Have you ever calculated your BMI and discovered that you were "underweight" or "obese" and then pondered solutions on how to become "healthier." My deepest sentiments to anyone who's had that experience because the B.M.I. is B.S. For one, weight isn't a direct indicator of one's health. Two, the person who created the BMI had no medical background. Jacques Quetelet, the creator of the BMI formula, was a mathematician. His whole aim with the BMI was to determine what the "average man" looked like. His data was collected from WHITE European men, suggesting that anything outside of the "ideal" was inferior. So, another reason why the BMI is B.S. - it is rooted in racism. 

The racist BMI isn't any surprise to owners and staff at GetFIT 615. GetFIT 615 is an anti-diet culture and actively anti-racist fitness space located on Music Square.  They recognize the racism embedded in diet culture and uphold anti-diet and anti-racism values. When I learned what this fitness gym was all about, to say I was intrigued would be an understatement. And after speaking and meeting with the Co-owner Jess Thompson, Founder Kate, and Personal Trainer Squeeze, I can tell you this was more than just "word-seasoning" being sprinkled on their name to sound "woke." They are about their business and what they say!
I encourage you to check out the gym for yourself, but in the meantime, I'll walk you through some of my favorite things about GETFIT 615. 

__They're not about the "call-out" culture.__
At GetFIT 615, they have boundaries and respect yours. I'll explain. Have you ever been to a workout class that you were not feeling, but the instructor made you feel pressured to stay? Even worst-case scenario, the instructor called you out when you decided to leave (this real-life happened to Kate). Well, you don't have to worry about that at GetFIT 615. They have a 10-minute rule. The rule is, if you get to the gym and still aren't feeling the workout after 10 minutes, they ENCOURAGE you to honor those feelings. You are welcome to come back at a later date. No judgment!

__Empowering is more than just a buzzword.__
No doubt, with great instructors like Jess and Squeeze, you will engage in workouts that will empower you physically, but I think one of the great things about the community here is that they cultivate more than just physical strength. It's something about being empowered through freedom.  Each class, a workout is written on the board to aid with structure; however, if you are not feeling one of the exercises, you won't get the side-eye for not doing it. The liberty to choose workouts that work for you is encouraged. You also have the freedom to go at your own pace without an instructor breathing down your neck. 

__You won't break the bank!__
You can try the gym for two weeks for ONLY $14. They also have something called Open Gym on Saturdays. Open gym is for members and non-members, and one of the coolest parts about it, you pay what you can to attend. During open gym, you can try out equipment, work out outside, get some advice from Squeeze, and experience all the vibes of this unique fitness gym.

__The bottom line
At GetFIT 615 …__
You can walk in without being pressured into being on this strict meal plan that promises you you'll lose weight just to fit a "standard" that is inherently racist and biased. 

You can walk in and feel empowered not just because you're getting stronger but because you are being equipped with the tools to help you make your own choices regarding your fitness. 
You can walk in knowing that you are welcomed regardless of your size, race, sexual orientation, and fitness level. 
You can walk out knowing that you are part of a community that advocates for change.
I could go on and on about why I'm so hyped about this place, but I want you to experience it for yourself. Head over to [getFIT615](https://getfit615.com/) to learn more. 

GetFIT615 is an Anti-diet culture, anti-racism fitness gym located on music row in Nashville, TN, and to say this place is a vibe would be an understatement. We  got to spend some time with co-owner of the space, Jess Thompson, to learn more!

Fitness Meets Anti-Diet Culture

GetFIT615

March 3, 2020, is a day many Nashvillians will never forget. The night of the tornado destroyed many homes in North Nashville, East Nashville, Germantown, and surrounding areas. High Garden Tea, located on Woodland St. in East Nashville, unfortunately, did not remain untouched. 

High Garden Tea is a social enterprise, founded by Leah and Joel Larabell. The mission of High Garden is to reconnect us with the plant wisdom we instinctively hold. Many became familiar with High Garden for ten years through the herbal and tea shop. The shop was an experience like no other in Nashville. You could walk in the shop and mix some of your favorite herbs and enjoy a flight of kombucha, among many other offerings. That was until the tragic tornado struck. 

