Thanks for a wonderful open-mike call tonight. I ran across the following little narrative and it made me think of the AHL group. Looking forward to next week. -Betty Robinson
"By extending appreciation and goodwill to others, we contribute to an ongoing cycle of blessings and gratitude, which attracts more abundance into our own lives. When we make a conscious effort to pass along our gratitude and appreciation to others, and reach out to help others in the same way that others have helped us, we automatically contribute our energy to a higher process of growth, improvement, and gratitude that blesses everyone it touches. At the same time, the positive energy we put forth will begin to attract more abundance into our own lives, in the form of appreciation and generosity from others. As you reach out to others in gratitude and goodwill today, you are calling forth powerful energy to bless them, and yourself. "
Monday, November 30, 2009
30 Days
Well I did it. 30 Days of Blogging!
And I learned something with this as well. It't a lot easier to incorporate one small change or activity for 30 days. It doesn't take a lot of time. And as time went on, my mind naturally focused and found things that were appropriate.
So fitting with Abundant Healthy Living. Make small changes. Don't wake up jawz. Keep your focus on Anything is Better than Nothing.
And you never know what a wonderful gift you will have given yourself when you look back on the last 6 weeks, 6 months or one year.
Looking forward to our Open Mike Nite with all of you!!!
Love - Gerri
And I learned something with this as well. It't a lot easier to incorporate one small change or activity for 30 days. It doesn't take a lot of time. And as time went on, my mind naturally focused and found things that were appropriate.
So fitting with Abundant Healthy Living. Make small changes. Don't wake up jawz. Keep your focus on Anything is Better than Nothing.
And you never know what a wonderful gift you will have given yourself when you look back on the last 6 weeks, 6 months or one year.
Looking forward to our Open Mike Nite with all of you!!!
Love - Gerri
Early to Bed by Ellie Krieger
More on going to bed early ... extreme self care!
Less-than-stellar-quality sleep is a common complaint — 7 in 10 people say they experience frequent sleep problems. Yet there are a variety of ways to improve your sleep. Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day will help set your body clock. Today I want you to decide what time you're going to go to sleep — and follow through with it.
To ensure that you stick to your bedtime, it's important not to schedule stimulating activities right up until your last waking moment. For example, most of us spend the last hour before bed watching TV several nights a week. While certain programs may be relaxing, catching up on financial news or watching a violent drama may make you more prone to tossing and turning. Likewise, a heavy meal late at night is likely to affect your sleep because your body will be busy digesting it. So do yourself a favor and cut back on TV and large meals before bed. Instead, create a wind-down routine to help yourself relax and be ready for a restful night's sleep when the time comes.
Your bedtime routine might mean taking a warm bath or curling up with a favorite book for a few minutes. There's some truth to a warm bath helping to produce restful sleep — your body temperature drops after the bath, which makes you feel relaxed and sleepy. If you're hungry, a light snack is fine; milk or a carbohydrate snack will help relax you.
A bedtime ritual need not be anything extravagant — just come up with a routine that will tell your body it's time to get ready for sleep. Stick to your bedtime, and set your alarm (if you use one) for the same time every morning — you'll sleep better in the long run.
Less-than-stellar-quality sleep is a common complaint — 7 in 10 people say they experience frequent sleep problems. Yet there are a variety of ways to improve your sleep. Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day will help set your body clock. Today I want you to decide what time you're going to go to sleep — and follow through with it.
To ensure that you stick to your bedtime, it's important not to schedule stimulating activities right up until your last waking moment. For example, most of us spend the last hour before bed watching TV several nights a week. While certain programs may be relaxing, catching up on financial news or watching a violent drama may make you more prone to tossing and turning. Likewise, a heavy meal late at night is likely to affect your sleep because your body will be busy digesting it. So do yourself a favor and cut back on TV and large meals before bed. Instead, create a wind-down routine to help yourself relax and be ready for a restful night's sleep when the time comes.
Your bedtime routine might mean taking a warm bath or curling up with a favorite book for a few minutes. There's some truth to a warm bath helping to produce restful sleep — your body temperature drops after the bath, which makes you feel relaxed and sleepy. If you're hungry, a light snack is fine; milk or a carbohydrate snack will help relax you.
A bedtime ritual need not be anything extravagant — just come up with a routine that will tell your body it's time to get ready for sleep. Stick to your bedtime, and set your alarm (if you use one) for the same time every morning — you'll sleep better in the long run.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Drinking Enough...
Drinking Enough Water
This, I am finding, is one of my biggest challenges as the weather turns colder. I know I am way down on my water consumption. And I think back on what we've talked about as being side effects of not getting enough water. I have had an increase in headaches. And I also find my concentration isn't the best. So...is it as simple as recommitting to getting enough of this all important fuel for my body? Maybe so.
I believe it's worth it to refocus and recommit to this area going forward. So when you see me or talk to me you have my permission to ask me if I'm drinking enough water!
Love You! ~ Gerri
This, I am finding, is one of my biggest challenges as the weather turns colder. I know I am way down on my water consumption. And I think back on what we've talked about as being side effects of not getting enough water. I have had an increase in headaches. And I also find my concentration isn't the best. So...is it as simple as recommitting to getting enough of this all important fuel for my body? Maybe so.
I believe it's worth it to refocus and recommit to this area going forward. So when you see me or talk to me you have my permission to ask me if I'm drinking enough water!
Love You! ~ Gerri
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Redefining Health
Yesterday's topic in my Daily Om e-mail was Redefining Health - Throw Away Your Scale
And while I still use my scale daily, I believe the message of this article is very much in line with Abundant Healthy Living. Here are a few excerpts:
- Health is not a numerical concept and cannot be defined using statistics. Human beings, however, tend to want to quantify well-being into easily understandable figures...As a consequence of social pressures, we turn our attention away from health and focus instead on the most contentious of these figures—weight—checking our scales to see how we measure up to our peers and role models.
- Yet each of us is equipped to gauge our relative healthfulness without any equipment whatsoever. When we have achieved a state of wellness, we feel buoyant and energetic...Movement becomes a source of joy. Sitting, standing, walking, and bending are all easy to do because your joints and organs are functioning as they were meant to.
- When you are physically healthy, your mind will also typically occupy a place of well-being. Mental clarity and an ability to focus are two natural traits of whole-self health. Surprisingly, promoting this type of easy-to-discern wellness within yourself takes no special effort outside of satisfying your hunger with nourishing, wholesome foods and moving your body.
I believe this describes AHL very, very well!
And while I still use my scale daily, I believe the message of this article is very much in line with Abundant Healthy Living. Here are a few excerpts:
- Health is not a numerical concept and cannot be defined using statistics. Human beings, however, tend to want to quantify well-being into easily understandable figures...As a consequence of social pressures, we turn our attention away from health and focus instead on the most contentious of these figures—weight—checking our scales to see how we measure up to our peers and role models.
- Yet each of us is equipped to gauge our relative healthfulness without any equipment whatsoever. When we have achieved a state of wellness, we feel buoyant and energetic...Movement becomes a source of joy. Sitting, standing, walking, and bending are all easy to do because your joints and organs are functioning as they were meant to.
- When you are physically healthy, your mind will also typically occupy a place of well-being. Mental clarity and an ability to focus are two natural traits of whole-self health. Surprisingly, promoting this type of easy-to-discern wellness within yourself takes no special effort outside of satisfying your hunger with nourishing, wholesome foods and moving your body.
I believe this describes AHL very, very well!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Staying the Course
I was able to start today with a nice walk outside - before things got really blustery. It's so nice to start the day off right. And then on to decorating the house for our next holiday. My goal today was to get the small tree up in our foyer. It's the only tree we put up and I do love doing this. Looks nice too!
And this keeps me moving and stretching and bending! This DOES count as exercise!
And this keeps me moving and stretching and bending! This DOES count as exercise!
Some Questions for Monday
Hello Partners!
As promised, here are some things to think about in advance of our call on Monday.
What AHL Principles did you use to help you through this holiday weekend?
What worked the best for you?
What were your greatest challenges so we can help you in the days ahead?
What was the biggest surprise from the weekend?
Monday's call is one of two "Open Mic" sessions we have during each series. This is an opportunity for us to review what we have learned so far but more importantly, to learn from each other.
Really looking forward to re-connecting on Monday. Have a wonderful and healthy rest of the weekend.
Love, Tee
As promised, here are some things to think about in advance of our call on Monday.
What AHL Principles did you use to help you through this holiday weekend?
What worked the best for you?
What were your greatest challenges so we can help you in the days ahead?
What was the biggest surprise from the weekend?
Monday's call is one of two "Open Mic" sessions we have during each series. This is an opportunity for us to review what we have learned so far but more importantly, to learn from each other.
Really looking forward to re-connecting on Monday. Have a wonderful and healthy rest of the weekend.
Love, Tee
Thursday, November 26, 2009
A Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving to All
There is so much to be grateful for on this day and every day. I love this Abundant Healthy Living community of ours that continues to develop and grow. And for the friends that have joined San, Tee and I on this wondeful journey.
What a difference a year makes. I can't wait for each of you to be with us at this time next year and look back as well and see how far you have come.
In the encouraging words of Mike Dooley - Do your best with what you have from where you are.
You are OK. You are MORE than OK. You are perfectly made and a gift to each of us.
I am grateful for each and every one of you!
Love! Gerri
What a difference a year makes. I can't wait for each of you to be with us at this time next year and look back as well and see how far you have come.
In the encouraging words of Mike Dooley - Do your best with what you have from where you are.
You are OK. You are MORE than OK. You are perfectly made and a gift to each of us.
I am grateful for each and every one of you!
Love! Gerri
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
From one of my favorite teachers ...
By Randy Gage
November 25th, 2009
Service to others can be a very dangerous sword. It can bring you unparalleled joy. Or it can be another act of codependency, taking care of others above your self, or a continuance of worthiness issues.
You have to love yourself first, take care of your own needs first and serve yourself first. Until you are whole, you can’t help others really. But once you have done that – then serving others can be one of the most rewarding things you can do. And there is almost no better time to do it than when the holidays and Holy Days are upon us.
Why not think now about how you might serve others this season, and make it your best ever?
-RG
You can find more of Randy at RandyGage.com
November 25th, 2009
Service to others can be a very dangerous sword. It can bring you unparalleled joy. Or it can be another act of codependency, taking care of others above your self, or a continuance of worthiness issues.
