Despite the chaos of 2020, we managed to have an exciting 12 days of Christmas with our subscribers! We had a merry time, from meditating with one of our favorite yoga instructors to catching some major deals at local Nashville businesses. Don't worry if you missed out; we are here to recap. 

__Day 1: Meditate with Yoga Shala__
On day one, we got to highlight Yoga Shala, a yoga studio located in East Nashville. Cory Bryant is the Shala instructor and guides the community in the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. Everyone isn't familiar with this form of yoga, so we were excited to share more about the studio. Our subscribers got the heads up that Cory was offering FREE MEDITATION on Christmas Day. 

__Day 2: Order Juice from InnerG Juice & Yoga__
Things got juicy on Day 2 because we got to feature the new Juice and Yoga studio! Inner G Juice and Yoga is described as the new-new vegan and non-dairy "milkman." They're serving up all healthy juices right to your doorstep. If you need a vitality boost and live, work, or workout in downtown Nashville, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, Mt. Juliet, and Joelton, they have a Juice Box with your name on it.

Stay tuned (subscribe), so you'll be the first to know about our interview with Nielah, the InnerG Juice, and Yoga founder. We're not only going to be talking all things juice, but she will fill us in on the practice of Egyptian yoga.

__Day 3: Take a walk down your favorite trail__
This day was full of fresh air! Nashville is home to so many parks and nature trails, so we wanted to highlight them. Not only did we shed light on our top five trails, but we also filled you in on how you can get rewards, just BY MOVING! You can get all the details at  http://healthyparkstn.com/. 

__Day 4: Share your favorite holiday recipe__
Sharing is caring, and on day four, we expressed our care by sharing one of our favorite recipes. Founder of nonprofit GRITS Inc. has a black bean burger recipe that we recommend adding to your home's menu. It's quick, simple, and tasty. The recipe demo is available on our YouTube channel. Move Nashville - YouTube

__Day 5: Move well with Urbn Fitness__
The fifth day of Christmas was all about moving well, the Urbn fitness way! URBN Fitness is a goal-focused gym located in East Nashville. It was once your local CrossFit gym, but it has since evolved! You can now experience energetic, fun, and dynamic movement pairings through their core group classes, as well as complete a personalized program. We love that Urbn Fitness allows you to experience all the fun and movement for free! 

They are all about helping you "look good naked" without any long-term commitments. You can learn more about their story here. https://www.urbnfitness.com/

__Day 6: Donate to Nashville's Community Fridge__
On day six, we addressed a need within the community. Food insecurity is a nationwide issue, so we're grateful that the Nashville community is doing what they can do to help address the issue locally. Nashville Community Fridge is a free resource that functions as a tool to help address the food insecurity that impacts 1 in 8 people who deal with food insecurity within Middle TN. 

They are always accepting donations, so it's never too late to give. You can donate produce, bread, cheese, milk, baked goods, canned/boxed foods, baby formula, and packaged meals with listed ingredients. Donations are accepted at either of their two locations.
Locations:
(North) 1411 Buchanan St
(East) 1111 Dickerson Pike

__Day 7: Workout with 80/20 fitness__
Day seven was all about fitness and nutrition the 80/20 way! 80/20 is a fitness studio founded on the ideals that a healthy lifestyle requires 80% nutrition and mindset and 20% fitness.  The Coaches, Kevin, and Jade, help the community find their balance through coaching, expertise, and a positive mindset. I can attest to the positivity in the studio because I got a chance to visit. You can check out the Move Nashville visit here on our youtube channel. Move Nashville - YouTube

__Day 8: Leave an extra tip at a local restaurant__
On day eight, we wanted to encourage everyone to tip a little extra! During the pandemic, big cooperations have been getting richer, while many local businesses have struggled to keep their doors open. These are our neighbors and friends, so we wanted to make sure we took the time to encourage you to support local businesses. As we continue to go through these unprecedented times and beyond, the support keeps us Nashville Strong.

