Athlete Education: Endurance training for your fiber type, Part 1

There are two general categories of fiber types: slow-twitch (ST, Type I) and fast-twitch (FT, Type II). Don’t let slow-twitch fool you, it doesn’t mean they’re slow! Fiber type has to do with how energy is produced, what substrate (fuel) they prefer, how they recover, what type of rest & rest intervals they need. You can be a fast twitch, which a lot of people associate with muscularity and, for example, sprinters, but they can still be an endurance athlete. We can also go the other way and have a slow twitch person that is a sprinter (though rare). Muscle fiber types actually span on a continuum from that pure slow-twitch to the pure fast-twitch, and everything in between. The key is finding out what your tendencies are and how to best train for that. My best practical example that I came up with was when I was with my run coach: we did a 200 easy then a 200 hard. I did okay on that. But when he let me walk instead of jog, or do standing recovery and then run, that is where I shined. I’ve never really thought of myself as a fast-twitch type, but in terms of recovery, I most definitely am. Is it related to all my medical issues? We don’t know. Time will play out and we’ll find out.

But back to slow twitch and fast-twitch.

You can, with training, shift fiber types toward the others’ characteristics, however your foundational muscle fiber type plays a huge role. Individual characteristics that help identify where you are on the spectrum of fast and slow twitch includes: mitochondrial density, capillary density, oxidative and glycolytic enzyme activity, creatine phosphate stores, and contraction velocity. That was a lot of exercise science in one sentence, I realize.So let’s break it down into something easier to understand. With acute (short term) training we don’t change fiber types, but with chronic training load (8-10+ years), we can shift them. What are you willing to do to get yourself there?

Characteristics of Slow twitch muscle fibers

  • Slow to fatigue
  • Can utilize carbs, fat & protein as fuel
  • Can convert lactic acid back to a usable form of energy
  • Lower intensity, long duration capacity
  • Recruited first for exercise in most cases
  • Greater blood supply (high capillary density)
  • Creates muscle “tone” vs size when used (they do hypertrophy but not to the extent of Fast Twitch)

Characteristics of Fast twitch muscle fibers

  • Fast to fatigue
  • Uses Creatine phosphate and carbs as fuel
  • Produces lactic acid as a by-product (not converted to usable form of energy)
  • Poor blood supply (low capillary density)
  • Short duration, high intensity work
  • Recruited as the need for more work as it is created
  • Significant increase in muscle fiber size
  • Takes 3-5 minutes to completely recover the fuel sources & return to homeostasis

Characteristics of slow-twitch runners.

  • Have a limited use of the anaerobic system for end of race kicks.
  • Can handle faster easy runs for two reasons: 1) better fuel system so they burn fat at higher intensity and 2) they use slow-twitch fibers at higher intensities before having to recruit fast-twitch.
  • Their anaerobic capacity is naturally weak so they need regular injections of faster running to generate some lactic acid.
  • Performances are more consistent.
  • They can maintain Peak shape for longer.
  • They take fewer competitions to reach Peak shape.
  • They are better at jog recovery between workout reps than fast-twitchers because they are less reliant on phosphagen and anaerobic systems.

Fast twitch runners on the other hand…

  • Have a high anaerobic capacity to use a kick at the end of a race, if it is not used to stay on pace. If the athlete delves into an aerobic capacity to stay on pace too much they have no kick.
  • They need easier recovery runs (or skip recovery runs) to make sure they’re fast twitch fibers aren’t recruited.
  • They will burn more glycogen at slower paces then slow-twitch Runners, because the fuel system and fat burning is not as developed. They need lots of anaerobic intervals at faster or moderate speeds to increase the lactic threshold instead of threshold runs. For example: 400s at a 10K pace with very short active rest (walking, keep moving, but not jogging).
  • Active rest to prevent the anaerobic system from recovering and being used.
  • Performance is more irregular.
  • Maintain Peak shape for shorter periods of time.
  • They need more competition to reach peak shape.
  • Needs to be more careful with intensity selection when training aerobically. Much easier to go over the edge and miss your training stimulus.
  • Keep long runs very slow as it is very easy to go out quickly and produce lots of lactic acid.
  • Standing or walking recovery because it allows recovery of anaerobic and creatinine phosphagen systems. They can better handle short intervals than longer.
  • Poor lactic acid management and poor ability to use lactate as fuel.
  • They have to augment their Aerobic System with large amounts of energy from the anaerobic system, thus need to work to decrease the amount of augmentation needed so that we can use more of the anaerobic capacity to kick in at the end.
  • Will use fast-twitch fibers to help do the work at earlier intensities because they have less slow-twitch fibers.

So what does that mean for you as the athlete?

The long run.

