Saturday, April 30, 2011

SEE LAURIE RUN...

TOMORROW, Sunday May 1st Laurie will be one of probably over 1000 people running the Eugene Marathon. We wish her well and pray for a safe, fun, exciting and speedy run. We want her to know that she is in our thoughts and prayers. This is exciting for the entire family. I am sure the kids are looking forward to standing on the street corner out in front of their house watching all the runners going by and looking for mommy. You can follow the race yourself on then Internet or on face book by going to the Eugene Marathon web site. It is going to be a big day for Laurie and we send her our love. I just wish we were there to watch.

TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

BEST DIET TIP #7: Eat several mini-meals during the day.
If you eat fewer calories than you burn, you will lose weight. But when you're hungry all the time, eating fewer calories can be challenging.

"Studies show people who eat 4-5 meals or snacks per day are better able to control their appetite and weight," says obesity researcher Rebecca Reeves, DrPH, RD.

She recommends dividing your daily calories into smaller meals or snacks and enjoying as many of them as you can early in the day -- dinner should be the last time you eat.

This tip is easy to say, hard to do. I am suppose to eat 6 small meals every day and I know that that is almost impossible. I am suppose to eat every 3 hours but by early evening I have to change it to every 2 hours or I am up till midnight and that is just too late.

Friday, April 29, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

BEST DIET TIP #6: Enjoy your treats away from home.
When you need a treat, Ellie Krieger, RD, host of Food Network's Healthy Appetite, suggests taking a walk to your local ice cream parlor or planning a family outing.

"By making it into an adventure, you don't have to worry about the temptation of having treats in the house, and it is a fun and pleasurable way to make it work when you are trying to lose weight," says Krieger.

And for those times you just can't get out? Krieger stocks her kitchen with fresh fruit, which she thinks can be every bit as delicious as any other dessert.

This is a really good little tip. HAVING NO TREATS IN THE HOUSE... will make it so much easier to stick to your diet. I am one of several hosts for a baby shower next Tuesday evening and I am going to enjoy a "tiny" piece of cake, but no punch. I will eat accordingly Monday and Tuesday to allow for that treat and it is something I will look forward to. Because the shower is not at my house I won't be tempted to eat more than the one slice.

Thursday, April 28, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY

BEST DIET TIP #5: Enjoy your favorite foods.
"I think putting your favorite foods off limits leads to weight gain because it triggers 'rebound' overeating," says Sass.

Instead of cutting out your favorite foods altogether, be a slim shopper. Buy one fresh bakery cookie instead of a box, or a small portion of candy from the bulk bins instead of a whole bag.

"You can enjoy your favorite foods, but you must do so in moderation," says Sass.

I have never heard of this tip before, but I like it. It makes sense to me. I have not been able to have fruit since last October when I started this diet and I would love a banana once in awhile. I think the key is moderation in all things. I need to do some more research on the diet that I am on and see if I am overlooking something.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY

BEST DIET TIP #4: Be choosy about nighttime snacks.
Mindless eating occurs most frequently after dinner, when you finally sit down and relax.

"Sitting down with a bag of chips or cookies in front of the television is an example of eating amnesia, where you mindlessly eat without being hungry, but out of habit," says American Dietetic Association spokesperson Malena Perdomo, RD.

Either close down the kitchen after a certain hour, or allow yourself a low-calorie snack, like a 100-calorie pack of cookies or a half-cup scoop of low-fat ice cream. Once you find that you're usually satisfied with the low-cal snack, try a cup of zero-calorie tea, suggests Perdomo.

I am not sure about that tea, but a hot cup of herb tea might just hit the spot. I keep sugar free jello in my fridge as well. Just 10 calories so if I want to splurge on my late night snack and have 2 I am still at just 20 calories.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - WEDNESDAY

BEST DIET TIP #3: Consider whether you're really hungry.
Whenever you feel like eating, look for physical signs of hunger, suggests Michelle May, MD, author of Am I Hungry?

"Hunger is your body's way of telling you that you need fuel, so when a craving doesn't come from hunger, eating will never satisfy it," she says.

When you're done eating, you should feel better -- not stuffed, bloated, or tired.

"Your stomach is only the size of your fist, so it takes just a handful of food to fill it comfortably," says May.

