Pages

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 28

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Healthy Endings

I am saying goodbye to Facebook. I've never really been someone 100% involved in it anyways. I really don't want the 20 invites a day to join stupid applications, etc. Also, minus a few friends (Betsy and Taller of course), most of the people that I've befriended aren't my actual friends. Most of them are typical annoying people from high school that I really don't care to be friends with now. Also, because of these "friends" I feel like I am in high school still. Hello that was FOREVER ago! So I've decided, after receiving that someone from high school answered a question about me and seeing the answer, to take myself out of this childish scenario and delete. I mean seriously am I going to let someone from high school get me down? No way!

Speaking of happy endings, this is the end of Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Tips for the Month.

Stay tuned for March Madness!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 27

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Healthy Walk

So the weather is sort of up and down at the moment, one day it's 80 and then the next it is 32. Okay 32 isn't miserable to most people living up north but for Florida that is pretty cold, plus downtown is on the river so it does get pretty breezy, but I've decided to start taking a healthy walk at lunch.

Top 10 Reasons to Walk (from Walk the Weight Away by RoseMarie Alfieri & Andrew Flach)

1) It's the most natural way to exercise.

2) Best starting point, even if you have never exercised, you'll be able to walk.

3) It doesn't cost anything.

4) Your walk time is for you to enjoy. You can mediate, listen to your fave music, or solve problems - whatever keeps you walking!

5) You can walk alone or with family and friends. (Okay alone if you are in a safe neighborhood)

6) It's safe, the possibility of injury is slim.

7) You can gradually build your fitness level.

8) Promotes overall wellness, which is nice knowing that you're doing something good for yourself.

9) Improves muscle tone - especially the butt and hips.

10) You can do it anywhere - home, work, on vacation, etc.

Plus --- Vitamin D! I am looking forwarded to getting a little sun.

So starting Monday...I plan to take a stroll up and down the Riverwalk. It'll be nice to get out of the office and enjoy some fresh air and sun.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 26

Friday, February 26, 2010

Sometimes it's healthy to just say NOOOOO....

There is seriously nothing I dread more than Girl Scout cookies. Let's face it, they are getting a bit pricey and there just so darn tasty that you can eat an entire box without realizing it. So yes, it's that dreaded time of year where they are outside every store pushing those cookies. An attorney here had his wife and daughter go around with her sheet asking for us all to buy cookies. At that point, how do you say no? I mean I know how it feels to be a kid hustling people for money to pay for summer camp or band stuff. So I always cave plus what is she like 7 years old. I'm not that heartless people. Granted I have no problem pretending not to hear them outside of the grocery store but come in my office with your sheet...I'm gonna buy something.

So now I have two boxes of those dang cookies in my desk. I had totally planned on giving them away. Then I come back from lunch and a co-worker left a box for me on my desk with a note that stated..."Happy Chanukah!" (Yes Mom!) I have a co-worker totally convinced that I someone practicing the Jewish faith ... it's just funny, he's soooo gullible! So I attempted to get out of that box by stating...I dunno are they kosher?!? I look at the box and dang it if those little girl scouts aren't crafty. THEY ARE KOSHER!!! I am saddened to say that I did eat ... well most ... of that box. In my defense there really weren't THAT many in there.

Okay so I still have those two boxes I ordered in my desk drawer. Believe me ... I am not opening them! They will be finding a good home and I mean somewhere other than my tummy.

So if you want some Tagalogs (Chocolate covered peanut butter cookie) or Samoas (Coconut Covered Chocolate whatever) send me your address and I will MAIL THEM to you!


Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 24

Wednesday, February 24, 2010


Healthy Environment

I'm all for doing my part to help the environment. I recycle EVERYTHING that can be recycled, I use cloth bags for the grocery store, I drive a reasonably fuel efficient car and have taken many steps to decrease my carbon footprint. My absolute #1 thing that makes me mad about others here on this damaged planet needing our TLC is people that drive HUGE SUVs (just for show) with extreme hatred to those that drive Hummers. (What is worse than a Hummer? A Hummer Limo!!!!) So tonight after Inbetweeners, Paul and I were watching BBC America World News. We all know that GM has filed bankruptcy and with that they were going to sell off Hummer to another car company. Well it was announced last night that no other car company will be buying Hummer. SO NO MORE HUMMERS!!!! YAY! That is the best news I have heard in a while. Capitalist pigs 0 .... Earth 1! So if you drive a Hummer: 1) you suck and 2) don't plan on getting an updated version cuz there isn't one!

