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Health & Fitness

Jakub Szylak performing strength training outdoors with dumbbells under the Miami sun.
Cover Stories, Editor's Picks, Health & Fitness, Sports

Sweat, Sun, and Serenity: A Conversation with Miami’s Top Personal Trainer

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Published by Angie LaGuardia • May 2025 • Words by Imani Ogden • Photo credit Hyrox Photo Team / Mendoza Photo We sat down with Jakub Szylak, one of Miami’s most sought-after personal trainers, to discuss the city’s fitness culture, the importance of mental health, and his top tips for achieving overall wellness. A high-level wellness coach and former top-100 Equinox trainer, Jakub brings years of experience with Miami’s elite to the conversation. More Than Muscle: Mental Health Meets Movement For Jakub, fitness is not just physical. “Exercise is mental health,” he explains. “You can’t train the body without training the mind.” Recovery, mindfulness, and inner balance are central to his method. He advocates for listening to your body: “You don’t always have to push. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is rest.” Nutrition, the Jakub Way “Food is fuel,” Jakub says. His nutrition philosophy is simple and intuitive: eat whole foods, listen to your body, and enjoy what you eat. “You don’t need to count every calorie,” he adds. “You need to understand what your body is asking for.” Breaking the Myths According to Jakub, not all workouts are created equal, and not all trends are worth chasing. “People think you need to spend two hours in the gym every day — you don’t,” he says. “Consistency over time is more powerful than intensity in bursts.” He also debunks the myth that lifting weights makes you bulky: “It makes you strong, not big — unless you’re training specifically for size.” Signature Strength: JAKUB’s Go-To Training Method Jakub blends strength training with functional movement — think kettlebells, bodyweight exercises, and explosive cardio. “I want people to feel athletic, capable, and confident,” he explains. “Training should improve how you move through life — whether it’s picking up your kid or hiking a mountain.” Client Success: A Testimonial One longtime client describes Jakub’s approach as “empowering.” “He doesn’t just push you physically — he shifts how you think about yourself,” she says. “Every session feels like progress, not punishment.” Parting Wisdom As our conversation came to a close, Jakub left us with a message that resonated beyond reps and routines. “Exercise should be a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate.” It’s a philosophy that captures more than just fitness—it speaks to the serenity found in self-acceptance and balance. In a city where sun and energy pulse through every corner, Jakub reminds us that true strength is also found in stillness, in breath, and in the quiet pride of showing up for yourself.

Health & Fitness, MSM Online

Miami’s March to Summer: Crafting Your Beach-Ready Body with a Conscience

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By Diana Lammerts  As the Miami sun starts heating up as summer approaches, our city’s residents sharpen their focus on achieving that coveted summer ‘beach body’. March marks not only the beginning of spring but also a crucial time for adjusting our focus towards wellness on both a physical and mental level. While our city is passionate about all things stylish — from fashion to music and more — it is easy to see that, for many, aesthetic heralds performance. The Unseen Hazard Hiding in Your Workout Wardrobe While Miami’s fitness enthusiasts diligently work towards their summer body goals, a silent adversary might be undermining their efforts. This adversary isn’t a lack of motivation or the wrong workout plan but something far less expected: our workout clothes. Recent studies, including those by the Center for Center for Environmental Health (CEH) and findings in the journal Environmental Science & Technology,, have revealed a troubling truth. The very sportswear we rely on might be compromising our health, with chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA)—linked to severe health conditions such as breast and prostate cancer, metabolic disorders, and heart disease—leeching from the fabric into our skin. The Price of Our Fitness Fashion In a city celebrated for its fashion-forward ethos, the appeal of affordable, stylish sportswear is undeniable. However, the hidden costs of these choices often extend far beyond our wallets, implicating us in global issues of unfair labor practices and environmental degradation. “I couldn’t find actually the items which really fit my lifestyle and the design approach,” reflects Rafi Ahmed, the founder of MOROTAI, on his motivation to start a brand that stands as a beacon for sustainable fashion. This stark reminder challenges us to consider the broader implications of our purchasing decisions, influencing not just our health but the wellbeing of workers and ecosystems worldwide. Embracing Sustainability and Ethical Choices in Miami MOROTAI started in Germany, has expanded to Asia, and now the US. It’s philosophy: harmonizing style, functionality, and ethical responsibility. This echoes Miami’s own ethos of vibrancy and sustainability. As we prepare for summer, let’s look beyond the aesthetics of our workout gear to its impact on our health and the planet. Choosing brands that prioritize ethical production and sustainability can steer us towards a more conscious lifestyle, aligning our fitness goals with our values. Moreover, Ahmed’s journey from the inception of MOROTAI to its expansion into global markets serves as an inspiration for Miami’s entrepreneurs and leaders. “If you have the right product, you don’t need to buy like 10 or 15 different shirts,” Ahmed states, advocating for a shift from fast fashion to durable, sustainable choices. His story reminds us that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of our health, ethical standards, or the environment. His vision also convinced the judges on the German version of Shark Tank.  Miami’s Path Forward As we move closer to June, let’s not only focus on sculpting our bodies but also on making mindful choices about our workout gear. It’s a call to action for all of us, from beach-goers to boardroom leaders, to choose options that benefit not just ourselves but our community and the planet. This season, Miami has the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that our commitment to fitness can also reflect our dedication to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Health & Fitness, MSM Online