A slow switch runner can handle a longer & faster paced run, as well as adding stuff into the runs – strides, surges, hills, etc. as previously mentioned. Fast twitch runners, however, shouldn’t go running for too long or too fast – the slow-twitch fibers will start to get recruited after a prolonged period of time, which is counterproductive. With the more inefficient fuel system, glycogen depletion happens sooner and can negatively impact subsequent training, or you will need to build in more recovery days. The bottom line is too long or too fast of a long run will negatively impact their anaerobic abilities to a large degree, which is what a fast which athlete thrives off of. So if you’re a fast-twitch athlete, do a long run every other week.

That was a lot to digest, eh? I’ll post the rest in the next Athlete Education post


Everything Under the Moon, 8/17/2020

Lots of brainstorming happening around here this month! Lots of new programs in the works. I’ll lay upcoming program out below, but will take a few weeks to divulge their content. If you want info before then, ask!

Amber Eats

Wow… it’s been a while since the last Everything!

Cassava flour Bread (8/1/2020) – and a recipe for banana – chocolate chip – figgy pancakes

the #9BananaChallenge (8/7/2020) – and a recipe for banana-carrot-coconut muffins

May I introduce… Cassava flour bread (8/16/2020) – and the actual bread recipe

5 min #ComputerDetox

This program continues. Can’t make it at the posted times? Check it out on IGTV or on the Studio’s facebook page. I just want you get it, do it, and feel better. My gift to you.

Schedule for this week
Tu & Th @ 3p
W & F @ 1245

A Mindful Movement Invitation

So what makes my viniyoga and Pilates classes different? With 30 years’ experience in teaching movement and deepening my understanding of how to move, my own injuries, and other great teachers, I would say a lot.
I invite you to join me for the month of September and see for yourself.

Program includes:

NOW– view, & maybe even do, my YouTube classes. Every instructor is different. Get a feel for how I teach, move, cue. Each and every class I teach takes in to account who is there, their needs, what they need to work on.

By the end of Augustsign up for your 30 min Zoom session where you get to ask me questions, we go over what YOU are looking for, helping me make these classes geared toward YOU as well.

September – All access code given so you can join in on ANY of the viniyoga and Pilates classes I’m offering online from 9/1-18/2020. I’m then on vacation until the 28th. During my vacation, you’ll have exclusive access to repeat any of the September classes (via YouTube). Repetition deepens your understanding.

This program is for new clients, past clients that haven’t tried my viniyoga and Pilates classes, and for any past class participants that haven’t been in class since the end of April 2020. Cost is $39, and limited to 8 people. Register early to get in, and to get going! Program fee is collected when you sign up for your Zoom session.

Coming soon

Amber Moon Studio Turkey 10 miler – Thanksgiving morning

Turkey10 miler training program


Everything Under the Moon, 7/22/2020

I have managed to already get Mondays completely off from seeing clients and being online, and I’m loving it. Those of you that shifted to let this happen – thank you! And on to the good stuff…

Yoga Saves Lives

Do YOU want to save lives? Do YOU like flat faced & fluffy tailed cats? Yes? Yes! Join us for a Viniyoga class benefitting South Texas Persian Rescue.

This is for the rescue where I adopted my current 5 cats. Beth & Lori are like family, and Persians, I can tell you from having been owned by 8 of them, are high maintenance. The more money they raise, they more fluffys they can help. So, Yoga Saves Lives. You save lives.

Want to see what viniyoga is, and see my fluffys? I’ve uploaded classes I’ve taught where parts of my herd showed up.

Join us Friday, 7/31, at 12n via Zoom. Registration is $20 and 100% of the profits goes to South Texas Persian Rescue.

Have YOU signed up yet? Help the fluffys! Do some Viniyoga! Share this with your friends!

Massage: The Driveway Series

If you’ve been wondering what it’s like to get a massage on the driveway… here ya go, from an client:

Last night I received my first driveway deep tissue massage and it was great! I haven’t seen Sharon since March and I was really in need of some work! She makes the driveway very comfortable by having lots of plants to help block the view from the street along with your own car parked in the driveway. She also had the fan going to keep me cool! I appreciate Sharon thinking outside of the box for her clients! Thank you!

Note: I’ve also got several mosquito repelling plants near where I set up. While this client was on the table, I didn’t get a single bite. And skeeters looooooooove me.

Ready to book yours? Options are Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings; Wednesday & Thursday at 630a (1 slot). Need something outside those times? Ask 🙂

A little of everything else

I have had 2 Amber Moon Eatery, “Amber Eats” posts so far. I’m including the link I’ll be posting tomorrow – the page is already up!

I’m also about to upload these to Patreon, Facebook and Instagram. I’ve started an Athlete Education blog, and that will be uploaded to the athlete option for Patreon. Still working on getting more stuff uploaded, free content (YouTube & Patreon), so give me a little bit. My neck is still misbehaving gently and I’m still being mindful of how much computer work I do, when I’m rotating my neck in class, and when how it feels when I’m playing. 

