3 Simple Tips to A Healthier You!

How many people do you know who are on prescribed medication?  High cholesterol, blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, thyroid problems, obesity…  With all of the new medical & pharmaceutical advancements, people are more aware of health & fitness than ever before, yet our own government statistics indicate record levels of health-related ailments. 

Every quick fix book, cd, infomercial, TV show, wonder pill, cosmetic surgeons surgery, fad diet and DVD all claim to have the miracle answer.  DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE!  Stick to the fundamentals and you’ll see results that last.  An overall healthy lifestyle will have benefits that impact more than just your pant size. 

Here are 3 simple ways to start….

1. Eat.  That’s right, eat.  There are tons of special diets, but you don’t need a diet – you need to learn how to eat.  Keep It Simple.  The best way to eat correctly is to eat what nature provides: meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and water.  The more cooked or processed food gets, the worse the food is for you, period.  Too many diets include fast food, soda, chips, candies, or some type of ‘convenient’ food.  This is why the average American has gained over 20 lbs., in the past 15 years, and the incidence of heart disease and cancer are at an all time high!  Pack a little cooler with healthy alternatives such as fruit, protein shakes, organic bars, nuts or water, so that when you are hungry, you have something available.  Also, take an evening and plan your meals for the week.
2. Move!  Get off the couch, out of your chair, out of the car and move.  This is what most people call exercise, but you don’t have to put on tights and get on the Stairmaster. Go outside, play a sport, go skiing, take a hike, go for a swim, join a gym… It doesn’t matter, just move.  No more ‘New years’ resolutions that last for a week.  Make exercise a habit.  Movement builds strength, cardiovascular health, increases flexibility, strengthens ligaments, increases energy and clears your mind.
3. Chill. People recharge in different ways.  So you need to figure out what you truly enjoy.  What do you like to do that allows your mind to relax?  Try sports, the spa, time with family, a good book, a long walk, a bath, painting or any other activity that rejuvenates you.  Too many people spend most of their time racing around, and they never really make time to recuperate.  Everyone needs time to chill, including YOU.  So think about it, schedule it, and make it a priority. 

Final Notes:

Start with your calendar. Don’t just react each day to things that pop up.  Exercise and health need to become a priority.  Plan to workout 3 times per week.  Everyone has 3 hours a week to do something physical.  Next, plan some time to chill.  Remember, this is for you to relax mentally!  Find an activity that recharges you and offsets the week’s stress!  Finally, plan your meals in advance.  Learn how to shop and prepare for your week. Ask for help.  Make time. Commit to basic changes.  You will look better, feel better and become a healthier person!

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