You have to love yourself first, take care of your own needs first and serve yourself first. Until you are whole, you can’t help others really. But once you have done that – then serving others can be one of the most rewarding things you can do. And there is almost no better time to do it than when the holidays and Holy Days are upon us.
Why not think now about how you might serve others this season, and make it your best ever?
-RG
You can find more of Randy at RandyGage.com
Gerri - 1 jawz - 0
Good Morning all!
This morning I met a friend at Bonaparte Bakery in Savage Mill. If you know anything about this place, it's a mecca for fresh breads and pastries. I made sure to have my protein shake before going and had a chocolate mint chew before leaving the car to head inside.
I ordered a large mug of coffee and NO pastry. Once Martha and I sat down, it was about the conversation anyway and I didn't miss the bakery options at all.
It really is possible to go into different social situations with a strategy in mind and successfully navigate these occassions that could hold pitfalls.
Here's to making Healthy and Fit choices that serve you now and in the long term for a healthier and happier life!
This morning I met a friend at Bonaparte Bakery in Savage Mill. If you know anything about this place, it's a mecca for fresh breads and pastries. I made sure to have my protein shake before going and had a chocolate mint chew before leaving the car to head inside.
I ordered a large mug of coffee and NO pastry. Once Martha and I sat down, it was about the conversation anyway and I didn't miss the bakery options at all.
It really is possible to go into different social situations with a strategy in mind and successfully navigate these occassions that could hold pitfalls.
Here's to making Healthy and Fit choices that serve you now and in the long term for a healthier and happier life!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Preparations begin
We're hosting Thanksgiving at our house this year. There will be 7 of us. A nice size.
Mark and I are making all the core dishes. I picked up a turkey breast from the PA Dutch Farmers market that he will brine tonight. We're also in charge of the dressing, gravy and mashed potatoes and also a sweet potato casserole (which I prefer).
We'll have raw veggies with dip to start out while everything is in its final prep. That will be a nice healthy start. Our veggies will be roasted brussel sprouts (yummy!) and an onion and artichoke mix.
Then we'll end with pecan pie (not tempting for me since I don't like) and a no crust pumpkin.
So there are some potential jawz challenges. Mixed in with some healthy choices as well. I think all the gals are health conscious, so I may have takers for using a small plate, like Tee suggests.
I'm taking pointers from Betty about planning. I'm seeing what is going to be on the table and making sure I have my strategy in place. This will be the best way to enjoy, not only the meal, but the evening and day after as well.
This can be a wonderful day to celebrate being healthy and fit, even if that isn't your history. Your history does not make your present or your future, your choices do. So remember to make the best choices you can.
Mark and I are making all the core dishes. I picked up a turkey breast from the PA Dutch Farmers market that he will brine tonight. We're also in charge of the dressing, gravy and mashed potatoes and also a sweet potato casserole (which I prefer).
We'll have raw veggies with dip to start out while everything is in its final prep. That will be a nice healthy start. Our veggies will be roasted brussel sprouts (yummy!) and an onion and artichoke mix.
Then we'll end with pecan pie (not tempting for me since I don't like) and a no crust pumpkin.
So there are some potential jawz challenges. Mixed in with some healthy choices as well. I think all the gals are health conscious, so I may have takers for using a small plate, like Tee suggests.
I'm taking pointers from Betty about planning. I'm seeing what is going to be on the table and making sure I have my strategy in place. This will be the best way to enjoy, not only the meal, but the evening and day after as well.
This can be a wonderful day to celebrate being healthy and fit, even if that isn't your history. Your history does not make your present or your future, your choices do. So remember to make the best choices you can.
Beets ... so good for you!
Roasted Beets - Tip of the Day
by Alexa Weibel (Subscribe to Alexa Weibel's posts)Posted Nov 24th 2009 9:00AMFiled under: Vegetables, Recipes, Tip of the Day
Print Email More
Roasted beets are vibrant and flavorful tossed in salads, pastas and more. Learn how to roast them and stock them in your fridge as tasty additions to your dishes.
Roasted Beets, Carrots and Blue Cheese Rice. Photo: Delairen, Flickr.Roasting beets deepens their sweetness while softening them to a silkier texture. With a little advance prep work, you can stock them in the refrigerator and creatively throw them into a variety of dishes, but they're also delicious savored on their own.Preheat the oven to 375 Fahrenheit. After cleaning the beets, trim off the edges with a sharp knife then shave off the skin if you so choose. (This is often done for aesthetic reasons, as the skin too can be eaten, as it softens when cooked.) Place the beets in some aluminum foil and toss them with a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper if you're so inclined, then seal the aluminum foil package.Roast the beets until tender -- depending on the size and quantity, they can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. Let them cool before slicing or cubing them, depending on their culinary purpose, and then keep them in an airtight container in your fridge. The beets should keep a week or two -- though we make no promise they won't be devoured promptly!
by Alexa Weibel (Subscribe to Alexa Weibel's posts)Posted Nov 24th 2009 9:00AMFiled under: Vegetables, Recipes, Tip of the Day
Print Email More
Roasted beets are vibrant and flavorful tossed in salads, pastas and more. Learn how to roast them and stock them in your fridge as tasty additions to your dishes.
Roasted Beets, Carrots and Blue Cheese Rice. Photo: Delairen, Flickr.Roasting beets deepens their sweetness while softening them to a silkier texture. With a little advance prep work, you can stock them in the refrigerator and creatively throw them into a variety of dishes, but they're also delicious savored on their own.Preheat the oven to 375 Fahrenheit. After cleaning the beets, trim off the edges with a sharp knife then shave off the skin if you so choose. (This is often done for aesthetic reasons, as the skin too can be eaten, as it softens when cooked.) Place the beets in some aluminum foil and toss them with a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper if you're so inclined, then seal the aluminum foil package.Roast the beets until tender -- depending on the size and quantity, they can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. Let them cool before slicing or cubing them, depending on their culinary purpose, and then keep them in an airtight container in your fridge. The beets should keep a week or two -- though we make no promise they won't be devoured promptly!
Thanksgiving Alternatives
Good Morning!
I read the Washington Post Express every morning on the metro ride to work. On Tuesdays they have a special insert called FIT that deals with all things healthy. Today they had an insert called Turkey Day Tips. I thought it was worth sharing.
1. Don't get up, plop yourself on the sofa and then starve yourself until dinner. Go for a walk with the family and friends. Get your metabolism revved up and enjoy the smells of fall.
2. Eat breakfast and a light lunch (if your dinner isn't actually lunch like ours is) and remember that you can always have leftovers later. There is no need to load up with 3,000 calories at one meal.
3. Eat from a smaller plate (this one is mine). It allows you to take a dab of everything and not over do it.
4. No mindless eating. Skip the snacks.
5. Keep it positive when people try to push food on you. Instead of saying, "I can't. I'm dieting." Say, "I've been eating healthier - no thanks."
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Love, Tee
I read the Washington Post Express every morning on the metro ride to work. On Tuesdays they have a special insert called FIT that deals with all things healthy. Today they had an insert called Turkey Day Tips. I thought it was worth sharing.
1. Don't get up, plop yourself on the sofa and then starve yourself until dinner. Go for a walk with the family and friends. Get your metabolism revved up and enjoy the smells of fall.
2. Eat breakfast and a light lunch (if your dinner isn't actually lunch like ours is) and remember that you can always have leftovers later. There is no need to load up with 3,000 calories at one meal.
3. Eat from a smaller plate (this one is mine). It allows you to take a dab of everything and not over do it.
4. No mindless eating. Skip the snacks.
5. Keep it positive when people try to push food on you. Instead of saying, "I can't. I'm dieting." Say, "I've been eating healthier - no thanks."
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Love, Tee
Monday, November 23, 2009
Healthy Decadence
I love the program on Discovery Health called Healthy Decadence. You can find some yummy, wonderful recipes by checking out the Discovery Health website. All recipes are accessible and easy to make. Just another tool for our toolbox.
Love ya!
Tee
Love ya!
Tee
Know Your Food - Eating Close to the Earth
I received this today from Daily OM - Seems appropriate for this week!
The food we eat is a multidimensional aspect of our lives. Food provides us with the energy that enables us to grow and prosper. Yet it can be, and frequently is, much, much more. Our food can be an experience in and of itself if we allow it to be. The dishes we remember from childhood offer unmatched comfort. The act of preparing meals can be an art form of the highest caliber. And the nourishment we derive from this fare promotes wellness within us. But many of us, distracted by daily affairs, forget that the profound pleasures of eating go beyond simple sustenance. We eat foods that are convenient or we eat unconsciously, snacking on whatever happens to be on hand. To understand the true value of food and the impact it can have on our lives, we should acknowledge and honor it by eating close to the earth.
If you have ever shelled and eaten garden-grown peas or bitten into a sun-warmed apple freshly plucked from its tree, you likely understand that there is a marked difference between these foods and those that are processed and stacked on supermarket shelves. Food recently picked contains more of its original life force and thus has a greater store of energy and nutrients. You can ensure you are eating close to the earth—and enjoying the many benefits of doing so—by shopping at a local farmers market and getting to know the individuals who grow your food. If you make the experience of shopping in this way enjoyable, you will be more apt to reject more convenient canned, packaged, and frozen foods in favor of the real delight you feel while browsing stalls of fresh foods nourished by the same soil you can find in your own backyard. You will soon learn what foods are in season in your area and how to prepare them.
As you savor the vivid flavors of juicy ripe fruits and the hearty crunch of unprocessed vegetables, you can also take pleasure in the fact that, by eating close to the earth, you are supporting farmers in your region, connecting with your local ecosystem, discouraging those who would waste precious fossil fuels by carting produce cross-country, and helping to preserve healthy culinary traditions that have existed for centuries.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Recommitting Today
Ok...fessing up...jawz joined me in jumping off the wagon last night for pizza and even got me to eat a couple of extra slices. So glad it was only a temporary lapse in judgement. I like the fact that the wagon stayed put and I've climbed right back on!
It's a beautiful day. This may just call for an extra long walk in the neighborhood to work OFF that pizza!
It's a beautiful day. This may just call for an extra long walk in the neighborhood to work OFF that pizza!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Just a quick hello
No time for Blogging today other than sending you all my love.