I posted what I thought was a very interesting article on air circulation & massage on my Facebook page – a review, complete with reference links. It was interesting that they said turn ceiling fans off during massage, and open the space up for fresh air after. Yes HVAC is great if you have the right filters, but you still need tobring in fresh (outside) air after in-person sessions. 

And AMTA (American Massage Therapist Association) strongly suggests we avoid working right now, if we can. I think the Driveway series is a nice compromise.

I’m very sad I had to cancel all of my September trip – the race had been canceled previously but we had held onto hope that my immunologist would say it was okay to travel. She did not. My next big event that I have coming up is the Mesa Marathon (Arizona) in February. But with what the immunologist said, it looks like my option to travel there is not good either.

Online classes

Current schedule, as of 7/20/2020. Please register in advance.

Tuesdays

  • 11a, Pilates
  • 1215p, Viniyoga in service of Meditation (Viniyoga>>Meditation)

Wednesdays

  • 1030a, Viniyoga
  • 1145a, DIY Reformer

Thursdays

  • 11a, Pilates

Fridays

  • 1030a, Viniyoga


Athlete Education: You feel your heart…beat…

Classical formula heart rate max formula (HRmax) = 220 – your age.

Where did the 220 come from? It is the theoretical maximum that an infant’s heart can beat in one minute, and presumably for every year we lose a beat. This has been used since the beginning of time (not really but you get the gist) but it has been found to be, while an easy calculation, inaccurate especially for those of us over 40. You will find that a lot of the online heart rate calculators still use “220 – your age” instead of a more precise equation.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM, 2010) recommends, when possible, to use the newer equation. As you see, this is a little bit more complicated and requires either a calculator, or a spreadsheet.

HRmax = 206.9 – 0.67 x your age

I like to get as precise as I can since we have an inaccurate tool to begin with, so when I program heart rates for my athletes I use the newer formula. I have it set it up in a spreadsheet, I know my athlete’s age, and away we go! My spreadsheet provides both run and bike numbers.

As I mentioned above, the theory is that you can lose one heartbeat per year, however if you’ve been athletic all your life, or if you genetically have a higher heart rate, or other genetic and lifestyle considerations, this may not apply to you. Henceforth in the new formula our age is not as weighted. Medications, stress, how well you slept, if you just ate, what you ate, when you’re training & caffeine can also influence HR considerably.

The next variable of heart rate is resting heart rate (RHR). This is the lowest that your heart rate can go at any time, otherwise you’d be dead. You get to the lowest point when you are the most relaxed in your deep sleep, some point during the middle of the night. The most accurate way to take this is to wear a heart rate monitor to bed, and then find out what your lowest number was as you slept. The other way to find it: wake up without the alarm and without moving around too much, find your pulse in your wrist or in your neck, and count for a full minute.

What’s the advantage of knowing your RHR? It shows change over time as it relates to fitness, ie, the more fit you are, the lower your RHR. If you get up one morning and find your heart rate is elevated 5 to 10 beats, look at lifestyle factors and influences going on, but it may be that you need to do a recovery session that day, or even take it off. Having the RHR elevated for a few days in a row can be indicative that you are getting over trained, and again something to check in with and see what’s really going on. Use resting heart rate in conjunction with other variables to give you a picture of what’s happening. If you have a good feel of your RHR, it can also be plugged into your HR Zone calculations, but then we’d have a whole new spreadsheet.

So now into your training Zones, and what you should be doing in each of them.

Zone 1: 65 to 74% heart rate max
This zone is used for Recovery, as well as longer aerobic training. Part of your warm-up and stuff in between your quality sets would be in this range. Recovery runs might even be in this range.

Zone 2: 75 to 85% of heart rate max
This stone is your higher end aerobic training, the very top is what we refer to as your sweet spot. The Sweet Spot is a heart rate or Pace even that you can maintain for an extended. Of time without too much effort, it just feels easy. This is the Zone where you develop the physiology to go longer & faster. Yes, it takes a good long while to really build it, to understand it, but once you do – you’re GOLDEN.

Zone 3: 86 to 89% of heart rate max
The dreaded “No Man’s Land” where, typically, people who are not used to working with heart rate end up – it’s too hard for your long runs and too easy for your quality runs. It takes discipline to stay out of this Zone. Obviously you’re going to pass through it on your way to Zone 4, but minimize hanging out unless it is specifically programmed into your training plan.

Zone 4: 90 to 95% of heart rate max
You could sustain this HR for about an hour, and then you’ll have to drop your intensity. This is your “quality” work section, keeping in mind that if the set is under 3 min, HR may not be the best indicator.

Zone 5: 95% & above
This is your max zone – however, you typically aren’t in this zone long enough to get a true HR read – it takes 3 min for your HR to respond & stabilize to effort, and most of the work in this zone… you’re not lasting that long. If you are, we need to re-adjust.