Transforming Healthcare: An Integrated Strategy for the Treatment of Long COVID and Chronic Diseases

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By Nadja AtwalWorldwide, an estimated 65 million individuals grapple with the persisting consequences of COVID-19, commonly referred to as Long COVID. This figure represents the official count, with the true number presumed to be even greater. Those affected by Long COVID suffer from a variety of incapacitating symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, ongoing cough, muscle soreness or weakness, issues with concentration, disruptions in sleep patterns, and psychological distress, including symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can profoundly affect an individual’s quality of life. Research has unveiled that Long COVID can lead also to brain damage. Economic Consequences for Companies A global investigation into Long COVID has shown that many individuals are still unable to return to their full working capacity six months after infection. This scenario poses challenges not just for employees but also for company leaders and entrepreneurs, who are not immune to Long COVID’s effects, including fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and respiratory issues, potentially diminishing their work performance and decision-making capabilities. Tackling Long COVID and Related Conditions The ongoing battle against COVID-19, Long COVID, and Post COVID conditions poses significant hurdles for healthcare systems across the globe. In Florida, close to 17% of the population has been affected by Long COVID, as recent CDC findings suggest, with research continuing until December.Despite the University of Miami Health System COVID-19 Heart Program being among the few recognized long COVID treatment centers in Florida, it mainly addresses cardiac inflammation and fibrosis. Cell4Care, a therapeutic facility in Mallorca, is extending its support to individuals worldwide battling Long COVID and a spectrum of chronic ailments. Historically, the medical field has concentrated on pathogenesis, the origin and development of diseases, frequently overlooking the fundamental causes. Cell4Care, however, pioneers a novel approach, with a team of experts in traditional medicine exploring complementary biological therapies aimed at identifying and treating the root causes of chronic illnesses. This shift from symptom management to root cause resolution signifies a revolutionary change in healthcare practices. Innovations in Medical Treatment Cell4Care is keenly aware of these challenges, providing specialized diagnostic evaluations and therapies and has effectively helped patients return to their jobs and improve their life quality. The healthcare team performs thorough diagnostics to determine why certain patients have not recovered from the virus, as explained by Ruth Biallowons, a specialist in general medicine and naturopathy. “To find out exactly what is affecting these people, the cause of why they have not recovered from the virus, we then have the ability to apply individually tailored concepts. This naturally includes the whole topic of nutrition, gut health, nutrients, inflammation, and so forth. Thus, with the individual concept, we can precisely say, okay, this person needs this approach.” Proof of Success Over a period of five years and through a collaborative, evidence-based approach, Cell4Care has validated its treatment model. The integration of medical therapies with the team’s protocols has been shown to be highly effective, offering lasting benefits from the initial treatment. Such results highlight the critical role of holistic health as a societal asset. A Comprehensive and Patient-Focused Method Recognizing that diseases are interconnected with an individual’s overall physical and psychological state, lifestyle, occupational environment, and external conditions, Cell4Care adopts an all-encompassing health strategy. This approach is gaining acknowledgment not only in the medical community but also among non-medical sectors such as wellness and sports industries, which profit from selling medical devices. Cell4Care advises against the use of therapeutic devices without a proper medical evaluation and oversight to prevent negative health consequences. Highlight on Intermittent Hypoxic Training (IHT) Their cautious perspective is exemplified in their application of Intermittent Hypoxic Training (IHT), a therapy that alternates normal oxygen levels with slight oxygen deficits through simulated altitude conditions to boost metabolic functions and cellular renewal. Nevertheless, without first addressing the body’s underlying inflammatory processes, such training could be counterproductive. Cell4Care emphasizes the necessity of medical consultations and diagnostics before engaging in any therapeutic practices. A Serene Mallorcan Retreat Aiming to provide top-tier healthcare, Cell4Care has established a peaceful retreat in Mallorca, where patients can receive customized medical care in an environment conducive to physical and mental recovery. With direct flights from major U.S. cities to Palma de Mallorca, the retreat’s location in Calvià, boasting luxury apartments and extensive medical facilities, is easily accessible, making it an ideal choice for recuperation and ongoing health management. The Mallorca Institute for Holistic Health and Wellbeing represents a significant step in their mission, offering a blend of medical assessment, supervised therapy, and wellness activities aimed at promoting recovery and sustaining health. Expanding Services to Include Cosmetic Surgery Another frequent complication of Long COVID and chronic illnesses is weight gain, often due to reduced activity or poorer dietary choices. Broadening their range of services, Cell4Care also provides cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. Dr. Mariana Ostrerova, the clinical director and a plastic reconstructive surgeon, specializes in treating patients with lipedema, a chronic fat distribution disorder. “My task is to help these people. With liposuction, you can remove this pain and alleviate thesuffering that lasts for many years. Because with lipedema, we all know, no matter what you do, whether you exercise a lot or eat healthily, the weight on the arms and legs doesn’t go away, and that’s where I can help with liposuction,” Dr. Ostrerova stated. Incorporating cosmetic surgery emphasizes their dedication to comprehensive well-being, not only addressing internal health issues but also assisting patients in achieving their aesthetic goals. In summary, this medical clinic extends beyondconventional healthcare, offering an integrated, comprehensive solution for those navigating chronic conditions and seeking to improve their overall health. It merges advanced medical and cosmetic treatments with personalized care within a tranquil setting, thereby establishing new standards for attaining and maintaining optimal wellness.https://www.cell4care.de/en/

