Chances are, you’ve heard of the phrase “honeymoon period” when it comes to relationships. This is the period at the beginning of a relationship when feelings of love and happiness are running high and not a thing in the world can bring you down. That’s kind of how I feel about New Year’s resolutions. In a way, they’re the “honeymoons”…
We all get the same 24 hours in a day. Yet it seems many of us pride ourselves on cramming as much as we possibly can into these 24 hours, often at the expense of sleep. When we factor in working, maintaining a family life, keeping in touch with friends, running errands, and pursuing our hobbies, interests and favorite activities,…
Balanced nutrition is important all year long, but should take center stage in the winter months when germs, colds, and flus abound. According to Registered Dietitian and nutrition expert for TOPS, Dena McDowell, the following 6 foods can help you stay healthy this winter. Fish: Choosing fatty fish such as tuna, mackerel, sardines and salmon will help increase your intake…
While at my workout class the other day, one of the exercises was to use a rowing machine for as long as it took to burn 50 calories. After rowing and huffing and puffing for what seemed like forever (OK, it was only about 4-5 minutes, but still) I thought to myself, “It takes this much effort to burn 50…
Halloween is next week and that means the other holidays are right around the corner. This can present a challenge for those trying to stay on track with healthy goals. Fortunately, holiday treats and dishes don’t have to be loaded with calories, fat and sugar. Sometimes, all it takes is a little dose of creativity to make healthier options seem…
Lately, I’ve learned to love an exercise program that leaves me with blisters on my hands, soreness in muscles I didn’t know existed, and even the occasional bruise. It may sound strange, but I’ve learned to look at these minor ailments as proof that I’m improving every day. At my very first class, I remember loud music, barbells slamming on…
Do the words “healthy eating” bum you out or bring to mind visions of foods you’re not even sure if your dog would eat? Healthy eating can seem so boring and “blah,” but it can actually be a great excuse to try new things and keep your journey to weight loss and wellness fun. Healthy eating and fun? Hear me…
I recently flew to Las Vegas to escape the chill of Wisconsin for a bit. Before I left, I announced to my workplace TOPS chapter that my goal was to not gain any weight while on vacation. Our weekly meetings include a weigh-in and I wanted to make sure that I could face the scale with confidence when I returned.…
Do you feel stressed? Does this question seem as annoying as stress itself? If you answered “yes” to one (or both) of these questions, take a minute out of your busy day to read on. April is Stress Awareness Month and the perfect time to address this seemingly ever-present issue. Chronic stress does a body bad, but you may not…