Use these for running, if you are cycling you’re going to be 5% lower – so take whatever number you got for the heart rate from above, and multiply by 0.95 (that spreadsheet is looking pretty good about now, eh?).

Now that you know your training zones, take a look at where you upload your data. What are the training zone numbers that system is using, and what are the formulas? I personally feel you need to know your numbers – memorize them – and go by that vs. what Garmin tells you. Update your Training Peaks or other apps if you are able.

So, the caveat with HR training… It’s a guess. Some people have a naturally lower or higher RHR, so it can influence your zones. Take them with a grain of salt. If you’re training in the middle, you’re probably going to be in the right area. As you gain experience using HR, and it feels too easy, bump your numbers up a few beats. If you’re using a program like Training Peaks, it may actually say you’ve set a new threshold (it does all your tracking over time), and then you have to go make sure it’s really a new threshold. Explore your data. Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t. Maybe HR was high because of temps, in which case, pace would be a better indicator.

Not training with HR yet? That’s ok. It’s the next level for when you are ready to improve. People starting out use time – how long they were out exercising/training, how often. Next is being aware of & controlling the intensity (HR). And yes, there’s more beyond this… when you’re ready: Pace… Power…


Everything Under the Moon, 7/1/2020

Welcome to JULY!!!

Continuing to read & pay attention, as much as I don’t want to, and it looks like they are now saying we will be peaking in mid-to-late July. So I’m moving the potential re-open date back again – to Oct 1, and then re-eval as it gets closer. From what I’m reading, it’s gonna be way longer than that.

I’m honestly getting a little nervous about how long this will last. And how well I’ll make it through. I’m diversifying & promoting more of the side stuff that I do – Amazon, Juice Plus, Tower Garden. You’ll find more info below.

What do you need? What’s missing?

I’m working to make sure I’ve got everyone covered… but is there something you’re needing that I’ve not offered – yet? Or maybe you need a time that isn’t on my calendar? ASK! I’ve created these current work blocks so that I can get other projects done, take care of myself, etc., but willing to update as needed.

Massage: The Driveway Series begins!

Yep, its on the calendar! Mon & Wed, and times vary a little bit for flexibility. There is a list of questions you need to answer before I accept your appointment request – basically asking if you’ve been taking care, using a mask when out, staying isolated, and social distancing. Know you’ll need to wear a mask AND bring your own sheet, pillow case, towel, and any pillow/bolster etc you might need. Also, you need to promise to wash everything in between sessions. After your appointment is accepted, you’ll receive another questionaire the day of your session. Once you return that, then I’ll send you a PayPal invoice to be paid prior to your session.

Amazon Associate is up & running

Want to help out and not have to think about it? Click on this link, and save it as your Amazon page!

https://www.amazon.com/?tag=ambermoonstud-20&linkCode=ez

Juice Plus

Interested in improving your food intake? Juice Plus doesn’t replace real food, it just fills in the gaps. We got fruits, veggies, & a vineyard blend, all in capsule or gummy form. Payment plans available. You can since up directly online, or contact me with questions.

Tower Garden

Been wanting that garden but lacking ground space? How about a vertical hydroponic system? Mine lives out on my driveway, and has a lovely waterfall sound. Its so peaceful. Growing there, and in dirt, I’m gathering quite a bounty this year! Considering I’m vegetarian, that’s really good.

YouTube membership

Still working out the kinks in the system, but if you have a Gmail account, I can easily do your monthly membership. I’ve got the Viniyoga & Pilates classes uploading daily. I’m working on uploading the May & June Wellness Journey’s I’ve facilitated. There’s even a home strength program in there, as well as lots of other good stuff. $40 stand alone, $20 if you’re doing classes. More info coming very soon!


Everything Under the Moon, 6/17/2020


And now Mayor Adler is extending the Stay-in-place order thru August 15, so I’ll keep the studio virtual until then, and re-evaluate. The good news – I have been playing with how to get a little bit of body work sessions in for you!

I’m on several facebook groups for massage therapy and COVID-19, and recently this was posted in one of the groups – a reply about risk level for this profession:  “…massage therapy is actually best placed in the extremely high risk category… It is important that the patient also be masked.”

So if massage therapy is an extremely high risk activity for contracting COVID-19 due to proximity, and length of time spent with clients; and I’m high risk; combining those… and you’ll see why I’m being overly cautious. Anything longer than 15 min in an enclosed space, with standard air circulation, significantly increases exposure. This is for indoors. So I got to thinking, what about outdoors? My driveway has a constant evening breeze, is shaded, and I can add a fan. Clients wouldn’t come in to my house at all. And if 15 min indoors is the max, how would I feel with 15 min outdoors, at least to start?