Leah and Joel first received news that the tornado damaged their building from their landlord. At that point, their brains would not allow them to imagine anything more than a few broken windows. However, when they arrived at the location, their eyes met the unimaginable. More than broken windows, the building had merely crumbled to pieces. If you saw the images circulating social media, you can attest that it's a scene you can't forget. Though unforgettable, it's not the thing Leah remembers most about that morning. 

What she remembers most is beauty.

When Leah and Joel arrived at High Garden, at least thirty people had already beat them there. They showed up with care and love to help recover and clean up what survived the storm. That's the beauty Leah remembers! She describes, "at that moment, I think I truly learned how to love people." Leah grew up more connected to her squirrel and plant families, so it was easier for her to relate to nature than people outside of her immediate circle. However, that morning of the tornado revealed the beauty in humanity she had never seen before.  

"That's the main thing I remember about that morning. That piece of my heart getting filled up." - Leah Larbell

When it crumbled, Leah and Joel knew they were not going to be able to rebuild ten years of what they grew for a long time. The tornado forced them to begin a new path. As they stepped back a little from the "business" side of things, the next path for High Garden began to be revealed. 

With lots of patience and humility, Leah and Joel are slowly learning and understanding this new path for High Garden. Their goal is to make plants and herbalism more accessible to everyone. They envision a world where there's a plant person in everyone's home.  They are making it happen. Today you can experience the many offerings of High Garden in many ways. Here's how:

__High Garden Online Store:__ Via the High Garden online store, you can find a wide range of herbal infusions and teas. Their products are more than just items; they are creations that grew out of years of study. They hope that through these offerings, they can shine a light on the power and benefit within the world of plants.  

__High Garden’s School of RootWisdom:__ To dive deeper into herbalism education, you can take a deeper dive by enrolling in High Garden’s School of RootWisdom. The first year of the herbalism program is titled PlantFolk Herbalism. This program is at student capacity, but there are more programs to come, so stay connected. 

__Upcoming Podcast:__ Leah and Joel announced to us that they are working on a podcast. No official premiere date has been released yet, but I'm excited for the fact that we will literally be able to learn about herbs on our commute to work! 

There's purpose in pain, and while hearing the recovery and resiliency story of Leah and Joel, it's hard to argue otherwise. Purpose isn't revealed at once; it's revealed in moments. That morning of the tornado was just the beginning of a greater purpose being revealed. Through the pain of the tornado, they could reimagine this vision and purpose of High Garden in more incredible ways.

Be sure to keep up with all the latest news and High Garden's journey by subscribing to their mail list at highgardentea.com and by following them on Instagram @highgardentea.


Beauty Along A New Path

High Garden Tea

March 3, 2020, was a night Nashville won’t forget. A deadly tornado ripped through much of Middle Tennessee, destroying many homes and businesses, and unfortunately taking lives. That night seven tornadoes swept through Middle TN. The EF-3 Tornado struck at 12:30 in the morning and brought much damage to Davidson County. At a traveling rate of 57.3 mph, the tornado spanned a total of 60 miles impacting the John C. Tune Airport area, buildings from Cockrill Bendray and Briley Parkway, TN State Prison,  TSU, and Germantown. The tornado only intensified as it made its way towards East Nashville, causing unthinkable damage. There was EF-3 damage to businesses and other buildings in the Five Points area and EF-2 damage to homes in the Lockeland Springs and Barclay Drive neighborhoods. While many could only imagine how devastating such an experience could have been, others didn’t have to imagine it; it was their lived through experience.

Though tragic, it warms my spirit to hear how business owners were so resilient afterward. 

Among these stories of resiliency is  Gym 5, one of the first businesses in East Nashville. Gym 5 is East Nashville’s original locally-owned and operated full-service fitness club. On the night of the tornado, GYM 5 suffered an estimated half million-plus in property damages. Everything from the floors was destroyed, only the original flooring from half the building remained. Because of the extreme damages, GYM 5, which had been in operation for 15 years, was forced to temporarily shut down. This put a strain on the local business owner, Adam Wright.

