Tag: fitness

career, writing

A Day in the Life of a Full-Time Writer

Elizabeth Yuen

Being a full-time writer is a dream job for many, but it’s far from lounging around in pajamas and waiting for inspiration to strike. It’s a balancing act between creativity, discipline, and the everyday responsibilities of homemaking. For me, every day is a dance between writing deadlines, caring for my family, and managing a high-energy border collie named Scout. Here’s a look at a typical day in my life as a full-time writer.

4:30 AM – Wake Up Call

The world is still and quiet—a perfect time for creativity. I’m up at 4:30 AM, often before the sun, to carve out time for my writing. It’s not easy to wake up this early, but I’ve found that the peace and stillness of the early morning hours are ideal for getting into a creative flow. I get my pre-workout and bake something to eat for my family later in the day before I sit at my desk and open my laptop.

5:00 AM – Writing Session

By 5:00 AM, I’m fully immersed in my current project. Whether I’m drafting new chapters, editing, or outlining my next book, these two hours are sacred. It’s my most focused time of the day—no interruptions, no emails, just me and the story. This is when I’ve written some of my best work, including large chunks of my books in the Seasonally Spellbound series.

7:00 AM – Get Ready for the Gym

By 7:00 AM, it’s time to switch gears. I get myself and my little one ready to head out the door. This means packing snacks, getting gym clothes on, and making sure we’re both prepared for the morning ahead.

8:00 AM – Workout

At 8:00 AM, I’m at the gym. Movement is essential not just for my body but for my mind. Exercise keeps me energized and sharp for the rest of the day. It’s also a chance to clear my head and let story ideas percolate in the background. I’ve solved more than one plot problem while doing a set of squats.

10:00 AM – Walk Scout

Back home by 10:00 AM, it’s time for Scout’s walk. Our border collie has boundless energy, so this walk is non-negotiable. We stroll around the neighborhood, and I’ll often use this time to brainstorm scenes or listen to audiobooks related to writing or storytelling.

10:30 AM – Morning Snack

After the walk, it’s snack time. A quick, healthy snack gives me a boost before diving into the next phase of my day.

11:00 AM – Clean or Dog Park During Child’s Nap

At 11:00 AM, my child goes down for a nap, and I’m faced with a choice: clean the house or take Scout to the dog park. On cleaning days, I’m tackling laundry, tidying up toys, and doing small household tasks that keep everything running smoothly. On dog park days, it’s a chance for Scout to run off her energy while I get a mental break.

12:00 PM – Writing Session

Once the cleaning or park trip is done, I’m back at my desk for another writing session at 12:00 PM. These early afternoon hours are quieter but often less focused than my 5:00 AM session. I’m juggling ideas and pushing forward on chapters, but I’m also mindful that the day’s responsibilities are piling up.

2:00 PM – Lunch Break

At 2:00 PM, it’s time to pause for lunch. It’s a chance to refuel, check in with my family, and take a breather before the afternoon push.

3:00 PM – Playtime with Scout

After lunch, I’ll spend some time in the backyard with Scout and with my son. We play fetch, chase, or practice training exercises. It’s a chance for us to get some fresh air, and it’s another moment of “active brainstorming” for me—where story ideas come together when I’m not actively thinking about them.

4:00 PM – Writing Session at the Gym (With Childwatch)

At 4:00 PM, it’s time for the second workout session of the day—but for me, it’s less about exercise and more about childcare. While my child is in childwatch at the gym, I’ll find a quiet spot to write. I’ve learned to be adaptable during this window, knowing that interruptions can happen. But having this dedicated block of time helps me stay on track.

6:00 PM – Dinner and Bedtime Routine

By 6:00 PM, it’s dinner time for the whole family. We sit down together to eat, talk about our day, and unwind a bit. After dinner, it’s time to get my child ready for bed—bath, pajamas, bedtime stories, and snuggles. It’s a cherished part of my day, and I’m fully present for it.