Health & Fitness, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

Best beach reads right now

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  By Nadja Atwal The beach is calling us all year around and for many this is the place to find the time for a good read, especially since we know how reading books is what successful people do, supposedly. Granted not all readers are leaders but: all leaders are readers.  So we asked Kyle Wallgren, award winning serial entrepreneur and CEO of the innovative reading app EDSOMA, what books will make your day at the beach sweeter and smarter.   Start-up reality: Hatching Twitter by Nick Bilton  This is about twitter and focuses on  the people who started it, including their backgrounds, personalities and infighting of the  the four co-founders (Noah Glass, Jack Dorsey, Biz Stone, Evan Williams) . Current CEO Jack Dorsey in particular gets a very sinister review, as he is being characterized as incompetent guy with tunnel vision and a horrible moral compass. Celebrity biography : Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey a story about Matthew’s  life growing up and always taking the positive out of everything. A mix of biography and guide, the Hollywood star tells his story including a rough childhood that included corporal punishment and his parents divorcing and remarrying each other twice! Highly recommended is the audio version read by the author himself. For self-development:  Can’t Hurt Me (Master Your Mind And Defy The Odds)  by David Goggins David tells about his setback in life how he rose up from an abusive home to breaking records. He shows how you can rewire your brain to become and do better. The author’s bio is worth noting : David Goggins is a retired Navy SEAL and the only member of the U.S. Armed Forces ever to complete SEAL training, U.S. Army Ranger School, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller training. Goggins has competed in more than sixty ultra-marathons, triathlons, and ultra-triathlons, setting new course records and regularly placing in the top five. A former Guinness World Record holder for completing 4,030 pull-ups in seventeen hours, he’s a much-sought-after public speaker who’s shared his story with the staffs of Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams, and hundreds of thousands of students across the country. It is also worth checking out David’s Instagram that also shows his mind-blowing physical transformation. @DavidGoggins A business must read:  Start With Why by Simon Sinek A book about finding the meaning behind what makes a good company great.  For your little ones to keep them busy in between building sand castles :  I’ll Follow The Moon by Stephanie Lisa Tara A  fabulous, adventurous story with a gentle, soothing vibe about new born sea turtles and how they find their way home. Fantastic illustration!

