten it,” read one. “Dreading your diet? Don’t worry—plump people live LONGER than their skinnier counterparts…” read another. “Extra pounds mean a lower chance of death.” Not surprisingly, the study ignited a firestorm of controversy in the public health community. The study was called “ludicrous,” “flawed,” and “misleading.” The chair of nutrition at Harvard lost his cool, calling the study “really a pile of rubbish” and fearing the food industry might exploit the study in the same way the petroleum industry misuses “controversy” over climate change. 

    Public health advocates can’t just dismiss data they find inconvenient, though. Science is science. But how could being overweight increase the risk of life-threatening diseases, yet, at the same time, make you live longer? This became known as “The Obesity Paradox,” the subject of my video Is the Obesity Paradox Real or a Myth?.

    The solution to the puzzle appears to lie with two major sources of bias, the first being “confounding by smoking.” The nicotine in tobacco can lead to weight loss. So, if you’re skinnier because you smoke, then no wonder you’d live a shorter life, albeit with a slimmer waist. The failure to control for the effect of smoking in studies purporting to show an “obesity paradox” leads to the dangers of obesity being “grossly underestimated.”

    The second major source of bias is reverse causality. Instead of lower weight leading to life-threatening diseases, isn’t it more likely that life-threatening diseases lead to lower weight? Conditions such as hidden tumors, chronic heart or lung disease, alcoholism, and depression can all cause unintentional weight loss for months or even years before they are even diagnosed. It’s normal to be overweight in the United States, for example. So, people who are “abnormally” thin—in other words, at an ideal weight—may be taking care of themselves, but they may instead be “heavy smokers, frail and elderly, and seriously ill with weight loss due to their disease…” 

    To put the obesity paradox to the test once and for all, The Global BMI Mortality Collaboration was formed, reviewing data from more than 10 million people from hundreds of studies in dozens of countries—the largest evaluation of BMI and mortality in history. To help eliminate bias, the researchers omitted smokers and those with known chronic disease, then excluded the first five years of follow-up to try to remove from the analysis those with undiagnosed conditions who lost weight due to an impending death. And? The results were clear: “This analysis has shown that both overweight and obesity (all grades) were associated with increased all-cause mortality”—a greater risk of dying prematurely. So, “adjusting for these biases leads to eliminating the obesity paradox.” In other words, the so-called obesity paradox appears to be “just a myth.”

    Indeed, when intentional weight loss is put to the test, people live longer. There are bariatric surgery studies like the SOS trial that show that weight loss reduces long-term mortality, and randomizing study participants to weight loss through lifestyle changes shows the same thing. Losing a dozen pounds through diet and exercise was found to be associated with a 15 percent drop in overall mortality. Now, exercise alone may extend lifespan even without weight loss, but there appears to be a similar longevity benefit of weight loss through dietary means alone.

    If you missed the previous blog posts in my series on the ABCs of obesity, see:

    Check out the final two videos in this series: What’s the Ideal BMI? and What’s the Ideal Waist Size?.

    I cover all of this and more at length in my book How Not to Diet, and its companion, The How Not to Diet Cookbook, has more than 100 delicious Green-Light recipes that incorporate some of my 21 Tweaks for the acceleration of body fat loss.

    Why are people obese in the first place? I have a whole series of videos on that topic. Check the videos in the related posts.



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  • Exploring the Unknown: Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Japan

    Exploring the Unknown: Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Japan

    Exploring the Unknown: Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Japan

    Japan is a country of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern technology and innovative culture. For the adventurous traveler, Japan is a paradise, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that range from serene nature escapes to bustling cityscapes. However, navigating this complex and fascinating culture can be overwhelming for the first-time visitor. In this article, we will provide essential travel tips to help you explore the unknown and make the most of your trip to Japan.

    Before You Go

    Before embarking on your journey to Japan, there are a few essential preparations to make. Here are a few tips to consider:

    • Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Japan. Check with your local Japanese embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

    • Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Japan.

    • Vaccinations: Japan is a relatively safe country, but it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccinations and medications for travel.

    • Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

    • Booking Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or in popular areas like Tokyo.

    Packing Essentials

    Packing wisely is crucial when traveling to Japan, especially during the changing seasons. Here are a few must-haves to include in your luggage:

    • Comfortable Shoes: Japan is a pedestrian-friendly country, and you’ll likely be walking a lot. Pack comfortable shoes that can withstand the miles of walking.

    • Umbrella or Raincoat: Japan is known for its rainy weather, so it’s always a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat.