Worked all day and now prepping for my daughter, son in law and granddaughter to arrive!!
They will be here for the week to celebrate Thanksgiving. I am sooooooooo happy!
I will still be on Monday night. 'See' you all then. Love, San
Worked all day and now prepping for my daughter, son in law and granddaughter to arrive!!
They will be here for the week to celebrate Thanksgiving. I am sooooooooo happy!
I will still be on Monday night. 'See' you all then. Love, San
Day 21
Remember the principle Anything is Better than Nothing?
Well, I'm going to use it today to keep my 21 day blogging streak going.
Wore my size 6 jeans all day - AWESOME FEELING!!! Already thinking I've got to get more of these.
:-D
Well, I'm going to use it today to keep my 21 day blogging streak going.
Wore my size 6 jeans all day - AWESOME FEELING!!! Already thinking I've got to get more of these.
:-D
Friday, November 20, 2009
Time for Laughter
It's not just a cliche that 'laughter is the best medicine.' There really is truth in it.
Laughter:
- Reduces pain. Our bodies produce pain-killing hormones called endorphins in response to laughter.
- Strengthens immune function. A good belly laugh increases production of T-cells, interferon and immune proteins called globulins.
- Decreases stress. When under stress, we produce a hormone called cortisol. Laughter significantly lowers cortisol levels and returns the body to a more relaxed state.
Scientific evidence has shown that laughter helps people breathe easier and it massages the heart and other vital organs. It may also increase the release of disease-fighting cells in the immune system. Like exercise, laughter quickens the pulse and stimulates the cardiovascular system. In experiments, students who watched funny movies were found to have an increased flow of infection-fighting proteins in their saliva.
I'm going to put this into practice tonight because Mark and I are going to see Robin Williams!
Sugar and your immune system
Sugar Can Depress Your Immune System by 90 Percent
from Total Health Breakthrough
It is proven that sugar and high-glycemic carbohydrates depress your immune system. There are many mechanisms for why it happens. But one of the best measures is the leukocytic index (LI).
This is a measure of how many invading organisms one white blood cell can engulf in one hour. A leukocytic index of 10 means that one white blood cell consumed 10 microbes within that hour. The average person in the U.S. has an LI of 14. That is not necessarily optimal. It is the average. But get this...
Within 15 minutes of consuming the amount of refined carbohydrates that the average American ingests with his evening meal - about 100 grams - the LI drops to about 1.4. That means the average person loses more than 90 percent of their immune function within 15 minutes of consuming a meal containing sugar and high-glycemic carbohydrates!
And this deficiency in the ability of white blood cells to engulf invading organisms can last for anywhere from two to five hours. Of course, if you consistently eat these foods, your immune system will remain perpetually depressed.
From Total Health Breakthrough.com
from Total Health Breakthrough
It is proven that sugar and high-glycemic carbohydrates depress your immune system. There are many mechanisms for why it happens. But one of the best measures is the leukocytic index (LI).
This is a measure of how many invading organisms one white blood cell can engulf in one hour. A leukocytic index of 10 means that one white blood cell consumed 10 microbes within that hour. The average person in the U.S. has an LI of 14. That is not necessarily optimal. It is the average. But get this...
Within 15 minutes of consuming the amount of refined carbohydrates that the average American ingests with his evening meal - about 100 grams - the LI drops to about 1.4. That means the average person loses more than 90 percent of their immune function within 15 minutes of consuming a meal containing sugar and high-glycemic carbohydrates!
And this deficiency in the ability of white blood cells to engulf invading organisms can last for anywhere from two to five hours. Of course, if you consistently eat these foods, your immune system will remain perpetually depressed.
From Total Health Breakthrough.com
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Grateful
Today my post is simply that I'm grateful for all of you and for this wonderful community that we are creating that enriches my life, inspires my heart, and strengthens my commitment to link arms with each of you on our Abundant Healthy Living path.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Empowerment Partner
We know we can rely on each other for motivation, inspiration, information and much, much more but this morning Gerri SAVED me, because I left the house for an all day conference without my protein shake.
Instead of empathizing with me, when I arrived to pick Gerri up, she got in my car and handed me a shake!!!
This allowed me to graze at the breakfast selection and not load up on the things I didn't want or need.
Thank you, Gerri. You are the best!!
Instead of empathizing with me, when I arrived to pick Gerri up, she got in my car and handed me a shake!!!
This allowed me to graze at the breakfast selection and not load up on the things I didn't want or need.
Thank you, Gerri. You are the best!!
Into the Wind
This morning I went with San to a Mom's Inc Conference. We got there early, intentionally, so we could at least do a short walk. Though it wasn't anywhere near the distance of our walks at Arundel Mills.
One of the things that made up for it though was the wind. Walking in the wind definitely takes more energy! And when the wind is COLD, then I know that burns more calories too!
I don't know how far we walked. This was an exercise in Anything is Better than Nothing!
And doing it with a friend makes it priceless!
One of the things that made up for it though was the wind. Walking in the wind definitely takes more energy! And when the wind is COLD, then I know that burns more calories too!
I don't know how far we walked. This was an exercise in Anything is Better than Nothing!
And doing it with a friend makes it priceless!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Today I Bought....drum roll........
Size 6 Jeans!!!!
Now they are comfort fit stretch jeans, and they are a little snug but not uncomfortable.
So...GOAL!!!
This will also be my secret weapon when jawz comes knocking with Thanksgiving. I'll just think of those jeans (or be wearing them) and it will be so much easier to ignore him!
Thank You All - My Abundant Healthy Living Empowerment Partners! You are all a part of my success!
Now they are comfort fit stretch jeans, and they are a little snug but not uncomfortable.
So...GOAL!!!
This will also be my secret weapon when jawz comes knocking with Thanksgiving. I'll just think of those jeans (or be wearing them) and it will be so much easier to ignore him!
Thank You All - My Abundant Healthy Living Empowerment Partners! You are all a part of my success!
Thanksgiving
AHL Team,
I am planning my Thanksgiving dinner and I will be making all the expected dishes. I am from Plymouth after all. However, I will add a wonderful fall salad of roasted veggies on mixed greens with a sprinkling of goat cheese and dried cranberries (craisins).
While I will have tastes of everything, I will make sliced white turkey breast and salad my main meal.
In this month of Thanksgiving I just want to say how grateful I am to share this journey of Abundant Healthy Living with each of you. San
I am planning my Thanksgiving dinner and I will be making all the expected dishes. I am from Plymouth after all. However, I will add a wonderful fall salad of roasted veggies on mixed greens with a sprinkling of goat cheese and dried cranberries (craisins).
While I will have tastes of everything, I will make sliced white turkey breast and salad my main meal.
In this month of Thanksgiving I just want to say how grateful I am to share this journey of Abundant Healthy Living with each of you. San
Monday, November 16, 2009
Abundant Healthy Living Mindset
1. Healthy, Fit People … have habits and lifestyle that support and nurture our
well being.
2. Healthy, Fit People … eat to live not live to eat. We think about food as
fuel not as an experience.
3. Healthy, Fit People … are proactive about our health: vitamins and other
supplements, daily exercise, head time, acupuncture and other holistic
modalities.
4. Healthy, Fit People … move because it feels good and we want to! It doesn’t
have to be jogging and the gym … it can be walking outdoors, swimming, yoga,
and gardening.
5. Healthy, Fit People … have a huge life force … a glow and attitude because
everything is moving inside … chi, oxygen, blood, lymphatic drainage and
digestion … all humming and happy!
6. Healthy, Fit People … have energy to work and play, in fact, energy to
spare.
7. Healthy, Fit People … favor fresh, whole, raw, organic food and small
portions.
8. Healthy, Fit People … know where to buy the best food locally and make it a
priority.
9. Healthy, Fit People … identify foods that make us feel good and are easily
digested into energy.
10. Healthy, Fit People … sleep well.
11. Healthy, Fit People … have a longer life span
12. Healthy, Fit People … never stop learning about our bodies and minds
Healthy, fit people listen to our bodies … eat the best foods when we are hungry, move because it feels good not because we should and love the vibrant feeling of wellness. This is our life style, not a short lived campaign.
well being.
2. Healthy, Fit People … eat to live not live to eat. We think about food as
fuel not as an experience.
3. Healthy, Fit People … are proactive about our health: vitamins and other
supplements, daily exercise, head time, acupuncture and other holistic
modalities.
4. Healthy, Fit People … move because it feels good and we want to! It doesn’t
have to be jogging and the gym … it can be walking outdoors, swimming, yoga,
and gardening.
5. Healthy, Fit People … have a huge life force … a glow and attitude because
everything is moving inside … chi, oxygen, blood, lymphatic drainage and
digestion … all humming and happy!
6. Healthy, Fit People … have energy to work and play, in fact, energy to
spare.
7. Healthy, Fit People … favor fresh, whole, raw, organic food and small
portions.
8. Healthy, Fit People … know where to buy the best food locally and make it a
priority.
9. Healthy, Fit People … identify foods that make us feel good and are easily
digested into energy.
10. Healthy, Fit People … sleep well.
11. Healthy, Fit People … have a longer life span
12. Healthy, Fit People … never stop learning about our bodies and minds
Healthy, fit people listen to our bodies … eat the best foods when we are hungry, move because it feels good not because we should and love the vibrant feeling of wellness. This is our life style, not a short lived campaign.
Onward into the Holidays, AHL Enthusiasts!
Hi AHL Colleagues!
Just thought I'd let you know that after deep thought and careful consideration, I've decided to step back for the next session of AHL calls. November/December are the busiest months in the church calendar (Reformation, Advent, Christmas, Epiphany) and so... the busiest days of our year (with the exception of Easter). I hold fast to the goal I mentioned last week of losing 4 pounds this session. Yes! I will do that. However, many commitments will take me away on Monday evenings and I don't want to be absent without good reason or AWOL...so!
San and I discussed it today and she has invited us (both Rod and me) to be present for calls when possible during this session, either together or individually, and I plan to do that when I am able. This season really pulls Pr. Rod over to the church and out on visitations most every night of the week - cannot speak for him. But I will be with you when I can.
Wishing you an awesome Session of AHL calls and learning, sharing, growing, healthy living, and looking forward to trying every one of these yummy recipes!
Thanks for all you give, and blessings to and yous for a fabulous Thanksgiving!