7:00 PM – “Closing Hour” Cleaning Session

Once the little one is asleep, it’s time for my “closing hour”—an hour of straight cleaning. I’ll tackle dishes, organize toys, fold laundry, and reset the house for the next day. It’s part of my “clean slate” philosophy: waking up to a tidy home makes it easier to focus on writing in the morning.

8:00 PM – Wind Down

At 8:00 PM, I’m officially done with household tasks. It’s time to decompress. I’ll read a book, watch a show, or simply relax. I’m mindful not to bring any more “work” into this space. This hour is sacred and sets the tone for a good night’s sleep.

8:30 PM – Lights Out

By 8:30 PM, it’s lights out. I’ve learned that to maintain my 4:30 AM wake-up routine, I need to prioritize rest. Sleep is non-negotiable. I’ve also learned that it’s not just about the quantity of sleep but the quality. A full night’s rest ensures I’m ready to do it all again the next day.

Being a full-time writer requires discipline, but it’s also a job filled with joy, creativity, and flexibility. Every day looks a little different, but this schedule keeps me grounded. Balancing writing, homemaking, and family life isn’t easy—but it’s worth every early morning and late-night cleaning session. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live the life of a full-time writer, know this: it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

career, lifestyle

Writing and Workout Routines: How I Structure My Day for Both

Elizabeth Yuen

As a stay-at-home mom, writer, and someone who values staying active, finding balance in my daily schedule has been a journey. I’ve crafted a routine that helps me juggle writing, homemaking, and working out, while still making time for my family. Here’s a glimpse into what my typical day looks like:

6:00 AM: Early Start for Breakfast and Writing

The alarm goes off, and I start my day at 6 AM. After grabbing a quick breakfast, I dive straight into writing. This is my sacred hour, where the house is quiet, and I can focus on my creative projects. It’s a golden time to get into the flow and make headway on my novel before the day’s responsibilities kick in.

7:00 AM: Getting Ready for the Day

At 7 AM, I shift gears and start getting ready for the day. Outfits, shoes, bags—everything has to be in place before I head out the door. It’s a busy time––especially as a mom, but I’ve learned to embrace the hustle as part of the morning rhythm.

8:00 AM: Workout Class

By 8 AM, I’m at the gym for a workout class while my kid is in child watch. This is a crucial part of my routine, not only for staying healthy but also for keeping my mind sharp and energized. The hour spent moving and sweating is a great way to reset my brain, giving me the stamina to tackle the rest of the day.

9:30 AM: Childwatch Pickup

After my class, I pick my child up from the gym’s child watch. It’s a quick transition from workout mode back into mom mode, but it’s worth every minute of fitness time. Plus, my little one gets some fun playtime with friends while I’m working out.

10:00 AM: Nap Time Means Clean and Write Time

By 10 AM, it’s time for my child’s first morning nap. This is another golden hour for me. First, I take care of any cleaning or household tasks that need attention. Once the house is in order, I grab my laptop and get back to writing. Whether it’s refining dialogue, plotting, or getting lost in my characters’ world, I make the most of this uninterrupted time.

The Rest of the Day

The afternoon brings more family time, errands, and homemaking tasks. I fit in bits of writing wherever I can, but the morning is when I do the bulk of my creative writing. I love ending the day with a sense of accomplishment from both writing and homemaking, feeling balanced between my roles.

It’s not always easy, but having a structured routine helps me prioritize my passions and responsibilities. Writing, homemaking, and staying active all get their time to shine in my schedule, and that balance keeps me energized and fulfilled.

Uncategorized

Book-Themed Workouts for Readers and Writers: Staying Fit in Your Favorite Fictional World

Elizabeth Yuen

Workouts inspired by books are trending. Now, this trend isn’t exactly the most recent, but I’ve noticed it popping up across social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Anywhere from running to Mordor to the Nesta Archeron 10K step challenge, bookish workouts are taking the internet by storm.

