Do you drink sugary drinks? Some argue that sugary drinks play a significant role in today’s obesity epidemic in the US. Why? Because when you drink sugar, you are consuming calories. And, your body doesn’t feel as full when you drink these calories compared to when you eat the same number of calories as food. 1
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Notes:
Pan A, Hu FB. Effects of carbohydrates on satiety: differences between liquid and solid food. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2011;14:385-90. ↩
I talk a lot on this blog about productive mornings. This week, I tried something a little different, and I found that my productivity was great, and that my mind was relaxed, clear and ready for the day: I enjoyed a slower morning! Slowing down my morning (while still waking up early) gave me peace of mind before a busy day. Here’s how to slow down your morning:
First, I practiced my compass routine the Sunday night before.
So, the house was clean and food was prepped for the week.
When you follow a consistent weekly routine, it gives you more freedom to do what you want in the mornings.
Then, I began my morning at the usual time
…which is between 5:00 and 5:30 AM. I find it incredibly important to stay consistent with my bed time and the time I wake up.
Don’t shortchange your sleep to wake up early. According to the National Institutes of Health, adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you are waking up at 5:00 AM, I recommend going to bed no later than 10 PM for seven hours of sleep. Be realistic with yourself. If you know you need more than seven hours of sleep, make it a priority to go to bed earlier.
The average adult loses over one pound of water during the night (mostly through our moist breath). Dehydration can make you feel sleepy. Begin rehydrating yourself right away.
I set out the yoga mat in the living room instead of heading off to the gym.
During my yoga session, I watched the sun rise. It was an amazing sight that added such an energetic feeling to the morning.
To get started, try this 20-minute yoga sessions podcast to find a routine that works for you. I recommend episode 84, titled “Good Morning Yoga.”
I enjoyed a healthful breakfast.
A healthful breakfast will give you the nutrient-rich energy you need to be productive. And, people who eat breakfast weigh less than folks who skip it.
In her book The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron recommends writing three pages of your stream of consciousness, right after you wake up, to spark creative thoughts. Unlike a journal, morning pages don’t have structure—they simply exist to get your thoughts on paper. After my morning pages, my mind is clear and I feel prepared for the day.
What activities do you enjoy that slow down your morning?
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Especially during the cooler winter months, it can be tough to wake up and head to the gym. Make it easier on yourself by exercising at home. These 10 tips will get you started and show you how to exercise at home: Continue reading How to exercise at home: 10 tips to get you started→
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
During the month of February to celebrate American Heart Month, I try to find something that helps me relax and be more mindful. I have been reading that a coloring book might help me be more relaxed and mindful. So, I added a new activity to my evening routine: I have been coloring in an adult coloring book!
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Need to make plans for Valentine’s Day? Show the love (for yourself and others) with these eight lovely things to do for Valentine’s Day.
1. Get your heart pumping. February is full of cold days and nights. Buck the urge to cozy up (just for a little while) and take a refreshing walk outside.
2. Spend quality time with loved ones. Instead of watching a movie (less screen time = more creativity time!), try a silly board game or go bowling.
3. Treat yourself. Relaxation can be the key to future productivity. Dip into a warm bath, take a yoga class (you can find them for free on this 20-minute yoga podcast), or treat yourself to a de-stressing massage!
4. Reflect. Appreciate and acknowledge the present moment. Start a gratitude jar or journal. Even better, write a thank you note!
5. Cook something lovely that takes a little extra time. Cooking can be a relaxing. Sometimes, however, it can be a lengthy process. Take a day to enjoy cooking something that takes a long time. And, if you make too much, you can always freeze the leftovers!
6. Discover something new. Discover something new in your neighborhood. Take a look in the local paper, or do a search online. Is there a new restaurant nearby? What about a gallery or exhibit? Or, simply a new workshop at the local community college?
7. Find an art project. Julia Cameron, in her book The Artist’s Way, recommends bringing art into your life frequently. Define art loosely—perhaps you would like to make a scrapbook of summer adventures, or refurbish worn furniture. Or, paint a picture. You choose.
8. Volunteer in your community. Helping others boosts your own happiness, longevity, and effectiveness. Check out resources to match your interests with the needs of others.
What are your plans for Valentine’s Day? Let us what you plan to do in the comments!
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
When it comes to party foods served on game day, many of us turn to options that are greasy, salty, or super-sweet. Here are ten party foods for the big game that will keep the football fans at your party happy and healthy. Continue reading Ten Healthy (and Super) Game Day Party Foods→
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
The first meal of the day doesn’t have to include traditional breakfast items. In fact, I love getting a great start to my day with plenty of flavorful veggies. From kale and spinach to zucchini and mushrooms—the possibilities are endless. Continue reading Alternative Breakfast Ideas→
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Last weekend, my friends and I visited Dallas and Austin. We live in different states now, and so a weekend with friends is ever so valuable. What did we do for most of the time? We ate, we talked, and we discovered different restaurants. Throughout the weekend, each of us worked to eat healthfully. Continue reading How to Eat Healthy while Dining Out: 18 Tips→
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Do your taste buds need a flavorful, healthy boost this week? If your New Year’s resolution is to eat healthier this year, try this salad. This salad features nutty quinoa, sweet dried fruit, fresh herbs, tangy bell peppers, crunchy cucumbers, and toasted almonds. It is packed with protein, is vegetarian and vegan, offers a gluten-free meal, has no sugar added, and is full of flavor.
The postings on this site are my own (unless otherwise stated) and don't necessarily represent any other organization's positions, strategies or opinions. Thanks!
Celebrating creative productivity, healthy living, and purposeful growth
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, recommends bringing art into your life frequently. Define art loosely—perhaps you would like to make a scrapbook of summer adventures, or refurbish worn furniture. Or, paint a picture. You choose.
