The holidays are a wonderful time to unwind 
with family, enjoy life and indulge. If all of the rich food and drink has you feeling a bit bogged down, try some of these restorative tips put together by the team at Recipe for Success. You'll feel refreshed, detoxified and clear-headed--ready to take on 2010!
with family, enjoy life and indulge. If all of the rich food and drink has you feeling a bit bogged down, try some of these restorative tips put together by the team at Recipe for Success. You'll feel refreshed, detoxified and clear-headed--ready to take on 2010!
- Hydrate! Drink as much water as you can to flush any toxins out of your system. Start your day with a tall glass of warm water with lemon to get your 'juices' flowing. Drink throughout the day to prevent false hunger pangs.
- Move! Exercise a little every day and try to sweat at least 3-4 times a week. On days when you are not pushing yourself, take walks or do some stretches or yoga. Getting your heart rate up will move toxins out of your bloodstream and invigorate you.
- Sleep as much as you can--a tired body will be difficult to balance. Most people feel best after 7-8 hours of rest.
- Cut out the culprits: you don't have to give up alcohol, caffeine and sugar forever, but you might consider giving your body a bit of a break. Try cutting them out for a week or two or switch to healthier options like red wine, green tea or agave.
- Eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible. Put fresh, organic produce at the center of every meal. Aim for at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
- Support local growers by shopping at farmer's markets: eating locally will give you access to some of the freshest food and will help support your community.
- Cut out 'white' foods as much as possible: eat only whole grains like quinoa, oats, millet, buckwheat and spelt.
- Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are 80 % full: this leaves the body critical room to digest and will make processing food easier. Also, wait until one meal is digested before eating the next--it takes about 4 hours for your body to fully process its food.
- Set realistic goals: if you are interested in losing weight, do it in specific increments. First aim for a pound or two, then a pound or two more. Don't set yourself up for frustration by resolving to lose 20 pounds. Make a timeframe, mark your calendar and stick to it.
- Volunteer! Getting out in the community will make you feel fulfilled and renewed. Come help us change the way children understand, appreciate and eat their food. Visit www.recipeforsuccess.org.