And I am so here for it.

In this post, I’ll share creative, book-inspired workouts that allow you to stay fit while channeling the energy of your favorite characters and stories. Whether you’re a fan of epic fantasy quests, dystopian thrillers, or cozy magical realms, there’s a workout here that will get your heart racing and your mind buzzing with creative energy.

1. Running to Mordor: A Lord of the Rings Cardio Adventure

Ever wondered how far Frodo and Sam actually walked to Mordor? Well, it’s about 1,779 miles from Hobbiton to Mount Doom, and now you can tackle this epic distance at your own pace! This workout is perfect for runners, walkers, or even treadmill enthusiasts who want to add a bit of adventure to their cardio routine.

How it works:

  • Track your distance with a fitness app (like Strava) and aim to walk or run the full distance over time.
  • Break the journey into manageable segments—like walking to Bree or crossing the Dead Marshes—and reward yourself at each milestone (a cup of tea in the Shire, anyone?).
  • You can even gather a “Fellowship” of friends or fellow writers to join you on this epic quest!

Bonus: Listen to the “Lord of the Rings” audiobook or soundtrack while you exercise to truly immerse yourself in Middle-earth!

2. The Hunger Games Survival Circuit

In the world of The Hunger Games, survival is key, and that means staying physically fit and ready for anything. This workout focuses on agility, strength, and endurance, just like Katniss would need in the arena.

How it works:

  • Archery lunges: Stand in a lunge position as if pulling back a bow. Do 10 reps on each side to strengthen your legs and core.
  • Tree-climbing squats: Katniss spent a lot of time climbing trees—replicate that strength with 3 sets of 15 squats to build powerful legs.
  • Agility jumps: Practice dodging fireballs or leaping over logs with side-to-side agility jumps. Jump back and forth for 30 seconds, rest, and repeat for 3 rounds.
  • Sprint like you’re being chased: Finish with 3 rounds of 20-second sprints, followed by 40 seconds of walking, to mimic running for your life!

3. The Nesta Archeron 10K Step Challenge (From A Court of Thorns and Roses)

Inspired by Nesta Archeron’s daily stair-climbing challenge in A Court of Silver Flames, this workout will get your legs burning and your steps in. Challenge yourself to hit 10,000 steps a day or add stair-climbing into your routine for a serious leg workout.

How it works:

  • Find a set of stairs (or use a stair machine) and aim to climb them for 20 minutes. Alternatively, set a daily goal of 10,000 steps if you prefer walking.
  • For an extra challenge, add in weighted stair climbs: carry light dumbbells or even your favorite book (as a symbolic weight) as you climb.

Bonus: As you climb, channel Nesta’s fierce determination and use this time to mentally work through your next story plotline!

4. The Hogwarts House Workout

For Harry Potter fans, you can infuse a little magic into your fitness routine by channeling the Hogwarts spirit. Each House has unique traits, and this workout is designed to help you embrace the strengths of Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin.

How it works:

  • Gryffindor courage: 3 rounds of 10 burpees to build explosive power and bravery.
  • Hufflepuff endurance: Hold a 1-minute plank to work on persistence and core strength.
  • Ravenclaw wisdom: Stretch for 10 minutes at the end of your workout—yoga or deep stretches—to focus on mindfulness and flexibility.
  • Slytherin ambition: Finish with 3 sets of 15 push-ups to build upper-body strength and determination.

Bonus: Keep track of your progress and reward yourself with a “House Cup” (a cozy cup of tea or coffee) after each successful workout session!

5. The Dauntless Training Regimen (From Divergent)

In Divergent, Dauntless initiates undergo intense physical training to test their bravery and strength. This high-intensity workout will have you feeling like a true Dauntless member, ready to leap from trains and face your fears.

