subject: Wanting A Healthy Change? Start With Simple Steps [print this page] How could an overworked, over stressed and overweight Mom turn into a Health Coach called "The Nutrition Mom?" By making one simple, achievable step at a time. Those steps are now leading me down a path that I want to widen as I bring more friends, more Moms and more families with me. It is time to wake-up, look around, learn more and make some changes.
Are you going to change overnight? Of course not. Years after my first steps, I am still evolving and learning more every day. I don't have to tell you the effects that the Standard American Diet (SAD) is having on our society - you know. I don't have to lay out the details of how our fast food nation is affecting our children - you know. As a whole, America is not headed in the right direction, but you can change your direction and the direction for your children.
What you may need to know is how to make positive changes. How to make the time to make the right decisions. How to incorporate the things you read about into your daily routine and how to avoid the drive-thru when there is no time to cook dinner in-between work and soccer practice.
Here are 4 simple steps to get you started.
Plan Ahead- This is #1. What does it mean to you? Depends on your weaknesses. Pay attention and start to identify them. When are bad decisions made? Would cooking extra meals on the weekend help you on the busy days of the week? Would having fruits and veggies washed, cut-up and available make healthy snacking easier? Would having a scheduled day once a week for food shopping ensure that you always had enough food in the house so that you did not need to run and grab a bite to eat? From having lunches made the night before to not having junk food in the house, there are dozens of ways to make healthy choices easier. Find what works best for you and your family.
Set an Example - To yourself, to your family, to your friends. Be the change. Do you need to be perfect? Whoa - No one can live with that pressure. How about doing your best to make healthy decisions that make you proud? Ahhh - that feeling of accomplishment. Mentally and physically you are going to feel so much better. Who will you influence - maybe your lunch group at work, maybe your spouse and maybe your children? It's all good.
Move More - Think about your day. Does it go something like this: Sit in the car, Sit at a desk, Sit in the car, Sit on the couch? I think that's pretty typical. No time for the gym? No worries. Movement should not be a chore. Make it fun. Bike ride with the family. Hike a nature trial. Throw a ball. Go dancing. Not only will this reduce your stress, but it will strengthen connections with your kids, spouse and friends.
Slow Down - Did I just write about moving more and now I'm saying slow down? Yep - I am. Look at your schedule. Look at your kid's schedules. Are your volunteer hours limiting your family hours? Would your children benefit more from another dance class or soccer game or from being with you? Maybe you could climb a tree together or pick a new recipe to create. There is no need to rush through your day, running from one thing to another. Just breathe. Slow down. Be appreciative. Have some quiet time. Enjoy yourself and enjoy one another without having to look at the clock to stay on schedule. Life is good. Take time to enjoy it.
The Nutrition Mom was founded by Stephanie Merchant. Stephanie's goal is to help busy Moms by focusing on simple steps to good nutrition, a healthier life, and a more connected family. You can find more information on her website http://TheNutritionMom.net.
