Balance Period Balance Period

In this episode, Recovery Ray provides an update on several areas of his wellness, including a progress report on the 300 Days of Discipline challenge, his WHOOP data over the past month, the results of a recent bloodwork test through Function Health, and the grief process from losing one of his sisters.

Ray started the 300 Days of Discipline challenge this year as a sustainable way to build consistent healthy habits. He is now over 100 days into the challenge and is realizing the impact of proactive rest on his mental health, physical health, and performance. By regularly taking a nap, or doing a non-sleep deep rest protocol [NSDR], Ray is creating the conditions to break old paradigms around productivity and improve his overall quality of life.

Ray credits this proactive rest with what he noticed in his WHOOP data from April. His sleep performance, heart rate variability, and resting heart rate all improved. The WHOOP data also confirmed that on days when Ray incorporates non-sleep deep rest, his overnight recovery improves by 4%. He emphasizes the value of investing in a wearable device to measure our sleep so we can make data-driven decisions about what healthy habits to adopt.

He then discusses the results from his most recent Function Health blood test. This new platform measures more biomarkers and is more affordable than the platform he used in the past. Ray shares the changes in his liver enzyme levels and the shifts to his inner age. He reminds us of the importance of pursuing blood work outside of primary care visits to be more proactive and preventative with our health care.

Finally, Ray talks about the recent loss of his sister and the grief process he's been experiencing. Even though he has felt overwhelming amounts of guilt, he's been able to understand the incredible opportunity he has to build relationships with his living siblings. To continue healing, he is giving himself the grace and space to feel his emotions fully in the moment when they arise.

Key Takeaways:


Ray has completed over 100 days of the 300 days of his discipline challenge


Ray's April WHOOP data shows improved sleep performance, HRV, and resting heart rate compared to March


Practicing proactive rest has had a positive impact on Ray's mental health, physical health, and performance


Bloodwork, from Function Health, indicates Ray's inner age has decreased and liver enzymes are back in their optimal ranges


Ray is grieving his sister's passing and intentionally allowing himself to fully feel and process the emotions





Balance Period Resources:


See our Products/Services: https://shop.balanceperiod.com/
Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: https://balance-period.ck.page/profile
Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod
Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: shorturl.at/lpsMV
Download our Free Energy Management Guide: https://balance-period.ck.page/742a74403a
Access more resources: https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support

"Our mission is to help busy individuals build a healthier body while feeling strong and energized." – Marla, Founder of Glutes317

In the hustle of our everyday lives, fitness often takes a back seat. When it does make an appearance, it's typically within the four walls of a gym, surrounded by machines and the echo of clanking weights. But what if we could break free from the traditional confines and take our fitness journey outdoors? That's exactly what Marla Rubalcava, the founder of Glutes317, has done. In this episode, we hear Marla's story and are introduced to a fresh approach to wellness redefining what it means to be fit.

Glutes317 was born from the need to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional gyms were no longer an option. Set in the heart of Indianapolis, Glutes317 offers a one-of-a-kind workout experience in individual shipping containers turned personal training pods. Each pod is a mini-gym, fully equipped and ready for a strength training session.

A portion of the conversation revolves around breaking generational cycles of poor health habits. Marla shares her personal journey of setting boundaries and gaining knowledge to combat generational health issues. It's an empowering discussion that will inspire us to take control of our health and become an advocate for our well-being.

Note: Glutes317 is a business on the Paradigm Platform and members receive a 2-for-1 discount on a drop-in session each month!



Key Takeaways:


Outdoor fitness can revolutionize your workout routine, providing benefits that go beyond physical health.


Strength training, especially targeting the glutes and posterior chain, can lead to substantial improvements in athletic performance and daily life.


Breathing exercises and grounding in nature are essential practices for mental well-being and stress management.


Paradigm members get a 2-for-1 discount on drop-in classes each month.


Breaking generational habits is key to personal growth and setting a healthier precedent for future generations.