Keeping your portions reasonable will help you get more in touch with your feelings of hunger and fullness.

I am never hungry but for the last week or so I have had the munchies a lot. I find that if I keep a bottle of water with me AT ALL TIMES... I do better. I also know that if I have the munchies it doesn't matter if I am bored or busy. I am going to be much more aware of the signs of being hungry.

Monday, April 25, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - TUESDAY

BEST DIET TIP #2: Think about what you can add to your diet, not what you should take away.
Start by focusing on getting the recommended 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

"It sounds like a lot, but it is well worth it, because at the same time you are meeting your fiber goals and feeling more satisfied from the volume of food," says chef Laura Pansiero, RD.

You're also less likely to overeat because fruits and vegetables displace fat in the diet. And that's not to mention the health benefits of fruits and vegetables. More than 200 studies have documented the disease-preventing qualities of phytochemicals found in produce, says Pansiero.

Her suggestion for getting more: Work vegetables into meals instead of just serving them as sides on a plate.

"I love to take seasonal vegetables and make stir-fries, frittatas, risotto, pilafs, soups, or layer on sandwiches," Pansiero says. "It is so easy to buy a variety of vegetables and incorporate them into dishes."

I ALWAYS love the idea of adding something to the diet instead of taking away. It makes me feel good to add. It makes me think I am cheating or getting away with something.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - MONDAY

ANOTHER SET OF TIPS FROM WebMD. I will share 1 a day and chances are they are just repeats but that is how we learn and if we are reading something over and over it must be because we need to. These repeated tips can also be good reminders.
15 Best Diet Tips Ever
Experts share their top tips for weight loss success.
By Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD
WebMD Weight Loss Clinic-FeatureReviewed by Louise Chang, MDEveryone knows the keys to losing weight: Eat less and exercise more. Sounds simple enough, but in the context of real life and its demands, it can be anything but simple. So how do successful losers do it? To find out, WebMD asked experts across the country for their best diet tips.

Here's what they said:

Avoid These 12 Diet Mistakes
Best Diet Tip No. 1: Drink plenty of water or other calorie-free beverages.
People sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. So you can end up eating extra calories when an ice-cold glass of water is really what you need.

"If you don't like plain water, try adding citrus or a splash of juice, or brew infused teas like mango or peach, which have lots of flavor but no calories," says Cynthia Sass, RD, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association.

I love this tip. If I am really hungry and can't wait for that meal to arrive on my plate then the first thing I do is drink a full glass of water. It just seems to start off with my tummy feeling fuller than just a few minutes earlier. I can then eat and enjoy my meal.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

FINAL 2 TIPS OF OUR DISCUSSION ON PAINLESS WEIGHT LOSS...

9. Get Involved, or at Least Get to the Table
When your weight loss efforts lead to boredom or too much self-focus, get occupied with something else. "I eat more if I'm bored," says Virginias, "especially if I'm eating in front of the TV."

So take a break from the siren-call of the tube, and get occupied with things that have nothing to do with food.

For some, that might mean becoming involved with local politics, discovering yoga, or enjoying painting. Or maybe you want to help a child with a science project, repaint the bedroom, or take a class. The key: Have a life outside of weight loss.

Already busy enough? Then at least eat your meals at the table. "The TV is distracting, and I'm just not conscious of eating," Virginias tells WebMD. "Once I'm at the table, with a place setting, I'm much more aware of what I'm eating."

10. Lose It Today, Keep It Off Tomorrow
Finally, be patient. While cultivating that virtue isn't exactly painless, it may help to know that keeping weight off generally gets easier over time.

That's the result of a study published in Obesity Research, where researchers found that for people who had lost at least 30 pounds -- and kept it off for at least two years -- maintaining that weight loss required less effort as time went on.

So if you crave the results reported by successful "losers" like these -- improved self-confidence, a boost in mood, and better health -- cultivate patience. You may find your way to sweet (and nearly painless) weight loss success.

I really like these last two tips. They really sum things up. Most of us eat if we are bored, so DO SOMETHING... KEEP BUSY... GET A HOBBY... Just as important as keeping busy is to take it easy. Be patient. Losing the weight is just the beginning of the battle. It is even more important to keep it off and that is hard. Remember you are not dieting alone, you are making life style changes.

