back-to-school-resolutions

Do you see the start of the school year as a time of renewal and recommitment? Here are some of the ways our social fans and followers kick-start their healthy eating goals and fitness resolutions. You don’t have to wait until January to start health resolutions—begin with your next meal or snack!

Healthy Eating Tips & Resolutions

  • Don’t deprive yourself of your favorite foods. Just give yourself the handful richness/density rule: Allow yourself the equivalent of one handful of your favorite food and balance it with a minimum of 20 minutes of cardio exercise. Then you have some portion control, are burning some calories, and hopefully feeling good about yourself instead of deflated or deprived.
  • Always drink plenty of water and eat lots of fruits and veggies.
  • Fill individual zip-top bags with fruit and smoothie ingredients and keep them in the freezer. Every morning, grab one to blend and then take it with you.
  • Eat like a crayon box. Choosing a variety of foods from these color groups is the way to consume your fruits and vegetables.
  • Keep a food diary to help you track what you’re eating throughout the day.
  • Stop drinking sodas (or other sugary beverages).
  • Eat more organic foods and avoid all junk foods.
  • Eat more dark greens and reach for fruit instead of carbs for a snack.
  • Resolve to start your day with a healthy breakfast.
  • Never go food shopping while hungry.

Exercise Tips & Resolutions

  • Carry a jump rope or resistance bands in the car for a quick and easy workout.
  • Work out with your significant other. The mutual encouragement and support really helps ensure that workouts happen on a consistent basis, and progress is made.
  • Exercise every day even if you can only do 15 minutes at a time. It will help you make it a lifestyle habit.
  • Take the stairs whenever you can for a little extra cardio at work.
  • Take more challenges, and take your workout outdoors!
  • Go for a hike, every week!
  • Go an extra block further when you walk your dog… all these extra steps count!
  • Go swimming!
  • Always exercise first thing in the morning, even if you have to get up a bit earlier. No excuses!
  • Stay consistent.

Everyday Well-being Tips & Resolutions

  • Don’t look at your phone an hour before bed. Do some stretching and yoga 30 minutes before going to bed instead!
  • Resolve to stress less and take tasks one step at a time. Listen to more music to get you motivated, moving, and relaxed.
  • Surround yourself with positive people, think positive thoughts and strive to do positive things. Pay it forward!
  • Write your goal where you will see it daily. Include weekly or monthly goals as a part of the larger goals, but give yourself a reward at the interval goals. It’s all about determination and motivation!
  • Park the car far away, so when you go shopping you get a really good walk in and fresh air too!
  • Quit smoking.
  • Make a point to get sufficient sleep and rest.
  • Wear sunscreen every day to save your skin.
  • Always turn off the electronics and engage with family and friends when you have the opportunity.
  • Smile and laugh more!

Smart Lifebites