Prue
Just thought I'd let you know that after deep thought and careful consideration, I've decided to step back for the next session of AHL calls. November/December are the busiest months in the church calendar (Reformation, Advent, Christmas, Epiphany) and so... the busiest days of our year (with the exception of Easter). I hold fast to the goal I mentioned last week of losing 4 pounds this session. Yes! I will do that. However, many commitments will take me away on Monday evenings and I don't want to be absent without good reason or AWOL...so!
San and I discussed it today and she has invited us (both Rod and me) to be present for calls when possible during this session, either together or individually, and I plan to do that when I am able. This season really pulls Pr. Rod over to the church and out on visitations most every night of the week - cannot speak for him. But I will be with you when I can.
Wishing you an awesome Session of AHL calls and learning, sharing, growing, healthy living, and looking forward to trying every one of these yummy recipes!
Thanks for all you give, and blessings to and yous for a fabulous Thanksgiving!
Prue
Abundant Healthy Living
This little bit of prose came to me on my morning walk. Dana K would be proud!
Abundant Healthy Living
All about the choices we make
How we live each moment fully aware
Lifting us up - body, mind and spirit
Abundant Healthy Living
All about the choices we make
How we live each moment fully aware
Lifting us up - body, mind and spirit
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Finally made our Wild Rice & Celery Root Soup!
Day 15 of continuous blogging! Whoohoo! Like anything else, doing something regularly does make it easier to keep doing.
I'm going to keep this post easy though.
If you look back through recent blogs, I posted one on a Wild Rice and Celery Root soup. I must admit, I never knew that you could use celery root in cooking before. I have to say, this turned out delicious!
I think one of the secrets of this is taking a cup or two of the stock with the chunks of leek, celery root and carrots and puree them in a blender. When this is added back into the stock it makes the broth infinitely tastier and richer.
It's a keeper!
I'm going to keep this post easy though.
If you look back through recent blogs, I posted one on a Wild Rice and Celery Root soup. I must admit, I never knew that you could use celery root in cooking before. I have to say, this turned out delicious!
I think one of the secrets of this is taking a cup or two of the stock with the chunks of leek, celery root and carrots and puree them in a blender. When this is added back into the stock it makes the broth infinitely tastier and richer.
It's a keeper!
Happy to Return for Another 6 Weeks
AHL members:
Unfortunately, I was unable to make the last conference call for the last six week session. I had wanted to contribute my thoughts and experience on this important call and hear from others, but I had family matters which I had to take care of that night. I'd like to share a few comments here in lieu of the last session conference call. After many weeks of steady progress in recent months and an achievement award received earlier this summer for my demonstrated dedication to fitness training -- the last six weeks have been a roller coaster ride for me which tested me to the limit. And in the end I found out that I am simply human. Being the eldest in the family, sometimes the weight of family issues can fall on your shoulders. My father's badly declining health and devastating news that he has an abdominal aneurysm which cannot be fixed or removed and the fact that he can no longer drive literally threw my life into a tailspin. I became a chauffeur, assistant monitor of medications, overseer during medical appointments, etc., etc. , etc. I suddenly had unanticipated extra duties and deep anxiety over my father and mother. My focus and time went mostly to them and I was unable to juggle my perfectly planned regimen with what I was dealing with. But enough about my trials -- the good news is that while my exercise decreased and my stress levels resulted in some loss of good food choices and portion control over the past six weeks, the AHL principles have remain etched in my brain. The clouds are finally lifting a bit and I am prepared to get back to where I left off. The new session offers me a fresh opportunity to continue the practices I have previously benefited from. Some added family responsibilities & concern are still with me as is my company business and passion for interior design, however the challenge is to go with the flow and work around my responsibilities this time. This was not a derailment but a detour for me. I am determined to get back (and stay on) the same route with my AHL roadmap and will join you on the call tomorrow night ready to continue my journey, enjoy the ride and the benefits of abundant healthy living! I couldn't have a better navigation system.
With gratitude,
Betty
Unfortunately, I was unable to make the last conference call for the last six week session. I had wanted to contribute my thoughts and experience on this important call and hear from others, but I had family matters which I had to take care of that night. I'd like to share a few comments here in lieu of the last session conference call. After many weeks of steady progress in recent months and an achievement award received earlier this summer for my demonstrated dedication to fitness training -- the last six weeks have been a roller coaster ride for me which tested me to the limit. And in the end I found out that I am simply human. Being the eldest in the family, sometimes the weight of family issues can fall on your shoulders. My father's badly declining health and devastating news that he has an abdominal aneurysm which cannot be fixed or removed and the fact that he can no longer drive literally threw my life into a tailspin. I became a chauffeur, assistant monitor of medications, overseer during medical appointments, etc., etc. , etc. I suddenly had unanticipated extra duties and deep anxiety over my father and mother. My focus and time went mostly to them and I was unable to juggle my perfectly planned regimen with what I was dealing with. But enough about my trials -- the good news is that while my exercise decreased and my stress levels resulted in some loss of good food choices and portion control over the past six weeks, the AHL principles have remain etched in my brain. The clouds are finally lifting a bit and I am prepared to get back to where I left off. The new session offers me a fresh opportunity to continue the practices I have previously benefited from. Some added family responsibilities & concern are still with me as is my company business and passion for interior design, however the challenge is to go with the flow and work around my responsibilities this time. This was not a derailment but a detour for me. I am determined to get back (and stay on) the same route with my AHL roadmap and will join you on the call tomorrow night ready to continue my journey, enjoy the ride and the benefits of abundant healthy living! I couldn't have a better navigation system.
With gratitude,
Betty
New Session of Abundant Healthy Living begins tomorrow evening at 8!
We are looking forward to a new session of
Abundant Healthy Living
Monday, November 16th at 8 PM
We will be welcoming
new folks and our fabulous returnees!
Call in at 7:55 to let us know that you are on the line
Dial 616-347-8300 Code is 939046#
Use the *6 keys to mute or unmute
your line if you have background noise.
Gorgeous sunshiny day ... get outside and play!
It's a gorgeous sunshiny day ... get outside and play!
Rog and I will walk the park today. Can't wait, the
bay really sparkles on a day like this!
Then I will put the gardens to bed for the winter and
harvest the last of the herbs.
Wishing you all an Abundant Happy, Healthy and Fit day.
Love, San
Rog and I will walk the park today. Can't wait, the
bay really sparkles on a day like this!
Then I will put the gardens to bed for the winter and
harvest the last of the herbs.
Wishing you all an Abundant Happy, Healthy and Fit day.
Love, San
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Great Quote to begin our next session
"Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could.Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow [today] is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This day is all that is good and fair. It is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Dark Chocolate in Your Medicine Cabinet?
I found this in the Nov/Dec 2009 issue of Natural Solutions:
"Quiet a Cough" - Dark chocolate is as effective a cough suppresant as codeine...That's what British and Hungarian researchers found in a recent study. What's the secret? Experts think the chemical theobromine (found in chocolate) relaxes the vagus nerve, which runs through the airways to the brain and triggers coughing.
Just 2 ounces of chocolate is enough, and the higher the cocoa content (think 65 percent or more), the better.
As a friend of mine is known to say... Cool Beans! Cacao beans that is!
"Quiet a Cough" - Dark chocolate is as effective a cough suppresant as codeine...That's what British and Hungarian researchers found in a recent study. What's the secret? Experts think the chemical theobromine (found in chocolate) relaxes the vagus nerve, which runs through the airways to the brain and triggers coughing.
Just 2 ounces of chocolate is enough, and the higher the cocoa content (think 65 percent or more), the better.
As a friend of mine is known to say... Cool Beans! Cacao beans that is!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Purrrfectly Made
I marvel at my cats often. They seem to spend so much time sleeping yet they are healthy, agile, bright eyed and amazing creatures. Here are some lessons they teach me:
- stretching feels really, really good
- a back rub is best when someone else does it
- nibbling (grazing) throughout the day is best, tho a special treat now and then is, well, special!
- always take time to really look at what's around you, especially birds
- get enough sleep
- cuddling up with someone you love can never be over-rated
- take time to IMAGINE what you want in your life
- find contentment in every moment
I think this list would make them honorary Abundant Healthy Living members!
- stretching feels really, really good
- a back rub is best when someone else does it
- nibbling (grazing) throughout the day is best, tho a special treat now and then is, well, special!
- always take time to really look at what's around you, especially birds
- get enough sleep
- cuddling up with someone you love can never be over-rated
- take time to IMAGINE what you want in your life
- find contentment in every moment
I think this list would make them honorary Abundant Healthy Living members!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
T-Tapp ... Fit and Fabulous in 15 minutes a day!
Hello Abundant Healthy Living Partners,
I promised more info on T-Tapp. T-Tapp is an exercise program designed by Teresa Tapp over ten years ago to build long lean muscles, increase core strength and DROP INCHES QUICKLY.
My basic understanding is that by utilizing multiple muscles or muscle groups at once for each move you burn more fat. Teresa has designed workouts for everyone, including someone like me that has not done much besides walking in recent years.
Learn more by checking out Teresa's website at http://www.t-tapp.com/
I did find her site quite confusing but fortunately we have a fantastic local certified trainer, Kiona Leah. She teaches from No Va to north of Baltimore and more. Her website is http://www.healthybykiona.com/
Personally, I am doing five private sessions with Kiona to learn proper form.
I am also working with one of Teresa's DVDs at home and will continue with that.
I might do some drop in classes which Kiona teaches all over the place.
We started by taking my measurements and will follow up at the one month mark. I will report my progress!
I promised more info on T-Tapp. T-Tapp is an exercise program designed by Teresa Tapp over ten years ago to build long lean muscles, increase core strength and DROP INCHES QUICKLY.
My basic understanding is that by utilizing multiple muscles or muscle groups at once for each move you burn more fat. Teresa has designed workouts for everyone, including someone like me that has not done much besides walking in recent years.
Learn more by checking out Teresa's website at http://www.t-tapp.com/
I did find her site quite confusing but fortunately we have a fantastic local certified trainer, Kiona Leah. She teaches from No Va to north of Baltimore and more. Her website is http://www.healthybykiona.com/
Personally, I am doing five private sessions with Kiona to learn proper form.
I am also working with one of Teresa's DVDs at home and will continue with that.
