The BIÂN Blog

Weekends are a precious time for most people, offering a chance to step away from the daily grind, unwind, and focus on activities that bring joy and fulfillment. It's no surprise that the happiest individuals have certain weekend habits that contribute to their overall well-being and positive outlook on life. Let's explore some key habits that the happiest people tend to cultivate during their weekends:

1. Take Time Away

One of the fundamental habits of the happiest people is their ability to take time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Using the weekend as a period to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. When every week feels like a continuous cycle without a break, it can lead to feelings of burnout, resentment, and a lack of perspective. Those who prioritize taking time away tend to experience improved mood and a more positive attitude towards life.

2. Weekend Brunch

Special weekend brunches serve as a delightful opportunity to connect with friends and family members whom you might not interact with frequently during the week. Social connections play a significant role in boosting happiness by releasing oxytocin, the "love hormone," which enhances our mood and sense of well-being. Spending quality time with loved ones over a leisurely brunch not only adds to the weekend enjoyment but also allows for a meaningful separation from the demands of a busy work week.

3. Move Your Body

During the workweek, many individuals find themselves sedentary, spending prolonged hours sitting at a desk and staring at screens. Recognizing the detrimental effects of excessive sitting, the happiest people make a conscious effort to stay active and avoid a weekend filled with inactivity. Engaging in physical movement, especially outdoors, offers a myriad of benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Whether it's soaking up some sunshine, breathing in fresh air, or going for a walk or run with a friend, combining exercise, nature, and social connection can significantly uplift your mood and break the monotony of the weekday routine.

Incorporating these weekend habits into your routine can pave the way for a happier and more fulfilling life. By prioritizing relaxation, social connections, and physical activity during your weekends, you're not only nurturing your well-being but also fostering a sense of balance and joy that resonates throughout the week. Remember, happiness is not just a destination but a journey enriched by the simple yet meaningful moments we create for ourselves.

Father's Day is just around the corner, and finding the perfect gift to show your appreciation can be a daunting task. This year, why not surprise Dad with a memorable experience from BIÂN that goes beyond the usual gifts? Here are some extraordinary ideas to make this Father's Day truly special:

1. Deep Tissue Sports Massage

Give Dad the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation with a deep tissue or sports massage at BIÂN. Help him unwind and de-stress with a therapeutic massage session that will leave him feeling refreshed and revitalized.

2. Infrared Sauna Session

Treat Dad to a detoxifying and relaxing infrared sauna session. Help him sweat out toxins, improve circulation, and promote overall well-being in a soothing sauna environment.

3. Hydrafacial

Revitalize Dad's skin with a luxurious Hydrafacial treatment. This advanced skincare procedure will cleanse, hydrate, and nourish his skin, leaving it glowing and refreshed.

4. Keravive Scalp Health 'Facial'

Indulge Dad with a Keravive scalp health "facial" to promote scalp health, improve hair follicle health, and enhance overall hair quality. This unique treatment is a thoughtful gift for Dad's self-care routine.

5. Personal Training

Help Dad achieve his fitness goals with personalized personal training sessions at BIÂN. Whether he's looking to build strength, improve endurance, or enhance flexibility, our expert trainers will tailor a workout plan to suit his needs.

6. Pilates for Golf Training

Introduce Dad to the benefits of Pilates with a focus on golf training. Pilates can help improve core strength, balance, and flexibility, making it an excellent addition to Dad's golf fitness regimen.

7. Private Dinner in the Listening Room

Create a magical evening for Dad with a private dinner in the Listening Room at BIÂN. Treat him to a culinary experience like no other, where each course is customized to a song on his favorite record, accompanied by delicious dishes and soulful music.

8. Recovery IV Therapy

Support Dad's recovery and wellness with a revitalizing IV therapy session. Whether he needs a boost of energy, hydration, or immune support, our IV treatments are designed to help Dad feel his best.

9. Private Mobility Stretching Session

Gift Dad a private mobility stretching session to improve flexibility, prevent injuries, and enhance overall mobility. Help him move more freely and comfortably with a personalized stretching routine.

10. Private Yoga or Couples Yoga

Encourage Dad to unwind and destress with a private yoga session or enjoy a bonding experience with couples yoga. These sessions offer relaxation, mindfulness, and the opportunity to connect with body and mind.

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This Father's Day, go above and beyond with a thoughtful and unique gift experience from BIÂN. Whether Dad enjoys relaxation, wellness, fitness, or a great meal, there's something special waiting for him to create lasting memories on this special day. Contact us at hospitality@livebian.com to book your custom Father's Day gift experience.