Friday, April 22, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

MORE TIPS FOR PAINLESS WEIGHT LOSS... (numbers 7 & 8)
7. Tune In, Tone Up
The American Heart Association knows what we love: television. And they also know we need to get more exercise. So why not combine the two, they ask?

Try dancing to the music when you tune into your favorite music show, or practice some stress-relieving cardio boxing when your least favorite reality contestant is on camera.

During commercials pedal your stationery bike, walk the treadmill, or slip in a little strength training doing bicep curls with cans of your favorite fizzy beverage as weights. Or get inspired to really focus: Put in a high-energy exercise DVD and get motivated by the pros onscreen.

It doesn't matter exactly what you do, so long as you're up and active. Aim for at least 15 minutes, says the AHA. But who knows? If you get really engrossed, you just might outlast the last survivor.

8. Size Matters
Eating less without feeling denied is as close as your dinnerware.

That's because while a small portion served on a large plate can leave you craving more, a smaller plate gives the visual signal that you already have more.

"People go by physical cues," when they eat, Grotto tells WebMD. We know we've had enough because we see the bottom of our bowl or plate. "A smaller plate full of food just feels more satisfying than a large plate with that same amount of food on it."

And don't forget smaller bowls, cups, and spoons. For example, try savoring a bowl of ice cream with a baby spoon. Not only does the pleasure last longer, but your body has time to register the food you've eaten.

Okay here is my take on tips numbers 7&8. I agree with both. I have done the same exercise for awhile now so when I do mine each morning I watch a show I have recorded from the night before. If it is a show I have not seen then there is a good chance I will exercise a little longer. As for the smaller plate. I really love this tip. I can really get an awful lot on a small plate but if I move that to larger it looks like I am dieting. Even though my mind knows I am eating less on a small plate it looks like I am eating lots. I love that.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY

TIPS 5 AND 6 FOR YOUR PAINLESS WEIGHT LOSS...
5. Because Hydration Helps -- Really!
Down some water before a meal and you won't feel so famished, says David Anthony, an information technology consultant from Atlanta. "Drinking a glass of water before a meal helps me watch what I eat. … I don't just hog everything, since I'm not so hungry."

Magee, who also writes the "Healthy Recipe Doctor" blog for WebMD, adds that for the compulsive snacker it's a great idea to keep no-calorie beverages at hand "as a way to keep your mouth busy and less likely to snack on junk food."

Going to a party? Grab a low-cal drink in one hand and keep it there. Not only does it make it harder to graze the buffet, but you'll also be less tempted to sip endless cocktails, too.

Finally, keeping your body refreshed with plenty of water may also help your workout, says Anthony. Staying hydrated means "I can exercise more, and longer, than if I don't drink water."

6. Share and Share Alike
With the massive meals served at so many American restaurants, it's easy to go Dutch -- with the dinner plate.

"When we go out, I often share a meal with my wife," Anthony tells WebMD. "We've been known to split a dessert, even a pint of beer. That way, we don't feel stuffed, and we save some money."

You can share more than just a meal out. Why not double up on a bicycle built for two? Go halves on the cost of a personal trainer? Maybe split a gym membership?

"When you're trying to eat better or get more exercise, you can be more successful if you do it with a partner or group," says Grotto. "The community, the partnership, whether online or in person, it really helps."

Twice the motivation, without twice the effort -- a steal of a deal.

We have had both of these tips several so I will just say drink lots of water and if you don't want to share a meal when you go to a restaurant because no one likes what you ordered or because you are selfish just ask for a take out box when your food is brought to the table, put half in the box and close the lid. After all, out of sight, out of mind.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY

2 MORE PAINLESS WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT...
3. Go Walking
Walking when the weather's nice is a super-easy way to keep fit, says Diane Virginias, a certified nursing assistant from New York. "I enjoy the seasons," she says, adding that even when she's short on time she'll go out for a few minutes. "Even a five minute walk is a five minute walk."

