Some would say it’s that easy…in order to change your health you just need to change your mind. Here are 3 simple strategies I use every day to ensure that I continue down the road to health.
1. Am I choosing the healthiest options with my nutrition?
This morning I wanted French Toast, it was that simple. I wanted to bite into a yummy piece of bread and taste a bit of sweet and savory while I sipped my morning coffee. So I asked myself, “self, what are my options?” Here’s what I did…I took two pieces of whole wheat bread (160 calories) dipped them in egg whites (34 calories for 2 egg whites) seasoned with a sprinkle of cinnamon and vanilla extract and cooked them in a nonstick pan with just a ½ teaspoon of butter (35 calories). I cut a cup of strawberries (54 calories) and placed them over the French toast. I sprinkled a tablespoon of chopped walnuts (75 calories) over the French toast. I sprinkled this with some stevia for a bit of sweetness (you could use honey, agave or any other sweetener, just beware of the portions, a ¼ cup of syrup can add almost 200 calories). Voila! A yummy breakfast that satisfied my craving for under 400 calories.
The trick here (not really a trick) is to figure out if there is a healthier alternative to what you are eating. Egg whites vs. whole eggs, wheat bread vs. white, etc… Simple swaps can head great results, and make you feel a whole lot better about your choices!
2. Am I choosing the healthiest options with my fitness?
How many times have you planned to get moving (take a walk, do an exercise video, get on that treadmill) and you look at the clock and say, “I don’t have time for a full workout so I’ll do it tomorrow.”? Well change your mind about what a “full workout” is…working out or just plain MOVING in 10 minute increments has proven to be beneficial. Stop making excuses and just move. Do 10 minutes in the morning, take a 10 minute walk during the day and end the day with 10 minutes of movement and you are on your way. Park your car as far away as possible when you go to the store or work, take the stairs, stand up every hour while you are at work. Do walking lunges to the copier (you may get some weird looks with this one, I know I do!) The key is to just do something. You can fit it in. Get creative and move that booty!
3. Am I choosing the right attitude?
That’s right, what are you saying to yourself right now? If you are telling yourself that you CANT have seconds because you on a diet, try changing it to “I choose not to eat seconds because I am striving for a healthier lifestyle.” If your mantra is “I hate exercise”, try changing it to, “I will move my body because I have just one to take care of and I want it to last a long time.” Even if at first you don’t believe this, your mind is a very powerful tool. Positive affirmations every day, multiple times a day are a great way to help you stay on track and remind yourself that you are worth it.
Be healthy. Be well.
MC
