Small Changes

Small Changes to Help Achieve Wellness

Wellness is a healthy balance of body, mind and spirit. And there are simple things you can do for yourself that can provide a powerful payback. Try a new approach and focus on small changes that can help you reach long-term success.

• Look for uncomplicated wellness. Drinking milk is like drinking wellness by the glass and is one of the simplest things you can do every day and feel good about. While companies have tried to duplicate milk’s benefits in manufactured, new-age beverages, none are as wholesome and naturally nutritious as milk.

• Walk, don’t drive. Walk to places that are close to home instead of driving, or park farther away from store entrances. Not only will you get some fresh air and exercise, but you’ll have a few extra minutes to clear your mind.

• Get the most nutrition bang for your calorie buck. This is particularly important when it comes to beverages, as it’s as simple as bypassing the sugary sodas and reaching for nutrient-rich lowfat or fat free milk instead.

• Double duty meals. Bring leftovers to work for lunch instead of buying it. Not only is brown- bagging potentially a more healthy option—but it will save you time and money too.

• Switch your thirst-aid. Make the most of your workouts. After working out, reach for a glass of lowfat chocolate milk to refuel your tired muscles. Milk has the added bonus of providing nutrients not found in most traditional sports drinks, like calcium, vitamin D and protein - plus, it tastes fantastic!

• Strive for homemade. Make the majority of your meals at home, this will help you achieve a balanced diet. You can choose your ingredients and have more control over portion size. As little as 100 calories can make a big difference in your daily diet. One hundred calories is the equivalent of two-thirds of a can of soda, or swapping out mayo for mustard. You can make the most of your calories by opting for nutrient-rich foods and drinks.

• Gooooaaal! Set milestones for yourself. Once the milestones are achieved, reward yourself for doing so. It can motivate you to make more of these goals. After you start making a few more changes, continue looking for more changes that fit into your lifestyle.

• Breathe. Take time for yourself, even 10 minutes each day can help you clear your mind and keep you on the road to success. Try to set time aside for lunch each day or avoid checking your blackberry during your commute home.

• Rise and dine. Don’t skip breakfast to cut calories or time. Studies show that people who eat breakfast are most likely to maintain a healthy weight.

• Don’t sweat it! If you find yourself slipping back into old routines, don’t be hard on yourself. Take one day at a time and focus on the positives to achieve your goals.