No sidewalks in your neighborhood? Try these tips for slipping in more steps:

Trade your power mower for a push version.
Park your car at the back of the lot.
Get out of the office building and enjoy walking meetings.
Sweep the drive or rake the leaves instead of using a leaf-blower.
Get off the bus a few stops earlier.
Hike the mall, being sure to hit all the levels.
Take the stairs every chance you get.
Sign up for charity walks.
Crank the music and get your heart rate up the next time you mop or vacuum.
It all adds up. If you walk twice a day for 10 minutes and try a few of these tips, you may find yourself with a low-impact, 30-minute workout easily tucked under your belt.
4. Lighten the Foods You Already Love
One of the easiest ways to cut back without feeling denied is to switch to lower-calorie versions of the foods you crave. A pizza tastes just as good with reduced-fat cheese, and when you garnish low-fat ice cream with your favorite toppers, who notices those missing calories?

And while you're trimming fat calories, keep an eye on boosting fiber, suggests registered dietitian Elaine Magee, RD, MPH, author of Tell Me What to Eat If I Suffer From Heart Disease and Food Synergy.

Fiber helps you feel satisfied longer, so while you lighten family favorites, you can easily amp up the fiber by adding a cup of whole wheat flour to your pizza dough, or toss a handful of red bell peppers on the pie.

Don't forget to lighten the drinks going with that meal. Try switching from high-calorie favorites to diet soda or light beer, or maybe add a spritz of seltzer to your wine.

Hate low-cal drinks? Mix your preferred drinks with a splash of the low-cal option, then increase the ratio as your taste buds adjust. And don't forget to keep pouring that ultimate beverage, says Magee: water!
I really like tip #3. I am doing an exercise program that is all about walking. I really enjoy it so it is nice to know I am doing something right.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - WEDNESDAY

10 PAINLESS WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT
(2 tips a day for the next 5 days)
Easy weight loss tips you can slip into your everyday life.
By Wendy C. Fries
And Miranda Hitti
If you're desperately trying to squeeze in workouts and avoid your favorite high-calorie treats, it can seem like there's nothing pain-free about it.

Yet while eating healthier and slipping in exercise does take some work, it really doesn't have to require heroic effort. Making just a few simple lifestyle changes can pack a big weight loss punch over time.

1. Add, Don't Subtract
Forget diet denial: Try adding foods to your diet instead of subtracting them.

Add in healthy goodies you really love, like deep-red cherries, juicy grapes, or crunchy snow peas. Slip those favorite fruits into your bag lunch and breakfast cereal; add the veggies into soups, stews, and sauces.

"Adding in really works, taking away never does," says registered dietitian David Grotto, RD, LDN, author of 101 Optimal Life Foods, but do remember to keep an eye on overall calories. And don't forget to add in something physical, too, whether it's doing a few dance moves before dinner, shooting hoops, or taking a quick stroll.

2. Forget About Working Out
If the word "exercise" inspires you to creative avoidance, then avoid it. Maybe the trick to enjoying a workout may be to never call it working out.

"There's some truth to that," Grotto tells WebMD, and once you start your not-calling-it-exercise plan, Grotto says you'll discover "the way good health feels knocks down the roadblocks that were preventing you from exercising in the first place."

So burn calories and invigorate muscles by beachcombing, riding bikes, grass skiing, making snow angels, hiking, washing the car, playing Frisbee, chasing the dog around the yard, or even enjoying great sex. After all, a rose by any other name ...

I really like tip #2...I don't like to exercise so I don't. I sort of dance around with side steps, knee lifts, forward and back kicks and stepping in place for at least 30 minutes every morning before I even get dressed. I record some TV show at night and then watch it while doing my dance/dinking/exercising/workout daily. It works for me. Sooooooo if you don't want to exercise, DON'T call it something else and enjoy.

Monday, April 18, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - TUESDAY

WEIGHT WATCHERS' TIP; So much more can be accomplished when we feel good about ourselves! Make a list of 5 things you like about YOU and put it somewhere conspicuous like your computer or bathroom mirror. You’ll get a boost every time you see it.
This is a tip I saw on facebook the other day and kept going back and reading it over and over again. It really gives you something to think about.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - MONDAY

PRACTICE YOGA... Doing yoga, which combines meditation, can help relieve insomnia, according to recent studies. Try a few sessions per week, or buy a video to use in the privacy of your own home.
I am really curious about this yoga. I have in my mind that it is just an exercise program for skinny people. I know Laurie used to do it when Emme was little and Emme called it doing "YODA" and she loved it. I am just not sure what "it" is. I am going to have that for my goal this week. I am going to get online and see just what yoga is. Who knows I might even try some. I will let you know next week.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

STILL CAN'T SLEEP? The doctor told me if you really can't sleep before taking any medication try this home cure. First take a hot shower... next, drink a cup of chicken soup, put on some fresh pajamas, and then crawl into your bed with your bedroom as dark as you can get it. Don't forget to use a nice warm lotion on as well. Don't let your room be too cold or too hot either. Do everything you can to set the mood and yourself to prepare for a good night's sleep.