Beauty, Health & Fitness, MSM Online

Sleepless in Miami? Or Anywhere? 6 Tips for a Very Common Problem

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By Nadja Atwal / Photo by Sergey Mironov – Shutterstock Everyone  has a friend or a family member with sleep issues. And if you yourself are one of the many millions who wished for a more restful night, then please know the issue already starts with the wrong idea of how many hours of sleep we need; as a result we force all kinds of unnatural schedules on ourselves. “People need around six hours of sleep, as adults, to feel well rested.” says Dr, Adam Zuber, one of the top sleep experts and neurologists in the US. “However the reality is people will force themselves to sleep longer, but after the six hours of rest, they wake up and cannot go back to sleep. Sleep consolidation, a term that means organizing ones sleep to an optimal level, is an accepted measure to treat insomnia and restless sleep. Sleep consolidation is not a term commonly known or heard of, by most non sleep specialists.  As sleep specialists we recommend limiting the total time in bed to six hours.  Meaning if one’s natural wakeup time is 6 AM then one should go to bed at 12 Midnight.  This pattern of sleep helps a person fall asleep easily and treat insomnia. Sleep consolidation also increases Non Rem sleep.  Non Rem sleep is the critical part of a human’s sleep cycle. About 80% of the sleep cycle is Non Rem sleep, it is the period when short term memory is converted to long term memory.  That is why people who have insomnia, sleep apnea and restless sleep, have poor memory and complain of not remembering things readily, this can also lead to having difficulty with job performance and productivity.   Apply these tips for getting closer to that perfect sleep:   The caffeine trap “Decaf is a lie”, says Dr. Zuber “ It does contain caffeine, just less that regular coffee, but enough to keep many people up at night. So next when you want to finish your dinner with a decaf latte, opt for a relaxing pure herbal tea instead, like Camomille or lemon ginger. Just make sure the tea has no black nor green tea base.   Choose blue No one wants to stumble while making that trip to the bathroom by night, but stay away from white nightlight . “White light wakes you up. Instead choose blue light in order to stay more relaxed and able to fall asleep again”, says the doctor.   The pillow The right pillow that does not only give you a great level of comfort , but also serves as an anti-snoring pillow and anti-teeth grinding device. For side sleepers only, there is the Sonoma Pillow, for those you variate their sleeping position, try the super pillow. “On top of that the NASA developed material and the unique shape these are also beauty pillows, as it puts your face in a position that keeps the skin from creasing.”, Dr. Zuber praises. Over 6 million Superpillows have been sold and the reviews are impressive. Worth a try ! www.remarkablelifeusa.com   The alcohol factor Lke a nice glass of red before bed to make you sleepy? Zuber shakes his head.” Try to avoid that habit. While alcohol does make it easier to to fall asleep, it makes it harder to stay asleep.” Often patients wake up earlier than they would without alcohol in their system.   Keep it cool Especially during the  colder season of the the year we tend to get to cozy with the heater. But a warm room interferes with your chance of better sleep. “68 degrees Fahrenheit is the perfect temperature for a goodnight sleep”, Zuber advises.    Unwind time Many of us feel light anxiety, even stress when thinking about all the things we have to take care of the next day. Dr. Zuber has a solution :” You should always unwind already 30minutes before going to sleep. To make it relaxing and productive at the same time, take a pen and write down all the thing you have to do tomorrow. With this trick it’s ‘done’ in your mind and you don’t have go over it endless times at night .

Health & Fitness, MSM Online

GETTING AWAY DURING THE PANDEMIC

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By Nadja Atwal In for the long haul or just a quick trip? Here is how to prepare … I guess we can already predict the words of the year for 2020: “Corona” and “Lockdown” will be in the top 5 for sure, no matter what happens next. Are you counting down the days until you fly to somewhere near or far (wherever they let you in without quarantine) or take that train to “anywhere but home”? Of course we love our own city, but too much of a good thing is also in the “too much “ category. While booking our trips most of us experience that new mix of positive excitement and volatile fear of the unknown. As a result we roam the net in search of gadgets and tools to keep us safer (from the virus). “People are looking very much for things like the perfect mask and sanitizers and that is all useful, but strengthening your immune system is also a vital key to staying healthy,” says medical doctor Stefanie Seyda who has been researching and working on immune supporting formulas. If you read about beneficial supplements on that front, Vitamin C and Zinc have been touted as must haves and must takes . Am I overlooking something? “ Indeed,” says Seyda “Vitamin D, folate and vitamin A and vitamin B6 and B12 have shown clear immune boosting effects in recent studies.” If you are looking for that new discovery that is being (rightfully)  hyped as a great inner shield against the virus, Seyda refers to the recent studies on resveratrol. Yes, that resveratrol that has been already touted as a great anti-aging agent which is being found in grapes and even red wine? “ Yes,” says Seyda, “but please, don’t let this knowledge lead you to the next wine bar now or fill your cellar with red wine. Alcohol intake is lowering your immune response. So stick to a good supplement for real benefits of Resveratrol”. Now as for new must have travel items: if you book a flight or train ride, you think about face masks. Especially for longer flights make sure it is not just protecting you but very breathable, as you may face many hours of wearing it. For a reusable option with a Vogue-ish fashion statement, check out En Avance, the multi-brand concept store showcasing global designers came to the Miami Design District in 2006 and has taken it by storm. Also remember that the virus can enter through the eyes and sadly too often does in places that many people share. So no matter what mask you choose, it should be worn with either a face shield or protective glasses that also protect the corner of your eyes – no just the front. For ladies the My Face Shield by Miami based fashion label Touchdolls is a great option and has a more colorful version for kids. When you board a plane, have the sanitizing wipes ready to give your arm rests and the tray ! A good disinfecting wipe down, unless you carry a tray cover like Airplane Pockets (which won the NTA ’s ” best travel accessory of the year award” 2019) A must have is a disposable seat cover like the disposable ones from Seet Cuvers are a steady companion in frequent flyer travel bags now. If you’d rather choose a reusable product, opt for the washable (and truly gorgeous) ones by NiceSeats Wherever this summer will take you, staying healthy and happy requires: staying safe.