P.S. Thank you China for making all of this possible! Please please don't change your mind!

How sweet is my mom?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Okay so I took my lil break from daily blogging as a zen to not stress out about getting it up there everyday. My mom emailed me to see if everything was okay because I hadn't blogged in awhile.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 23

Improving Memory

Forgetting something can cause stress. You can't remember if you sent out your payment for a bill, you can't remember where you parked, you can't find your keys and you're in a rush, all of these and many more instances of forgetfulness can cause undo stress.

So here are some tips to improve your memory from helpguide.org:

  1. Pay attention. You can’t remember something if you never learned it, and you can’t learn something — that is, encode it into your brain — if you don’t pay enough attention to it. It takes about eight seconds of intent focus to process a piece of information through your hippocampus and into the appropriate memory center. So, no multitasking when you need to concentrate! If you distract easily, try to receive information in a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. (I am soooo a multitasker and I've found that I have forgotten stuff because I had two many burners going at once. Also, paying attention is key. I used to work with this one attorney and when he talked I would zone out. I had to start writing down stuff when he spoke during our meetings or I would leave and think...what did he want?)
  2. Tailor information acquisition to your learning style. Most people are visual learners; they learn best by reading or otherwise seeing what it is they have to know. But some are auditory learners who learn better by listening. They might benefit by recording information they need and listening to it until they remember it. (Dictation: Note to self..work on blog for tomorrow, I'm just not that lame to carry around a recording device but hey making lists work for me. Especially if you have a cute notebook that always helps =) )
  3. Involve as many senses as possible. Even if you’re a visual learner, read out loud what you want to remember. If you can recite it rhythmically, even better. Try to relate information to colors, textures, smells and tastes. The physical act of rewriting information can help imprint it onto your brain. (Okay seriously this is how I remember where I parked I pick out some sort of landmark tree, sign, etc. and then go from there. Also come on you go to the same places try to park in the same area that helps a lot.)
  4. Relate information to what you already know. Connect new data to information you already remember, whether it’s new material that builds on previous knowledge, or something as simple as an address of someone who lives on a street where you already know someone.
  5. Organize information. Write things down in address books and datebooks and on calendars; take notes on more complex material and reorganize the notes into categories later. Use both words and pictures in learning information.
  6. Understand and be able to interpret complex material. For more complex material, focus on understanding basic ideas rather than memorizing isolated details. Be able to explain it to someone else in your own words.
  7. Rehearse information frequently and “over-learn”. Review what you’ve learned the same day you learn it, and at intervals thereafter. What researchers call “spaced rehearsal” is more effective than “cramming.” If you’re able to “over-learn” information so that recalling it becomes second nature, so much the better.
  8. Be motivated and keep a positive attitude. Tell yourself that you want to learn what you need to remember, and that you can learn and remember it. Telling yourself you have a bad memory actually hampers the ability of your brain to remember, while positive mental feedback sets up an expectation of success.
Healthy Habits that Improve Memory also from helpguide.org:

Regular exercise
  • Increases oxygen to your brain.
  • Reduces the risk for disorders that lead to memory loss, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  • May enhance the effects of helpful brain chemicals and protect brain cells.
Managing stress
  • Cortisol, the stress hormone, can damage the hippocampus if the stress is unrelieved.
  • Stress makes it difficult to concentrate.
Good sleep habits
  • Sleep is necessary for memory consolidation.
  • Sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea leave you tired and unable to concentrate during the day.
Not smoking




Nutrition
  • Smoking heightens the risk of vascular disorders that can cause stroke and constrict arteries that deliver oxygen to the brain.

  • B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and folic acid, protects neurons by breaking down homocysteine, an amino acid that is toxic to nerve cells. They’re also involved in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen. (Best sources: spinach and other dark leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, strawberries, melons, black beans and other legumes, citrus fruits, soybeans.)
  • Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta carotene, fight free radicals, which are atoms formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Free radicals are highly reactive and can damage cells, but antioxidants can interact with them safely and neutralize them. Antioxidants also improve the flow of oxygen through the body and brain. Best sources: blueberries and other berries, sweet potatoes, red tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, green tea, nuts and seeds, citrus fruits, liver.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids are concentrated in the brain and are associated with cognitive function. They count as “healthy” fats, as opposed to saturated fats and trans fats, protecting against inflammation and high cholesterol. Best sources: cold-water fish such as salmon, herring, tuna, halibut, and mackerel; walnuts and walnut oil; flaxseed and flaxseed oil
    Because older adults are more prone to B12 and folic acid deficiencies, a supplement may be a good idea for seniors. An omega-3 supplement (at any age) if you don’t like eating fish. But nutrients work best when they’re consumed in foods, so try your best to eat a broad spectrum of colorful plant foods and choose fats that will help clear, not clog, your arteries. Your brain will thank you!