I might do some drop in classes which Kiona teaches all over the place.
We started by taking my measurements and will follow up at the one month mark. I will report my progress!
The Power of an Empowerment Partner
I woke this morning, hearing the rain beating steadily on the window. The wind gusting now and then. It would be so easy to just pull the covers up and stay in bed. Those thoughts don't last long though, because I think of how much I'm looking forward to my walk with San at Arundel Mills. So I get up, have my shake, put on my walking shoes, grab my umbrella and head out. San, too, faced a longer drive with traffic being less than cooperative.
And because we knew that we were each counting on each other, there were no excuses.
That's the power of Empowerment Partners! Thanks San!
And because we knew that we were each counting on each other, there were no excuses.
That's the power of Empowerment Partners! Thanks San!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Plain as the Nose on Your Face
(this is a reprint of the post on my personal blog called Reading the Tee Leaves. To be abundantly healthy requires that we pay attention to our whole body. If you haven't been to a dermatologist for a "mole check", please schedule one yearly. It is an important piece of the overall good health puzzle. Love to all - Tee)
This morning, I had a procedure done called Mohs Surgery. It is a specialized form of surgery specific to having skin cancers taken from the face. I had a tumor on the side of my nose that I had been ignoring for the last two years. The tumor is gone now and I have a very attractive (and LARGE) bandage in its place. For the next two weeks we have to monitor the location to see if it heals on its own or if we will need to do a skin graft. I can't lift anything or bend over or do strenuous activity. They told me to take it easy for the next two weeks. For anyone who knows me, that's easier said than done. Taking it easy is not my thing.
I am religious about taking care of my skin and about using sunscreen and staying out of the sun. The doctor said that this cancer was probably the result of a bad burn when I was much younger. Yowza.
I can remember being younger and the highest sunscreen SPF was Coppertone 8. My mother would make me wear a t-shirt. When I was in college, I ignored sunscreen completely. I can remember hanging out on the roof of our sorority house to "get color" (translation - a sunburn) before big fraternity formals. I got blistering sunburns at a Grateful Dead concert and at the Preakness and just from hanging out.
Now, I wear sunscreen everyday. I use excellent skin care products. I can ROCK a hat!
Bottom line is make sure you wear sunscreen ALL year long. Learn to rock a hat. And get your skin checked by a dermatologist every year. Meanwhile, I will be learning to appreciate the new "character" of my nose.
PEACE.
This morning, I had a procedure done called Mohs Surgery. It is a specialized form of surgery specific to having skin cancers taken from the face. I had a tumor on the side of my nose that I had been ignoring for the last two years. The tumor is gone now and I have a very attractive (and LARGE) bandage in its place. For the next two weeks we have to monitor the location to see if it heals on its own or if we will need to do a skin graft. I can't lift anything or bend over or do strenuous activity. They told me to take it easy for the next two weeks. For anyone who knows me, that's easier said than done. Taking it easy is not my thing.
I am religious about taking care of my skin and about using sunscreen and staying out of the sun. The doctor said that this cancer was probably the result of a bad burn when I was much younger. Yowza.
I can remember being younger and the highest sunscreen SPF was Coppertone 8. My mother would make me wear a t-shirt. When I was in college, I ignored sunscreen completely. I can remember hanging out on the roof of our sorority house to "get color" (translation - a sunburn) before big fraternity formals. I got blistering sunburns at a Grateful Dead concert and at the Preakness and just from hanging out.
Now, I wear sunscreen everyday. I use excellent skin care products. I can ROCK a hat!
Bottom line is make sure you wear sunscreen ALL year long. Learn to rock a hat. And get your skin checked by a dermatologist every year. Meanwhile, I will be learning to appreciate the new "character" of my nose.
PEACE.
Interesting Potassium Powerhouses
Potassium lowers your blood pressure and is a great counterbalance to the sodium in your diet. Load up on these foods to get your recommended 4,700 mg per day!
Sweet Potato 5 oz baked 694 mg
White Potato 5.5 oz. baked 610 mg
White beans 1/2c canned 595 mg
Yogurt, plain
nonfat 8 oz container 579 mg
Prune Juice 3/4 c 530 mg
Halibut 3 oz. cooked 490 mg
Edamame 1/2 c cooked 485 mg
Lima Beans 1/2 c cooked 448 mg
Cod, pacific 3 oz. cooked 439 mg
Banana 2 medium 422 mg
Spinach 1/2 c cooked 419 mg
Tomato sauce 1/2 c 405 mg
Tomato 1 medium 292 mg
Orange 1 medium 237 mg.
Who would have thought a sweet potato would provide you with 1/5 of daily recommended? Awesome.
Have fun, fellow Abundant Healthy ones.
Prue
Sweet Potato 5 oz baked 694 mg
White Potato 5.5 oz. baked 610 mg
White beans 1/2c canned 595 mg
Yogurt, plain
nonfat 8 oz container 579 mg
Prune Juice 3/4 c 530 mg
Halibut 3 oz. cooked 490 mg
Edamame 1/2 c cooked 485 mg
Lima Beans 1/2 c cooked 448 mg
Cod, pacific 3 oz. cooked 439 mg
Banana 2 medium 422 mg
Spinach 1/2 c cooked 419 mg
Tomato sauce 1/2 c 405 mg
Tomato 1 medium 292 mg
Orange 1 medium 237 mg.
Who would have thought a sweet potato would provide you with 1/5 of daily recommended? Awesome.
Have fun, fellow Abundant Healthy ones.
Prue
No Fat, Low Fat ... Big Fat Lie
The Low Fat Diet: A Big Fat Lie?November 11, 2009
Jon HerringEditorial Director, Total Health Breakthroughs
For more than three decades we have been subjected to dietary propaganda that a low-fat diet is the key to losing weight and preventing disease. Public officials and the medical profession continue to broadcast the message. And the food industry - eager to sell their low-fat, high-margin, fake foods - is happy to reinforce the belief that a low-fat diet is the key to plaque-free arteries and a slim figure.
The problem is that this is exactly the wrong advice for weight loss and your health. In fact, the "solution" has actually made our problems with obesity, heart disease and diabetes much worse.
The misplaced vilification of fat began in the 50's and 60's. But it was not until the late 1970s that the message was broadcast to the public. It began with a 1976 Senate report, titled Dietary Goals for the United States. It was written by a journalist with no background in health, who was advised by a Harvard nutritionist who viewed dietary fat as the nutritional equivalent of smoking cigarettes. Shortly after, countless health organizations (including the National Institutes of Health and the American Heart Association) mobilized to spread the word that "eating fat makes you fat" and that a low-fat diet is the best way to prevent disease.
The food industry quickly joined the cause, but without the tasty fat, the food was bland. To compensate, they replaced the fat with sugar, producing thousands of new "low-fat" products. Americans had soon replaced a portion of the fat in our diet with refined carbohydrates.
And did we ever believe the propaganda. Millions of Americans came to associate "low-fat" on food labels with "good for you." This led people to overeat foods that were "low fat," even though they had the same number of calories as the regular brand and often far more carbohydrates. Journalists even came up with a name for it - the Snackwell Effect - named after a brand of low-fat, high-sugar Nabisco cookies aimed at health-conscious consumers.
Jon HerringEditorial Director, Total Health Breakthroughs
For more than three decades we have been subjected to dietary propaganda that a low-fat diet is the key to losing weight and preventing disease. Public officials and the medical profession continue to broadcast the message. And the food industry - eager to sell their low-fat, high-margin, fake foods - is happy to reinforce the belief that a low-fat diet is the key to plaque-free arteries and a slim figure.
The problem is that this is exactly the wrong advice for weight loss and your health. In fact, the "solution" has actually made our problems with obesity, heart disease and diabetes much worse.
The misplaced vilification of fat began in the 50's and 60's. But it was not until the late 1970s that the message was broadcast to the public. It began with a 1976 Senate report, titled Dietary Goals for the United States. It was written by a journalist with no background in health, who was advised by a Harvard nutritionist who viewed dietary fat as the nutritional equivalent of smoking cigarettes. Shortly after, countless health organizations (including the National Institutes of Health and the American Heart Association) mobilized to spread the word that "eating fat makes you fat" and that a low-fat diet is the best way to prevent disease.
The food industry quickly joined the cause, but without the tasty fat, the food was bland. To compensate, they replaced the fat with sugar, producing thousands of new "low-fat" products. Americans had soon replaced a portion of the fat in our diet with refined carbohydrates.
And did we ever believe the propaganda. Millions of Americans came to associate "low-fat" on food labels with "good for you." This led people to overeat foods that were "low fat," even though they had the same number of calories as the regular brand and often far more carbohydrates. Journalists even came up with a name for it - the Snackwell Effect - named after a brand of low-fat, high-sugar Nabisco cookies aimed at health-conscious consumers.
Wii Fit Kind of Day
30 minutes of moving and exercising goes so quickly on the Wii Fit. I do love the variety. I rode a bike, I led a Marching Band, I did Kung Fu Moves and Played like a penguin sliding across an iceberg catching fish...among other things!
Think of what YOUR options are as the weather turns colder. I know this is definitely part of my cold weather survival strategy!
Think of what YOUR options are as the weather turns colder. I know this is definitely part of my cold weather survival strategy!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Enjoy ... Ar~bucks Coffee Drink
Thanks Prue. I am so intrigued with Juicing ... definetly something for the new year. Maybe Santa will bring Rog and I a juicer!!
I wanted to share my secret recipe to ward off those Starbucks cravings ...
A Delicious Coffee Protein Shake.
9 oz of strong brewed coffee. I use organic decaf beans
2 scoops of Arbonne Vanilla Protein Powder
1 scoop of Arbonne Fiber Booster
1 Tablespoon of Flaxseed Oil
Ice
Blend until thick, smooth and creamy!!
Not only good for you but better than anything I have ever tasted at Starbucks etc.
I wanted to share my secret recipe to ward off those Starbucks cravings ...
A Delicious Coffee Protein Shake.
9 oz of strong brewed coffee. I use organic decaf beans
2 scoops of Arbonne Vanilla Protein Powder
1 scoop of Arbonne Fiber Booster
1 Tablespoon of Flaxseed Oil
Ice
Blend until thick, smooth and creamy!!
Not only good for you but better than anything I have ever tasted at Starbucks etc.
Juicing For Life!