Health & Fitness, MSM Online

UNKNWN and NIKE team up with the talented women of Miami for Super Bowl LIV Weekend in Wynwood

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  Mirroring the electricity of Super Bowl LIV as it descends on Miami, FL, UNKNWN debuts a one-of-a-kind experience in partnership with Nike at UNKNWN’s recently opened flagship store in Wynwood. Co-founded by LeBron James, Jaron Kanfer and Frankie Walker Jr., UNKNWN was created to be a platform for the community using fashion, sport, art, and culture. Collaborating with a talented collective of powerful women who call Miami a source of inspiration, UNKNWN Wynwood will be transformed into Nike’s ‘Future is in the Air’ to celebrate women over the weekend of sport. The multi-sensory experience, “created by women for everyone,” will also be the perfect launching pad for Nike’s women’s exclusive shoe: The Air Max Verona. The event will celebrate the global arrival of the sneaker with an exclusive colorway, which will be exclusively sold at UNKNWN over Super Bowl weekend. Below, check out a full schedule of events (open to the public) happening this weekend, from customization workshops to Fit club training classes, all taking place at UNKNWN Wynwood.  Exclusive Accessory Design Workshop by Artist Andrea Bergart Thursday, January 30, 2020 4:00PM – 6:00PM Always a destination for limited edition fashion, UNKNWN has invited New York City based artist, designer, and basketball player Andrea Bergart (@andreabergart) to host a workshop where attendees will customize a new accessory, a football coin purse inspired by Nike and UNKNWN from footballs as keepsakes for the weekend. Bergart’s inspiration stems from her involvement in fashion and the Downtown Girls (all-women) Basketball community where she creates basketball handbags, paintings, and solar prints highlighting WNBA players and basketball culture. Bergart’s basketball bags continue to garner praise from WNBA players, NBA and NFL wives, celebrities, stylists, influencers and confident consumers from New York to Tokyo. This Thursday guest will enjoy this a hands-on design workshop with Bergart where self expression will be the only necessary skill required.  Sign up to attend here: unknwn.com/calendar UNKNWN Fit Club Hit Session Featuring Elise Caldwell of DBC Fitness Friday, January 31, 2020 10:00AM – 12:00PM Through the support of co-founder LeBron James’ sports nutrition company, Ladder, the inaugural team of instructors for UNKNWN FIT CLUB will be a group of inspiring women from the Miami well known fitness scene. Powered by Nike, UNKNWN FIT CLUB will kick-off the morning with a football inspired class on the new exclusive UNKNWN 6000 sq. ft football mural in the courtyard painted by artist Jessy Nite. Beginning this kick-off will be a workout class from Elise Caldwell of Wynwood’s DBC Fitness (@elise_dbcfit). Sign up to attend here: unknwn.com/calendar Exclusive Floral Design Workshop With Bodega Rose Friday, January 31, 2020 2:00PM – 3:30PM & 4:30PM – 6:00PM Happening for two time slots, UNKNWN has invited artist, designer, and landscape architecture of Bodega Rose, Olivia Rose (@bodega.rose) who will work with attendees on customization for planters inspired by Nike, UNKNWN, and the NFL. Rose’s work is informed by natural plant life, introducing horticulture to art, fashion, and performance. Sign up to attend here: unknwn.com/calendar Vinyasa Yoga Flow Session Featuring Cristina Ortega Saturday, February 1, 2020 10:00AM – 12:00PM Following Elise’s Friday class, attendees will then enjoy a Saturday UNKNWN FIT CLUB session with yoga instructor Cristina Ortega (@highonyoga) who fell in love with yoga in 2012. She’s been able to use yoga a way to heal herself through her practice, whether it be a “heartbreak” or just “life,” she has understood the meaning and importance of the need to heal. Ortega’s hope is to inspire others to try yoga and implement it as a way of living. Her message to the world is: “You are capable, you are strong, you are love, you are everything you need to be and more. You are enough.” Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, you are in for a mindful Vinyasa class with power yoga fusion. Sign up to attend here: unknwn.com/calendar  

Fashion, Health & Fitness, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

EIGHTSPACE Runway Show

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Photocredit: Marcus Brown/MSMOnline Everything health, fitness, fashion and lifestyle with The Retreat By Funksion took place at Paradise Plaza featuring Alala, All Fenix, Bala Bangles, Ernest Leoty, Koral Lanston, Michi, Recess, Splits59, Track and Bliss, The Upside, Urban Savage and Year Of Ours.  