Connect with Marla & Glutes317:


Instagram: @rubalcava | @glutes317


Website: www.doitinabox.com





Balance Period Resources:


See our Products/Services: https://shop.balanceperiod.com/


Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: https://balance-period.ck.page/profile


Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod


Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: shorturl.at/lpsMV


Access more resources: https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support

"Our goal is to help underserved and overlooked talent find their place in the workforce — within ANY industry." – Cashmiera Brown, CEO at Her Solutions LLC

In this episode, we welcome Cashmiera Brown, founder and CEO of Her Solutions LLC–an HR consultation services company. They specialize in interview skills enhancement, professional development strategies, resume revamping, and one-on-one or group HR consultations.

Cashmiera shares the story of how landing quality jobs at 79 different companies uncovered her amazing ability to navigate professional spaces successfully. After conducting a needs assessment during the pandemic, she discovered a passion for human resources and now she uses what she's learned to help others improve their occupational health.

Cashmiera offers some unconventional ways she practices self-care during this season of her entrepreneurial journey and opens up about areas where she can do a better job of investing in her wellness.

Note: Her Solutions is a member of the Paradigm Platform and members get 50% off all resume services!



Key Takeaways:


Needs assessment sparks a passion for a career in human resources


Her Solutions equips clients with strategies to help improve occupational health


Cashmiera does unconventional ways to practice self-care in this season of life


Generational wellness can help increase peace throughout Black communities


Paradigm members get 50% off all resume services



Connect with Cashmiera & Her Solutions:


Instagram: ⁠@cashonlyyy | @hersolutionsindy


TikTok: @hersolutionsllc


Website:⁠ www.hersolutionsindy.com


LinkedIn: Cashmiera Brown, MS-HRM, SHRM-CP





Balance Period Resources:

See our Products/Services: https://shop.balanceperiod.com/

Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: https://balance-period.ck.page/profile

Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod

Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: shorturl.at/lpsMV

Download our Free Energy Management Guide: https://balance-period.ck.page/742a74403a

Access more resources: https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support

"Your health is your true wealth! We started our business to help others on their wellness journey. " – Crystal Usher, COO at Juice RemedyIn this episode, we welcome Brad and Crystal Usher, founders of Juice Remedy–a health and wellness company that offers delicious, nutrient-filled juice, sea moss, and other products to help people improve their lifestyle and overall health.

Brad and Crystal share the story of the origins and growth of their small business - from testing recipes on friends to upgrading operations during the pandemic and opening their first brick-and-mortar location. They provide insights into their journey of building Juice Remedy and the intention they put behind ensuring their customers have a positive experience when interacting with their brand.

Brad and Crystal offer up some of the strategies they use to make sure they keep their cups full so they can show up as their best selves at work and home. They also share what it looks like to balance their responsibilities as business owners, life partners, and parents.

Note: Juice Remedy is a part of the Paradigm Platform and members get 15% off all purchases from their store! 



Key Takeaways:


Brad's journey to holistic health after an injury sparked the idea for a juice business


Juice Remedy transitioned from a home kitchen operation to brick and mortar location


Brad & Crystal prioritize their self-care to lead by example at work and home


Paradigm members get 15% off any order from Juice Remedy





Connect with Brad, Crystal & Juice Remedy:


Instagram: @juice_remedy


Website: ⁠⁠⁠www.juiceremedy.org





Balance Period Resources:

See our Products/Services: https://shop.balanceperiod.com/

Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: https://balance-period.ck.page/profile

Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod

Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: shorturl.at/lpsMV

Download our Free Energy Management Guide: https://balance-period.ck.page/742a74403a

Access more resources:https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." – African Proverb

In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast, Recovery Ray shares an exciting new collaboration with Paradigm by Ajani. This collaboration will showcase the stories of the business owners on the platform and their wellness-focused products and services.

Ray is joined by Paradigm founder ⁠⁠Bryson Davis-Johnson⁠⁠ and Omni Fitness owner ⁠⁠Ryan Coleman⁠⁠ for a wide-ranging discussion on health, wellness, and community building.

The key focus of the episode is highlighting Paradigm by Ajani, a subscription-based platform created to help entrepreneurs and working professionals create greater balance in their lives. Bryson explains that he launched Paradigm to help people like himself integrate healthy habits into their busy lifestyles. Through Paradigm, Bryson has built an accountability-focused community where members support each other in prioritizing self-care and overall well-being.

