10 Health Rules To Live By in 2017
It seems like the old saying "An apple a day, keeps the doctor away" is much more complicated now than it ever was. We are sadly in an era of Obesity, Type II Diabetes becoming the new normal, and people so stressed out they can't think straight. Food just isn't made with the quality from the past, and everywhere you look screams processed foods and sugar. There is hope, and a cure away from the craziness if you are in need of a little inspiration to adopt some of these healthier habits for 2017. Finally, to clarify they do not have to do with going on a diet.
My Top 10
1. Eat More Fat
Didn't think I was going to start with that, huh? Well it's true. We need to forget EVERYTHING we have learned about "low fat" and start adding in healthy fats to our daily meals. Low fat items like yogurt, crackers, and diet drinks are loaded with hidden sugars which in turn causes....weight gain! So much for half enjoying that low fat item. Starting your day with eggs, avocado, nuts, chia seeds, etc will make a world of difference for your overall health. Your brain is nourished, literally. I wrote about my love for Avocado's in an earlier blog post, and I am back on that train in this post :)
To be clear: Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including Omega 3's) are healthy fats. Trans Fats are bad fats usually found in processed foods.
2. Sweat Once A Day
Lululemon got it right. Getting a sweat once a day is so important for many reasons. You are burning calories, yeah. But you are also keeping your muscles, heart, joints, and brain healthy in the process. Sweating comes in so many different forms, so don't be intimidated by this health tip! When you sweat, endorphins that keep you happy are released.
3. Stop Suffering Through Your Workout
The dreaded workout needs to STOP! When I am putting off being active for the day, I remind myself "I get to workout" I don't "have to workout." If you have to make it fun, and play a game or two in the process- DO IT. There are many people whose health won't allow them to be active whether it be terminal cancer, broken bones, or MS. Please be thankful for the opportunity to have the freedom to workout!
4. Digital Detox
I think we all need a little of this in our lives.. don't get me wrong I think social media and the digital world in all its glory is awesome. There is a time and place for a break though. For me personally I have been trying to keep my phone and computer nearly off on Sundays (you can pick any day you want). This is a day to rejuvenate, and focus on the Sabbath for me. It feels so good all day to be free of screens.
5. Eat Breakfast
This is the most important meal of the day. How many times have you heard/read that? Well, it's true! Eating breakfast literally sets you up for the remainder of your day. If you skimp out on breakfast, you will more than likely overeat later in the day due to blood sugar crashes. Eating a breakfast with protein is vital to a solid start to your morning both physically and mentally. My favorite meal of the day hands down!
6. Sleep
Next to eating breakfast, getting enough sleep is crucial to a better functioning day. Lack of sleep affects your metabolism, hormonal function, adrenal gland function, immune system, cardiovascular system, and completely messes with weight management. Those of you with kiddos, I know you probably want more sleep but your little one comes first. (Understandable, and nearly unavoidable). If you can, grab a power nap in the day to try and make up for the loss of ZZ's.
7. Hydrate
Hydration is IN. I start to panic when I leave the house without my water bottle. It's usually filled a few times throughout the day, but there is nothing worst than feeling thirsty. I get aura migraines, especially when I have been overly stressed and dehydrated. These suckers put a complete hold on my day, due to pain and nearly going blind. That is my motivation to keep on sipping! Aside from the consequences of dehydration, drinking water with some electrolytes will keep your system flushed of toxins. I am very selective and stick to water, milk, and some juices. No alcohol, coffee, or caffeine of any type for me. Ever.
8. Know Your Limits
Do you ever feel like you are constantly saying YES to everything and everyone? I came to a point in my life where I would say yes, without even thinking about it. I started to become stretched SO thin that I was not 100% wherever I was. My mom bought me the book Boundaries (thanks Mom) and it really opened my eyes to being more selective with my yes's. This does not mean being a bad friend, mentor, mom, wife, or coach. It means you will be MORE present in whatever you choose to dedicate your time to. Try it!
9. Make Time To De-Stress
When you go 100% all of the time you can get burned out, and tired. Ever heard of the new movement called Hygge? It is Danish for utter relaxation and coziness preferably by a fireplace. Pronounced (Hoo Gah) It is all of the rage in 2017. Taking time to relax, and do things you actually enjoy with people you like to be around will do wonders for your mental wellbeing. Instead of going out, and spending a ton of money why not just stay in and relax with friends and family. The conversations will be more meaningful and you will be relaxed at the same time. You will be a better employee, friend, spouse, parent, and version of yourself by de-stressing. I love doing yoga when I am feeling really wound up. Don't have time to hit the studio? Pull up a YouTube flow, and do it in the comfort of your own home. 10 minutes will do the trick.
10. Avoid Late Night Snacking
I had to add this one in! We all know how late night snacking can de-rail our progress for the day in one sitting. I have been there....wanting to dominate an entire pint of Ben & Jerry's. But for what? To feel worse after its gone? Once you are finished with dinner, and maybe another small snack close up the kitchen. Brush your teeth! Nothing really tastes good with mint toothpaste anyways :) Your digestive system needs time to work for at least 12 hours before your next meal!
That's a wrap! Incorporating even a few of these healthy habits will have you feeling more refreshed in 2017!
Cheers to OUR HEALTH!
xoxo Lauren Nicole