During the shutdown, they did not charge their members monthly fees; at the same time, they also lost existing members. Thankfully, they were still able to keep and pay all of their employees. Wright goes on to highly esteem his employees as being an essential part of overcoming these challenging times. The tornado and the shutdown, put GYM 5 in a tough situation, but they weathered the storms. With the support of the community and employees, GYM 5 was ready to reopen with a smaller version of the gym after 1.5 months. By August, they were ready to fully open, ahead of the mandates inflicted by the pandemic. 

One of the biggest changes that the new GYM space has seen is an upper-level cardio mezzanine. Gym goers can now enjoy their workout with an East Nashville view overlooking downtown Nashville through the large garage windows. Additionally, the GYM offers an abundance of other spaces and equipment to fit your interests in staying fit and active.For instance, their outdoor workout space was one of my favorites! This was one of the first parts of the Gym to reopen. Move Nashville got on the scene on a beautiful 60 degree winter day, and I can say we all wanted to enjoy a workout in the outdoor space. 

Gym 5 also offers workout programs, which include: boxing boot, boxing, spin class, power lunch, TRX Cross-Training, and Strength and Conditioning. 
Wright and many others are glad that the Gym is back up and running. Amid the pandemic, it’s been a space to help the Nashville community stay active and healthy. Gym 5 is not just a reputable gym in East Nashville; it can now be seen as a symbol of the strength and resiliency in Nashville. 


Weathering the Storm

gym 5

Have you ever found yourself searching for a place where you felt like you were represented and included? For Chief Juiceista and Head Yogini, Nielah, that was her story. Nielah moved to Nashville by way of Atlanta, and when she arrived, she struggled to find a yoga studio where she felt represented and included. Though disappointed, Nielah did not allow this to halt her health and wellness journey. Instead, it empowered her to take control of it, and while in front of the steering wheel, she soon arrived at the door of Egyptian Yoga. Egyptian Yoga was new to Nielah, but as she learned and practiced, she fell in love with it for many reasons,  one being that through this ancient practice, she saw herself.  It soon inspired her to create a space where all body sizes, fitness levels, and skin colors were included. Talk about representation! Her passion began to spill over, and after many years and some birthing pangs, this vision began to manifest. InnerG Juice and Yoga was born.

InnerG Juice and Yoga is a one-stop-shop for your juicing needs and yoga flow. The studio offers handcrafted,  cold-pressed juices as well as diverse yoga experiences. After engaging in a session of Egyptian Yoga, you can hydrate on InnerGOAT, one of Nielah's first and favorite juices.  But maybe Trap Yoga is more your thing? No problem. It's understood at InneG that "There's levels to this shift." So, The diversity that Nielah once longed for is reflected in the diverse offerings of yoga classes and juice types for all different levels of yogis and taste pallets. They've even created a system called level G, a simple way to decide which juice or yoga flow is right for you.

InnerG is all about juice and Yoga. However, their mission goes beyond the kitchens of the juicers and floors of the yoga mats. They're on a mission to build better habits that make better people who develop better communities. Historically, systemic racism has contributed to inequitable access to grocery stores, health care, and wellness spaces among many African American communities. So, the core of their mission is about making wellness spaces more accessible to all communities.  InnerG aims to help bridge this gap in many ways, one by going outside of the studio's walls. They have plans to launch  Vitality Zones, wellness pit-stops serviced by cold-pressed juice vending machines, and pop up yoga sessions servicing the Nashville community!

The community is the "why" behind InnerG Juice and Yoga, so it is just so perfect that the studio will be among some other excellent black-owned businesses in North Nashville. Literally in their backyard, you can find  Slim and Husky’s, The Southern V, Willie B’s, and Minerva. So, the next time you're on your way to pick up a V-thang Slim pizza, make a mental note of the studio. Space is still under construction, but the vision is coming together. And as things continue to unfold and come together, we hope to give you an exclusive sneak peek of its opening. The opening date is being planned for the Spring! However, you can order your juice from home or schedule a virtual yoga sesh in the meantime. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and activate your Inner G!


Learn how to activate your "InnerG" from the newest yoga and juice studio coming to North Nashville!