Hi AHL Friends...
Juicing has always been a passion of ours. Several years ago, Rod and I bought a juicer and grabbed the book Juicing for Life by Cherie Calbom. In addition, we'd attended a weekend retreat that focused on juicing. Our retreat leader was my friend Paula Blank. Four or five times a day we juiced special recipes for specific blends of fruits and vegetables. It was fabulous. I'd love to share a tidbit we learned not long ago.... Will Smith is an avid juicer. Big healthy, happy Will Smith has said, "Hey you can take anything from me but don't touch my juicer!"
I just think that's terrific. So grab your apples, your celery, your parsley and the handful of spinach that greens it up. I love juicing!
One juice I NEVER expected to be one of my favorites was one containing beets. Look it up, folks, and you'll see how beets help you and strenghten systems and organs in the body. Here's an exerpt:
BEET JUICE
Traditionally Used For Anemia Bladder Problems
Circulatory Problems Eye Fatigue
Kidneys Liver
Lymphatic Circulation Menstrual Problems
Menopause Skin Problems
Tiredness Weight Loss Problems
A Good Source Of Calcium Chlorine Iron
Sodium Sulfur Potassium
Vitamin A Vitamin B–6 Choline
Important: Beets are probably one of the most powerful vegetables available. Beets are known for causing both stools and urine to turn red and if this happens, don't be surprised.
Never drink beet juice by itself. Beet juice should always be mixed with other vegetables and/or apple juice. Pure beet juice (from the bulb or greens) can temporarily paralyze your vocal chords, make you break out in hives, increase your heart rate, cause chills or a fever.
Beets are best used in small amounts. I never use more than 1 to 2 ounces of beet juice (approximately ½ a small beet or ¼ a large beet).
Have fun with Beets!
Prue
Use moderately. Both the roots and greens are powerful cleansers of the body. Beets are said to really cleanse the blood and kidneys and this is why it is suggested you use beets moderately.
Juicing has always been a passion of ours. Several years ago, Rod and I bought a juicer and grabbed the book Juicing for Life by Cherie Calbom. In addition, we'd attended a weekend retreat that focused on juicing. Our retreat leader was my friend Paula Blank. Four or five times a day we juiced special recipes for specific blends of fruits and vegetables. It was fabulous. I'd love to share a tidbit we learned not long ago.... Will Smith is an avid juicer. Big healthy, happy Will Smith has said, "Hey you can take anything from me but don't touch my juicer!"
I just think that's terrific. So grab your apples, your celery, your parsley and the handful of spinach that greens it up. I love juicing!
One juice I NEVER expected to be one of my favorites was one containing beets. Look it up, folks, and you'll see how beets help you and strenghten systems and organs in the body. Here's an exerpt:
BEET JUICE
Traditionally Used For Anemia Bladder Problems
Circulatory Problems Eye Fatigue
Kidneys Liver
Lymphatic Circulation Menstrual Problems
Menopause Skin Problems
Tiredness Weight Loss Problems
A Good Source Of Calcium Chlorine Iron
Sodium Sulfur Potassium
Vitamin A Vitamin B–6 Choline
Important: Beets are probably one of the most powerful vegetables available. Beets are known for causing both stools and urine to turn red and if this happens, don't be surprised.
Never drink beet juice by itself. Beet juice should always be mixed with other vegetables and/or apple juice. Pure beet juice (from the bulb or greens) can temporarily paralyze your vocal chords, make you break out in hives, increase your heart rate, cause chills or a fever.
Beets are best used in small amounts. I never use more than 1 to 2 ounces of beet juice (approximately ½ a small beet or ¼ a large beet).
Have fun with Beets!
Prue
Use moderately. Both the roots and greens are powerful cleansers of the body. Beets are said to really cleanse the blood and kidneys and this is why it is suggested you use beets moderately.
Can Cats Tell Us Something About Weight?
This was an interesting article from Jonny Bowden's Blog.
To read the full article: http://jonnybowdenblog.com/can-cats-tell-us-something-about-weight-you-bet/
Synopsis: Manufacturers never put the caloric content on the label of dog food or cat food. They do, however, tell you how many cups or cans to feed your animal companion, and guess what- it’s always more than they need. Animal food manufacturers are no different than human food manufacturers. They’re in the business of selling food and they want you to use a lot of it.
Based on health professionals around the country, the formula that keeps coming up for weight loss is really simple: take your goal weight and multiply by 10. A 145-pound woman who wants to lose a couple of pounds would be well advised to aim for no more than 1450 calories, and that’s with exercise! Most caloric calculators available on the internet would calculate the caloric need at 1700+ calories.
Remember, it’s a lot easier to feel full and satisfied- and get all your nutritional needs met- if you eat the human equivalent of you cat's or dog’s expensive chow rather than the cheap supermarket brand. That means high-nutrient foods like lean proteins, tons of vegetables, healthy fat (no trans-fats) and some fruits.
And before you say you’d starve on so few calories, think about this - every species studied so far has extended life by cutting calories by about 25%.
---------------------------------I must admit I don't count calories, it's not intuitive to me. I've wanted to focus on changing my choices and habits so I naturally lose and maintain weight. I weigh myself every day so I can see when I'm fluxuating out of my normal range and then I can make small adjustments, not large ones. I do know that I eat much less now than a year ago. And I still indulge now and then in 'poison' foods. I still enjoy my wine. Mark and I will still have pizza now and then.
What's fascinating is that I don't walk around hungry, in fact, I feel more satisfied and feel like I have more energy.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Follow 3 Rules for an Energizing Lunch
To help ensure your lunch is giving you rock star energy -- instead of weighing you down -- you just have to follow three simple rules.
According to RealAge expert Mehmet Oz, MD, the three keys are quality carbs, healthy fat, and lean protein -- nutritional bases you need to cover to keep energy levels from bottoming out.
1. Quality carbs: Build your meal out of complex carbs -- the kind that are digested slowly to give you a longer, steadier stream of energy. Just about any high-fiber carb will do, including beans, brown rice, whole-grain bread, quinoa, and veggies like brussels sprouts and eggplant.
2. Healthy fat: You'll need a bit of healthy fat to help your body absorb all the goodness of certain fat-soluble nutrients in your meal (like vitamins A, D, and E). Fats also help you feel full longer. Try topping soups and salads with chopped walnuts and drizzling some olive oil on your whole-wheat pasta. Sandwich lovers, replace your mayo with a few slices of creamy avocado.
3. Lean protein: Dr. Oz recommends making your meal "mostly veggie" and then adding some lean protein to give it a little more lasting power. Skinless chicken, lean meats, fish, tofu, eggs, and beans are all primo sources of healthful protein.
Hit all three lunch essentials in one fell swoop with this EatingWell recipe that packs a lightly dressed, veggie- and protein-rich punch: Green Goddess Salad.
According to RealAge expert Mehmet Oz, MD, the three keys are quality carbs, healthy fat, and lean protein -- nutritional bases you need to cover to keep energy levels from bottoming out.
1. Quality carbs: Build your meal out of complex carbs -- the kind that are digested slowly to give you a longer, steadier stream of energy. Just about any high-fiber carb will do, including beans, brown rice, whole-grain bread, quinoa, and veggies like brussels sprouts and eggplant.
2. Healthy fat: You'll need a bit of healthy fat to help your body absorb all the goodness of certain fat-soluble nutrients in your meal (like vitamins A, D, and E). Fats also help you feel full longer. Try topping soups and salads with chopped walnuts and drizzling some olive oil on your whole-wheat pasta. Sandwich lovers, replace your mayo with a few slices of creamy avocado.
3. Lean protein: Dr. Oz recommends making your meal "mostly veggie" and then adding some lean protein to give it a little more lasting power. Skinless chicken, lean meats, fish, tofu, eggs, and beans are all primo sources of healthful protein.
Hit all three lunch essentials in one fell swoop with this EatingWell recipe that packs a lightly dressed, veggie- and protein-rich punch: Green Goddess Salad.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Expect the Best!
Whooo Hooo ... it was a wonderful day! Gorgeous weather with a perfect blend of work and play.
The guest room project is essentially done and I can't wait for Maddie and her parents to be here.
I did the T-Tapp routine this morning and Rog and I had a nice long walk at our park using T-Tapp technique. I feel great!
Looking forward to a great week and as my friend Anne says ... 'Expect the Best!'
The guest room project is essentially done and I can't wait for Maddie and her parents to be here.
I did the T-Tapp routine this morning and Rog and I had a nice long walk at our park using T-Tapp technique. I feel great!
Looking forward to a great week and as my friend Anne says ... 'Expect the Best!'
Wild Rice and Celery Root Soup
From Nov 2009 Issue of Cooking Light - Mark is making this today so I'll tell you whether it's a keeper later!
Wild Rice and Celery Root Soup
The knobby bulb called celeriac or celery root has a celery-like flavor, but one that is more robust and creamy at the same time. Add leftover turkey to make this an entrée.
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup thinly sliced leek
1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
2 tablespoons dry white wine
3 cups (1/2-inch) cubed peeled celeriac (celery root; about 3/4 pound)
3 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper1
3/4 cups cooked wild rice
2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add leek and carrot; cover and cook 5 minutes. Uncover and cook 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in wine, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Add celeriac, broth, 1 cup water, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Cover and cook 10 minutes or until celeriac is tender.
2. Place 1 cup soup mixture in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth. Add pureed soup mixture back to saucepan. Add wild rice; cook 15 minutes. Sprinkle with chives.
Yield: 8 servings (serving size: about 2/3 cup soup and 3/4 teaspoon chives)
CALORIES 90 ; FAT 3.1g (sat 1.9g,mono 0.8g,poly 0.3g); CHOLESTEROL 8mg; CALCIUM 29mg; CARBOHYDRATE 13.6g; SODIUM 353mg; PROTEIN 2.7g; FIBER 1.8g; IRON 0.8mg
Wild Rice and Celery Root Soup
The knobby bulb called celeriac or celery root has a celery-like flavor, but one that is more robust and creamy at the same time. Add leftover turkey to make this an entrée.
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup thinly sliced leek
1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
2 tablespoons dry white wine
3 cups (1/2-inch) cubed peeled celeriac (celery root; about 3/4 pound)
3 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper1
3/4 cups cooked wild rice
2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add leek and carrot; cover and cook 5 minutes. Uncover and cook 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in wine, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Add celeriac, broth, 1 cup water, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Cover and cook 10 minutes or until celeriac is tender.
