Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

Monday, March 7, 2016

Water Aerobics

This is another new-to-me activity I've been doing. As a participant in the Moving Mountains town challenge I got free access for 5 visits to my local pool so another friend and I decided to try it together. There is 3 different evening classes and they are all a bit different.
I was at Costco recently and found bathing suits for $20! Double bonus! Now that I've used my 5 free visits they also make a heck of deal to join until the challenge is over in May. Although I need to start running more, I'd like to keep this up for awhile.

Have you tried water aerobics?

Monday, December 28, 2015

Ready to Jump Start my New Year

There's a reason I haven't been posting- I haven't been doing well exercising or eating. I got very sick after returning from Bolivia the beginning of November and fell off the health wagon completely after Thanksgiving. Enough is enough. I feel lousy and will need to start training again, so this is where I start.
I am going to have a few tough days getting the crap out of my system, but I'm determined to do it. I'm starting today.
My goal:
Drink 64oz  water
Have no sugar or foods with added sugar.
No processed foods.
No alcohol

Anybody want to join me? Or jump in with your own plan?

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Food Comparison Tool


This week I was wondering which greens I use in my smoothie were actually better for me and I came across this great site!

You can see above I compared, chard, spinach and kale, 100grams (about 1 cup) raw.

It was very detailed and if you'd like to see the rest of these compared go HERE.

If you want to compare your own foods click HERE for the home page.

Lot of good information at our fingertips.



Friday, January 16, 2015

Buycott

I've been using a new app this week that I like. It helps you learn about the social impact of products you are buying. 



Choose what is important to you. (they are all important!) 


I'm saying NO to GMO's. (Oregon narrowly lost a ballet measure this past fall on the labeling of GMO's)  Join the "campaign" of your choice, then start scanning bar codes of your favorites and see if you want to continue to support them!

I'm trying out many new brands this week because I'm letting my dollar speak for me.

Monday, September 22, 2014

The Center of Oregon


We passed the center of Oregon heading to a high lake for camping and fishing.

13 miles of up, up, up. The view is amazing!

Love the old juniper trees.

The lake was in horrible condition with a lot of dead fish. Ew.... no thanks! We camped and the quiet was AMAZING. The stars were plentiful and beautiful. 

We left and went to another lake.
 We were back in the high desert and it was 85+ degrees. 

The rock formations are really awesome.


The fishing was lousy, but I remembered how to drive the boat. 

It was very nice to get away and we are hoping for one or two more weekends away.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

My Aching Back Update

It was January 15th 2013 I made THIS post with this same photo saying I'd finally seen the Dr for my back pain. I didn't know it at the time but I had degenerative arthritis and nothing could reverse the damage.
I thought now would be a great time to give you an update. It has taken a year of trial and error, but I have been feeling really great these past two months.

The first thing is the cold weather really does make it worse. I joined the gym in February and can't believe how nice it is to be warm while walking or running. Sometimes I would run 5 miles outside, come home and still be cold!

I've really started watching my intake of sugar (fake, real, or natural) and processed foods. I've upped my leafy green vegetable intake and  try to have several choices of veggies at dinnertime.

I've kept moving. I'm walking. I'm running, I'm using weights or my own body weight as resistance to build muscles.
It's true: A body in motion will stay in motion, while a body at rest will remain at rest. You can't argue with Sir Isaac Newton. 

I'm still playing around with vitamins and supplements but haven't pinpointed anything for certain. 

It's taken a while and I don't imagine I'll always feel this good, but it is in my control and I'm glad I've taken the helm!

Thank you to those who have encouraged me and given me book recommendation and tips! 


Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Hands Down- Best Book

I finished reading this and it is by far the best food book I've read. Some books tell you things to scare you; I didn't feel like that at all with this book. The facts, sometimes more scientific than my brain could get around, were laid out.
Did you know that you can get a degree in Food Science and become a food scientist? As long as people demand convenient and fast food we will continue to make it available. I'd prefer to read labels and eat as much real food as possible.

Here's a few quotes from the book that stuck with me.

"Just because it is edible doesn't mean it is good for you."

"And just because something is low in calories, this doesn't mean it is healthy, just as taking out artificial ingredients, while commendable, doesn't make a food good for us, only less bad."

From a TV ad about easy, convenient food: "Just sit at home and chew. I do love the leisure life."