Activate your InnerG

Nielah Burnett

Imagine waking up and taking business calls from the beach. It sounds like a win, win right? Well, Mariana Tondo is definitely winning! Despite being thousands of miles away from her office in Nashville, TN, Mariana can still conduct business and see clients, all while visiting her family in Brazil, due to the convenience of Virtual Physical Therapy.  

Mariana Tondo, a physical therapist with nine years of experience, is the owner of the Virtual Physical Therapy practice, VIRT.  She specializes in musculoskeletal disorders, which are injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. Mariana is certified in the Mckenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), a proven way to assess, treat, and prevent muscle and joint issues. This method can empower clients to improve pain and recover from injuries without any expensive medical equipment, diagnostic imaging, injections, or surgery. So, Mariana is not the only one winning; her clients are too! To prove it, here are more Pros of Virtual PT.

__Pros of Virtual PT:__
- Save Money
- Detailed Care and Attention
- Fewer Appointments
- More Autonomy 
- Convenient
- Effective 
- EMPOWERING!

Virtual Physical Therapy may be new to you, so I thought it would be a good idea to walk you through a session.

During the first session, Mariana will assess the client by asking a series of questions. This helps her gain a greater understanding of the client's pain and musculoskeletal conditions. She also guides the client through a series of exercises to better understand things like the client's range of motion, posture, and pain level. After assessing the client, she can demonstrate and teach the client exercises that will best address the problem. Though the sessions are once a week for one hour, the client will have access to the Physical Therapist anytime!  With the touch of their fingertips, Mariana is just one message or call away! (Let's add greater accessibility to that list of Pros!)

After sessions, Mariana provides the client with homework assignments. Don't worry; this doesn't involve any book work. It merely consists of repeating prescribed exercises from home. Also, these homework assignments come with all the answers! Mariana will provide videos demonstrating all the exercises you need to know to ensure the moves' accuracy. She will set you up for success. 

__Get Started:__
You can schedule an appointment with Mariana through her website, or you can get matched with her through ViaSana. ViaSana is a Physical Therapy platform dedicated to connecting you to a compatible virtual physical therapist. It all starts with a Free and Quick survey! Don't get lost on your path to better health. Get connected with excellent PTs like Mariana through [ViaSana](https://viasana.co/) today! 


Meet the Physical Therapist, Mariana Tondo 

Empowered Through Virtual Physical Therapy

Mariana Tondo, guiding a client through a virtual session.

Virtual Physical Therapy

Imagine wanting to check out this new and trendy restaurant in Nashville, and without a clear guide, you just hop in the car and start driving. By chance, you may find it, but by a greater chance, you could end up lost. That's just one example, why it is usually a good idea to have a guide to where you are going before you just go! This doesn't only apply to driving; it can apply to our health as well. Many of us have goals to get active or move more; however, the goal can become harder to achieve when we don't have a clear guide on making that happen. If you can relate in some way, I have the answer for you – ViaSana. ViaSana is a virtual matchmaking platform connecting patients to the best physical therapy providers. ViaSana is translated  "via" (path or guide) and "sana" (movement). Its literal meaning is a direct reflection of the ViaSana's goal – which is to help you get on a path to health by connecting you to experts in movement.

Physical therapists (PT) are movement experts and healthcare professionals who use evidence-based practices and education to improve pain, manage injury, and maximize various health outcomes. They are the literal movers and shakers in healthcare because they improve the way you move. People everywhere move, so in that sense, many of us can benefit from a PT. However, finding the right Physical Therapist can be a little like dating, meaning compatibility matters! If the physical therapist doesn't fully understand the patient's needs/goals and lacks general compatibility, it could impact the patient's health outcomes and motivation. In fact, research shows that only 30% of patients prescribed outpatient physical therapy attend all treatment sessions. ViaSana figured that part of the problem could be rooted in compatibility. 

As part of the solution, ViaSana uses its platform to make finding the right Physical Therapist possible! They start with a Free Psychology based survey that will match you with a therapist that specializes in your needs and preferences. Once matched with your licensed and board-certified Physical Therapist, you can start your path to better health in a way that most comfortable and convenient for you. Because the platform is virtual, your Physical Therapist will be accessible via phone, tablet, or computer.