2. Place 1 cup soup mixture in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth. Add pureed soup mixture back to saucepan. Add wild rice; cook 15 minutes. Sprinkle with chives.
Yield: 8 servings (serving size: about 2/3 cup soup and 3/4 teaspoon chives)
CALORIES 90 ; FAT 3.1g (sat 1.9g,mono 0.8g,poly 0.3g); CHOLESTEROL 8mg; CALCIUM 29mg; CARBOHYDRATE 13.6g; SODIUM 353mg; PROTEIN 2.7g; FIBER 1.8g; IRON 0.8mg
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Freshly Made Carrot Juice - Wonderful!!!
One of Jenifer's guests, Paula, at our Joint Open House today brought US a gift. She had made carrot juice that morning and brought some to share.
I think the basic recipe was 5 lbs Carrots, 2 large celery stalks, 1 large red delicious apple.
All I can say is DELICIOUS!
And I KNOW this was Healthy Healthy Healthy! I may just have to look into juicers now....
I think the basic recipe was 5 lbs Carrots, 2 large celery stalks, 1 large red delicious apple.
All I can say is DELICIOUS!
And I KNOW this was Healthy Healthy Healthy! I may just have to look into juicers now....
REMINDER
Our call will be on Tuesday this week due to a conflict in our Arbonne schedule.
So please join us on Tuesday, November 10th at 7:55 for our 8 PM Call
616-347-8300 939046#
If you can't join us live, please remember that you can access the recorded call during the following week at 616-347-8399 939046#
Invite your family and friends to join us.
So please join us on Tuesday, November 10th at 7:55 for our 8 PM Call
616-347-8300 939046#
If you can't join us live, please remember that you can access the recorded call during the following week at 616-347-8399 939046#
Invite your family and friends to join us.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Happy Healthy Friday to you all.
Today I took a much needed morning at home. I wanted to sleep in and catch up at my desk abit.
I did two T-Tapp routines and then headed out for a couple of great Arbonne appts.
Now it time to relax with Rog.
I am planning a great weekend of work and play and hope that you are too.
Happy Healthy Friday. Love, San
I did two T-Tapp routines and then headed out for a couple of great Arbonne appts.
Now it time to relax with Rog.
I am planning a great weekend of work and play and hope that you are too.
Happy Healthy Friday. Love, San
Founding Farmers - Great Restaurant!
What a great place - and FULL on a Thursday Night too! If you're looking for fresh, delicious food, grown by a collective of FAMILY Farmers - this is the place.
We started with Fried Green Tomatoes - I know 'fried' may not be as healthy, but these were thick green tomato slices with 2 dips - one guacamole and garlic based, the other was herbed goat cheese. I could have made a meal on this. I then had a North Dakota Spring Salad with grilled pineapple, beets, and brie in a sherry vinegrette. Yummy! Mark had to order the skillet corn bread and then had grilled ham and cheese sandwich with tomato soup.
Everything was delicious, the wait staff nice, and a place I would definitely go back to.
Easy walking distance from either the Foggy Bottom or Faragut West Metro stops.
Here's the website again: http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/
We started with Fried Green Tomatoes - I know 'fried' may not be as healthy, but these were thick green tomato slices with 2 dips - one guacamole and garlic based, the other was herbed goat cheese. I could have made a meal on this. I then had a North Dakota Spring Salad with grilled pineapple, beets, and brie in a sherry vinegrette. Yummy! Mark had to order the skillet corn bread and then had grilled ham and cheese sandwich with tomato soup.
Everything was delicious, the wait staff nice, and a place I would definitely go back to.
Easy walking distance from either the Foggy Bottom or Faragut West Metro stops.
Here's the website again: http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Everything you do adds up, good and bad
OK, let me first say, Gerri, you blow me away with your five entries!
I am thrilled to say that I am on day four of a SeaSource Cleanse ... feeling cleaner/lighter already.
I have been applying one of my favorite principles ... "Anything is better than nothing".
I am loving T-Tapp and it is starting to feel less like I have three left feet. Now it's only two! But I am getting it. Also, I am finding time to journal and do some Vision work. It all adds up to results! I can't wait for next week's call.
Hope everyone is doing well. Love, San
I am thrilled to say that I am on day four of a SeaSource Cleanse ... feeling cleaner/lighter already.
I have been applying one of my favorite principles ... "Anything is better than nothing".
I am loving T-Tapp and it is starting to feel less like I have three left feet. Now it's only two! But I am getting it. Also, I am finding time to journal and do some Vision work. It all adds up to results! I can't wait for next week's call.
Hope everyone is doing well. Love, San
Power
Food is powerful. Bad habits are powerful.
When things get rough, JAWZ is waiting. It is so tempting to fall back into old patterns and habits. I have been struggling with this for the past several weeks. My husband and I have been waiting for information on whether his employment was going to continue. We kept asking and they kept skirting the issue - until two days ago. We know now he will be let go at the end of the year. Even after a year living with the AHL principles, my first thought when I heard the news was - I wonder if I can eat my weight in Brownies.
Realistically, eating my weight in Brownies doesn't help anything. But most people cannot make that connection - they just know it feels good or tastes good to block out things with food.
I admit to eating a few brownies - exception! - but also to embracing the principles of our program.
Bright Train/Dark Train has been especially helpful to me as I try to look for the positive in this event. I take comfort in the knowledge that God doesn't give us more than we can handle and that the AHL principles apply and are helpful.
So, we'll see how things go.
Tee
When things get rough, JAWZ is waiting. It is so tempting to fall back into old patterns and habits. I have been struggling with this for the past several weeks. My husband and I have been waiting for information on whether his employment was going to continue. We kept asking and they kept skirting the issue - until two days ago. We know now he will be let go at the end of the year. Even after a year living with the AHL principles, my first thought when I heard the news was - I wonder if I can eat my weight in Brownies.
Realistically, eating my weight in Brownies doesn't help anything. But most people cannot make that connection - they just know it feels good or tastes good to block out things with food.
I admit to eating a few brownies - exception! - but also to embracing the principles of our program.
Bright Train/Dark Train has been especially helpful to me as I try to look for the positive in this event. I take comfort in the knowledge that God doesn't give us more than we can handle and that the AHL principles apply and are helpful.
So, we'll see how things go.
Tee
Restaurant Adventure Tonight
I'm on day 5 of Blog Every Day this Month! Let's see if I can keep this up!
Tonight Mark and I are eating at Founding Farmers. It's a restaurant in the Foggy Bottom area of DC owned by a collective of American family farmers. They are dedicated to environmentally friendly practices at every turn and are proud to be DC’s first LEED (Gold) certified restaurant for their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for the interiors.
Here's their website to check out. I'll let you know how we like it!
http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/
Tonight Mark and I are eating at Founding Farmers. It's a restaurant in the Foggy Bottom area of DC owned by a collective of American family farmers. They are dedicated to environmentally friendly practices at every turn and are proud to be DC’s first LEED (Gold) certified restaurant for their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for the interiors.
Here's their website to check out. I'll let you know how we like it!
http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Slow Cooker Oriental Hot and Sour Soup
Ingredients
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium broth if preferred)
1 8-ounce can bamboo shoots, drained
1 8-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 4-ounce can (drained weight) sliced mushrooms, drained
3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar or vinegar
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar (or honey or your favorite substitute)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 8-ounce package frozen peeled and deveined medium to large shrimp
4 ounces firm tofu, (fresh bean curd), drained and cubed
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons snipped parsley or fresh coriander
Directions
1. In a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker, combine broth, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, mushrooms, tapioca, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 9 to 11 hours or on high-heat setting for 3 to 4 hours. Add shrimp and tofu. Cover and cook on low- or high-heat setting for 50 minutes more.
3. Pour the beaten egg slowly into the soup in a thin stream. Stir the soup gently so that the egg forms fine strands instead of clumps. Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 side-dish servings.
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium broth if preferred)
1 8-ounce can bamboo shoots, drained
1 8-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 4-ounce can (drained weight) sliced mushrooms, drained
3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar or vinegar
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar (or honey or your favorite substitute)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 8-ounce package frozen peeled and deveined medium to large shrimp
4 ounces firm tofu, (fresh bean curd), drained and cubed
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons snipped parsley or fresh coriander
Directions
1. In a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker, combine broth, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, mushrooms, tapioca, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 9 to 11 hours or on high-heat setting for 3 to 4 hours. Add shrimp and tofu. Cover and cook on low- or high-heat setting for 50 minutes more.
3. Pour the beaten egg slowly into the soup in a thin stream. Stir the soup gently so that the egg forms fine strands instead of clumps. Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 side-dish servings.
To you
“Because life is a living, breathing work of art, you are a painting as you go. Be a masterpiece. Drink in life. Laugh too loud. Compliment others constantly.”
—Nicole Johnson, author, performer, motivational speaker
Here is to each of you and the wonderful masterpiece of abundant health you are creating.
Love, Tee
—Nicole Johnson, author, performer, motivational speaker
Here is to each of you and the wonderful masterpiece of abundant health you are creating.
Love, Tee
Who do you know?
If you're reading this, that means you are a part of our Abundant Healthy Living community and benefiting from the empowering principles and supportive friendships that are at our core.
This is something we do not want to keep secret. Do you know someone who is ready to make changes in their lives? Someone who believes that health and wellness is something they want to make a priority?
Invite them! Share our blog link. Invite them on our calls. When they start listening, they'll know if this resonates with them. We never know what lives we can touch unless we ask.
This past session's recording is a great one to listen to, and our next one, even though we're finishing up this round, it's as much about opening the next door as it is about closing this one.
We look forward to welcoming new adventurers on our Abundant Healthy Living journey! Who will you bring along with you?
This is something we do not want to keep secret. Do you know someone who is ready to make changes in their lives? Someone who believes that health and wellness is something they want to make a priority?
Invite them! Share our blog link. Invite them on our calls. When they start listening, they'll know if this resonates with them. We never know what lives we can touch unless we ask.
This past session's recording is a great one to listen to, and our next one, even though we're finishing up this round, it's as much about opening the next door as it is about closing this one.
We look forward to welcoming new adventurers on our Abundant Healthy Living journey! Who will you bring along with you?