How it works:

  • Box jumps or step-ups: 3 sets of 10, mimicking the leap from a moving train.
  • Push-ups: 3 sets of 15 to build upper body strength like a true Dauntless fighter.
  • Tire flips or kettlebell swings: Channel Dauntless grit with 3 sets of 10 reps to build full-body power.
  • Fear simulation runs: End with a 20-minute interval run, alternating between 1 minute of sprinting and 1 minute of walking to simulate the adrenaline rush of facing your greatest fear.

Want a more in-depth plan? Check this out.

6. The Jane Austen Stroll: A Regency-Era Walk

If intense workouts aren’t your style, take a leaf out of Jane Austen’s novels and enjoy a daily stroll through your neighborhood or a nearby park. Walking is a great way to stay active while reflecting on your latest writing project or mentally crafting the perfect scene.

How it works:

  • Aim for a 30- to 60-minute walk each day. During your walk, clear your mind and let the peaceful pace help you untangle plot points or character arcs.
  • Take a notebook or use a voice recording app to capture any sudden bursts of inspiration during your stroll.

7. The “Writing Sprint” Workout

Combine writing sprints with quick bursts of exercise to get the best of both worlds. Write for 20 minutes, then do a quick 5-minute workout to re-energize before diving back into your story.

Workout intervals:

  • 20-minute writing sprint
  • 5-minute workout: 10 squats, 10 push-ups, and a 30-second plank
  • Repeat for 3 or 4 rounds to stay productive and active!

Final Thoughts

Book-themed workouts are a fun, creative way to merge fitness with your love of reading and writing. Not only do they help you stay healthy, but they also keep your imagination alive by immersing you in your favorite fictional worlds. Next time you feel stuck at your desk or need a boost of inspiration, why not take a cue from Frodo, Katniss, or Harry and get moving?

So, lace up your running shoes, grab your water bottle (or your magic wand), and start sweating your way through the stories you love!

health

How I Became a Runner

Elizabeth Yuen

I hate running. I’ve always hated running. And I have always known that I will forever hate running. Until the day I started to love running.

Growing up, running had always been a horrible, terrible thing the gym teachers made us do every day. The grouchy old men and women would shout at us, “Don’t cut corners!” and “Run faster!” Then they’d finish it off with some push ups and sit ups on the concrete (have you done that before? It’s the worst). Thus, running became more of a punishmenthealthy-person-woman-sport.jpg and a way for me to feel like I wasn’t good at anything.

What’s even worse is that the winning kids of those mile runs liked to do “victory laps” where they would pass by the last place losers (AKA myself and a few other kids) all while looking smug about the whole thing. And after the last kid finally finished running, we all had to go to our next class sweaty, disgusting and exhausted.

It was awful.

With each passing year, and each teacher yelling the same things over and over again (“Is that all you got?” “Stop going so slow – kick it into high gear!”), I felt more and more hatred toward this stupid sport. All I wanted to do was be left alone, but adults kept yelling at me (and the other poor souls who were never good at running either) that I wasn’t doing good enough with smug peers looking at me like I was inferior.

Okay, yeah. An eleven minute mile is nothing to brag about, but that was my eleven minute mile.

For years this pent up rage toward running built up inside of me, until whenever I thought about jogging, a feel of loathing would bubble up and I’d walk away from the whole thing.

But then I stopped for moment and though to myself, “If I hate it this much, maybe I should actually try to do it.”

I was out of school. No one was yelling at me to run faster. I could just…run. In peace. By myself.

So I did.

And every day I hated it at first. It was so boring! Who actually liked to run?

Until I started to hate it a little less. I discovered that running was easier outdoors than on a treadmill..

And then I started to be okay with it. I went outside and ran gorgeous trails in the forest by myself. No one was telling me what to do or how to run. I just ran

And then I started to like it.

And then, this Christmas, when I received tons of winter running gear from my family, I knew that I loved it.