Just as the seasons change, so too should our culinary choices and preparations to honor the essence of spring.

Understanding Food Energetics

Every food we consume carries unique energetics and characteristics, akin to the heat of a cayenne pepper or the cooling nature of a cucumber. The way we prepare our meals also imparts these energetics, influencing how our bodies respond and digest. This concept of "seasonal eating" emphasizes the harmony between food choices, their preparation, and the current season.

The Significance of Seasonal Eating

Traditionally, the harvest of crops is intricately linked to the seasons in which they grow. Spring and summer offer a bounty of fresh produce, while fall and winter bring heartier fare. However, modern conveniences have disconnected us from this natural rhythm, allowing year-round access to ingredients from distant locales through complex supply chains.

Benefits of Eating Seasonally

Opting for seasonal foods not only supports local farmers but also ensures fresher, nutrient-rich produce. In contrast, out-of-season fruits and vegetables may be picked prematurely, ripening in transit and potentially lacking in vital nutrients. Additionally, foods shipped over long distances often require preservatives, impacting both taste and nutritional value.

Celebrating Spring Foods

As we revel in the abundance of the height of spring, embracing the lightness of spring greens can invigorate and cleanse our bodies. Bitter greens, a hallmark of the season, aid in detoxification and cooling effects. By incorporating foods like asparagus, broccoli, garlic, and mushrooms, we can align our diet with the cleansing energy of spring.

Spring Food Recommendations

• Asparagus
• Artichokes
• Bananas
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Collard greens
• Garlic
• Peas
• Dandelion Greens
• Jicama
• Mushrooms
• Onions
• Radishes
• Radicchio
• Endive
• Chicory

Nourishment in the Height of Spring with BIAN

Join us at BIAN as we celebrate the vibrancy of the height of spring. Our curated protocol is designed to boost energy, support immune function, and promote overall well-being. With nutrient-packed juices, real food meals, and recipe guides tailored to help you reset, rehydrate, and nourish your body, embrace the vitality of spring with us. Let BIAN guide you on this transformative journey towards holistic well-being.

Let's delve into the profound impact yoga can have on men, dispelling common misconceptions and highlighting the unique advantages it offers. Explore the physical difficulties and mental benefits that make yoga an invaluable practice, especially when tailored for men.

Physical Challenges Addressed by Yoga for Men

Men often face specific physical challenges that can be effectively addressed through yoga practice. Despite stereotypes and preconceived notions, yoga offers a transformative experience for individuals dealing with various issues such as:

• Flexibility Concerns: The common excuse of "I'm not flexible" serves as a barrier for many men to step onto a yoga mat. However, yoga is inclusive and designed for individuals at all levels of flexibility. By embracing yoga, men can explore unknown aspects of their bodies and enhance their overall well-being.
• Fear of Inadequacy: The fear of appearing incompetent in a room full of experienced practitioners, often dominated by women, can deter men from trying yoga. In reality, yoga classes provide a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to grow at their own pace without judgment.
• Time Management: Balancing existing fitness routines with the incorporation of yoga can be mentally taxing. However, integrating yoga into one's regimen can lead to improved movement patterns, addressing compensatory habits, and enhancing overall physical performance in various activities.

Mental Wellness Through Yoga Practice

Yoga goes beyond physical exercise; it serves as a pathway to mental clarity and emotional balance. The mental benefits of yoga for men encompass:

• Mind-Body Connection: Yoga acts as a bridge connecting the mind, body, and breath, fostering self-awareness and inner peace. By dedicating time to stillness and mindfulness, individuals can navigate life's challenges with a renewed sense of clarity.
• Focus and Presence: Engaging in yoga cultivates focused attention, allowing practitioners to immerse themselves in the present moment and quiet the incessant noise of the mind. This heightened awareness enables individuals to tackle stress and distractions more effectively.
• Breathwork and Meditation: Harnessing the power of breath, yoga aids in calming the nervous system and facilitating meditation practices. By regulating breathing patterns, men can reduce stress levels, improve organ function, and enhance overall well-being.

Tailoring Yoga for Men's Needs

Yoga serves as a sanctuary for men to embrace both their active and contemplative sides. By transcending traditional gender roles and embracing the essence of being overdoing, men can reap the following benefits:

• Internal Reflection: Yoga provides a space for men to introspect, nurture inner strength, and cultivate a harmonious relationship with themselves. This internal journey enriches their external interactions and contributes to a fulfilling life.
• Empowerment through Kindness: Contrary to conventional notions of power, yoga empowers men to embody kindness and compassion. By honing a balance between strength and gentleness, individuals can channel their inner power to create a positive impact on themselves and those around them.

