Be Thankful

This is one of my favorite quotes.  It's a great way to see things with a different perspective.  The author is unknown.  Enjoy!

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times, during those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes, they will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It is easy to be thankful for the good things.  A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

music to my ears

Listening to music is a great way to relax, have fun and let go of stress.  Which ever style of music you enjoy, take the time to relax and enjoy it, or blast it out and dance your ass off!  Maybe you enjoy singing your heart out.  What ever brings you joy.  Take the time to listen to music.  One of my favorite ways to "get out of myself" is to go see live music.  If you live in a great city, like Austin, there are plenty of opportunities to see live music.  Music is one thing you'll never outgrow.

  Music also makes exercise more enjoyable.  Pick out your favorite tunes and get down to it!  You'll be glad you did.

do yoga!

Yoga just makes you feel good.  It's great for maintaining flexibility, keeping your joints healthy, your body strong, your mind clear and keep you looking and feeling younger.  I have been practicing yoga since 1993.  I started with just a class every once in a while, but then got addicted to it and eventually began teaching it!  At first it can be a little intimidating, or uncomfortable to move your body in different ways, or put yourself in odd positions; but after a while you just don't feel as good if you don't do it.  Hence the addiction.  It's a healthy addiction though.  So do yoga........you'll be glad you did!

Stay strong

Did you know that after age 30 you start to lose muscle mass?  Losing muscle mass can contribute to additional weight gain and a host of other unhealthy conditions like diabetes.  According to a study done by Brenda Davy, a professor of nutrition at Virginia Tech, less muscle may raise the risk of diabetes because muscle is where the body sends most of its blood sugar (glucose) to be stored or burned.  Less muscle lowers your metabolic rate, meaning you burn fewer calories while resting.  Resistance training is a great way to increase or maintain your muscle mass.  More muscle mass increases the tissue that can use glucose and thus keep the pounds off.  Aerobic exercise and weight training together make a great combination to help keep your body healthy and strong.  So get out there and move!  Even in your daily activites try to get in a little more movement.  Take the stairs, park a little further from the entrance to stores, work, etc.  Get out and walk your dog, play with the kids, ride your bike.  Get to the gym at least 3 times per week to weight train and get in some cardio most days of the week.  You'll feel and look better! 

Skin care

One of the best ways to avoid aging skin is to wear sunscreen.  Use natural skin protection.  Skin by Ann Webb has some great products.  They have an organic skin care line and if you live in Austin, Texas you can visit their clinic and get all types of skin care from facials, to IPL and laser hair removal at a great price!  You can also find their products at Whole Foods Market.  Check it out!  http://www.skinorganicsaw.com/

Testing, testing

I wanted to share a great website where you can get general blood tests done at a fraction of the cost, without going to see a doctor.  I've used this many times to get basic levels on hormones, cholesterol, thyroid, Vitamin D levels, etc.  The site is:  http://www.healthcheckusa.com/.  You order the test, take the requistion to the lab and then get results mailed to you.  They analyze the results and note any areas where you might consider seeing your primary care physician for.  It's a great way to keep yourself on track and catch areas where you may need more support.  Check it out!

decisions, decisions

Today is Friday.  Another day to live healthy, happy and free.  A lot of our distress comes from our reactions to situations.  It really only takes a conscious effort to check our reactions to events or people to make better choices.  How many times have we reacted only to find ourselves feeling bad about how we managed a situation.  Yes, we learn from mistakes, but sometimes just giving a little more effort to break habits and patterns of reaction can send us on a different path.  If we reinforce those positive "actions" the old habits will soon become a thing of the past.  I read once that it only takes 21 days to break a habit.  Each time you say "no," whether it's to break a pattern of reacting to certain situations or people, giving up sodas, alcohol, drugs or any other self-destructive habit, each time you say "no" you become stronger.  Give yourself that gift.  It may be challenging at first, but each time you reinforce a positive decision, you'll feel better.  Those patterns that keep tripping you up will soon be a thing of the past.