Health & Fitness, MSM Online, Tech

The Latest AI-Powered Personal Trainer

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Leveraging years of building health and fitness applications, including the world’s leading back pain app, digital therapeutics pioneer Kaia Health is now launching Kaia Personal Trainer, the world’s first full-body virtual personal trainer which tracks exercises, creates personalized fitness plans, counts reps and provides real-time audio feedback.  The app is powered by patent pending AI-powered motion tracking technology and uses just a smartphone (no additional hardware is required). It is like having a personal trainer at home – without having to go to the gym – and is democratizing access to professional physical training and wellness feedback worldwide.  The Kaia Personal Trainer app has been developed with physiotherapists and fitness experts. It combines AI-powered motion tracking technology and personalized training to offer a customized full-body workout featuring a variety of exercises, including the side plank, bridge and reverse crunch.  To activate Kaia Personal Trainer, users stand seven feet away from their smartphone camera and begin exercising with video instructions. The app tracks physical activity with a 16-point system that compares the metrics of actual movement against ideal movement, including the relative positions of limbs and joints, and the angles between them. Kaia Personal Trainer counts the number of reps and provides users with instant, personalized real-time audio feedback, advice and encouragement to improve fitness and performance. Kaia Personal Trainer covers all relevant body parts and muscle groups, including the lower back, core, glutes and hamstrings. The AI-powered motion tracking technology adjusts the difficulty level and exercise based on the user’s feedback – and is particularly suited to those with little experience or training who want to integrate exercise into their lives in a mindful way.  Maximilian Strobel, Head of AI Lab at Kaia Health says: “Kaia Personal Trainer is a full-body workout in your pocket. It uses tech to offer you the experience of a personal trainer anywhere, with real-time performance metrics – without the expensive personal trainer fees. The app puts users in control of their exercise performance with a virtual personal trainer which accompanies their every step. This fosters more intimate connections, establishing a relationship by becoming a part of their everyday routine and integrating with their fitness goals. We’re incredibly excited by our patent pending AI-powered motion tracking technology and virtual personal trainer as it has the potential to democratize access to a sustainable wellness feedback and fitness training worldwide.” Commenting on the unique technology behind the Kaia Personal Trainer, Achilleas Georgiadis, Principle Deep Learning Engineer at Kaia Health, says: “Up until now, specialized hardware like a Microsoft Kinect was required to track the human body. We remove the need for costly hardware using advanced Deep Learning and Machine Learning algorithms and optimized them for mobile. This enables us to track the human body in real time using only the hardware of the smartphone – hence democratizing access at no additional cost.”   

Health & Fitness, MSM Online, Uncategorized

Do it like Michael Phelps – Detox your mind

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By Nadja Atwal Many people all over the world were stunned when Olympian swimmer super star Michael Phelps opened up about his experience with anxiety and depression and how therapy saved his life. It showed that even those who seem to have it all can reach a stage where they feel absolutely hopeless and fearful. Phelps described his alarming experience like this: “I questioned whether I wanted to be alive anymore. I realized I am the strongest person I know, but I felt like the weakest”. Not surprisingly his project Talkspace (check www.talkspace.com and their instagram @talkspace) – an app that connects people with licensed therapists –  is a massive success due to high demand. It is great news that people now dare to look inwards more and tackle their issues. We have been so consumed with physical fitness and looking great especially in a city like Miami, but we’ve grossly neglected the well-being of our mind. More celebrities are talking openly now about their past and present mental health challenges and events that may have caused them. The #MeToo movement certainly helped many to open up about their life-altering events. The average Joe and Jane feels encouraged to share their own issues with friends & family and yes, a therapist. But how can we act more preventative and improve our mental and emotional well-being so that we may avoid stages of severe depression or anxiety? Some mental diagnosis are beyond our control – but what about those circumstances where we could actively help to make ourselves feel better? If we can feel physically so much better after a few days of juicing, is there such thing as a little mental detox? A quick fix that makes us feel rejuvenated, more optimistic, balanced, and just simply better? A new trend from Europe attempts to deliver a solution and many who tried it call it a game changer. Joachim Kaeser, famous for his many inventions and treatments on the physical and mental well-being front, developed a so-called “re-setting” that helps us to rid ourselves from emotional and mental baggage that weighs us down. Having gone through the diagnosis ‘cancer’ twice!, Kaeser knows what sincere physical and mental challenges look like. “ I was my own test subject on both fronts”, says Kaeser – who resides mainly in Germany and Switzerland but sees clients from all over the world and who is planning to open an office in Brickell next year. When asked about how to best explain his Re-setting method, Kaeser refers to our every day PC: “Just imagine a virus scanner on your PC. It scans for viruses that you do not see, but which hinder the perfect functioning of your programs on your PC – often without you knowing it. You too accumulate ‘viruses’ in the form of negative feelings such as disappointment, anger, anxiety – just to name a few. They develop their own activity deep in your subconscious mind and work against you and your life, often without you realizing it.  My mission was to develop a method that activated your own inner scanner for the purpose of detecting your unconscious and conscious issues – from the past to the present; issues that weigh you down and weaken you and can cause anything from mild stress to sincere burnout, fears, phobias, anxiety attacks or depression. While real psycho therapy is usually sought out when the issues already make us feel mentally and emotionally ill, I wanted to tackle the problems before we enter such a severe stage. A reliable prevention method with and immediate improvement effect”. Many of his clients come to Kaeser with the so called burn-out syndrome which is surging also among very young people – especially in the finance world. “The increasing private and professional demands, the permanent availability and the individual setbacks that life experience brings to each of us all, that paired with the demand for mental stability is the basis for whether a person gets a burnout or not”. “The development of a burnout is always the same. The soul suffers, the mind imperceptibly changes its world of thought and in the end the body is going on ‘protest’ mode and malfunctions. So it’s a chain reaction within our mind soul and body in a spiral of excessive demands. The result is helplessness and futility, which results in an inner and outer foreclosure. In my practice, I had people who could not even pronounce their name due to the burnout. As an expert in burnout with specialized training, I then started to use my Re-Setting method for prevention. Why? Because it makes you enormously resilient. The same way you boost your immune system to increase it’s resistance to a cold or flu. The effect: Your inner and also external constraints dissolve. You get a tremendous natural inner strength and energy. You feel like nothing and nobody can stop you. You become stronger  – inside and out. Another common experience many of us have had or can relate to is being frustrated over attracting the same bad situations – and people!  No one wants to become damaged goods. So freeing ourselves from mental and emotional excess baggage that makes us go in circles is obviously something that can only help” says Kaeser.  As a result, Kaeser’s clientele is as diverse as our world itself. “It’s the soccer pro , the stay at home mom or dad, the stockbroker, the salesman, the student, the CEO. What they all have in common is the desire to improve their quality of life and the belief that they themselves may hold the key to it. “I’m just providing the tools” says Kaeser. He has often been called the Success Doc and eventually accepted the compliment and turned it into his job description. “More profound than hiring a life coach but less intense than therapy. And for all us who seek instant gratification, there is good news: you do one session and instantly feel better. Clients describe it as a mix of feeling lighter and freer” says Kaeser.  I guess all of us could use a little mental detoxing that feels like an internal spring cleaning. But no matter what path you choose for improving your mental health: get healthy,