__Day 9: Buy a friend a gift from TNT Goods__
On day nine, we were inching close to Christmas and wanted to help you with any last-minute Christmas shopping. Whether you are Christmas shopping or wanted some cool merch, TNT Goods is the place for you. TNT Goods is a Nashville-based business that specializes in creating custom accessories and handmade home decor. They offer coasters, decorative trays, trinket dishes, soap dishes, keychains, stickers, and pin-back buttons. Their buttons are completely customizable and perfect for brand awareness, conferences, festivals, special events, and gift shops. 

__Day 10: Visit Local Vendors at the Farmers Market__
The Farmers Market is open year-round, so on day ten, we wanted to share that reminder! Throughout the year, you can visit the local farmers market and find ranchers, dairy farmers, cheese-makers, bakers, food artisans, crafters, and flea merchants, as well as farm-direct products like honey, jams, jellies, and more.  The Winter Shed Hours are Friday—Sunday 8 a.m.—2 p.m.

__Day 11: Give to a Local Nonprofit__
Tis' the season of giving, so we wanted to encourage you to give a little extra on Day 8! Whether it's a smile, your time, or a monetary donation, your giving most definitely positively impacts the community.
Here are some tips we share for giving wisely during the holiday season:
1. Find a charity/organization that aligns with your values
2. Find out where your dollar goes
3. Keep a record of your donation
4. Request Charity's tax-exempt letter
5. Give generously if you can, but don't respond to pressure

__Day 12: Spread some Christmas Cheer__
On Christmas Day, we woke up to the news of a bombing in Nashville. A… set an RV on fire. Thankfully no one was injured. It shook Nashville, at the same time, reminded us that we are a strong community. And despite the tragic news, we still managed to spread some Christmas Cheer. We are grateful for the Move Nashville community, and be sure to subscribe for updates on all things community, movement, mindfulness, and nutrition.


Here's a Recap of How Our 12 Days of Christmas Went

12 Days of Christmas 

12 days of Christmas

One thing I can always count on Nashville for are its nature parks, trails, and outdoorsy things to do. Nashville's nature scene can get even the most introverted, homebody outdoors! I can attest to this because since moving here,  I do spend more time outdoors! For instance, I now go on nature walks, explore different trails, or "work from home" at one of the local parks. I'm even amping it up a notch, and I am planning my first Nashville hike! I'm excited because hiking comes with many benefits! It offers you a full-body workout, stress relief, and it is also a great way to meet new people. 

The Nashville Hikers are a great testament to how hiking has brought strangers together. Local movers and their love for nature brought them together and created lasting bonds. I met with one of the hikers, Toni Kenion,  to get some tips on preparing for my first hike!

__Top 10 Things to Bring on Hike__

1.	__Bug Spray:__ Nature is home to beautiful scenery, waterfalls, flowers, and bugs! So, it's always a good idea to make sure you're covered with bug spray to avoid pesty creatures. 
2.	__Water (bottle or camel pack):__ Some hikes consist of hours of energy exertion. For that reason, it is essential to pack a water bottle or camel pack to keep you hydrated. 
3.	__Walking Stick:__ Hikes are literally no walk in the park, so that advanced climbs may require the assistance of walking sticks.  
4.	__Biodegradable Wipes:__ There are no portal potties or restrooms in the woods or outdoors, so these wipes come in handy if you have to go if you know what I mean. 
5.	__Extra Pair of Socks:__ No worries, if you step in a muddy puddle, clean up nicely with your biodegradable wipes and fresh pair of socks. 
__6.	Water Shoes:__ At the top of the mountain, there are sometimes waterfalls and rivers. Water shoes are suitable for exploring these scenic parts of nature. 
7.	__Good Attitude and Positive Vibes:__ Positivity is essential especially on group hikes. It makes room for even more incredible bonding experiences during your time in nature. 
8.	__Light Backpack:__ A lightweight backpack that won't put to much strain on your muscles or back is recommended. 
9.	__Paracord Survival Bracelet:__ This is one accessory that will definitely come in handy on your hike. Paracord may look like a rope, but it's not! It is lightweight yet strong and comes in handy for emergencies like starting a fire or creating a rope ladder. 
10.	__Snacks:__ This is probably the only item I was prepared with before my conversation with Toni! The dietitian in me knew exactly what types of snacks to pack. 