ViaSana not only guides the patient to better health, but they are also on a mission to continually advocate for physical therapists as well. Research shows that 50% of PTs consider a career change in the next five years due to poor work-life balance. ViaSana wants to help reverse that by giving PTs a tool to help them reclaim their time, expand care capacity, and improve patient fulfillment. 

This company is one that takes its values beyond the app and the business. They are movers and shakers within the community, hoping to make an impact all around them. One way they do so is through their online publication MoveNasvhille. MoveNashville focuses on Movement, Community, Mindfulness, and Nutrition as paths to better health as well. Through storytelling and personable interviews with local Nashville health experts and influencers, they hope to inspire the community to improve their health and keep movin'.

Additionally, ViaSana is currently part of the Nashville EC Project Healthcare, a yearlong program dedicated to connecting, supporting, and coaching health care entrepreneurs seeking to accelerate their startup. 

Project Healthcare *is bringing together healthcare, technology, and business leaders to nurture startups building the future of healthcare.*

They are committed to growing the platform to drive transformation within the healthcare industry. 

Don't get lost on your path to better health. Check out ViaSana today! 


Imagine wanting to check out this new and trendy restaurant in Nashville, and without a clear guide,

A Path to Better Health

PT at Home

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

How are you movin’? Did you go on a nature walk today, practice virtual yoga with Cory, or visit the local farmers market for some in-season fruits? No matter how you decided to move, the important thing is that you are moving! While we are on the move, sometimes we may have to look to the experts to keep moving! Physical Therapists are the experts in movement who help improve movement and manage pain. Physical Therapists not only address pain and injuries, but they focus on preventive strategies as well. So, if you are active in any way, you can benefit from Physical Therapy!

At Nashville Physical Therapy and Performance, they specialize in keeping active people active! At their three locations (Franklin, South Nashville, and East Nashville),  they have experienced Physical Therapists who can help anyone, from those recovering from a recent injury to active people interested in preventative care and strategies. Bonus, it is all done without medication, surgery, or pain! Instead, they use various specialty techniques: Manual Therapy, Dry Needling, and the Mckenzie Method.

__Manual Therapy:__ Manual Therapy is a hands-on approach to addressing joint issues, reducing pain, and assisting the body with muscle repair, without the use of equipment.  During manual therapy techniques, PTs may apply pressure to soft tissue to relieve pain, increase blood flow, and relax the muscles. Other methods may involve loosening up restricted joints or lengthening shortened muscles. 

__Dry Needling:__ At first sight, dry needling may resemble acupuncture. They both involve thin needles, but they are quite different. Acupuncture is a 3,000-year Chinese tradition used to address pain issues through acupuncture points. In comparison, dry needling is a newer practice used by Physical Therapists to relieve pain in muscles. Needles are placed in knotted or stiff muscles known as triggered points. The needle is used to help loosen knots and pain. The problem being treated can determine how long the needle will stay inputted.  Nashville PT offers 20-minute dry needling sessions for patients that have been evaluated. 

__Mckenzie Method:__ is a trusted system used all over the world to treat spinal and extremity musculoskeletal disorders. During the assessment, the PT will gather some history and ask you to perform specific movements. This will help them better understand your symptoms and range of motion. Next, the PT will provide you with education and exercises to perform as part of your treatment plan. The PT will give you the tools to keep you informed and practice self-maintenance for preventing the reoccurrence of the problem. 

These methods may sound new or intimidating, but you can rest assured that the experts at Nashville PT make the treatments personable, comfortable, and engaging. A treatment plan is designed specifically for you—nothing cookie cutter.  And they don't leave you with a PT tech or assistance; instead, they provide you with the one on one attention needed to achieve your goals. Through exercises and education, you will leave empowered to accomplish your health goals and implement prevention methods. 

Are you ready to stay active! To learn more and schedule an evaluation, visit https://www.nashvillephysicaltherapy.com/.


How are you movin’? Did you go on a nature walk today, practice virtual yoga with Cory