Health & Fitness, Health & Fitness, MSM Online

Hypothyroidism – a dangerous epidemic among women

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  Hypothyroidism & Women by Nadja Atwal There are frequent neurologic conditions associated with an under-active thyroid – our recurring guest author , top neurologist Dr.Adam Zuber, explains the commonly encountered symptoms.  Dr. Adam Zuber: The thyroid gland is located below the Adam’s apple in the throat.  Hypothyroidism is a decreased function of the Thyroid gland and affects women quite differently than it does men. A lot of times the diagnosis is often made only when a blood test is done routinely for other conditions or as part of her medical checkup. Normally hypothyroidism begins slowly and presents with weight gain, and lack of energy. Frequently women will notice that their hair changes in texture, becomes thin, dry and breaks easily, dry or yellowish skin, brittle nails, slow body movements, feeling cold and inability to get warm, occasionally constipation may be noted.  Also associated with hypothyroidism is difficulty sleeping and sleep apnea. Memory problems may be seen including dementia, lack of concentration and depression.  Frequently one develops hypothyroidism due to unknown causes but it may be autoimmune like in Hashimotos disease or with a goiter enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck.  A lot of times it is related to body habitus as your body is just not able to produce enough thyroid hormone for one’s body size due to weight gain or during pregnancy. Neuropathies are common conditions associated with hypothyroidism, even when treated.  Within ten year’s women who have been under treatment for hypothyroidism frequently develop nerve disease, called neuropathy. This is quite similar to diabetic neuropathy. The symptoms associated with neuropathy are numbness, tingling, burning and pinprick sensation of the feet, some people may also encounter unsteadiness and difficulty maintaining their balance. Also frequently associated with hypothyroidism is restless leg syndrome which is a state of persistent restlessness in the feet and legs.  The person suffering from restless leg syndrome cannot sit still and have to move around constantly to settle the sensation in their feet and legs. Other conditions that may be associated with hypothyroidism is periodic limb movements of sleep which is a jerky movement that happens during sleep every 90 seconds. This can cause disruption in sleep and non-restorative sleep. Other neurologic conditions commonly associated are increased frequency of problems of nerves that can be easily compressed. These are carpal tunnel effecting the wrist with pain and numbness of the hands, tarsal tunnel of the feet with numbness and pain in the bottom of the foot and occasionally lateral meralgia paresthetica with pain and burning sensation of the lateral thighs. NA: Hypothyroidism is treated with oral thyroid supplements and can be managed by your primary physician and may need consultation with an endocrinologist for further correction. It is Dr. Zuber from Neurology Associates of Scottsdale Arizona recommendation that women should get checked for thyroid dysfunction annually as part of their routine physicals and be treated adequately if needed as consequences of untreated hypothyroidism are serious.