So great we can all follow these steps and improve our memories and never have a single problem because we'll all be sharp as a tack. Right? Wrong. There's going to be that inevitable battle between you and someone else. You remember doing something and they are doubting your memory because they don't remember. For example, you're at work and your boss hands you a check to mail out. You mail it. A month later he doesn't remember if it was mailed or not and now you are doubting your memory because he is insisting that you're wrong. The only way out of a memory battle is to have a system to keep track. Keep copies or scan and save a copy or make notes on a calendar of what went out that day. Often memory isn't the save all. Hard proof to back up your memory is often needed.

However, I look forward to trying to implement some of these tips into my daily life. I am notorious for not being able to find my car key, my wallet, my phone, etc. I am constantly digging in my bag so that isn't really memory but more like organization. So more on that later...we'll all have great memories and have everything organized and saved and there will be NO STOPPING US!!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 19, 20, 21, and 22

-Vacation -

Taking a break is always a way of becoming more relaxed. On my lil vay cay from blogging, I've done tons more research so more new tips and such coming soon.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 18

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Healthy Start

Treat everyday like a healthy start. No matter if it is with eating healthier, exercising, stressing, etc. Everyday is a new day. Don't worry today about yesterday focus on today, then today is open for success!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 17

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Mayo Clinic

According to Mayo Clinic on Healthy Weight by Donald D. Hensrud, M.D., genes may set the stage for being overweight, but YOU ultimately decide whether or not you are going to be overweight. It has more to do with calorie intake and physical activity. If you eat more calories then you burn you're going to gain weight. A family history of obesity can increase your chances of being overweight by 30%. However, it doesn't mean that you are destined to be fat, your genes can just make it more susceptible to weight gain. "No matter what your genes say, it is ultimately your choices in nutrition and activity that will determine your weight."

This seriously is like a revelation to me. I have been totally convinced that I have been destined to be overweight because of overweight relatives, now I know! Sure I can lose weight, I've done it but it sneaks back on. It's just totally up to me. I've, of course, always known that eating right and exercising is key but you know you always wonder. The whole "big boned" etc. excuses people use...FALSE! Just be healthy. BTW...I love this book, I might actually buy it (since it's from the library) because it's just straightforward information with no frills or excuses or tricks and what I LOATHE about diet books is tips on "cheating"!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 16

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Sugar Sugar

So I've been watching this show, Ruby, on the Style channel. I am totally hooked. I wish Ruby all the luck in the world. She's been doing an amazing job and her show shows how in real life there are definitely ups and downs and bumps in the road and great moments of celebration. So, an episode I watched got me thinking about sugar. Sweet Tea is definitely a southern fave and Ruby's friend was doing it up Southern style with tons of sugar. I thought...wow when is the last time I've had a drink with sugar in it. Practically forever! Sweet & Low is my pride and true. Which I'm currently trying to rely upon less and less. So if I've made a decision to not drink regular colas or sweet tea and stuck to it for so long what difference has it really made? Sure there aren't those wasted calories from drinking it, but has it affected my weight? I've had some ups and downs as it is. What's the "evil" if it's not sugar? Honestly, I am really not someone to eat a lot in one sitting. I don't eat or snack constantly all day and I really don't eat "bad" things that often. I just really have to be someone that counts calories and keeps the metabolism up because it seems overages and slow metabolism have a definite effect on me. I'm just now thinking .... if I could give up sugar what else could I absolutely give up and throw in an alternative. If you are someone who has switched from cola to diet cola...you know that first step doesn't go down easy. Diet drinks to newbies don't taste like the real thing. I really don't eat sweets because I'm a firm believer in the one time I give it I will crave it EVERYDAY. So I steer clear. Thank you, but I don't need like a million and one tips on how to cheat and eat low calorie, low sugar or low fat sweets. Because if it tastes like cake...it's cake and I'll want more. So this week I'm gonna focus on what I do eat and see if there is a healthier alternative. I really don't think there's going to be that big of a budge. Granted if I ate a hamburger, etc. I know just don't eat that, but I mean the day to day things you don't think about...like someone grabbing cola over diet cola. So I'll keep you posted.