I'm reading labels more closely then ever these days. Are you a label reader?





Monday, January 6, 2014

Pandora's Lunchbox

You can usually find me reading novels,  quilt magazines, or diet books. (I like to read diet books so I am familiar with them and can hold a conversion about it,  if need be, not because I go on every diet)

I'm immersed in this right now and it is so good!
"Pandora's Lunchbox; How Processed Food took over the American Meal"

I'm finding it fascinating as to why we started processing our food and how long we've been doing it.

I really like her definition of processed and am going to use it as my own.

"A processed food is something that could not be made, with the same ingredients, in a home kitchen."

Makes sense to me.

I highly recommend this book if you want to know more about the foods we eat. (or are trying NOT to eat)


Friday, November 15, 2013

Plagued With an Injury

I'm still trying to run after the marathon on October 6.  It is very frustrating. Other than super tired legs and hurt calves from a crappy skydive landing, I have not had a chronic injury due to running, until now. (which I feel so thankful for!)
I zipped into the physical therapist office and talked to them about what was going on with the outside of my knee, which they determined was my ITB. It  really started hurting the last 3 miles of the marathon and I haven't been able to run more than 1.5 since then. (walking and hiking seems fine, so I've been doing that for now)
I decided I have to be vigilant about stretching and taking care of it if I want to run at all this winter or be ready for any spring races. See how it is attached to your hip? It was an eye opener for me to see how I need to be stretching my hips as well!
First course of action- foam rolling! I've never been coordinated and am having a hard time rolling from my knee up to my hip. The YouTube videos make it look so easy!



I bought the stick this past summer and have resorted to using it on my ITB. I've been doing a lot of stretching as well. I hope it has been working cause it has been more sore since I started this routine.

I am really trying to enjoy the slower pace of walking. I have to admit, it has been tough.

Anybody besides Juliann jumping in on the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge? It isn't only for people who are already active and fit. Make a plan to end 2013 in a healthy way!!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Let Me Introduce You

To Delores...



She is in my arthritis exercise class at the hospital in Bend. She is so friendly. She says I'm the youngin' and she's the oldin'. She had surgery on her ankle but is coming to class and doing everything she can to stay active. She even gets the mat and gets on the floor! Taking care of yourself now is the key to being a healthy 79 year old. I told her I want to be just like her when I grow up!

On another note. I'm trying to "claim" this blog for Bloglovin and they want me to insert this into a post. Ugh! I guess they can't tell it is on my sidebar.

As we count down the remaining weeks of Google Reader feel free to subscribe. Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Friday, April 5, 2013

Day 5 Detox

What I'd really like is happy hour with a little glass of wine. Instead I'll have virgin tomato juice and celery.
Today is day 5 and I've done really well with my processed foods and sugar detox. I can't say I'm feeling that great physically, but mentally I'm feeling good. (yesterday not so much, but I made it!)

April is my last whole month of being 50 so I'm trying to make the best of every day. Not very many people read this blog, so I don't mind spilling the beans here.  I've made an appointment to SKYDIVE! It was supposed to be this Sunday but the weather took a turn for the worse, so I'll try every weekend until we get a good weekend day. I never had a desire to do it but the celebrations this year have culminated in my need to finish off my jubilee year in a big way!
I've got a long run planned for tomorrow and I'm hoping to get to it before the rain comes.

Have a lovely weekend no matter what you do.
Lori

Sunday, March 31, 2013

7 Day Sugar Detox

A few months ago I challenged myself to a sugar detox. It worked and I felt pretty good, although it was very hard the first few days. 
Lately I've been under a bit of stress and find myself reaching for food that hasn't tempted me in some time.
 

Juliann suggested we join this sugar and processed food detox challenge for one week starting tomorrow.  We both agreed it was good timing and we are IN!

Will you be challenged as well?
Go here if you want to see the rules and get some help.

Monday, March 25, 2013

Hungry for Change

This past  week I watched a movie called Hungry for Change.
My friend Kathy let me know there is a free screening you can watch online! I used Netflix streaming, which may work better for you.
It gets a little extreme, but what they say about our society and its addiction to sugar and processed foods is so true.

They are having good videos online from health experts. I'd say it is worth checking out.