At BIÂN, we advocate for men to transcend limiting beliefs, embrace the holistic benefits of yoga, and embark on a transformative journey towards physical and mental well-being. Through yoga, men can unlock their  potential, cultivate resilience, and foster a deep connection with themselves and the world around them.

Protein bars have long been touted as a quick and convenient health food option, ideal for individuals on-the-go or looking to boost their protein intake. However, the reality behind the health claims of these bars may not be as wholesome as many believe. Let's delve deeper into the world of protein bars to uncover the truth behind their purported health benefits.

The Deceptive Health Halo

While protein bars offer the obvious advantage of convenience and a wide range of flavor options, not all bars are created equal when it comes to nutritional value. Many protein bars available in the market today contain alarming levels of added sugar, highly processed ingredients, and lack essential dietary fiber. These factors can significantly diminish the perceived health benefits of consuming these bars.

Key Considerations for Choosing Healthy Protein Bars

When selecting a protein bar that aligns with your health goals, it is crucial to scrutinize the ingredients list. Opt for bars that prioritize protein content, healthy fats, and fiber while minimizing added sugars and artificial ingredients. Look for bars made from whole ingredients such as nuts and seeds, sourced proteins like grass-fed whey or pea protein isolates, and avoid synthetic fillers like soluble corn fiber.

The Role of Protein Bars in Your Diet

While protein bars can serve as a convenient snack option in certain scenarios, such as during travel or in between meals, reliance on them as a daily dietary staple may not be advisable. Whole food meals offer a more complete and nourishing source of nutrients that are readily recognized and utilized by the body. Consuming protein bars regularly could potentially lead to an imbalance in your overall nutrition intake.

A Balanced Approach to Nutrition

The occasional consumption of protein bars can be part of a balanced diet, especially when whole food options are limited. However, it is essential to view protein bars as a supplement rather than a substitute for nutritious meals. Prioritize a diet rich in whole foods to ensure optimal nutrition and overall well-being.

Next time you reach for a protein bar, remember to scrutinize the ingredients, consider its role in your diet, and strive for a balanced approach to nutrition that focuses on whole, minimally processed foods. Your body will thank you for nourishing it with the goodness it truly deserves.

Dr. Ben Schuff is the Director of Naturopathy & Nutrition at BIÂN. He is a licensed naturopathic doctor (ND), Illinois Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), a Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS) and a Licensed Acupuncturist. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology from the University of Dayton, Ohio before completing his medical education at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, Oregon. He has also been trained in a system of medicine called Endobiogeny.

Backed by scientific research on cognitive priming and the reticular activating system (RAS), intention setting holds the key to unlocking our potential and shaping our reality.

Understanding Cognitive Priming and the Reticular Activating System

Cognitive priming refers to the subconscious process whereby exposure to certain stimuli influences subsequent thoughts and behaviors. This phenomenon has profound implications for intention setting, as it suggests that our minds are constantly absorbing information from our environment, shaping our perceptions and actions accordingly.

Central to the concept of cognitive priming is the reticular activating system (RAS), a network of neurons in the brainstem that filters incoming stimuli and determines what information is relevant to our conscious awareness. When we set intentions, we effectively prime our RAS to recognize opportunities and resources that align with our goals, amplifying our focus and motivation towards achieving them.

Creating a Mindset through Intention Setting

Intention setting goes beyond mere goal setting; it involves cultivating a mindset of clarity, purpose, and empowerment. By articulating our intentions with precision and conviction, we send a clear signal to our subconscious mind, guiding it towards the desired outcome.

Moreover, when we consistently reinforce our intentions through repetition and visualization, we strengthen neural pathways associated with goal pursuit, making it more likely for us to take aligned actions and overcome obstacles along the way.

Harnessing Micro Moments for Maximum Impact

Intention setting is not confined to grand declarations or lofty aspirations; it thrives in the realm of micro moments, where we consciously direct our focus and energy towards our intentions throughout the day.

Whether it is setting an intention to approach a challenging task with curiosity and resilience or cultivating gratitude in moments of stress, these micro intentions serve as powerful anchors that keep us aligned with our broader goals.

Over time, as we continue to practice intention setting in these micro moments, we build the awareness and mental muscle necessary to navigate life's complexities with clarity and purpose. Our intentions become woven into the fabric of our daily lives, shaping our perceptions, decisions, and our reality.