From our NORM Healthy Manager:
We have finally made it through the winter. Some of us endured a cold winter, and some of us, like us back in NC have had a little bit of every season this past month. Either way, it’s finally time to start planning spring break, Easter visits with the family and packing up those heavy winter coats to replace them with much lighter clothing….yay!
I sometimes reflect back on this past winter and wonder where did time go?! I went into a store last night to grab a few things, and they already had the summer furniture and lounge chairs out. That’s when it really hit me. I know a common excuse we all face, even myself, is that “I have plenty of time.” I have enough time to lose a little weight or maybe I can start this diet next week? The thing is, Rome wasn’t built in a week. I mean that in the most positive way possible. You see, in order to get the results you need, it takes a consistent amount of time to progress. Meaning, each day you delay, is another day that’s taken off of this timeline, to be your best self.
I want us all to “Spring Into Action” this month. This is the FINAL season before summer. There is no better time than to start now, actually…this is your last chance to really improve or fine tune all of your hard work these past few months. I am going to provide you with a few fun tips and tricks I do around this time of your that will jump start your spring!
- Whenever spring comes around is when I REALLY focus heavily on my diet. I eat healthy year round, but as soon as spring comes around. I fill my body with the most mineral-packed, protein-dense, vitamin-filled nutrients. I completely avoid processed meals and stick to greens, a lean protein and start preparing myself for a nice clean diet throughout the summer months. The reason I avoid processed foods and stack up on greens is because it is a horrible feeling finally being able to go to the beach and you then realize how bloated you might feel and look. Staying away from processed foods that are packed with sodium (this bloats you) and the greens help keep your digestion regular.
- Have fun with your Easter treats! Instead of chocolate, let’s use carrots! That’s right, you heard me right. Carrots are naturally sweet and full of vitamins and minerals. Around this time of year, I usually make my go to snack: carrot hummus…so good! You can dip any veggie you want in it, Another fun and exciting snack is strawberries dipped in a nice carrot glaze.
- One year, I had the idea of doing a Easter Egg Run. It wasn’t anything intense, but my family is competitive and we enjoy working out, so why not make exercise fun? Space those eggs out so there is more distance, you will end up voluntarily running to win the hunt and before you know it 2 miles will be done and over with.
- Lastly, one year I made an Easter basket filled with fun and healthy materials! I filled it up with a water bottle, protein bars, protein powder and a t-shirt for the gym. Fill it up with whatever you think they would like, or even treat yourself! Either way, it has been proven that when you have new and exciting things or workout clothes, it encourages you to go to the gym even more!
We want to see all of your fun and healthy ideas! Share them with us and give us some fun tips and tricks! Get creative with your baskets and Easter egg hunts, and spring into action!
