Author: Chris Elle Dove

Hi! I write books and blogs about healthy living for adults and children. I offer digital content creation, promotion, and account management for Pinterest. I also teach sociology courses at community colleges. Beyond work, I'm the proud mother of two beautiful, adult children.
Fitness

Why You Should Start Training to Heart Rate

by Chris Elle Dove27 Comments on Why You Should Start Training to Heart Rate
Why You Should Start Training to Heart Rate

I wish I'd realized, at the time, that the fatigue which kept me from checking my watch was actually the consequence of not training effectively. This turned out to be equally true of my tunnel vision. As soon as I started training to heart rate, I felt more comfortable. I was listening to my body and working within my limits. I could look at my watch or around the neighborhood, even chat with other runners! For the first time, I was actually able to enjoy myself and experience flow when I was running.

Meditation & Relaxation

Find Emotional Awareness through Meditation

by Chris Elle Dove22 Comments on Find Emotional Awareness through Meditation
Find Emotional Awareness through Meditation

Knowing what we are feeling, sooner rather than later, also reduces the likelihood of responding in ways we later regret. We are able to remain calm, to pause and reflect on our choices, rather than having emotional outbursts. Understanding what stage, or wave, of an emotion we are experiencing is also valuable. If we are just beginning to feel an emotion, a few deep breaths may allow us to sit with it, without feeling overwhelmed. If we are in the later stages, and the waves of emotion are crashing in. We may need to take a walk, run, or cry.

Relationships

Navigating Consent in All of Our Relationships

by Chris Elle Dove9 Comments on Navigating Consent in All of Our Relationships
Navigating Consent in All of Our Relationships

Taking a more proactive approach to consent requires creating relationships where open and honest communication can take place. It involves listening intently, with all of our senses, to the words, body language, tone of voice, and movements of others, as they respond to our words, actions, and movement. It requires respecting the boundaries of others, and gracefully accepting rejection, without questioning or demanding explanations.

Digestive health

Managing IBS Symptoms

by Chris Elle Dove
Managing IBS Symptoms

The secret to my success with IBS, over the past few years, lies in changing my approach to food, fitness, relaxation, and hydration. If I could go back in time, to advise to myself at the height of my agony, I'd say, “The key to changing your life is meticulously collecting data and planning ahead.”

Books

When You Are Hooked on a Book

by Chris Elle DoveLeave a Comment on When You Are Hooked on a Book
When You Are Hooked on a Book

When you love a book, the ending of the story doesn’t necessarily finalize your journey with the characters. You create sequels, prequels, and alternate endings in your imagination. You feel justified filling the gaps in their story. After all, you've glimpsed their thoughts, shared their hopes and dreams, witnessed their first kiss, and held them in their darkest hours.