What’s your exercise of choice?

lifestyle

New Year Resolutions

Elizabeth Yuen

It’s that time of year again! Everyone’s gearing up for the new year and getting ready to tackle their goals.

For 2018, theses are mine:

  1. Run one race per month – I’m a strong believer in giving back and running races is a perfect way to do just that while staying fit! I started doing this back in August of 2017 and only skipped December since I didn’t have the proper winter running gear. Now that my family has beefed up my winter running wardrobe with some awesome Christmas gifts, I’m back in action and ready to do some good for the community by running.
  2. Run a 10K – I’ve already done a 5K before, and I want to push myself even further this year! I’m signing up for the Florence Forth 10K happening March 3rd, 2018.running-573762_1280
  3. Run a Half Marathon – Once I finish my 10K in March, I’ll be looking for something new to sink my teeth into. Running a half marathon sounds pretty good to me! So I’ll be looking to accomplish that 3 months after I finish the Florence Forth 10K. There’s a half marathon happening in June that I’m really looking forward to. Sign me up!
  4. Blog twice a week – I’ve been slacking on this goal. Sometimes life gets in the way and writing takes a back seat, but this year I’d like to make my blog a priority. So every day during my lunch break at work, I’ll be breaking out my laptop and working on my blog posts.
  5. Write a novel – I really want to finish my first book by the end of 2018. My dream is to become a writer, so it’s time to make that dream a reality. I’m going to dedicate at least one hour per evening to my writing my very first novel.

What are your goals for 2018? How do you plan on getting there? Let me know in the comment section below.

health, lifestyle

Coming Clean: Cassey Ho on Dieting

Elizabeth Yuen

Written by Liz Britton

TRIGGER WARNING

Fitness guru, Cassey Ho, recently came out with a video on why she will never diet again. The founder of Blogilates and POP Pilates comes clean about her struggles with her previous extreme dieting. In the video, she lists less than ten things she was allowed to eat during her training for a bikini competition according to her competition trainer.

Apparently, as the competition came closer, her trainer got stricter and stricter with her diet. It got so bad that he even scolded her for eating iceberg lettuce because it had “too many carbs.”

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[L]ooking back, I have to tell you…I felt so empty.

Empty described how my stomach felt. Empty described how my brain felt. Empty described how my friendships and relationships felt. I also a very angry person who would snap easily. This is not a Cassey characteristic.

Cassey Ho finished the competition without winning a trophy – but that didn’t matter to her. All she wanted was cheesecake.

That’s right.

Cheesecake. Yum.

But when she ate the dessert, she started showing a huge sign of starvation: cramping.

I cramped so hard and had to curl into fetal position in the car for a couple hours before I could walk again…

This is actually a real symptom of starvation. Some people even throw up after starving for so long that once they eat something, their stomachs completely reject it.

Her struggle with orthorexia (obsession with eating healthy foods) was developed in 8 weeks, but lasted much longer than that. Cassey Ho developed a fear of apples and bananas, believing fruit to have too many sugars and carbs. After the competition, Cassey Ho kept restricting her diet, but she started to gain weight.

Her body was clinging to any calories it could get, making maintaining her weight impossible. With her weight fluctuations came embarrassment, especially since she posts workout videos every week, and is well known fitness instructor.

A year later, I decided the heck with it, I’m just going to eat whatever I want. So I had pizza, Chinese food, lots of rice, boba, cake – whatever I wanted. I ate that on the daily. I also got so unmotivated that I stopped working out too. And guess what. I didn’t gain weight or lose weight. I was like what!?? My metabolism is broken! I was so confused and lost.

But eventually, she got back on track with her eating habits. She questioned why she was working out and eating the way she was. Was it really for her or to fit an image? Being a fitness instructor, Cassey Ho deals with critics all the time. There will always be petty people trying to tear her down, but through self love and self respect, Cassey Ho started her healing journey for herself.

Watch the video below or go to Cassey Ho’s blog to learn more about her journey.