If you’ve dropped by this blog before, you may have noticed that I love animals. I’ve featured dogs, more dogs and even goats. 2020 has given me a deeper appreciation for my pets and all of the comfort they bring, even in the toughest of times. Research finds that four-legged friends can lower levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”) as…
With so many things beyond our control and an endless news cycle that takes an emotional toll, it’s important now more than ever to find comfort in familiar favorites. Whether it’s a brisk walk through the leaves with a friend or the warm aroma of a pumpkin-spiced treat, fall brings us simple reminders to stop, breathe and savor. Take a…
After being apart for nearly a year, I’m excited to finally visit my sister and celebrate her birthday. As we anxiously plan for the safest way to celebrate, my mind is filled with questions like, should we hug? Will other people around? Will everyone respect the six-feet-apart rule? I don’t want my constant swirl of thoughts to overshadow the happiness…
After a long hiatus, it feels good to be back writing Wellness Wednesday. But I have to admit that it also feels, for lack of a better way to put it, a little weird. Normally, I’m eager to share tips for adding more vegetables or finding fun ways to get active, but I find myself struggling with what to say…
Wellness Wednesday is heading south this week for sunny skies and warmer(ish) temps. I’ll be back with a new post on Wednesday, March 11. Feel free to catch up on a few of my favorite posts in the meantime, and have a happy and healthy week! Watching Your Weight? Focus on These Considering Keto? 5 Things to Know…
Last week, we were excited to fire up members for their 2020 health goals with help from speaker and wellness coach Becky Allen. Hundreds of TOPS members joined us via webinar as Becky shared how to make healthy goals that last with the 5 P’s: Purpose, Plan, Perspective, Praise and People. This Wellness Wednesday, we’re switching things up a bit.…
Whether or not you’re a fan of making a New Year’s resolution, it’s never a bad idea to look at January as a fresh start and another opportunity for growth and change. If you’re a little tired of the same old resolution that may or may not stick, don’t be afraid to get creative and try one of the following…
There’s been a lot of buzz about non-scale victories lately and for good reason. Broadening your focus beyond what the scale reads is one way to stay motivated on your journey. Think about your last frustrating face-off with the scale. Did it leave you feeling empowered or defeated? While this number can motivate us to work harder, it may also…
Wellness Wednesday is taking a little break to recharge and gear up for more awesome content for the holidays and beyond! Check back here on November 20 for a brand-new post. In the meantime, catch up on past blogs, including the Low FODMAP Diet, 3 Ways to Power Up with Cauliflower and How to Navigate 3 Holiday Eating Situations. And…