One of my big goals for this year (let's face it, every year) is to focus on my health. We’re almost out of 2018, but I’ve already made some significant lifestyle changes that I feel I can stick to, and I want to share them with you.
I am not one to just quit something cold turkey. What I have found is that making lifestyle changes over a small period works best for me when trying to live healthier and happier. If you want to make some healthy lifestyle changes this year, here is a list of small changes to work in now.
1. Sip on a glass of warm water with lemon as soon as you wake up to help with digestion.
2. Work out at least three times a week. Pick activities that you have fun with, like dancing, yoga, aerobics or jogging.
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3. Create an ultimate "mood" playlist of your favorite upbeat music to listen to while you’re working out to help motivate you.
4. Always try to walk more, even if it’s just around your neighborhood or office building. You can also park further away when you are shopping. As always, opt for the stairs over the elevator!
5. Add fresh fruit to spice up your ice water to make sure you get your daily dose of H20.
6. Please make sure to get your daily intake of fruits and veggies into your diet (smoothies and salads with kale or spinach are great ways to sneak them in without tasting them.)
7. Reach for whole foods like nuts, fruits, low-fat yogurt and veggies instead of chips.
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8. Drink herbal, unsweetened teas or fruit-infused water instead of sodas or concentrated fruit juices.
9. Take multivitamins or other supplements daily.
10. Spend a small part of your day with some peaceful meditation or yoga to center your thoughts.
11. To curb that sweet tooth, first try a piece of fruit with some peanut or nut butter, or some frozen grapes or cherries.
12. Eat some leafy green vegetables every day.
13. Cook with herbs and spices instead of salt and when seasoning your food.
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14. Remove all junk foods and unhealthy snacks from your house – out of sight, out of mind.
15. Follow the 80/20 rule. Reserve sweet treats like desserts or fast food for special occasions like birthday celebrations, anniversaries, get-togethers, but don’t focus on limiting or denying yourself. Allow yourself some guilt-free indulgences now and then so that you don’t feel deprived. Just try to find a healthy balance!
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