Mind And Movement: It’s More Than A Workout

We know how important it is to stay true to your mind and body, especially when traveling, whether for work or play.  That’s why our very own, and South Beach’s first-ever Director of Mind and Movement, Christianne Phillips, has created a new program dedicated to bringing the best of Miami’s fitness talent to hotel guests and locals.

“Tapping the spiritual and intellectual soul to motivate movements is at the core of the Mind and Movement program,” says, Christianne. “It’s more than the physical body that drives us to be better people both mentally and physically.”

Phillips draws inspiration for programming from her background as a live event producer, fitness creative direct + master instructor, journalist, former dancer and DJ to create engaging and authentic experiences that first tap the mind and then drive movement of the body.

Christianne has custom-created a line-up of classes that highlight 1 Hotel South Beach’s oceanfront location by incorporating both indoor and outdoor classes to bring attendees closer to nature. “One of my favorite classes is called Elements and is held outside on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. It provides a direct connection with wind and water through a combination of yoga and guided meditation,” added Christianne. And, we have some of her favorite ways to find your inner balance even if you can’t make a fitness class:

• Be a “Happy Baby”: Every morning when Christianne wakes up, before getting out of bed, she gets into a “Happy Baby” pose on her back with fingers wrapped around her big toes. Gradually extend each leg to get a deeper stretch in the hamstrings and then lift them overhead with feet flexed to create a “L” shape to the body. This rejuvenating pose targets aches and sores and can help you physically get out bed, whether at home or on the road.
• Power Walk it Out: Finding some “me” time before the day starts is critical. Before Christianne’s family wakes up for the day, she power walks, runs or stretches. She sees this as “moving meditation” that can last from 10 minutes to an hour depending on the day’s schedule. Being alone with your thoughts and breath to take in the outdoor air allows you to feel more awake and alive.
• Meditation Time Out:  The amazing thing about meditation…you can do it anywhere!  Christianne is usually alone when she eats lunch and recommends sitting away from a computer and your phone (GASP!).  Being from Chile, she is used to lunch being the most important meal of the day, a time to relax and recharge.  While she knows that isn’t always the case, she encourages you to sit at a table, breathe in for a few minutes to relax the body and mind, allowing you to chew each bite and really taste your food.  Lunch is the one time that she is not multi-tasking during the day, as dinners tend to be more of a social event, regardless if you are out with friends or at home with family.

So, if you want to feel awesome and great, check out our full line up of classes available and follow Christianne’s easy tips to stay mindful throughout the day. RSVP to [email protected] to experience her expertise, first hand.