In general, when you are snacking while walking or exercising, you want to choose something that will provide your body with quick fuel! You can divide foods into three types of macronutrients – proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Out of the three, carbohydrates are the food group that will supply you with the quickest energy! Don't get me wrong; I am not recommending you pack a doughnut or snickers on your hiking trail. I recommend choosing carbohydrates that are also packed with vitamins and minerals as well. For instance, fruit makes a great hiking snack- bananas, apples, grapes, something convenient for you that you will also enjoy. If you are not big on fruit, try a nutritious energy bar, rice cakes, or even a pack of peanut butter crackers!  

This list was beneficial! Did it help you any? I now feel prepared to go on my first Nashville Hike! Let me know some of your favorite items to bring on your hike. 


One thing I can always count on Nashville for are its nature parks, trails, and outdoorsy things to do. Nashville's nature scene can get even the most introverted, homebody outdoors!

Take a Hike

Nashville Hiker Shatonia Kenion

What’s your favorite season? I mean, when it comes to food? Mango Season has to be among my favorites. I love walking down the grocery aisles and seeing all the mango varieties. I would usually go to Nashville’s Farmer’s Market for my favorite produce, but Mangoes aren’t grown in the South. Mangoes thrive in tropical climates and plant hardiness zones 10b-11. 

## What is plant hardiness zones?

Plant hardiness zones are tools to help growers determine what fruits and veggies will thrive in their city and state. Zones are determined based on the average annual minimum winter temperature, divided into 10-degree Fahrenheit zones. It is common for many seeds to have a label with the hardiness zone on the back. For example, if you pick up a pack of cucumber seeds, you’ll most likely see zone 7 on the back, which is Nashville’s hardiness zone!  

However, what if you’re not planting anything, you’re more so just shopping at your local farmers market enjoying the fruits of their labor? Well, it is still good to know what fruits are in season and equally important, how to pick them! So, I thought I’d share my top picks for Nashville’s summer season!

### Top Picks:

__#PeachSeason –__ When picking peaches, here’s one rule to live by, DON’T SQUEEZE! Squeezing the peach can actually cause it to bruise and ruin its flesh. A better indicator of if it’s ready to eat is its color and smell.  I wouldn’t recommend smelling it unless you have already purchased, especially considering we’re amid a pandemic. But you don’t need your nose in this case because your eyes can tell you a lot! A peach free of bruises with good vibrant color is usually a good pick! It's noted, the more vibrant the color (on the red part of the peach), the sooner it’ll be soft. 

__#GrapeSeason –__ I heard through the grapevine that a good shake will help with the right pick! When picking grapes at your local market, give the bag a shake. If grapes stick together, that’s a good sign. You don’t want to pick grapes that easily fall off the stem. Also, don’t be afraid to pick grapes with that white residue. It's not dust, pesticides, dirt, or powder; it is a natural yeast, referred to as bloom. Bloom is an excellent indicator of freshness!

__#PearSeason -__  Pears may be one of the most beautiful fruits. It has nothing to do with its shape or color, but the way it ripens. Pears are one of the few fruits that ripen from the inside out – isn’t that inside out beauty! And once it’s ripe, you can bite into sweet pear-fection! So how can you tell if it’s ripe from the outside? The neck of the pear is a good indicator. Press on its neck, and if it yields to pressure, it is time to enjoy! On the opposite end, if the pear's body is soft to touch, it is likely overripened! 

__#NectarineSeason –__ Nectarine is like the identical twin to the peach, minus the fuzz.  Similar to peaches, you can tell a nectarine is ready to eat just by looking at it. And you can tell which one may have a better flavor by paying attention to its undertones. Nectarines with a gold undertone will have a better flavor than nectarines with a greenish undertone.

__#ApricotSeason –__ Do you prefer sweet or tart? Don’t worry because you don’t have to choose between the two when you bite into ready to eat apricots. Apricots have a sweet flesh with a hint of tartness. It is like the perfect balance. You know you’ve picked a good apricot when it has a beautiful yellow-orange color and is slightly soft to the touch. 
All of this talk about fruit has got me in the mood for some local picks. No matter the season, you can always support your local farmers. For more information on picking fruits and vegetables locally, visit the Pick Tennessee website www.picktnproducts.org 


What’s your favorite season? I mean, when it comes to food? Mango Season has to be among my favorites. 

