Go With Your Gut

By Macy Nossaman

Your gut is one of the most important parts of your digestive system. Plus, it makes up 60-80% of your immune system. (There’s your fun fact for the day!) That means, when your gut is unhealthy, it can cause a lot more than just stomach pain and bloating. Tummy troubles have been linked to hormonal imbalances, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, chronic fatigue, anxiety and other chronic health problems. Here are few simple tips you can implement to keep your gut happy and healthy:

  • Fiber, fiber, fiber:Fruits, vegetables, lentils and whole grains with fiber break down in to chemicals that feed good bacteria.
  • Adios, inflammation:High consumption of sugar, starch and saturated- and trans-fats cause an inflammatory response, leading to poor absorption of nutrients in the gut. Give a boost to your overall health by monitoring your intake of these types of foods.
  • Yo, yogurt!:Yogurts with live and active cultures provide nutrients along with probiotics, all of which can lead to one happy gut.
  • Catch your zzz’s:Yes, that’s right! A lack of sleep increases levels of cortisol, which causes inflammation and negatively impacts digestion. By getting the right amount of sleep, you’ll help out both your gut and your entire immune system.
  • Move it: When you exercise, your body produces a special kind of microbe that produces short-chain fatty acids, which our bodies need for many things, including digestion.

There are so many elements that play into gut health, but by adopting just a few healthy practices, you’ll notice an energy boost and better digestion thanks to a happy gut. What are some other ways you boost your immunity? Share your tips in the comments.

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About Kirk: 

Kirk was working 80-hour weeks and wearing his shoulders as earrings when he found yoga in 2005. Forever the competitive athlete, he loved the physicality of yoga. When the spiritual and philosophical side of yoga were exposed to him, Kirk was hooked. Yoga provided him with what other activities couldn’t -- the ability to foster the benefits of practice both on and off of the mat. Yoga was something that Kirk could bring into all aspects of his life. 

Kirk knows that yoga can be intimidating, so he crafts a class that is playful and inviting, while still being challenging and safe. His creatively planned classes build strength and flexibility in your body and mind while establishing clarity, giving you more confidence to overcome obstacles in your life, and keeping you injury-free. His classes are themed with a message that is relatable and will inspire you to take it with you off your mat. Kirk has been teaching yoga since 2008 and lead his first teacher training in 2012. Where Kirk truly shines is in coaching, developing and bringing out the best in others.  

Kirk enjoys traveling (40+ countries to date!), snowboarding, and cherishes time with his wife and two daughters. 

About Christen: 

Christen Bakken’s yoga journey began in 1998 in a Bikram studio that provided a safe and secure place to practice. She saw the yoga mat as a place to remember her purpose and a place to play. As she continued her studies and began her journey to teaching in 2006, Christen infused yoga classes with devotion and the yoga mat became a place of personal transformation and healing. Her classes are filled with laughter, song, sweat, and usually heart openers. In 2013, Christen began training yoga teachers. This is the place where she finds the most joy - in community with folks looking to grow and be of greater service in their homes, on their mats, and in the world. Over the years, she has led trainings in Denver, the Midwest, Florida, and now abroad. She has trained in continuing education modules, 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour programs. Beyond the mat, Christen is a passionate adventure seeker - she loves to bike, snowboard, and spend time with her husband and pups. She sees each day as a blessing and hopes to remind all who interact with her of this truth.  

Two Light Studio Parking Information

Did you know that we validate parking for TWO garages?!

For the Two Light garage, please bring your ticket inside for validation. For the Power & Light garage, please ask for a parking pass at the front desk. (Hot tip: the Power & Light garage has a ton of space! But be sure to give yourself a little extra time to walk to the studio.)

If you find that you are running a little late, please call the studio to let the instructor know to keep an eye out for you.

Blackstone Studio Parking

  • We have partnered with our friends at Greenslate to provide 1 hour and 15 minute validated parking for Power Life students in the lot at 36th and Harney (just south of the Cottonwood Hotel). Read below to learn how to take advantage of this perk:

    • Step 1: Scan the QR code located in the lot.

    • Step 2: Select your destination (i.e. “yoga studio”).

    • Step 3: Ask for the validation code at the Blackstone studio front desk and enter it on your phone.

    • Step 4: You are all set! Have fun at class!

    Please note:

    • The validation provided by Power Life and Greenslate is for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Need to add additional time to your parking space? You can do that conveniently from your phone!

    • This option is valid once per day per license plate.

East Village Studio Amenities

  • There is a paved lot and gravel lot on the West side of the building.

  • Meters on Court and 4th (by Peace Tree) for $0.25/hour, 9am-9pm Mon. – Sat. 12-hour max

  • Meters on 4th (to the North) for $1.25/hour. Mon – Sat. 4-hour max.

  • All meters are free on Sundays and major holidays.

Go With Your Gut Info