Acupuncture may be well-known in the West, but for many, it's also financially well out of reach. When I was in South Korea in 2010, I went to many acupuncture sessions for my gallbladder (which, ultimately, had to be removed upon my return to the U.S.). While these sessions did not solve the problem, they served as a complement to treatment. The cost? $5 a session. While Dana Holmes, founder of North Jersey Community Acupuncture, cannot offer those incredibly low prices, her services (currently at Body in Mind massage studio) are offered on a sliding scale that is considerably lower than …

There's just something about working with the earth that's good for the spirit, the soul ... the beer belly. Just ask Shaun Ananko, the farm manager for The Urban Farm at Lafayette, at 31 Hazel St. Before this gig, he had built himself a little healthy Buddha belly, from a life of excess. Since starting this full-time job earlier this year, that belly is a thing of the past. Sounds like a good plan. Of course, I didn't spend a full eight hours with him and Michaela Caroll Caton, the Urban Farm intern. But, even after a couple hours, I was a puddle of sweat, dirt under my fingernails, with a …

Every once in a while, we need a wake-up call. Mine came in the form of three numbers: 2-5-0. For the first time in years, I weighed in at 250 pounds. I shouldn't be surprised. While I love this job, there is a certain sedentary nature to much of it that can take over if you let it. And, of course, all of those "Morristown Munchies ..." The test I performed at Atlantic Sports Health, at 111 Madison Ave., is open to anyone. These are the folks who care for the health of the New York Jets (which will be obvious when you see the video). The tests, ranging from $200 to $300–with some health …

There is a comedy bit by Kevin James, the former "King of Queens," where he talks about being a big man and how easy it is for him to break a sweat. Someone sees him, drenched, and asks if he had just been running, or had been up in the attic. "No, I peeled an orange," he says (paraphrased). "Like, an hour ago." That is kind of how I felt during my yoga session with the beautiful and talented Erica Jung, who teaches Saturday yoga sessions at Wellness on the Green. I am no stranger to what's offered at Wellness on the Green. But, I was surprised to discover I was actually a stranger to some of…

It's very easy to fall of a horse. Just ask anyone who has done it. But, this horse is metaphorical. Whether it's that annoying smoking horse, or in this case, the fitness horse, life (or, our interpretation of it) just gets in the way. Looking at those fit and trim folks out and about every single day makes me angry–angrily jealous. But, as we learned this week, it is possible to do something every day (for the most part. See the video for more information). Whether it's getting to the gym for an hour, or just climbing the stairs in the parking garage instead of using the elevator, there are…

I remember a fun comment from a student in the application materials for Western Maryland College when asked about her fondness for running. "I only run when chased." I could not agree with her more. However, I also have tried to dissolve my phobia for running, as doing so can only help toward my fitness goals. The best athletes cross-train, no? Yes. That was why I skipped this week's Beginner's Bike Ride from Macculloch Avenue and headed to Central Park of Morris County, where the NJ Trail Series holds weekly 5K (three-mile) runs starting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. Kendra Arnold, Bike & Walk …

So, the point of this whole thing, this whole "Patch Takes It Off" business, is to get into better shape. And, why would I want to get into better shape? To meet more ladies. But, the other reason is so I can complete the 63-mile "Medio Fondo," as part of the Gran Fondo NJ ride on Aug. 28. And, what's the best way to be prepared for what ride organizer–and Marty's Reliable Cycle owner–Marty Epstein is quick to call a tough ride with lots of hills? Eat lots of delicious food then go to sleep. But, only after I go on long and tough bike rides. You have to refuel somehow. The 20-mile ride …

Aug. 28, 2011. Less than two months away. Before you know it, the kids will be heading back to school. But, before then, about 2,000 riders will brave the hills of Morris County in 43, 63 and 103-mile circuits. I will be one of those riders. On Wednesday, June 29, I signed up for the 63-mile "Medio Fondo," as part of the inaugural Gran Fondo NJ event. But, this is not just about the ride. It's about my life, and how I want to live it. Do I want to struggle with smoking, with being overweight, with being tired when I shouldn't be? Should I–for that matter, should anyone–need to struggle when …

I will admit it: I could stand to lose a few. Isn't that what everyone always says? There's a reason "lose weight" is always at the top or near to the top on people's New Year Resolution lists. But, those lists are fleeting. It's not just about what the scale says. What about real change? That is what "Patch Takes it Off" is going to be all about. Starting July 4, participating Patch Editors throughout the state (including myself) will begin chronicling their fitness exploits in their coverage areas. Expect profiles on local businesses whose goal is to get people in shape. Expect editor …