April 17, 2019
Spring Clean Your Body
Although the current weather makes it hard to imagine spring is right around the corner, take hold and get ready to clear your body and mind of those “winter blues” habits. Cold temperatures and snow trap us indoors gorging on dense comfort foods and spending even more time on the couch; thus, our physical activity declines and lowers our energy levels. Luckily, April is upon us, and our days are getting longer and brighter! So let’s spring forward and get to cleaning with these helpful tips.
1. We want H2O! Downing sufficient water every single day is vital for not only hydration, but it is also important for flushing toxins out of the body and enhancing our cells’ communication to especially the circulatory, muscular, and endocrine systems. Our bodies are comprised primarily of water – 75% actually. Without enough water, confusion and faintness may occur, which indirectly affects work-life production. Therefore, water consumption plays a tremendous role in healthy body function! Aim for at least 64 ounces (8 glasses) of water daily.
2. Dodge the P’s: processed and packaged! Life is demanding, and the p’s are quick and easy when hunger strikes. Although the idea sounds like a simple win, the toll these foods place on the body when consistently consumed are concerning. The radar for high sugar, sodium, cholesterol, and unhealthy fats (saturated and Trans fat) is blaring! Do not ignore this alert. Women in Balance puts it best – “If you can’t pronounce most of the ingredients on a label, choose something else.” Additives and toxins are hiding in your favorite McDonald’s cheeseburger and French fries. Strive to buy whole or natural foods. Help! Examples of these unprocessed carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats are not limited to the following: almonds, apples, beans, berries, broccoli, brown rice, melon, oats, peas, pumpkin seeds, spinach, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and wild rice. Who said fast and easy couldn’t be healthy, too?!
3. Alleviate stress! Work and personal life open the doors for stress and its guests: sleeping issues, weight gain, weakened immune system, depression, and over-time heart disease. Exercise, spending time with loved ones, and meditation are list toppers that can be performed without dropping a single dime! Also, as the weather improves, fresh air and sunlight can eliminate that nasty seasonal sadness and lift our spirits. Last but not least, perspective directs your day. Be thankful, reflect on the treasures in your life, and embrace the new opportunities each new day presents! Don’t fall behind; spring forward and begin your cleaning today!
Sources: Women in Balance, NCBI: PubMed
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