The Road To Wellness

Nice to see you! Wishing you a healthy day!

One of the techniques I’ve found works for me in terms of dieting is small snacks to prevent overeating. As luck would have it, I found the best snack on earth–cheese.

For me, this is fantastic news. I love cheese. I had been buying the low fat variety. Not only is it bland, but it doesn’t melt well. In cooking nonfat varieties of sour cream and cream cheese also tend to give less than ideal results.

It’s all about quality and quantity. A good small snack is better than a bland large snack. Fat isn’t all bad. It’s how much you take it that matters. Besides, dieting is due to failure if you feel deprived and different from everyone. Eating is such a pleasurable experience. There’s no reason why isn’t shouldn’t be enjoyed. Photo by cwbuecheler

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My stress level has increased lately. There’s work, which has been frustrating at best. Of course, there’s worry over the economy. Gas prices may have dropped, but groceries sure haven’t.

I’m concerned more so because high blood pressure is in my family. It was ultimately the root cause in the death of both my parents. All of my siblings are on high blood pressure medication save me. For that, I attribute the exercise.

Recognizing that my stress level is higher, I’ve looked into some ways to relax. I’ve posted before about the benefits of music for relaxation. So true. When I’m working at home, I’ll listen to a relaxing soundscape that I create, complete with ocean waves and gulls. My cat certainly enjoys it.

I’ve also rediscovered yoga. For those of you that haven’t enjoyed a downward-facing dog or spinal twist, you’re in for a treat. I found a routine that purports to lower blood pressure. If anything, it is soothing. I feel so calm when I finish it.

I believe that the power of the mind can harass and help prevent many conditions. My lifestyle changes to include exercise and relaxing techniques such as yoga are beneficial to me. They will certainly be something I embrace even more so as the holidays and their particular form of stress ensue. Photo by The Jamoker

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Not only the Internet, but tech gadgets can help youtech gadgets can help you get fit. The tools and support available to fight the increasing waist line of Americans is growing every day.

Food journaling, i.e., accountability, is known to spur action in dieters. Accountability whether through a website or a device operates on the same principles and drives the user to success. There’s nothing more motivating than seeing a positive change over time with the proof of effort. That I think, is key to a person’s decision to change. You must see the payoff.

What makes some of these gadgets even better is the lack of active logging by participants. The tech gadget knows all.

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Another good reason to be on the Internet comes from MNS Health and Fitness News. New research indicates thatsurfing the web stimulates your brain. Photo by VibrantSpirit

It makes sense. Reading and learning are known to keep the brain young. Add reading with the interactive nature of the Internet and the fodder for brain fitness is created.

In a healthy lifestyle, this is important. Fitness doesn’t end at the gym. A healthy body and a healthy mind are key to wellness. Too often this essential element of health is ignored. The Internet provides the perfect medium to develop one’s brain fitness

Think of all the opportunities from reading blogs to comparison shopping to participating in forums or online gaming. If there’s a need, there’s a niche

So next time your boss gives you a hard time about surfing, tell him you’re doing it for your brain.

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I’m happy to report that my streak is staying alive.

For the fourth week, I’ve kept up with my workouts. I’ve even added a fifth short Pilates or yoga routine. I’ve walked at least three and up to five times a week. Most importantly, I’m starting to see some progress.

I attribute my success to keeping a to-do list and getting organized. Each day, I begin my putting together a list of things that I want to accomplish. I do try and think of most things, even to the littlest. After that, my list is closed. It feels so good checking those items off.

To keep track of my workouts, I’m using a spreadsheet where I can gray out the ones I’ve completed. I use it too to keep track of my reps, since I’m increasing them every week. I have to say using the Lean and Strong workouts has been a godsend.

My problem was this. After getting fit, I continued to push myself. I was working out over an hour a day, walking four plus miles four times a week. While it was good, I was also on the fast track to burning out.

To get back on the wagon, I returned to what I knew worked before. I had the added incentive knowing I could do it. I did it before. Why not again? So, here I go.

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