    • Power Adapters: Japan uses different power outlets and adapters, so make sure to bring a universal power adapter.

    • Travel-sized Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight in your luggage.

    • Cultural Attire: Japan has a unique culture that emphasizes modesty and respect. Pack accordingly, with an emphasis on dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or shrines.

    Navigating Japan

    Japan is a vast and complex country, with numerous transportation options and confusing signs. Here are a few tips to help you navigate:

    • Learn Basic Japanese: While many Japanese people speak some English, learning basic Japanese phrases like "" (konnichiwa, hello) and "" (arigatou, thank you) can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.

    • Use a Maps App: Japan has a relatively easy-to-use public transportation system, but using a maps app like Google Maps or Hyperdia can help you plan your routes and avoid confusing signs.

    • Purchase a Suica or Pasmo Card: These prepaid cards can be used to ride public transportation and make purchases at vending machines.

    • Carry Cash: While many restaurants and shops accept credit cards, it’s still a good idea to carry cash, especially in rural areas or at small vendors.

    Eating Like a Local

    Japanese cuisine is renowned for its freshness, quality, and unique flavors. Here are a few tips to help you eat like a local:

    • Try Street Food: Japan has an incredible selection of street food, from savory Takoyaki to sweet crepes. Try street food stalls or markets for a unique and authentic experience.

    • Visit the Local Markets: Japan’s local markets, or "" (okinawa), are a treasure trove of fresh produce, snacks, and drinks. Visit them to sample local specialties and get a taste of the local culture.

    • Try Sushi: Japan is famous for its sushi, but it’s often expensive and requires a reservation. Try sushi at a local shop or market instead for a more affordable and authentic experience.

    • Learn Some Basic Japanese Table Manners: Japan has strict table manners, especially when it comes to handling chopsticks and not leaving food on the table. Learn a few basic etiquette rules to make your dining experiences more enjoyable.

    Temple and Shrine Etiquette

    Japan has a rich history of temples and shrines, many of which are steeped in tradition and superstition. Here are a few tips to help you behave respectfully:

    • Remove Your Shoes: Japan has a unique tradition of removing shoes before entering temples or shrines. Use the provided slippers or be prepared to purchase a pair for a small fee.

    • Bow or Curtsy: When greeting a temple or shrine official, bow or curtsy slightly as a sign of respect.

    • Dress Modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or shrines. Dress modestly to show respect.

    • No Photography: Avoid taking photographs or videos inside temples or shrines, as many consider it impolite to disturb the peace.

    Conclusion

    Visiting Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. By following these essential travel tips, you can navigate the complex culture and enjoy the many wonders that Japan has to offer. Remember to respect local customs and traditions, learn a few basic Japanese phrases, and be open to new experiences. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the unknown and discovering the hidden treasures of Japan.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: What is the best time to visit Japan?
    A: The best time to visit Japan is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

    Q: Can I speak English in Japan?
    A: While many Japanese people speak some English, especially in major cities, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Japanese phrases to help you navigate.

    Q: Is Japan expensive?
    A: Japan can be expensive, especially in major cities like Tokyo. However, there are many affordable options, including budget accommodations and street food.

    Q: Can I wear tattoos in Japan?
    A: Japan has a stigma surrounding tattoos, and many public bathhouses and onsen (hot springs) may refuse entry to visitors with tattoos. Consider covering your tattoos or removing them for your trip.

    Q: Can I drink tap water in Japan?
    A: No, it’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Japan. Instead, purchase bottled water or use vending machines to access clean drinking water.

    Q: Are there many Western-style bathrooms in Japan?
    A: Japan has a mix of Western-style and traditional toilets. While Western-style toilets are becoming more common, especially in major cities, it’s still a good idea to be prepared for the unique toilet experiences.

  • Exploring Mexican Cuisine with Alexa Soto

    Exploring Mexican Cuisine with Alexa Soto

    We had the pleasure of talking with Alexa Soto about her work, food, Mexican cuisine, and Hispanic Heritage Month. We hope you enjoy this interview and her Vegan Calabacitas con Crema recipe.

     

    As an expert in Mexican cuisine with a plant-based twist, how have you found food to be an important part of your culture and how you share your culture with others?

    The way I approach my passion for cooking is by going back to the indigenous roots of Mexican cooking, which is rooted in plants. Mexican cuisine at its core is abundant in nuts, seeds, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. I really enjoy highlighting ingredients that come from the earth through traditional dishes that celebrate my culture that is rich in joy, celebration, and pride.

