Each month, we’re asking our expert staff and experienced faculty what they’ve been reading in their spare time. We’ll be sharing their top picks and commentary with you on our blog.

Here’s what our Director of Education, Al Harrison, has been diving into:

The Atlantic: When Mindfulness Meets the Classroom
“It’s exciting to see that many educators are starting to introduce mindfulness and meditation into the classroom. As the Director of Education, one of my main focuses is to help people be present. Now that mindfulness is spreading to schools, it could potentially have an impact on students’ well-being, improving kids’ attention and emotional regulation. The article highlights the growing trend of mindfulness across many companies and industries, like Google, the Seattle Seahawks, and the U.S. military, which proves the effectiveness of mindful movement practices.”

Business Insider: Pilates linked to better balance in older women with back pain
“It’s no surprise to hear that there are an incredibly high number of people who suffer from lower back pain. Pilates exercises are one of the most effective ways to reduce back pains and improve your balance. One of our main focuses here at Balanced Body is to educate people on how to properly use our equipment to target problem areas and enhance your strength.”

The League of American Bicyclists: More than 1,000 Bicycle Friendly Businesses
“We’re seeing biking to work continue to be a growing trend – now businesses are starting to shift their business models to adapt to this trend. As someone who regularly bicycles to work I’m delighted. Bicycle friendly businesses encourage employees to help create a more sustainable environment, while improving their health.”

Brompton Bicycle by David Henshaw
“I’ve become slightly obsessed with these unusual and popular folding bikes. I first starting seeing them in London and now I’m noticing them all over. I enjoy reading the history of the company which many ways parallels that of Balanced Body’s.”