For the month of July, I’ll be offering Massage: the Driveway Series for current clients only. Sessions will be limited to 15 min. Cost will be $22.50/session (30 min if $45), and there will be 15 min in between clients so you avoid being here at the same time and I’ve plenty of time to wipe down & sanitize. Please note this means arrive on time, not early. I’ll initially limit the number of sessions I do – partly to keep my risk down, partly to see how it does, and partly to honor our extended Stay-in-Place, and partly to rebuild my massage strength slowly. There will be a list of rules to follow, a questionnaire to fill out the day of your appointment, and everyone will be required to wear a mask. I’ve also come up with a way, when you’re face down, to reduce transmission (thanks to my vet!) and be more comfy (ie no mask!) – please see the photo. After I receive & approve your questionnaire, I’ll send an invoice that you’ll need to pay prior to coming. You will not have access to the bathroom. I’m debating if you bring the sheet & pillow case, or if i’m providing; anything else that is needed as well (pillows, bolsters, etc). It has to go straight into the laundry either way. Depending how July goes, I’ll consider opening up to a 30 min driveway session in August. Yes, it’s warm out there, but very manageable. Cool, loose clothing will also help. All clients stay fully dressed, no face work, no feet work. It’s gonna take me a little bit to get this on the calendar, and paperwork completed, but appointments should be up by Fri, 6/19. This link will take you directly there.

What do YOU think? Would you be interested in trying? I realize 15 min is short, but if there is something very specific you need addressed, and we know going in, it is totally doable. It’ll get you through til later, right? I will get all the details out to you next week.

Here’s the new massage space! Your car would be parked in the driveway to create some privacy. The plants help too.

Pilates sessions, while not in as close a proximity, are similar because of duration. I acknowledge that I’m so fortunate to have more than 1 thing that I do, that I’m diverse, and willing to take on the virtual studio. 

If you are looking for a virtual session time that is outside my current availability as listed on my scheduler, please ask!

I am also realizing that I need to be really cautious with my neck. As I teach these classes online, I’m having to be extremely mindful of minimizing time in neck rotation, balancing out which way I’m looking, and minimizing time on the computer. It’s all a challenge. I’ve had to take a big chunk of time off from the computer work I need to do to get the neck back under a good maintenance program. 

Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass…it’s about learning how to dance in the rain. Unknown

Amazon Affiliate

In an effort to maximize income, I’m also become an Amazon Affiliate. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I’ll be inputting links for various things I use – in virtual classes, in the new “Amber Eats” section of my website, in my YouTube channel descriptions, etc. You don’t have to purchase that exact item, but if you’ve gone in thru a link I’ve posted, I get a small % of our purchase (that extends to 24h beyond that initial click). So YES! You can help me in other small ways too 🙂

Amber Eats

A new section to my website! i get lots of interest from the food pics & ideas I post in FB/Instagram, so I’m gonna start blogging my food journey. More to come!

That’s if for this one… I so appreciate you all, and your continued support during these times!


Mid Summer updates 2019

Two Medicine Lake – yep, we ran by this!

Glacier Half Marathon is done!

Talk about a gorgeous setting!  I had the privilege of 3 of my Austin YTri teammates joining me for Glacier, and that just made the whole experience just that much more amazing. I’ll be back in 2022 to do Glacier again – and actually be able to run it all out! 

I’m definitely going to be doing more Vacation Races events. Already looking into the Mt Rushmore half marathon in Sept 2020, Yosemite HM in 2021. Want to join me? Let’s talk! 

Shortest work zone EVER  – we need some of these here in TX!
my Austin YTri teammates, pre-race

Totally amazing Craniosacral Therapy workshop is done!

My second trip this summer was for another CST workshop – the 2nd part of the Glial work. I ended up with a partner, Karen, that worked on me the whole weekend. We really meshed well together, and she’s still working on my from a distance. This work continues to amaze. I’m not sure I can put into words the profound healing I’m already experiencing as we peel off layers (like an onion). I’m sure I’ll be tossing in some of it for those of you receiving massage, and feel free to book your own full CST session to see what it’s all about.


Shifting my schedule

Spreadsheet representation of my work calendar. Purple boxes are where I am more likely to have open spots. Yep, running pretty full these days thanks to YOU!


I am currently in process of shifting my schedule to accommodate your shifting schedules, as well as to get my whole thing back under control. I’m doing my best to keep my work day to an 8-hour shift, from start to finish – what you don’t see below in the new hours, but do see in the picture, is my coaching & yoga class (indicated by *). I’ve added a slot on some days, taken away a slot on others. You’ve already been contacted if this shift affects you. This new schedule will be in full effect as of August 1.  I’ve also got some “emergency” slots reserved cuz those seem to happen. Realize these are for true emergencies – “I hurt myself” or “I had a flare up”, “I’ve got a migraine coming on”, not for “I can’t find an opening for a few weeks”. This new schedule also allows me to take better care of myself.