Side note = Why the heck can't restaurants carry more that diet coke or diet pepsi. Hello there is diet EVERYTHING. If I go somewhere and they have Diet Dr. Pepper it is like I have stepped into another dimension and I'm like WHERE AM I? I just feel like if everyone stopped drinking regular cola...maybe there would be more diet options. SAY NO TO THE SUGAR!!! Come to the light (of diet drinks) people!!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 15

Sick Day!

So I think all of the Valentine's Day food caught up to me. We had filet migon, king crab, strawberry shortcake, etc. Needless to say I was sick after that. I don't think it was anything to do with the food since Paul didn't get sick but hey at least it was a day home from work, cuddled up watching tv with my valentine. He even watched Keeping up with the Kardashians with me! (TWO EPISODES...believe me he was hooked)

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 14

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Happy Valentine's Day!

So continuing our healthy soul chat...

According to what I found on google...researchers have found that emotions are a big part of your soul. For example, when we feel LOVE:

The stress responses in our bodies REVERSE in mere seconds! REVERSE!

The energy actually generated in our hearts (2.5 watts of power) goes from chaos to a harmonic pattern of waves.

The systems in our body functioning on their own start functioning together in a zen state of order and harmony.

So regardless if you have a special man or woman in your life, Valentine's Day can fill your heart as well. Love doesn't have to be Hallmark cookie cutter with flowers, chocolates and stuffed animals (OMG...I hate stuffed animals as gifts...what am I going to do with it...I am an adult [yes Taller I couldn't stop thinking about SNL!]) Back to my point, find love in numerous things. Love a piece of art, go see it or paint something like it. Love your pet, buy it some treats and spend some quality time...pets wanna feel loved too. Love your family, take a visit, call and catch up. Look at some old photos of great vacations and moments in your life. Watch Moulin Rouge...I absolutely love the love songs mixed together in that movie. Especially this song! So with my heart and soul I say, love you to my dear followers and readers.





Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 13

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Healthy Soul

To be quiet frank, I am not a religious person and this is not a religious topic for me or this blog entry. So I'll just say that if you ARE religious and get your fulfillment in your religion. Keep it up and kudos to you, I'm of course not suggesting that anyone doesn't have a healthy soul, it's just tips to make it better just like all the body. [NOTE: No, I am not an atheist...I'm just not overly religious... it is my choice so please respect it like I respect yours for being religious (if you are, if not, I respect that too)] Now on that awkward note...

I've talked about healthy mind and nonstop about a healthy body so I was thinking...what is next? The soul. Honestly, I was like how does one get a "healthy soul"? Surely google will tell me 100s ways to get one and there's probably going to be one on sale on Ebay or Amazon (joking obviously). To my surprise, there isn't a lot of information out there. I'll share with you what I think constitutes a healthy soul and then tell you what I found with trusty google which will appear on my Day 14 post since it relates to Valentine's Day in a way.

So first off let's look at the definition of soul: (according to dictionary.com there are a lot definitions I picked a few)

1. the principle of life, feeling, thought and action in humans, regarded as a distinct entity separate from the body, and commonly held to be separable in existence from the body; the spiritual part of humans as distinct from the physical part;

2. the spiritual part of humans regard in its moral aspect or as believed to survive death and be subject to happiness or misery in life to come;

3. the emotional part of human nature; the seat of the feelings or sentiments;

4. a human being; person;

5. high mindedness; noble warmth of feeling, spirit or courage, etc.

7. the animating principle; the essential element or part of something;

8. the inspirer of quality;

Having a healthy s0ul seems to go hand in hand with a healthy mind and body. The soul is our inner being. The true root of ourselves. So nourishing our mind and body is nourishing our soul. Of course a soul is an intangible thing, we can't physically weigh our soul but when you feel the ease and peace within you know your soul is healthy and happy. The changes I have made recently have created an ease inside of me. I was giving all of the credit to being zen and not angry and forgetting that the ease is the ease of relief on my soul. We're all heard the sayings: rotten to the core, put my heart and soul into it, etc. What do these mean. It's all about your inner being and your true self. I'm working on making my true self a more zen and forgiving person. I've let so much negative build up that my soul was suffering. Make your life happy and healthy for your soul not anyone else or any other reasons. Do it for you, besides you're the one that's going to get the best reward for doing it and you'll be the one that appreciates it the most.





Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 12

Friday, February 12, 2010

Healthy Mind

Here are some Healthy Tips I found online to improve mental health:

Build self confidence. Make a list of your strengths and build on them. Don't stress on your weaknesses embrace your strengths. Once you build confidence you'll see that you can conquer those weaknesses.

Learn to Accept Compliments. Accept positive thoughts from others. Appreciate and acknowledge the way others see you. It can also help in building confidence. We are so hard on ourselves. Try telling yourself what you would tell your best friend in her situation. You wouldn't tell her all bets are lost. So give yourself the same respect.

Create a Budget. Money woes can definitely bring on stress. Look to see what you are over-spending on and make a list of priority financial needs and make budgets for the miscellaneous. It's not as hard as it seems. This shopaholic can do it ... anyone can. Also make a realistic budget. Don't budget $0.00 for something when it's something you enjoy just have a realistic amount in mind and stick to it.

Get to know and love yourself. Get to know the true you and figure out what truly makes you happy. We all deserve to be happy and healthy. Also come to terms with things you cannot change about yourself. Once you address whatever truly makes you happy you will see that the things you can't change aren't so bad.

Exercise that brain! It's been proven. Lose it or Use it! Just because we're all getting older doesn't mean we have to accept losing mental capacity. No matter how old you are, you can still keep your synapses firing. Sure memories can fade overtime but that doesn't mean you are losing your mental health. So get with an exercise program... pick up a crossword, or a word puzzle and play cards (no betting your on a budget) . Also cuddle up with a great book (or blog =) ) and read. Physical exercise has also been proven to increase mental abilities 20 to 30 percent. Start writing in a journal or making crafts.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 11

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Yesterday this person showed me a Keep Calm and Carry On poster. As you can see from her blog I teased her about how cheesy it seemed. However, today she posted other posters. I went to the Etsy shop and found this one. I love it. It's totally me!

I think I'll make one of my own ... Be Zen and Grab a Pen!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 10

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Best Medicine: Laughter

I've always been the kind of person to say something witty and to joke around. Once in middle school, I had a friend that told me that her mother didn't like me because I laugh too much. I was like really and LAUGHED! So I did a little search on the internet and found an article about laughing.

Apparently humor and laughter has tons of benefits:

Physical benefits
Boost immunity
Lowers stress hormones
Decreases Pain
Relaxes your muscles
Prevents heart disease

Mental Health Benefits
Adds joy and zest to life
Eases anxiety and fear
Relieves stress
Improves mood
Enhances resilience

Social Benefits
Strengthens relationships
Attracts others to us
Enhances teamwork
Helps defuse conflict
Promotes group bonding

I will have to admit that Monday was the best Monday I think I have ever had. There was just something to laugh about all day long. It really did help with trying to be stress free.

Also laughter shared with others should not be singling someone out and laughing at them. That might not have the best benefits to them. I've also noticed that when someone is telling you about something that is bothering them...something someone said to them, a nasty email from a co-worker, etc., it's helpful to find a funny side to it. By the time you're both done laughing it doesn't seem so bad anymore.

Since laughter comes so easy to me and making people laugh, it's nice to know that it is actually beneficial and with that note I can't wait to watch Inbetweeners tonight on BBC...there will be a lot of laughing going on that show is HILARIOUS!!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 9

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Healthy Relationships

I've always been someone to make sure I wasn't in a bad relationship with a guy. Believe me I wasn't always the one ready to call it quits right off the bat but I have been able to realize afterward and learned from my mistakes. I just have never and can't ever be someone that is treated badly by someone that I love and that is supposed to love me. With that said though, I've realized that I have a lot of unhealthy relationships with others.

With that said came my new mantra to be stress free at work. It really isn't the actual work that is stressful, sure there are deadlines and tons of stuff to get done, but it's really my interactions with others here. As I have previously stated, I just feel that there are tons of unhappy people here at work. I've been letting these people bring me down. So now I feel like I am in a bad relationship with coworkers and I've had to make steps to end these bad relationships. First off, I really don't need to hear other people's reasons for being upset and stressed. Their negativity cannot become mine. For example, I don't need to get caught up in the I hate whoever or whatever department. If I'm trying to stay zen I don't need to hear other people rant about nonsense.

