Mariposa Kisses (aka Dianne's Blog)

Find balance. Here are five simple tasks that will revolutionize your life. As you implement these measures into your daily routine, you will begin to feel more healthy and peaceful. Likewise, you will gain control of your life as you make good choices and reduce your stress.

Slow down. Take ten minutes each morning to pray or to meditate. Don't think about your to-do list. Instead, take some time out to relax and to think positively. This could include a series of short stretches or some reading from a spiritual text. I enjoy reading through a couple of Psalms from the Bible to get my heart focused on thankfulness and on my many blessings. You could even look online for a variety of resources and read this encouraging info from your cell phone.

Eat healthily. By choosing nutritious meals and snacks, your body and mind will feel more energized and balanced as well. Remember to eat plenty of fruits and veggies, and portioned amounts of grains and proteins so that your body gets what it needs throughout the entire day. If you don't love veggies, try going for a fruit of the same color for a similar vitamin content. For example, if you don't really love carrots, then try a cantaloupe instead. If you can't eat broccoli without gagging, then slice a kiwi or two. Especially during these last few hot months, it's important to keep drinking lots of fluids as well.

Get plenty of rest. This of course means 6-8 hours of sleep, but also some down-time during the middle of the day. The Europeans have got us beat when it comes to knowing when to take a break. The Spaniard's mid-day siesta is so smart. By taking a break or the occasional nap in the middle of the day, it allows your mind and body to catch up so that you can finish strong for the rest of the day. For those who love to get up and about, you could take a five to ten minute walk around the block during the late morning or early afternoon. When lunchtime comes around, it's a good time to actually take a lunch break, so your brain gets a little break as well.

Get your heart pumping. Exercise at least three to four times per week. You could go on an hour-long walk after work or ride your stationary bike while watching your favorite TV show after dinner. The kids would love a trip to the park to run around the field with the soccer ball in tow. You could also opt for a step or kick-boxing class at the gym. A fit body is a balanced body. If you find the right weight and muscle tone for your body, you will feel great. It will also help to regulate your digestive tract and will provide good emotional health as well.

Hang out with friends. If you incorporate time to chill out with good friends during the week, your life will feel more metered as well. You have a ton on your plate at work and at home, but somehow it doesn't feel so crazy when you share a glass of wine or a tasty dessert with a caring friend. If you don't have any friends, then make some. Ask a fellow mom if she'd like to go walking with you after the drop-off at school. If you keep on bumping into the same gal at work in the lunch-room, then invite her to check out the new pita joint with you. Friends help you to have a healthier perspective on life. Give it a try!

Labels: health, parents