The episode also shines a spotlight on Ryan Coleman's wellness company Omni Fitness. Ryan discusses why he decided to bring Omni Fitness onto the Paradigm platform and elaborates on the comprehensive wellness services they provide. He outlines what new members can expect to experience the first time they visit his facility, including consultations, assessments, and education on proper exercise techniques.

Key Takeaways:


Balance Period is collaborating with Paradigm by Ajani to amplify the stories of the business owners on the platform and the products/services they offer.
Paradigm is a subscription-based platform created to help entrepreneurs and working professionals find more balance by connecting them to wellness-focused businesses and a community of like-minded individuals.
Omni Fitness, owned by Ryan Coleman, is one of the businesses on the platform that offers holistic wellness services to promote a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
To learn more about Paradigm and become a member, visit: ⁠⁠https://www.paradigmbyajani.com/⁠⁠



Connect with Bryson, Paradigm & Ajani:


Instagram: @b.davisjohnson | @paradigm317 | @ajanisportswear
Websites: ⁠⁠www.paradigmbyajani.com⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠www.ajanisportswear.com⁠⁠

Connect with Ryan & Omni Fitness:


Instagram: @rycole_fit | @omnifitness.llc
Website: ⁠⁠www.omnifitnessllc.com⁠⁠



Balance Period Resources:

See our Products/Services:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.balanceperiod.com/⁠⁠

Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: ⁠⁠https://balance-period.ck.page/profile⁠⁠

Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - ⁠⁠https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod⁠⁠

Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: ⁠⁠shorturl.at/lpsMV⁠⁠

Download our Free Energy Management Guide:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://balance-period.ck.page/742a74403a⁠⁠

Access more resources: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support

In this episode, Recovery Ray does a check-in on his health and wellness journey over the past month and shares an update on the #300daysofdiscipline challenge.

Ray starts by leading a mindful breathing and gratitude meditation. He reflects on how mindfulness helps him release feelings of anxiety and be more present.

He then gives an update on his health since his last check-in. After getting a clean biopsy in January, Ray got COVID in early February which set back his progress. He still kept up with most of his goals during that time but realized the importance of rest, not just when sick but proactively resting every day.

Looking at his WHOOP data from February, Ray saw his sleep performance drop by 3% which wasn’t encouraging. His strain and activities were consistent but his recovery dropped from 68% to 61%. Though these results were not in alignment with his goal of averaging a 90% sleep performance for 2024, he shares his plans to use this as a learning experience to get back on track.

Ray then relists the 7 behaviors he’s tracking for the 75-day challenge: stretching, reading, exercise, journaling, drinking water, cold showers, and meditation. He gives examples of how he creatively integrates some of these into his routine when life is lifeing.

Going into the next 75-day phase, Ray decides to keep the majority of the original activities and just add more time to them. He also plans to add in naps/NSDR (non-sleep deep rest) to the list, integrating proactive rest into his routine. He shares the importance of developing a system to keep yourself accountable for practicing healthy behaviors each day.

Ray ends by tying his health journey to Balance Period's mission of closing the racial health gap, noting that individual accountability and action is key. He encourages us to reflect on and tweak our sustainable self-care systems to be in alignment with our optimal health.

Key Takeaways:

- Ray got COVID in February which reminded him of the importance of proactive rest

- His sleep performance on WHOOP dropped by 3%

- Ray gets creative integrating his 7 tracked health behaviors into his daily life

- For the next 75 days of the challenge, Ray will be adding NSDR to the list of behaviors

- Improving individual health contributes to closing the racial health gap



Balance Period Resources:

See our Products/Services: https://shop.balanceperiod.com/

Check out the Generational Wellness Digest: https://balance-period.ck.page/profile

Get a Free WHOOP Wellness Tracker - https://join.whoop.com/balanceperiod

Sustainable Self-Care System Discounts: shorturl.at/lpsMV

Download our Free Energy Management Guide: https://balance-period.ck.page/742a74403a

Access more resources: https://linktr.ee/balanceperiod


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/balance-period/support