I’m asking you to plan ahead as much as possible. You can book out 6 months in advance. Realize I have most of my slots taken with weekly client, and then I’ve got rotating every – other – week clients, and then I’ve got monthly clients in regular slots as well (the purples boxes). I do check in with the weekly clients before the start of each month to get any edits to their schedules. If you’re looking, the last week of the month is the time to check in for openings the following month.

I’m also starting a new running program thru the Northwest YMCA – a Run for the Water 0-5k and 10-Mile training program. It starts mid-August and runs (hahaha see what i did there?) thru the first weekend in November.  Members & non-members are welcome to play!

While I adapt to this addition to my schedule, I’m going to keep the studio hours as below. I’ve already had new requests for weekly slots, and I’m going to wait a little bit to see how I do before I expand the schedule a bit again. 

Updated Schedule
Monday*: 1-5p
Tuesday*: 745a-130p
Wednesday*: 215-5p
Thursday: 745a-330 or 4p (depends on the week)
Friday*: 730a-115p


And, i gotta admit, I’m also shifting my schedule to be feeding the cats at the times they seem to have chosen – 10a & 3p. Cuz if you’ve experienced a hangry Gypsy… its not pretty.

The Rest of 2019

I currently only have a few days planned off for the remainder of the year – I’ve missed enough, right? If this affects you, I’ll be sending an email about a month out.

Sept 26 (starting at 12n) – 27 (all day). Thursday & Friday

Nov 27-29 (Wed – Fri). Taking Wed off cuz I need to set up the course for the Amber Moon Studio Turkey 10-miler! AKA run for the PIE!

Christmas & New Year’s Day


It’s December, once again

I know, I know… I’m even late for me! I’ve been working, working on EOY accounting, playing with chicks & fluffyfluffys… can’t blame training this time, as I’m only running & strength training. This year has flown by. I’ve seen the Studio grow, my athletes succeed, and my life find some semblance of normal. I am working Dec 31, and there are openings if you need.

May the Spirit of the Season remain with you

May your Love of Life show

May your life force be as radiant as the Sun.

But on to news. Firstly, since I’m spending less time on the computer, I’m gonna reserve these news updates for when I’ve got something to share, instead of trying to do it monthly. Hopefully this will make them shorter, easier for me to manage, quicker for you to read. With that said, if you want to keep up to date as much as possible, please like the Amber Moon Studio facebook page, and the page dedicated to the Fluffys. No, I’m not creating one for the chicks, but I do think “What the Flock?” would be a great name!

Second: I’ve got 2 new items I’m offering: Bindegewebsmassage and Lightarian Attunements. More on each of these below – and links, cuz why reinvent what’s already been written about them? Each of these have their own line item on my online scheduler now, so feel free to book them specifically if you want to give them a try.

Third: Pilates class update: There will be no class Dec 31 or Jan 7, but resumes on Jan 14 at a new time: 12-1p. I’m finding I just need my Monday mornings off to get stuff done & be prepared for the week. We’re gonna try this slot for 5 weeks, and see how it goes. I’ll be off Feb 18 & 25, then we will resume in March, time TBA. Please sign up to make sure you get your slot!

Fourth: You may have noticed I’m getting into a lot of DIY for around the house – you’ve already been using Homemade Goodness in the hand soap in the bathroom & the face lotion for massage. I’ve made laundry & dishwasher detergent, dish soap, bar soap (think ZumBar), bath truffles, body lotion, and a working list of things I still want to try. I’ve got a lot of other stuff I’ll be working on, and might have some available to sell, let me know. There will be a separate email list for you. 

Fifth: Yep, I now feel it necessary to have both cat and chicken jpgs….

Bindegewebsmassage

Yes, another really cool massage modality that has origins in Germany, where it’s actually part of the health care system (way more alternative than the US system). Similar to CST, it works to get you out of fight or flight and put you back into the “relax & repose” mode. You may have noticed there is now a massage chair in the office. This is where it’s done. It is excellent for migraines, menstrual cramps, insomnia, RLS, asthma, and more! Here’s a link for more info, but I only do this technique in the chair.

I’ve scheduled it as a 30 min appt, and it takes about 15-20 min to do the technique. I want you to have time to process what we’re doing, and ask questions. Most of the work is done at the base of your spine, directly on the skin. This can be done within an appt you already have (realize it will take the 20 min or so out of whatever we normally do), or before/after it. You may also schedule it separately, but if you’re already coming & want to try, drop me a note to see if I can add it before or after your current scheduled time. Sometimes I have flexibility. And, we’ll work on you being able to pronounce the name correctly, until then, “Binde” works too. 

Cost is $25/session, or book 4 weeks in a row for $80 package price (limited time offer). There is a cumulative effect, so regular sessions at the front end help you most, and then taper out to “tune ups”, typically after 8 sessions.

