Steppin’ the stress away

Steppers dance at the Richard J. Daley Center.

By Adriana Fernandez Most people head out to eat during their lunch hour to get away from their jobs for a while. Some Chicagoans, however, prefer to blow off some steam and even get some exercise during this time by Steppin’, a dance form that originated in Chicago. Its roots come from the Bop, according […]

More Illinois farmers markets to accept food stamps

By Adriana Fernandez The food industry is a competitive environment for farmers but Farmers Markets give them a direct connection with consumers and give consumers easy access to fresh, locally-grown produce. Illinois farmers gathered for a conference at the Chicago Cultural Center to share different ways to engage consumers. The conference, hosted by the Illinois […]

Find inner strength for winter fitness

Ricky Rodriguez walks during winter

By Adriana Fernandez Finding the motivation to exercise – even getting to the gym to exercise indoors – can be a challenge in winter. Filmmaker Graham Agcaoili, said these factors don’t deter him from accomplishing the challenge he has imposed on himself as he continues to run twice a day a few days a week. […]

Workouts rev up “feel good” brain chemicals that help block stress and pain

runners on treadmills inside gym.

By Adriana Fernandez Mallory Paul exercises almost every day – and it’s not just because she works as a membership adviser at Equinox Fitness in The Loop. The Dallas native sees her morning cardio workout as a fitness ritual that also energizes feelings of self-confidence and helps her sleep at night. Paul suffers from insomnia. […]