Friday, April 15, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

KEEP A SLEEP SCHEDULE. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day-including weekends. You'll fall asleep faster and have more energy each day.
This makes perfect sense to be, but like many of the tips from Sparkpeople this one is easier to share with you than to keep and do myself.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY

STILL CAN'T SLEEP? FOLLOW YOUR NOSE... Some fragrances may affect mood and promote health. Lavender and chamomile scents can be soothing and relaxing. Try scented candles, body wash, or room spray before bedtime.
When I was in Colorado almost 8 years ago now, I discovered some lavender lotion at Walmart. After a nice hot shower I just apply the lotion to arms and legs and and have a cup of hot chicken soup and crawl into bed and it usually works unless of course Calvin is gone. Try this tip and see if your don't sleep better.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY

EXERCISE REGULARLY. Following a consistent exercise program can help you increase your energy levels during the day, improve your mood and regulate your sleeping patterns at night.
A reminder from tips past...DON'T exercise within 3-4 hours of going to bed. It does not work. If you can't sleep at night the last thing you will need just before bed is more energy. Exercise first thing in the morning, but remember if it has been a while since you last exercised start small and work up to longer and more intense exercises.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - WEDNESDAY

THINK POSITIVE... A pessimistic outlook can significantly increase your risk of insomnia. People who focus on the positive tend to sleep better and experience better health in general.
I have heard this many times in the past. It is like do you see the glass half full or half empty? This is easier said than done, but is something we all should work on everyday. We want to be happy because if we are happy we really be healthier and sleep better.

Monday, April 11, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - TUESDAY

ANOTHER WEEK OF TIPS FOR GETTING A BETTER NIGHT'S SLEEP... Exercise in the morning. Working out within three or four hours of bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep. Try morning or afternoon workouts instead.
I have had a week off from exercising just because of a very bad and painful knee and I must admit it was nice to exercise this morning. I didn't exercise but about 25 minutes, but it sure felt good doing some exercise. I just don't want to overdo it. Try exercising in the morning and see if you don't sleep better tomorrow night.

Sunday, April 10, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - MONDAY

GETTING A BETTER NIGHT'S SLEEP BY TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR... Lifestyle changes alone may help you sleep better, but talk with your health care provider if you continue to experience problems.
This tip seems to be one that sparkpeople recommends often. If you can't sleep see a doctor, if you aren't losing weight, see a doctor, if you aren't getting enough work done during the day, see a doctor. Then the doctors will prescribe a pill or two. Try everything you can on your own, do some research online for some home cures, talk to family and friends and in my opinion, as a last result if you really think there is a medical reason that you can't sleep then see a doctor.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

BE PRODUCTIVE... If thinking keeps you up at night, get out of bed and deal with those thoughts in a positive way-pay that bill or make a to-do list, for an example. Go back to bed when you are ready to sleep.
This was my problem last week. Calvin was gone and I just couldn't sleep. I went to bed and laid there for half an hour and didn't go to sleep so I got up and made a quilt block and went to bed and tried again. This went on from about 10PM on Monday night until 4PM Tuesday morning and was repeated again Tuesday night. I did get lots of quilt blocks finished but not much sleep. When I did go to sleep it was very restful.