Lightarian Attunement Facilitator

Similar to a Reiki attunement, but totally different in effect. I’m gonna let their website tell you more about it. I am also a Reiki Master and do Shaman work, I just don’t advertise it, as that component is not my calling. Everyone gets a little energy work when you’re here anyway, you’re just not aware of it.  If you’re ready to move to a better energetic state, this is for you. Sessions can be done in person or by phone. My scheduler has both listed. 

At the moment, I can do the Lightarian Ray Program, and Clearings 1-3. As I receive the other Clearings & Attunements, I can do them immediately after.  Cost is $45/attunement. I can also Attune you to give these to others. There is a fee for your manual if you want to be able to do this. Contact me for more info.

Studio hours

  • Mon  12-5p
  • Tues 745a-245p
  • Wed 2-5p
  • Thurs 845-415p
  • Fri 730a-1145a
  • any appointments outside these hours may subject to a $30 after-hours fee.

Upcoming dates the Studio will be closed for 2019:

  • Jan 1, New Years’ Day
  • May 27, Memorial Day
  • July 4, Independence Day
  • Sept 2, Labor Day
  • Dec 25, Christmas Day
  • Jan 1, 2020
  • other dates may come up as I start being a Teaching Assistant for the Upledger Institute, as well as for travel/recovery from various races.

A November to Remember

I’m intentionally getting this November update out late. The OilMan 70.3 was this past weekend, and instead of waiting til December to tell you about it, I decided to hold this.  And because I was busy and not on the computer much in October. I just want to say how proud I am of these athletes (see pic) – and my relay team didn’t even know they were going to be doing these distances (the first for each) until about 5 weeks before. 

The race started out wet – not only because we swam first, but because it rained overnight and into the early morning at the time transition opened (530a) for us to rack our bikes, lay our stuff out, and get over to the swim start. My philosophy – I’m gonna get wet anyway, I may as well have FUN! Water temp was a bit on the cool side – 67.4F on race morning. I was loving it! Barton Springs is supposed to be 68 degrees. This felt warmer then that. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the water. I was faster last year, but that’s ok. I still won a bet, beat another friend, and won Farrah a beer. The things I do for my friends!

I know at least 2 of these athletes were tearing up as they crossed the finish line. And they should. I’ts a BIG accomplishment. I know I did when I finished in 2011. We’ve got a few already committed to doing it next year! I’ll be happy to relay the run next year 🙂

2018 Amber Moon Athlete Oilman 70.3 finishers (L to R): Elizabeth Ridpath, Gonzalo Gil (relay runner), Traci Farr, Farrah Keeler, Sharon Boon (relay swimmer), Rebekah Falkner (relay biker), & Steven Sletten.  For the 4 that did the full 70.3 distance on their own (not relay) this was the first 70.3. Way to go TEAM!
Farrah’s 2nd place finish

And I’m gonna give a huge shout out to Farrah here, for this was her 4th triathlon ever, she finished 2nd in her age group, AND she ran the last little bit  and across the finish line with Elizabeth & Traci. Cuz 70.3 miles wasn’t enough. A true teammate. This whole group of athletes has been like this as we’ve trained the past 18 months with Oilman as our goal. I’m so proud to be a part of what is being created here.

Be kind, be germ free!

As we delve farther into the fall/winter, please take a moment and really check in with how you are feeling, and if you’re sick, starting to catch something, and you’re not 100% certain it’s “just allergies”, please take a moment and cancel your appointment. I know a massage would feel good, and I typically advocate light exercise if you’re under the weather (it does help boost the immune system, if you can handle it), but those pesky germs… they hang around even when you start feeling better. Remember if you are receiving a massage, I’m in direct contact with you & all your germs. If you’re doing Pilates, you’re touching equipment that others will also be touching. I can sanitize all I want, but it only takes a small germ, and many people could be affected.  And consider that I’m self-employed – I don’t get sick days. So if I’m out, I don’t make money.

At the beginning of October, I ended up with a little 24h bug, and I cancelled 2 days worth of sessions so that I didn’t end up passing the germs on to anyone else. Like schools, I ask of you – and myself – to be symptom free for 24 hours.

What you carry in with you

Aside from germs, everyone has the potential to bring in an energetic footprint. It could be pain, illness, whatever is going on that day. You can bring it in without even knowing. Like physical energy, this “psychic” energy is on a grid. Sometimes it gets stuck. Sometimes it moves on. Sometimes it needs a little help.  You give off psychic energy, and you can also take in the positive/calming/healing vibe I’ve created in this house.

I’ve had a lot of people comment that this house is very calming, very relaxing. They like being here for the energy it gives off. I’ve worked to create this atmosphere here. Before I even moved into this house, I had some of my energy worker friends come over and we did a clearing to “get rid of the old ghosts”. People can leave these footprints, these imprints on places. We got rid of what was here – good or bad – and invited in the energy I wanted: Healing, Joy, Happiness, Love, Abundance. 

