10 Tips For A Healthier You in 2009

It’s a new year, and what better time to make a few changes, and be open to a new and improved you! Sometimes the simplest tips or suggestions can make the biggest difference in someone’s life.  Not in any particular order but all good to know.

My first, which some of you may not like, is tossing your diet books and just eating a little healthier. Eating lots of multicolored foods that were recently alive like vegetables or fruits is a good start. So good for you, with many long term benefits.

Love your teeth? If so then you’ll want to rinse your mouth out after drinking a soda. This will help wash the enamel-eroding acids off your teeth.  If you don’t floss, try using an electric toothbrush to get into the hard to reach crannies and fight gum disease.

I love olive oil, I really do, but since I am obsessed with making sure I get enough fatty acids in my diet I also use canola oil as often as I can. Canola oil has less saturated fat and a lot more omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to do everything from lift your mood to help fight heart disease.

Eat less salt… That’s a tough one for me. I usually sneak into the kitchen when my boyfriend isn’t looking and add more. You may think oh please what’s a little salt going to do, but did you know that many women over the age of 45 have high blood pressure, and a lot is due to high sodium in their diet. Can’t have that:-)

Having trouble sleeping? It may be that TV you have on, or the reading light that’s disrupting your sleeping cycle. Keeping things dark will keep your melatonin production happy and make for a better nights sleep.

Try a yoga class and make a new friend. Hot yoga, or as it’s called in the yogi world, Bikram is my favorite and addicting too. If you can’t handle the heat, Hatha yoga is excellent as well. In just a few weeks you will begin to notice your body getting toned and your skin looking fabulous.

Need a quick work out? Take the steps instead of the elevator or escalator. Any activity helps your heart and waistline, and who doesn’t want that:)

Always take time for yourself. Sometimes we put our own needs last forgetting that even the littlest things like sneaking away and reading a book, taking a long hot bath, or just listening to a great song can set the tone for your day and make all the difference in how you feel.

Be good to your skin. Just putting on a bit of moisturizer can take your skin from dull to dazzling. Try a shimmer creme instead of foundation and tap over your cheekbones for a beautiful sheen. One of my favorite looks when I have only seconds to do my face.

And my last tip for staying healthy in 2009…love yourself! I mean really love yourself. Wake up in the morning, get in front of that mirror and say “good morning beautiful!” It may feel funny at first, but It’s a great way to start your day, and your mind and body will thank you.

Hugs,

Beth