30 Day Shred

I'm on day 4 of my 30 day shred, and wow, do I feel a difference! When I first started, I could do less then five minutes and my legs were killing me for two days. But, I got back in the saddle, it stretched my legs out and I've been working my way up. I'm at 21 minutes now before I had to do modified versions. I love how the exercises stretch and strengthen my muscles at the same time and how I am still covered with sweat, six minutes after ending. Thanks Jullian!
To round off this day with dance, I turned on my new favorite soundtrack, from "Mirror Mirror" and belly danced to "I Believe In Love". I focused on the arm movements at first, head pats, snake arms, lotus and diamond (those are my favorite, so exotic looking! Then on the second round of the song, I just went and did what I thought was fun. I tried to pretend to play the flute while at the same time pretending to be the music coming from the flute. I wasn't satisfied with the results, but it reminded me that sometimes having pictures in my head about what I am trying to be as I dance helps me dance better. Also, really thinking about the lyrics and what they mean to me, that helps the focus and find ways to express it.
I read about the 17 people who were killed today in Afghanistan for dancing. I feel so sad that there is such actions in the world. I am also so grateful I live in a country where there are men and women willing to fight for even my most basic rights. So to all the service men and woman, thank you, you and your families are in my prayers always. If anyone feels to do so, please tell the next armed forces member "Thank you." It takes courage every time, but it always makes a difference.