12 Weeks to a Better You

I spent some time in the last week going through old magazines that I have accumulated and pulled out articles on healthier living, saving money, recipes, activities to do with the kids, and more.  In my upcoming blogs, I plan to use some of this information.

The information for this post was taken from "Feel Your Best EVER!" by Norine Dworkin-McDaniel in the All You:  Health & Wellness, Winter 2013

In Norine Dworkin-McDaniel's article, she outlines an Ultimate Health Challenge 12 week program to help you feel stronger, sharper, happier, livelier and, yes, slimmer.

Week 1 - Amp up your energy

• Worn out?  It's no wonder, with your long to-do list.  Try these simple tips to recharge.
• Get a head-to-toe checkup
• Seek out sunshine
• Work in a walk

Week 2 - Get fit

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends getting at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week.
• Make an effort to schedule for sweat time
• Form a workout group
• Squeeze in exercise on the go

Week 3 - Break a bad habit

• Smoking?  Impulse eating?  Whatever your vice, these strategies can help you quit for good.
• Write a list
• Be patient with yourself
• Secure a sponsor

Week 4 - Eat healthier

• You'll feel more energized and less stressed, and you can lower your risk of everything from colds to cancer.
• Reconsider your carbs
• Cut back on red meat
• Stock up on produce

Week 5 - Be happier

• Everyone gets a little down in the dumps.  Make over your mind-set with these mood-boosting tips.
• Holler when you need help
• See every day as a special occasion
• Pile on praise

Week 6 - Shed stress

• Unchecked anxiety can contribute to a host of ailments, from colds and headaches to heart disease.  Use these steps to achieve inner calm.
• Stick it to anxiety
• Practice saying "I'll get back to you"
• Fit in some fun

Week 7 - Lose weight

• Slow, steady, focused efforts ensure the greatest success.  Here's how to whittle away extra pounds.
• Put portions into perspective
• See yourself slim
• Eat more slowly

Week 8 - Strengthen bones

• Fortify your frame--and ward off fractures--with these stay-well strategies.
• Consume more calcium
• Work out your bones 

Week 9 - Tone up your ticker

• More women die of heart disease every year than from all forms of cancer combined, according to the Cleveland Clinic.  But about 80% of cases can be prevented with key lifestyle tweaks.  Get started with these.
• Suss out your silent saboteurs
• Cut back on trans fats
• Stop smoking

Week 10 - Get sounder sleep

• Perhaps you skimp on sut-eye to get more done in your day.  But that strategy can backfire if you become too tired to tackle your to-do list.
• Turn in by 10 p.m.
• Curb the caffeine
• Take a tech time-out

Week 11 - Boost your brainpower

• Exercising your mind can keep you mentally sharp as you age.  This week focus on getting your brain in tip-top shape.
• Shore up your social network
• Polish off produce
• Get off the couch
• Challenge your mind

Week 12 - Shield your skin

• Flaunt a healthy, youthful complexion with these age-defying tips.
• Slather on sunscreen
• Avoid using soap
• Sleep on the other side

Should you choose to try some of these tips, I wish you much success as you strive to be healthier and happier!  Have a great day!