Friday, April 8, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

GO TO BED EARLIER. As simple as it seems, going to bed earlier can help you get the sleep your body craves. Even if you don't feel tired, try lying down about an hour earlier until you get a full 7-8 hours each night.
I am not sure how this would work, but it is sure worth a try if you are not getting the sleep your body needs. You can't lose weight, exercise, and do your best if you are tired.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY

DON'T OVERSLEEP... Hitting the snooze button each day and sleeping in on the weekends can actually make you MORE tired. Aim for a healthy 7-8 hours sleep each night.
I would love to get a full 7-8 hours sleep every night or even every other night. I am just going to settle for 6 if possible.
I hope these sleep tips are helping some of you get a better night's sleep. I am still working on getting one, although with sleeping only 4 hours on Monday and Tuesday when Calvin was gone I slept great last night. Hope you did too.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY

STILL TALKING ABOUT GETTING ENOUGH AND BETTER SLEEP. Turn your back to the clock. Studies show that watching the clock into the morning hours makes you more anxious and less able to fall asleep. Move the clock so that you can't see it from bed.
I am terrible about this. I have the clock on my dresser at the foot of our bed. Maybe we should just take the clock out of the room altogether. We don't need it because Calvin has his phone set to wake him up. If you are not sure this would work for you, try covering the face of the clock with a towel so you can't watch the time.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - WEDNESDAY

CHECK THE THERMOSTAT. Extremes in temperatures, too hot OR too cold can make it hard to fall asleep best at a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees.
I wonder if this is why I don't sleep good at times. I keep my house about 80 degrees during the winter and so it doesn't get too hot to sleep, I keep my bedroom door shut. When I go into to bed the room is freezing. We do have flannel sheets, a down comforter, a fleece blanket, and a homemade quilt on it so it is only cold for a few minutes and then it is warm as can be. If Calvin is gone then I sleep with the door opened at night but if he is home then we sleep with it shut so it doesn't get too hot. I guess I am not sure how to keep it to a perfect temperature. If I have kids here during the day then I really keep the doors all shut just to keep them out. Working on regulating the temperature is something I am going to work on and see if that helps me sleep.

Monday, April 4, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - TUESDAY

TURN DOWN THE LIGHTS... It is more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep in a room that is too bright. Wear a sleeping mask and close the blinds and curtains to diminish light and set the mood for sleep.
When I was trying to decide what to do to redecorate my bedroom, I was looking at color of paint. I learned that if you paint your kitchen yellow it will remind you of childhood memories of home and family. If you paint your bedroom a soft green or blue it can help you rest and relax. For a rustic or feelings of being in the outdoors paint the room a tan or sand color. Now that I know this I am going to paint my bedroom a cream color with a RED accent wall. I don't remember what red is suppose to do for your emotions but I know if you like your bedroom and feel good about being in there you will rest and sleep better. The better you sleep, the better you will feel and be more willing and able to diet and exercise.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - MONDAY

HAVE A LIGHT SNACK... Eating a heavy meal too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep. To ensure you get plenty of shut-eye, try a light snack before bed, but avoid protein-rich and caffeine-containing foods and beverages.
This is another good tip. A small cup (1 cup) of a warm soup, tea, or a diet hot chocolate work for me most nights. There are some nights that nothing works but be careful not to overeat. There is nothing like going to bed right after a big late night snack.

Saturday, April 2, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

LET IT OUT... Try to decrease your brain activity before bed by writing down your thoughts in a journal. It will clear your mind so you can close the book on today and move forward.
This does really work and I am not sure why I stopped. It has been a couple of months since I have written in my journal and 2 weeks since I have exercised or did any scripture reading. My only excuse is that I have had company, Calvin has been home and after a week of deep cleaning and painting the kitchen last week I could hardly walk much less exercise. I am great intentions of starting both the scripture reading and exercising Monday once Calvin goes off to work again. Try the journal writing and it might surprise how it helps you sleep with a calm, relaxed brain.

Friday, April 1, 2011

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

GET SOME SLEEP... Sleeping is just as important to survival as eating, drinking, (water) and breathing. But for lots of people, getting enough sleep can range from challenging to impossible. By getting enough sleep and sleeping soundly will improve your energy levels, your health and your mood (attitude).
This tip is just for me. I just don't get enough sleep until I am just too tired to stay anymore. This means that I will go for days with just 4 or 5 hours of sleep and then I just crash early and sleep for hours and hours. It is not the right way to go about anything. When I am tired then I don't exercise as long or as well, I don't watch my diet and to be honest I am grumpy. For the next couple of weeks we are going to review some tips on getting a good night's sleep.