My new approach is to change the subject. I really don't want to hear about your crappy email from whoever...so let's talk about something else and maybe that will help you to get over it and move on as well.

So enough about work. With my new zen attitude, I've also come to realize that I can't listen to family members go on and on about their drama. This weekend was my reboot for this work week and I literally felt like all Saturday I just listened to my sister complain and complain. I of course was trying to offer her advice but then realized...she's not even listening to what I am saying she is just calling me to unload her stress onto me. OH NO SIR! Believe me there will be no more phone calls like Saturday and if she has to be told so I will make sure it is crystal clear.

Don't get me wrong, I am not talking about a friend or family one in need because of serious problems or issues. I'm just talking about the daily bitching that a lot of people tend to do. I was once guilty of that myself. I am just putting a foot down and stopping all of the negative pointless chatter. I'm not trying to be mean or hateful. I just really want to be happier and healthier.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 8

Monday, February 8, 2010

Healthy Skin


So last year right before my 30th birthday I found a gray hair and I had a horrible zit, I literally said to the mirror... OMG pick a generation...old or young!! I often get a nasty under the skin pimple on my chin during that lovely time of the month. I have already been doing a few things to try to keep these pores unclogged. I started using: 1) Clean & Clear Deep Cleaning Astringent with 2% Salicylic Acid; 2) Biore Warming Anti-blackhead Cream with 2% Salicylic Acid or Biore Pore Unclogging Scrub with 2% Salicylic Acid stores often carry one or the other. There is really no difference except the warming one warms up when you rub it in also the warming one says it is for blackheads which isn't really the same as what I get but I think the warming does help bring the dirt up out of the pores. So since I've been using these products the number of flare ups I've had has seriously decreased. Well now I have gone one step further. I started using Bareminerals makeup. I love it. It is very light weight and very natural looking. It's also good for your skin and contains the magical salicylic acid. However, more glancing through Natural Health for Women by Beth MacEoin has yielded some more remedies for spots and acne.

Aromatherapy

Apply the following blend after cleansing and before taking a bath or shower (to encourage effective penetration). Gently wipe off any residue with a clean cottonwool pad after half an hour. Add 1 drop each of patchouli and frankincense and 2 drops of lavender essential oil to 25 ml of jojoba carrier oil.

Nutritional Approaches

Vitamin C is vitally important in preserving healthy skin tone and texture and fighting infection, but is easily destroyed in food preparation and cooking. Take a supplement, especially during the winder when you may not eat enough fruit and vegetables. If you have an outbreak of spots, take 500 mg of a slow-release formula of Vitamin C every day for a week.

Avoid fatty, greasy and sugary foods and increase your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Drink 5 or 6 glasses of filtered or still mineral water each day. Keeping up your fluid intake assists in detoxifying.

Naturopathy

For a cleansing face mask, mix oatmeal and natural yogurt to a thick paste. Spread over the affected area and allow it to dry before gently rinsing off.

Again, I can't say that I am looking forward to my next break out but I will definitely try some of these treatments when I do .






Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 7

Sunday, February 7, 2010

So I've check out the Natural Health for Women by Beth McEoin and I have found loads of helpful tips. So today is all about healthy self without OTC medication. I suffer from sinus headaches often. I had a really bad one last week. It literally felt like my eye was about to burst. So when I went to look through the book I turned directly to natural treatments for sinusitis it was like I heard angels singing...ahhhhh when I read the page. Common symptoms of sinusitis is pain that settles above or below the eyes and around the cheekbones; recurrent headaches with a tired feeling around the eyes. This doesn't seem so bad when I type it but believe me it is agony. Oh btw...sometimes OTC medicines work and sometimes I take tons of them and NOTHING ... PAIN! However, the OTC meds will raise your blood pressure so it's really not good for me to have to take it twice a day or even two days in a row. So when I found these natural treatments you can now understand my enthusiasm.

Aromatherapy

Make this natural decongestant: Blend of essential oils and gently massage a little around the base of the nostrils and the throat. Add 2 drops of each: eucalyptus, pine and sweet marjoram to 2 teaspoon fulls of carrier oil (I have no idea where to get this but believe me I will find out and report back)

Naturopathy

Get as much fresh air as possible, this will soothe inflamed, blocked and congested nasal passages.

Use a humidifier to counteract the dryness that results from living in a centrally heated environment. Don't want to buy a humidifier... apparently you can use your radiators by placing a bowl of water by each and just refill as the water evaporates.