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Lawnwork - Definitely Exercise!
Day 3 of blog posts.
Today my 'extra' exercise was mowing the front lawn and taking the leaf blower in vacuum mode and getting up most of the leaves as well. Definitely a workout. 4 Bags Full!
Whew!
Today my 'extra' exercise was mowing the front lawn and taking the leaf blower in vacuum mode and getting up most of the leaves as well. Definitely a workout. 4 Bags Full!
Whew!
Food and Depression
Here is a story I pulled from YAHOO! News this morning. I have struggled with a very low level of depression since childhood. I have not really made the connection between depression and diet - but - DUH! - it makes sense. Channel 4 also had a piece on the 11:00pm news last night (which I think you can access from their website).
More and more it becomes VERY evident that you are - in fact - what you eat.
Love, Tee
LONDON (AFP) – A diet heavy in processed and fatty foods increases the risk of depression, according to British research published on Monday.
Researchers at University College London also found that a diet including plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit and fish could help prevent the onset of depression.
They compared participants -- all civil servants -- who ate a diet largely based on "whole" foods with a second group who mainly ate fried food, processed meat, high-fat dairy products and sweetened desserts.
Taking into account other indicators of a healthy lifestyle such as not smoking and taking physical exercise, those who ate the whole foods had a 26 percent lower risk of depression than those who ate mainly processed foods.
People with a diet heavy in processed food had a 58 percent higher risk of depression.
The researchers put forward several explanations for the findings, which are published in the British Journal of Psychiatry.
Firstly, the high level of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables could have a protective effect, as previous studies have shown higher antioxidant levels to be associated with a lower risk of depression.
Secondly, eating lots of fish may protect against depression because it contains high levels of the sort of polyunsaturated fatty acids which stimulate brain activity.
And they said it was possible that a "whole food" diet protects against depression because of the combined effect of consuming nutrients from lots of different types of food, rather than the effect of one single nutrient.
The researchers concluded: "Our research suggests that healthy eating policies will generate additional benefits to health and well-being, and that improving people's diet should be considered as a potential target for preventing depressive disorders."
The study was carried out on 3,486 people with an average age of 55, who worked for the civil service in London.
Each participant completed a questionnaire about their eating habits, and a self-assessment for depression.
More and more it becomes VERY evident that you are - in fact - what you eat.
Love, Tee
LONDON (AFP) – A diet heavy in processed and fatty foods increases the risk of depression, according to British research published on Monday.
Researchers at University College London also found that a diet including plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit and fish could help prevent the onset of depression.
They compared participants -- all civil servants -- who ate a diet largely based on "whole" foods with a second group who mainly ate fried food, processed meat, high-fat dairy products and sweetened desserts.
Taking into account other indicators of a healthy lifestyle such as not smoking and taking physical exercise, those who ate the whole foods had a 26 percent lower risk of depression than those who ate mainly processed foods.
People with a diet heavy in processed food had a 58 percent higher risk of depression.
The researchers put forward several explanations for the findings, which are published in the British Journal of Psychiatry.
Firstly, the high level of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables could have a protective effect, as previous studies have shown higher antioxidant levels to be associated with a lower risk of depression.
Secondly, eating lots of fish may protect against depression because it contains high levels of the sort of polyunsaturated fatty acids which stimulate brain activity.
And they said it was possible that a "whole food" diet protects against depression because of the combined effect of consuming nutrients from lots of different types of food, rather than the effect of one single nutrient.
The researchers concluded: "Our research suggests that healthy eating policies will generate additional benefits to health and well-being, and that improving people's diet should be considered as a potential target for preventing depressive disorders."
The study was carried out on 3,486 people with an average age of 55, who worked for the civil service in London.
Each participant completed a questionnaire about their eating habits, and a self-assessment for depression.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Challenge!
Ok Tee - Here's to National Blog Posting Month!
How many Blog entries can our Abundant Healthy Team Members make this month? Everyone's goal should be to make one blog entry EVERY DAY! Let's see what creative ways we can share about being Abundantly Healthy and Fit!
Share a winter soup recipe.
Share what you did today that showed how you used Healthy Fit Principles.
Share a quote.
Share YOU!
Even one sentence counts, so no excuses!
I'm off to bed to do my part to get a good night's sleep - definitely an Abundant Healthy Living activity.
Night all! Gerri
How many Blog entries can our Abundant Healthy Team Members make this month? Everyone's goal should be to make one blog entry EVERY DAY! Let's see what creative ways we can share about being Abundantly Healthy and Fit!
Share a winter soup recipe.
Share what you did today that showed how you used Healthy Fit Principles.
Share a quote.
Share YOU!
Even one sentence counts, so no excuses!
I'm off to bed to do my part to get a good night's sleep - definitely an Abundant Healthy Living activity.
Night all! Gerri
Today from the Daily OM website
The Time You FindSimplifying Your Schedule
For many, life is a hodgepodge of never-ending commitments. Yet few of us can be truly healthy or happy without regular periods of downtime. While there is nothing inherently wrong with busyness, those of us who over-commit or over-extend ourselves potentially face exhaustion and burnout. When you feel overwhelmed by your commitments, examining your motivation for taking on so many obligations can help you understand why you feel compelled to do so much. You may discover that you are being driven by fear that no one else will do the job or guilt that you aren’t doing enough. To regain your equilibrium and clear the clutter from your calendar, simplify your life by establishing limits regarding what you will and will not do based on your personal priorities. Determining where your priorities lie can be as easy as making two lists: one that outlines all those obligations that are vital to your wellbeing, such as work, meditation, and exercise, and another that describes everything you do that is not directly related to your wellbeing. Although there will likely be items in the latter list that excite your passion or bring you joy, you may discover that you devote a large portion of your time to unnecessary activities. To simplify your schedule, consider which of these unnecessary activities add little value to your life and edit them from your agenda. Remember that you may need to ask for help, say no firmly, or delegate responsibility in order to distance yourself from such encumbrances. However, as you divest yourself of non-vital obligations that cause you stress, serve no purpose, or rob you of opportunities to refresh yourself, you will feel more energetic and enthusiastic about life in general. If simplifying your schedule seems prohibitively difficult and you still feel pressed to take on more, try imagining how each new commitment will impact your life before saying yes. When you consider the hassle associated with superfluous obligations, you may be surprised to see that your schedule is impeding your attempts to grow as an individual. Your willingness to pare down your agenda, no matter how gradual your progress, will empower you to retake active control of the life that defines you.
For many, life is a hodgepodge of never-ending commitments. Yet few of us can be truly healthy or happy without regular periods of downtime. While there is nothing inherently wrong with busyness, those of us who over-commit or over-extend ourselves potentially face exhaustion and burnout. When you feel overwhelmed by your commitments, examining your motivation for taking on so many obligations can help you understand why you feel compelled to do so much. You may discover that you are being driven by fear that no one else will do the job or guilt that you aren’t doing enough. To regain your equilibrium and clear the clutter from your calendar, simplify your life by establishing limits regarding what you will and will not do based on your personal priorities. Determining where your priorities lie can be as easy as making two lists: one that outlines all those obligations that are vital to your wellbeing, such as work, meditation, and exercise, and another that describes everything you do that is not directly related to your wellbeing. Although there will likely be items in the latter list that excite your passion or bring you joy, you may discover that you devote a large portion of your time to unnecessary activities. To simplify your schedule, consider which of these unnecessary activities add little value to your life and edit them from your agenda. Remember that you may need to ask for help, say no firmly, or delegate responsibility in order to distance yourself from such encumbrances. However, as you divest yourself of non-vital obligations that cause you stress, serve no purpose, or rob you of opportunities to refresh yourself, you will feel more energetic and enthusiastic about life in general. If simplifying your schedule seems prohibitively difficult and you still feel pressed to take on more, try imagining how each new commitment will impact your life before saying yes. When you consider the hassle associated with superfluous obligations, you may be surprised to see that your schedule is impeding your attempts to grow as an individual. Your willingness to pare down your agenda, no matter how gradual your progress, will empower you to retake active control of the life that defines you.
Crock Pot Recipes
Hey AHL BUddies -
Just wanted to include the link to the crock pot website I mentioned during the call - www.crock-pot.com
Enjoy!!!!
Love, Tee
Just wanted to include the link to the crock pot website I mentioned during the call - www.crock-pot.com
Enjoy!!!!
Love, Tee
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Rustic Potato Soup
I wonder how this would taste with some cauliflower substituted for some of the potatoes!
Rustic Potato Soup
Some might consider caldo verde, a thick soup of kale, potato, and sausage, the national dish of Portugal. It’s a rib-sticking, one-pot meal that requires little effort. (from America Test Kitchen-Cook’s Country)
Rustic Potato Soup
Some might consider caldo verde, a thick soup of kale, potato, and sausage, the national dish of Portugal. It’s a rib-sticking, one-pot meal that requires little effort. (from America Test Kitchen-Cook’s Country)
Test Kitchen Discoveries
- Substitute kielbasa for hard-to-find Portuguese linguiça sausage. The garlicky, spicy flavor of the two sausages is similar.
- Partially mash a portion of the potatoes to thicken the soup.
- Cook the leeks and the kielbasa together, and then stir them into the potatoes, broth, and kale.
- Leeks can be very dirty and hard to clean. We recommend cutting the leeks, then soaking them in water and draining them.
Ingredients
6 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 lbs red potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾ inch cubes
1 bay leaf
2 T unsalted butter
1 lb kielbasa sausage, cut into ½ inch pieces
2 large leeks, white and light green parts only,
Cut in half lengthwise, then slice thin crosswise
½ bunch kale, stems removed and leaves cut crosswise into ¼ inch strips (about 4 packed cups
Ground black pepper
Let the potatoes simmer in the broth while you prep and cook the remaining ingredients. Because the kielbasa is quite salty, no added salt is necessary.
Bring broth, potatoes and bay leaf to boil in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Discard bay leaf. Using potato masher, coarsely break up potatoes, leaving some large chunks.
Meanwhile, melt butter in Dutch oven over medium heat. Kook kielbasa, stirring frequently, until lightly browned in spots, about 4 minutes. Add leeks and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
Add potato mixture and kale to Dutch oven and simmer until kale is tender, about 5 minutes. Season with pepper and serve.
Serves 4-6
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