Growing Season

Picking tomatoes at Nashville farmers market

Nashville Farmers Market

Did you know you could get rewarded just for moving in Nashville! I'm talking about a free meal, free round of golf, and a free camping trip, to name a few. It is all possible through the Tennessee Healthy Parks online tool. 

Here's how it works:
1. You simply download the app “Healthy Parks.”[ http://healthyparkstn.com/](http://healthyparkstn.com/ "http://healthyparkstn.com/")
2. Next, you want to create an account. It’s as simple as entering your email and creating a password.
3.Finally, check-in! Once you have your account set up,  you’ll be able to earn points every time you check in somewhere to take a hike, ride a bike, go for a walk, or play a sport. 

You're only limited to one check-in a day, but by all means, don’t let that limit keep you from moving, there are so many great parks in Nashville to explore! In fact, here are my top 5 park check-ins. 

## Ted Rhodes Park:
*A walking surprise*

As you pull up to the parking lot of Ted Rhodes Park, you may see tons of golf clubs, golf carts, and the perfectly cut, green grass of the golf course. However, surrounding this golf course is also a pleasant 11.9 mile surprise. This park is not only home to a golf course, but it also connects you to one of the longest trails in Nashville, the Cumberland River Greenway. “BAHH”! Another surprise! While walking the trail, you may encounter the  NashvilleChew Crew Sheep grazing. The chew crew strategically uses sheep to clear overgrown landscapes. 

## Centennial Park:
*Learn and Play*

While viewing women's suffrage monuments, the WWII Steam locomotive, and locals paddle-boating on the lake, you may question whether you’re walking into a museum or a park. Well, it’s both! Centennial Park wonderfully merges Tennessee’s history with nature.  It is also home to the Parthenon, Nashville’s art museum. If you like to learn hard and play hard, this place is perfect for you! You can play a game of frisbee in the open green space and then brush up on your Tennessee history. 

## Radnor Lake State Park
*A walk in the wildlife*

Owls, Turkeys, Turtles, and Deer, Oh My! If you’re looking for a wildlife environment, without having to leave the city, this is the park for you! You can bet on encountering a few wildlife creatures as you walk up the unpaved hiking trail through the woods. This park is ideal for an outdoorsy person who wants o feel immersed in the wildlife without having to drive too far. Its located only six miles from downtown! Another plus is its beautiful calming lake. This is the move for a relaxing day in the city’s wildlife. 

## Two Rivers Dog Park:
*Parks are your dog’s other best friend*

Dogs are a man’s (or woman’s) best friend. With that being, sometimes you can’t get moving without your favorite furry animal. Parks are great places to get moving with your pet, and I must mention Two Rivers Dog Park, is one of them. This park has a few extra amenities that put it at the top of my list. This park is fenced, has a shaded pavilion,  and features a few doggy waste stations throughout the park (and even complimentary bags!). It’s well suited for even Nashville’s most hot summer days.  Just imagine it is 90 degrees outside, you left your water bottle at home, and you and your dog are thirsty! No problem! At Two Rivers park, you can stop at the water fountain to quench your thirst and your dog's thirst. That’s right; they have dog water fountains! Now you see why parks are also dog’s best friends. 

## Elmington Park
*Foodie friendly*

One thing about Nashville is that it is full of a lot of green spaces and nature! Another thing about Nashville is that it’s a growing food scene. Elmington considers both beloved parts of Nashville. There’s nothing like walking outside and catching the alluring aroma of hot chicken and waffles or empanadas off the grill. Don’t be surprised to experience both while taking a walk at Elmington Park. Here, you’re likely to see athletes playing soccer in the open field, families taking a nature walk, and colorful food trucks parked along the pavement. It’s quite ideal if you ask me, your fellow foodie. You have to refuel when you're moving! 


Did you know you could get rewarded just for moving in Nashville! I'm talking about a free meal, free round of golf, and a free camping trip, to name a few. It is all possible through the Tennessee Healthy Parks online tool. 

Enjoy

12 Days of Christmas

Take a Hike

Growing Season

Get Moving