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‘Pillow Talk’ With Sleeping Expert Dr. Adam Zuber

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A good night sleep is essential to health. So what to blame, if you are not getting the satisfying great rest you deserve? If we believe the latest wave of commercials and articles on that topic: Blame it on your pillow! Sadly the pillow industry is a jungle full of false claims that often shatters the consumers’ high hopes. We sat down with top board certified neurologist and sleeping expert Dr. Adam Zuber.   MSM: Finding the right pillow seems to be a big deal these days … Does the right pillow really make such a big difference? AZ: The right pillow makes all the difference in the world, as sleeping is the major part of our life and is where our mind, body and soul rests and recuperates. Without the right pillow one can have restless sleep, restless sleep makes us cranky, less productive and ineffective during the day.  People who snore are restless sleepers no matter how much time they spend in bed, their sleep is non restorative.  Pillows are what make sleep better and the proper positioning provides optimal sleeping position. MSM: Can the wrong pillow cause harm? AZ: For the longest time we used to have thin one inch high pillows, as once seen in President Lincoln’s bedroom in the White house.  Then once we got TV and computers in our bedrooms pillows turned from two to four to king size and extra puffed pillows, but these are effective only to use for leaning on and watching TV, using computers and facetiming not particularly for sleep.  The wrong pillow can cause you to snore, aggravate sleep apnea, cause neck pain, make headaches worse, make your blood pressure high, increase chances of stroke and heart attack and complications of pregnancy.  Wrong pillows can lead you to have crooked faces and wrinkle and age faster. MSM: Is that why so many people feel compelled to invent a new one? AZ: The pillows in the market have not been working and we as humans have been making use of whats available.  None of the pillows have had any medically proven science behind them. Till this point, pillows have only been there for us to lean on and provide a soft place to rest our head but not provide all the benefits that the Sona Pillow® Classic and the Sona Pillow® O model provide.  The first time a pillow was shown to be beneficial for us was when I invented and propagated the Sona Pillow® which uses Sona Positioning® and prevents snoring and sleep apnea.  Since then a lot of pillows have made claims but with no real credible science behind it.       MSM: You are a top neurologist and sleep expert, what made you invent your own pillow?  AZ: As a fellowship trained Board Certified Neurologist and Sleep Specialist working at Neurology Associates of Scottsdale Arizona my expertise and experience in the field lead me to design the Super pillow the only pillow to be ever approved by the FDA for use in snoring and sleep apnea and proven medically effective for the same.  After the ongoing success of the Sona Pillow® I designed the remarkable Sona Pillows® which are perfectly comfortable and instantly effective and usable.  I am the director of multiple sleep labs and I saw first hand the struggles of people suffering from poor sleep, lack of sleep, sleep apnea, stroke, heart diseases and snoring.  I did sleep studies everyday to check what was wrong with people while sleeping and frequently started them on the horrid CPAP.  I wanted to make a pillow that not only helped peoples sleep issues but had multiple other benefits.  The Sona Pillow® Classic and Sona Pillow® O model helps with side sleeping, wrinkle prevention, consolidating sleep, neck pain, snoring and having restful sleep.     MSM: What sets it apart from the competition? What are the benefits? Both the Pillows, the Sona Pillow® Classic and the Sona Pillow® O model, are unique, patented and contain breakthrough technology which remarkably improve sleep. I feel this needs to be shouted from the top of the highest mountain to get the word out there about these revolutionary pillows.  These pillows position the user in a side sleeping position with the head facing downwards, this is a trademarked position used only by these pillows. This patented position moves the jaw forward because of gravity, as you are using the pillow on your side with the head in a downwards facing inclined position thus preventing the jaw from moving backwards and avoiding the obstruction of the throat that causes snoring, sleep apnea and related consequences. The Sona Pillow® was made specifically to deal with sleep apnea, snoring and the sleep disturbances that happen when one is sleeping.  The Sona Pillow® Classic consists of a triangular top for placing the head on either inclined side and moves the jaw forward.  The lower part of the inclines has recess for your arms to extend easily under your head.  This not only helps you to sleep better and prevent snoring and sleep apnea but also avoids the arm from falling asleep under your head.  The pillow is high grade cotton with polyfiberfill and both the pillow and the case is washable, hypoallergenic and mold resistant. The Sona Pillow® O model, is the updated iteration of the Sona Pillow® and is circular in shape with a mushroom top and a raised base.  The pillow is instantly comfortable and can be used on your side or on your back.  This pillow has all the benefits of the Sona Pillow® and more.  The pillow is made of specialized memory foam with a patented shape and cover which prevents wrinkles and creases on the face, this is the only pillow which prevents wrinkles and is an age defying pillow. This is achieved because normal pillows have covers which crease and leaves marks on the users face, also the fillings of crushed memory foam and lumpy materials cause the creases on users faces. This is prevented by using the patented Sona Pillow® O model. This pillow also has

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