Nutritional Approaches

Avoid dairy foods (while you're having a sinus problem) because dairy foods aggravate sinus congestion because of their tendency to stimulate mucus production.

Treat sugary foods with caution for the same reason.

Include as much fresh garlic in your diet as possible in order to benefit from its natural anti-viral and antibiotic properties.

Increase your intake of fresh, raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables during cold and flu season. Bright red, yellow, orange and dark green fruits and vegetables are rich in anti-oxidants, as well as Vitamins A, C & E and have been shown to help our immune systems fight infection.

I can't say that I am looking forward to my next sinus headache but I'm definitely going to try all of these tips for curing it without Sudafed.


Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 6

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Library Day

So as I've said before I would love to write a book or even have a column in a magazine or newspaper so anywho I guess this is why I have the blog. I am sort of determined to write my self help book which is the whole reason I have been doing these healthy tips blogs so in an effort to keep the blog interesting I made a trip to the library. The trip was for two reasons: 1) my book on CD ended and there's no way I'd be stress free next week without another book on CD. The radio seems to bring on road rage for me. My drives are MUCH more peaceful if I am listening to a good book. My commute is pretty long and the books make it tolerable, instead of dreading the drive to work or home I'm looking forward to finding out what's happening next in my book. So I had a brilliant idea...why not get a book on CD for work...maybe that will help ease the stress of work. It works for road rage so what about work rage? 2) to check out self-help healthy/diet books. I'm constantly checking to make sure my precious book isn't already in paper form. So 7 books later (and 3 books on CD) I checked out. Honestly, I didn't look much at the books before shoving them into my reusable grocery bag. So now I am at home checking them out. The 7 books seem to fit in 4 categories. 1) Medical advice: Mayo Clinic on Healthy Weight by Donald D. Hensrud and Nutrition Logic: Food First and Supplements Second by Maire Dunford, PhD, RD 2) Promises: Walk the Weight Away by Rose Marie Alfieri and Andrew Flach and 21 pounds in 21 days The Martha Vineyard Diet Detox by Roni DeLux, RN ND with James Hester; 3) Girly Diets: The Denim Diet by Kami Gray; 4) Real Thing (this is the category I want my book to fit in!!): Neris and India's Idiot Proof Diet: A weight loss plan for real women by India Knight and Neris Thomas. The 7th book doesn't really fit into the same sort of categories. It's about natural healing. Natural Health for Women: Self -Help and Contemporary Treatments for more than 100 Aliments by Beth MacEoin. I can't even wait to start reading. There will be tons to report back. TONS!!

J.E.W. FUND

Friday, February 5, 2010

Okay I am posting this to brag....January spending...I had a budget and drum roll...it was MET! YAY! Seriously were there categories of overages, yes unfortunately..HOWEVER...there were categories that were under...HOLLA! So budgeting takes serious effort and control on my part however I think I have proven to myself that YES I, Shia Shopaholic, can save cizash (that is ghetto for CASH, sometimes I wonder if my mom has any idea of what I am talking about on here...lol (mom that means laugh out loud))! I have my notebook all geared up for February and so far we're off to a good start. Seriously though, when I am rich and diving into my money like Scrooge McDuck never fear I won't forget about you followers...my blog will always be here. (Taller did you just groan...yes more WORDS to come!)

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 5

Misery loves company...

So my new healthy lifestyle needs to yield to more positive and happy thoughts. It seems like I am surrounded by ignorance, drama and misery at work. I really let it take a toll on me...hence the sleeping issues. I really try to be zen about it but you don't understand (ok Taller you do) I feel like I work with some of the most miserable and intolerable people on the planet. I've tried repeating to myself...I will not get mad ... I will not get mad...sometimes it works and sometimes I get sucked right in. Workplace misery definitely doesn't end when I leave work. When I come home I am in no mood to deal with pet issues, Paul issues, food issues, whatever. It's basically like once I get home ... I AM DONE! However, this week I've pedaled away on the exercise bike every night and left work at the door upon arrival. My mood at home these past 5 nights has really been nice. I had some major work drama a few days ago and I think Paul was pleasantly surprised to see me not dwelling on it when he got home, which helped in Paul and I talking about it. So anyways, if the Buddha can be zen so can I. Getting mad at these people doesn't do anything except 1) give them the power they are looking for and 2) make my life miserable. So I'm going to reboot this weekend. Focus on preparing for the week (plan Bs, Cs, etc.) and move into next week with ease. If the work drama flares up...I'm going to look for something funny online (OMG check out BBC America and watch scenes from Inbetweeners...HILARIOUS!) and not let work ruin my day. Will this be easy? No not at all. But for my mental health, I have to end the work drama for good.

