As I look at my friends’ posts on FB this week, I am reminded how the beginning of September is a huge time of transition and new beginnings for individuals and their families. Which is exciting, but can be stressful too…Instead of trying to incorporate a “major overhaul” to our health, because we are all feeling “guilty” about too many ice cream cones, cheese platters, and margaritas this summer, let’s try an approach that is a bit more user friendly. I read that Whole 30 has its biggest audience in September, but with an anniversary, my husband’s birthday, two weddings, and two Parents’ Weekends…that simply would not work in my house! I like to say: 3 is the Charm…
1. Can you limit alcohol to 3 night’s a week? That still allows the weekend for “merry making” and one night as a “floater”–pardon the pun. It will reset your sugars, give your organs a rest, and you will LOVE getting a good night’s sleep…
2. 3 days of exercise a week…period! Golf with a cart, tennis doubles, and walking while talking on your cell phone don’t count! The heat has broken, kids are back at school, and you need to get moving. Feel free to do more! And don’t forget strength work and stretching.
3. 3 nights a week you WILL COOK DINNER…find your oven! Need a new recipe? Ask me…You can put balsamic marinated chicken, diced sweet potatoes, and sliced zucchini in the oven at 400 degrees for 20-30 minutes and dinner is done! Can you have the leftovers for lunch the next day? Put the chicken in a gluten free wrap with hummus and avocado slices. Bypass the deli sandwiches…
4. 3 nights a week, go to bed before 11:00–and put your phone away at least 30 minutes before that…you’re tired. Trust me! It was a long summer…
5. 3 days a week, meditate for just 5-10 minutes. Please don’t groan–you don’t need incense or candles. Find an App on your phone, take a few moments to clear your head, and just be MINDFUL. You may find you enjoy it and begin to incorporate it in your daily routine.
Let me know how you do…welcome back!