And then I was introduced to Stacy Davenport, The Energy Catalyst. Just like I’m a Reiki Master, she is a Feng Shui expert (I’m gonna call her a Master). She blows my mind. We both do energy work, but from a totally different perspective. Stacy has helped me keep my house clear of the energies that get brought in, taught me how to keep it clear, and given me pointers & things to do along the way to help maintain what I want this house, this Studio, to be. Three to four times a year, she comes over & gets the stuck stuff unstuck, and brings in the good mojo. I also do weekly clearings that she has taught me.

So if you’re concerned about the stuff you bring with you sticking, its ok. I’ve got it covered. 

Studio updates

I’m opening up Dec 24 & 31 for my regular Monday & Tuesday clients to get their sessions in. I’ll be getting an email out shortly to my weekly clients regarding these 2 weeks soon. Still closed Dec 25 & Jan 1.

I’m also adding in a Thursday 845a slot thru the end of the year. I’ve not settled on my race plan or training for 2019 yet, so once I do that slot may be open, or may be gone. I’ll just have to wait and see. I know I’ve been a bit booked up of late, so working on opening up a few more slots. 


October, & possibly Autumn arrives???

Saturday’s Austin YTri athletes
Ice-wrapped knees

This past weekend was my first long weekend of triathlon. Doesn’t matter how much you prepare, sometimes life throws you a kink, or in this case, a wet ramp to slip on. Going into the first race, I did just that, landing in the crab-crawl position, and then I crawled down the rest of the ramp that way, slid into the water, and I was off & swimming. I didn’t notice til I was done with the swim (500m), out of the water & running up the hill to the first transition area (“T1”) that my knees had gotten tweaked. Normally I haul up that hill. Not so this time. I get on my bike, and about half way through the 14 miles, I feel my left knee has swollen. I really had to concentrate on using the glutes to minimize my discomfort, and get through the remaining bike. Into 2nd transition area (“T2”), slide on my running shoes, and now the knees both feel off – left more so than right. It’s ok, I focused on technique (again, with the glutes), and managed to actually run the whole thing. I finished, immediately went and got ice on my knees from the medical tent, and waited. Bending the knees was getting tough, so I just kept moving. It would be a game time decision to see what I was gonna do for race #2 on Sunday. Throughout the rest of Saturday, going up & down stairs was no bueno, but I managed it slowly, again focusing on HOW I was taking them. I had to ask my fellow athletes for lots of help moving & lifting equipment, but they were awesome. 

Sunday morning athletes

Sunday morning, I got dressed and the first thing I did was go try the stairs. Nope. Knees still not feeling it. I’ve never DNS (did not start) a race I’d registered before. But there’s a time to play it smart, and this was it. I got to cheer on my teammates, give some technique tips for any issues they were having as they started the run, and celebrate in their victories. I was a proud coach that day. 

This photo says it all. This is what a team is all about.

What does this mean for my OilMan 70.3? Still up for debate. Stay tuned til next Amber Moon Studio Updates to see what I’ve decided!

It’s time to RUN

Now that triathlon season is mostly over, it’s time to focus on RUNNING! If you’re a beginner, been running casually & want to up your game, or are ready to challenge yourself, come join the Austin YTri for running now through December. We’ll continue on after that, but it’ll fall under the tri season training. 

And just a reminder you can also join us for the Amber Moon Studio Turkey 10 Miler (aka Run for the PIE!) on Thanksgiving morning. You don’t have to run, you can walk, bike, push a stroller, bring the puppy… It’s all about getting out & moving. Registration fee is a minimum $5 donation to South Texas Persian Rescue. Email me your receipt copy, and get entered into a drawing for a car seat towel (to protect your car after those sweaty workouts)! You can also win a towel by bringing friends!

Monday 10a Pilates Class

Please come join us! There will be 4 classes in October – we are skipping today as I’m taking a personal day to recover from the weekend. $12/class paid upfront, or $15 drop in. Please register before coming. 

November will have 3 classes –  we will skip Nov 5. I’ll check in with my regulars and see who is planning on being here the week of Thanksgiving.

December is up in the air at the moment. I’ve got a Pilates workshop I’m attending in Houston scheduled for 12/2. If it makes, I’ll be out Dec 3. I will also cancel class on Christmas Eve, and New Years’ Eve, but may be open for other sessions on those 2 days.

Upcoming Studio closings

Dates I’ll be off for races & holidays:

  • Nov 2-6 (F-Tu), 21-23 (W-F)
  • Dec 24-25 (M-Tu), 31- Jan 1(M-Tu)

Note: I may take limited clients on Dec 24 & 31, Jan 1. We’ll have to see what all is going on. Please let me know ASAP if you are interested in these dates.