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 3 and 4

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Day 3 and 4 and no food log yet. Never fear this weekend I will figure out this crisis!

However, as for day three and four, things are going quiet well. I'm not going to lie and say that this week has been super organized and going off without a hitch. This week has been complete chaos. CHAOS I tell you! So with that said, I am happy to report that I have exercised every night this week and I have been making all around good food choices and I've even had to eat out due to the chaos.

Honestly, when I first started this week I thought it's all good, I got this and didn't do much in the ways of preparation. So because of that I feel like I wouldn't have had to worry about being healthy on top of everything else going on if I had a Plan B, C, D, etc. So this weekend there will be tons of preparation for next week. TONS!

So with being bum-bared with stress emotional eating could sneak in. Eating a whole bag of Doritos because your just at that brink of not caring. I have learned this week that had I eaten something I have deemed "bad" it would have just added to the problems whirling around in my brain. So when I did eat "bad" I portion controlled and made sure other meals were sensible and more nutritious. (which you will see when ever I get this dang food log worked out)

But being healthy isn't all about food and diet. It's also about adequate sleep. In a previous blog, I mentioned that I go to bed around 11 or 12 and I get up at 8. So it doesn't seem like I am not getting enough sleep, I mean that is 8 hours at least. Here is what I noticed with this crazy week. I wasn't sleeping soundly and I would dream about the problems going on or have dreams worrying about non-existing problems. So do I wake up refreshed? No. It's like I just laid there all night worrying. I really try to not take over the counter sleep aids because you can become addicted to them. (you need them to get to sleep) So last night on top of my major sinus headache I decided to drink some chamomile tea which pretty much has the same effect as a sleep aid. I feel like last night I slept better and more soundly. I didn't lay there tossing and turning to go to sleep (with thoughts of the day plaguing me) and I can't even remember what I dreamed about so that is a plus! So tea before bed is my saving grace for this chaotic week.

I feel like these past four days have been pretty boring posts. I apologize dear readers. Don't give up on me. Shia wit and knowledge will fight it's way back to the blog!

Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle Day 2

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Last night (even though I left work at 7:30 and got home at 8:00 pm) I worked out. We recently got an exercise bike which is currently sitting in our living room in front of the tv. So I pedaled my way along 5 miles while I sat and watched tv. It was quiet a workout. At one point I had it up to 20 mph. So this is now my nightly routine and no need to get all worked up about having to get to the gym and work out.

Don't fret dear followers, food logs are coming. I just can't figure out how to post them. Scan my book it's a pdf, type it up in microsoft or excel and blog here freaks out. Take a picture? Well...I haven't gotten my new camera yet...it has been ordered ... so boo. However, I will figure something out!

*Shia Redemption Correction*

I remembered this last night before I went to sleep....as for jerko #1 I actually saw him after I had lost all of the weight from doing Weight Watchers and he asked for my phone number so I gave him the one digit off routine...SUCKER...so then it was even more hilarious to see him at Halloween ... fat and "unattractive" perhaps not having my phone number drove him to the Ben and Jerry's =)

Day 1 Shia's Healthy New Lifestyle

Monday, February 1, 2010

So I have my starting weight and today hasn't really started off on the right foot.

I ate breakfast so there's a positive. My lunch however was accidentally left at home sitting on the counter and then my boss came in right at lunch time so I wasn't able to leave. So lunch became a smoothie from Starbucks and a granola bar I had in my desk which is better than nothing and better than nasty fast food. So I plan on redeeming myself for dinner tonight. Chicken Breast cutlet and veggies (either a salad or some of the frozen stuff I have in the freezer or both)

The tip for today I guess is planning ahead can often backfire so have a plan B. Thank goodness I had that granola bar in my desk and the smoothie was really filling with all that protein. However, tomorrow is a new day and I will be better prepared.

Here's are my goal ranges for each day:

Fat/day 33-42
Protein/day 40-70
Carbs/day 100-225
Fiber/day 25-35
Calories/day 1300
Sodium/day 2300

I'm having technical difficulty posting my food log...never fear...I will figure it out.

Tomorrow's focus mid morning and afternoon snack...see you then =)


 
site design by designer blogs