5 Steps to Living Better

About 12 years ago I was grotesquely over weight.  At 215 and 5'3" I was no looker.  Fashion, being my first love, prompted me to do something about my obesity, as none of the ensembles I would put together looked even remotely close to the visions I saw in my head.  By taking a good look at myself (physically and mentally) I began a journey that would change my life! The key was that I had to be ready and willing and DETERMINED to make these changes.

1. Eat breakfast! Time is not an excuse, neither is not being hungry.  You HAVE to have breakfast to get you going.  Without it, your metabolism gets off on a slow start.  If time is a factor, Kashi makes some wonderful granola bars that you can just grab and eat while on the go.  If you're not very hungry, two eggs and toast, or a granola bar will suffice.  
2. No matter what, you need to incorporate exercise in your life!  A simple walk here and there just won't do it.  Devote at least 30 minutes of your time (at least 3 days a week) to a great cardio workout (treadmill, elliptical, etc), and 15 minutes to abs and weight training.  Talk to a trainer at your gym, and they can develop a great workout plan for your busy schedule.  Trainers will develop a plan that is effective without being time consuming.  (Side note: Trainers can also refer you to a dietician to help you with a great meal plan).
3. Take it easy!  Fad diets are always a bust.  Diets that promise weight loss but cut out many of the nutrients you need are unrealistic, and your weight will come back, usually two fold.  Moderation, and cutting a lot of saturated fats, sodium, and processed foods from your diet are key.  At the same time, get some fruits and veggies, and remember carbs aren't the enemy as long as you derive them from healthy unprocessed foods.  Refined sugars and sweets are packed with the carbs you don't need, while fruits and veggies have the carbs your body needs for energy.  And FIBER UP!  Your body will thank you.
4. Get Vitamin savvy.  A great multi-vitamin from places like GNC will help you along the way to living better.  
5. Get rid of the stress.  Face it, we all deal with some levels of stress.  Stress at very low levels is okay, but high doses will actually cause weight gain.  Find methods to relieving your stress, and channeling the negative energy into positive energy.  An evening stroll, exercise, listening to music, reading a good book, yoga, or writing poetry are all great ideas.  Find what works for you, and kiss that stress good by.

These are a few steps that will not only help you live better, but they will make you feel great!  Your health will improve, and make you "feel" more alive and will sharpen your mind.  For more tips subscribe and follow to my blog today!