Healthy Chicks

When I first began my personal path to wellness, I would often focus on the little things because I know just as much as the next girl that those BIG things can seem rather intimidating at times. You may often hear me say on this blog that healthy living is a lifestyle, not a quick overnight fix and I stand by this statement 100%.

You see, as women, we often strive for perfection try to be better. We push ourselves to be skinnier, prettier, more fit, more generous, a better mom, a better friend, etc. The list goes on and on. However, sometimes it’s better to just take a pause on the judgement for a second, and be the best we can be.

In order to do this, I recommend my clients (and readers) to create small, attainable goals for themselves and build from there. I didn’t start eating kale salads and running half marathons overnight. No, it took time, trial-and-error and patience. But you know what? I did it. And so can you. Because you know what? Those seemingly small changes are what lead to big, long-lasting results.

Here are some small changes you can add into your lifestyle for a healthier you:

1. If you are new to running, try two-minute intervals next time you are walking around the block, or perhaps consider signing up for a fun 5K this fall. After that, consider a relay race with your friends, a 10 K or even a half marathon. And there is no shame in walking these races either! It’s the fact that you are out there doing it in the first place that shows courage.

2. Fill up a large, eco-friendly water bottle and aim to drink the entire bottle at work. Then aim for 2, or 3…You get the picture.

3. Take part in Meatless Monday once a week by eating healthy, vegetarian meals for the day

4. Trade in one night of take out for a home cooked meal with your family.

5. Eat breakfast. Every day for the entire week.

6. Cut out artificial sweeteners and use the real thing like honey, agave, or raw sugar

7. Take a new class at a local fitness center like yoga, spinning or even Zumba!

8. Practice positive body image affirmations. What do you love about yourself today?

9. Skip store-bought salad dressing, and prepare your own with olive oil, vinegar (I love apple cider), garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper and fresh herbs

10. Take a few moments out of your day to just breathe. Not only will this help you reduce stress, but it can help you clear your mind and “unplug” for a bit.

11. Go outside! Get up from your desk and take a stroll on your lunch break, walk when you normally drive, go apple picking. Try to enjoy all the little things nature has to offer.

12. Hit up a farmer’s market to purchase fresh, organic, local produce for the week. Discover local food near you at FarmersMarket.com.

13. Make healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods, like this Healthy Macaroni and Cheese recipe from Martha Stewart. Hint: use whole wheat or brown rice pasta for added health benefits.

What are some little changes you can make to live a healthier lifestyle?

Note: I have partnered with Harvard Pilgrim on this sponsored post but as always, the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. You can find more ways to be well at HarvardPilgrim.org/CountUsIn.