     

    When did you start cooking and developing your own recipes? How do you educate people about making beautiful Mexican dishes using plant-based ingredients? Are people ever surprised to learn your recipes are plant-based?

    When I first explored a plant-based diet nearly ten years ago, I was 20 years old and living with my Mexican grandmother and my parents. It was a strange feeling, because while I felt pulled to learn to cook in a new way that led with plants and honored my morals, I also longed to hold onto my Mexican heritage through food. With many phone calls to family members, asking for recipes, traveling to different parts of Mexico, and becoming familiar with seasonal produce at my local farmers market, I found lots of inspiration. I have so much pure joy sharing my passion for food in a way that feels most authentic to me, and that’s highlighting plants and my culture at the same time! I really try to create food that either feels familiar to people or just brings overall excitement, with new innovative takes on classic Mexican recipes, so my community stays interested and excited to get in the kitchen. 

     

    What are some plant-based ingredients and/or vegan dishes that you’d like to highlight as part of Mexican food traditions? Anything you’d especially like people to know about these foods?

    One of the most ancient dishes in Mexican cuisine that is naturally plant-forward is mole, a unique experience of endless flavorful layers, consisting of chilies, nuts, seeds, spices, herbs, dried fruits, chocolate, and tomatoes, making for a sweet, spicy, savory, and smoky luscious sauce.  A sauce that is the main star of the dish, made with love and a long list of plant-based ingredients, whose roots lie in pre-Hispanic cooking techniques of the indigenous people. Typically, mole is served with chicken, but for a plant-based take, I love to serve it with roasted oyster mushrooms or crispy tofu, or kept simple with a few warm corn tortillas and a side of rice.

     

    What do you envision as the way forward to encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables and return to traditional Hispanic eating patterns?

    It is important to explore true authentic Mexican dishes to truly honor and respect the diversity of this cuisine. To look beyond the dishes that are represented in America and, instead, explore regions of Mexico such as Oaxaca and Merida where there are several dishes that use indigenous cooking techniques and plant-based ingredients. One that comes to mind is the blending and grinding of nuts and seeds in sauces like mole or a Roasted Pumpkin Seed Dip (Sikil P’ak) native to Merida. These ancient techniques are now used frequently in plant-based cooking. 

     

    What does National Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

    I honor my culture daily through food, language, music, and tradition, so to see others honor my culture rich in love and pride is really special to see. I am beyond proud of my heritage and happy to share it with the world in a more intentional way throughout the month of September!

     

    Please tell us a little bit about your work and career.

    I am a Mexican-American culinary enthusiast passionate about vegan Mexican cooking. I specialize in transforming traditional Mexican dishes into delicious plant-based versions, blending my rich cultural heritage with a modern, health-conscious twist. Over the past decade, I have shared my recipes, bits of my life, and deep care for mental health advocacy with my audience that has grown and become a community that feels like family! 

     

    Please tell us a little bit about your book.

    A rich tapestry of traditional Mexican cuisine, reimagined with a plant-based twist to bring you simple, affordable, and nourishing vegan delights from the first light of morning to the sweet end of dinner. With my very own photography capturing the essence of each dish, Plantas is your heartfelt invitation to experience the cherished food of Mexican culture through a plant-based lens. It’s a celebration, an homage to the vibrant plants that are the cornerstone of the cuisine we’ve all come to adore! 

     

    Vegan Calabacitas con Crema

     

    This delicious Vegan Calabacitas con Crema is my Abuelita’s creamy zucchini dish. It’s so satisfyingly delicious!

    Serves 5-6

    • ½ cup cashews
    • ½ yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
    • 3 zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced thin in half moons
    • 1 pint cherry tomatoes or 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
    • ½ – ¾ teaspoon miso paste
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 2 cups filtered water
    • Pepper to taste
    • Small handful of cilantro, chopped

     

    • Add the cashews to a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let soak for at least 15 minutes.
    • In a large pan over medium heat, add the onions and sauté for 3 minutes, adding some water as needed.
    • Push the onions to the edges of the pan, add the zucchini, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes. 
    • Add the tomatoes, miso paste, and minced garlic, and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes.
    • Drain the cashews, then add them to a blender with the 2 cups of filtered water. Blend on high for 1 minute, until smooth.
    • Add the cashew cream to the vegetables and mix. Season everything with pepper to taste and let it simmer on medium low for 5 to 6 minutes or until thickened. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
    • Enjoy with tortillas or as a side!

    For more from Alexa Soto, check out Fueled Naturally and @alexafuelednaturally on Instagram.



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