Monday, December 31, 2012

The Skinny Rules

Continuing on Bob Harper's Skinny Rules:



 Rule 4: Reduce refined flour and grain

 Refined grains include white flour, white rice, white bread and degermed cornflower. Many breads, cereals, crackers, desserts and pastries are made with refined grains, too.

When you eat grains make them as close to their natural state as possible. Here are some healthy grains to try:Amaranth - woodsy flavor, texture similar to cornmeal
Barley - pearled or unhulled is best, excellent in stews, soups, & casseroles
Buckwheat - available whole and cracked, robust - earthy flavor
Bulgur - no cooking necessary, need only be soaked in boiling water or broth and covered
Couscous - same as bulgar, no cooking necessary, texture like a tiny pasta
Kamut - rich and buttery flavor, chewy in texture, relative of wheat
Millet - easily digested grain, small and yellow bead-like grain
Oats - great for hot cereal or favorite baked goods, good source of soluble fiber
Quinoa - delicate flavor, light texture, and easy to digest
Rice (brown, basmati, wild etc.) - long grain cooks up dry and fluffy and good in pilafs, short grain is more tender
and sticky and is good as breakfast cereals and in casseroles
Wheat - good source of insoluble fiber

Bob says in good pasta there should only be two ingredients- one of them being whole wheat duram.

Rule 5- Get 30-50 g of fiber daily

Bob's go-to bread is Ezekiel, which has 3.5g fiber per serving.
Other good sources of fiber include:
fruit
veggies
kidney beans
oatmeal
whole grain pasta

Rule 6- Eat apples and/or berries every day.

I guess the ole saying an apple a day keeps the doctor away is still good advice.



Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Physique Rating- Obese!

If you've been reading my blog long you know I joined the Community Cardio Challenge 7 weeks ago. I do live in a predominately high overweight community so this is a good thing. I was a Weight Watcher leader in my community for a little shy of 10 years and have always had to watch my weight but I do what I can to encourage others.

Here's my before- "standard"- and after the 7 week challenge- obese! I lost three pounds and am trying to take it all in stride, but it is so annoying and discouraging! I know there is only so much a fancy Tanita scale can tell you. (This one belongs to the hospital)
I'd like to let Tanita know I've literally been working my butt off, I can fit into pants that I haven't worn in some time and I don't plan on it knocking me down. I'll just remember this for the next time. No Tanita, there will NOT be a next time! I'm breaking up with you permanently!

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Holiday Action Plan

So, I've strategized about my trouble areas- hopefully you have too.

Here's my plan for the next 47 days:

I've got three, (yes 3!) races planned to do between now and December 1st.  I love having a goal, a marker, to look forward to.

I plan on always having plenty of fruits and veggies in the house for when I feel like I need a snack. Generally I do not keep junk food in the house, but I know hubby will be picking up things here and there to keep in the cupboards. That can be a big trouble area for me. 

I want to always have a big salald made and in the fridge ready to eat. I also want to make sure I add plenty of protein to my meals to ward off hunger.

I'm reading the Skinny Rules by Bob Harper. I am hoping to incorporate some everyday "rules" into my life to help me lead a healthier lifestyle.

Yep! 47 days till 2013! Woo-Hoo!!!

Monday, November 12, 2012

Give Yourself the Gift of Health

Taking a little time for yourself with the holidays coming makes good sense! It is my firm belief we can't care and nurture others unless we care and nurture ourselves.
I've taken some time this weekend to make an accountability plan for myself.
When January 1st rolls around I don't want to be making a resolution to "take the weight off." My plan is to keep it off from now until 2013. (and forever as far as that goes!)


How will I handle holiday parties and all the goodies that I may be surrounded by?

One good thing? I don't go to many parties. But when I do, I will limit any alcohol to 1 glass of wine. I'm not a big drinker anyway, but somehow it makes my resolve much weaker when the dessert tray shows up! I will not allow myself to get famished by not eating all day to "save up" for a lovely meal. I will limit my sweet treats to seasonal goodies that I may only get this one time of the year. If I am attending a potluck I will bring something healthy so that I know I will have at least one thing to eat that is a good choice.

How will I continue to run when the weather outside is horrible?
How will I handle stress caused by holiday shopping, time constraints, and the ever growing to-do lists?

Geez, this is already getting long.  I'll handle the next two of my trouble areas in two more posts.

Do you have any great party strategies that you'd like to share? I'd love to hear them!!

Monday, November 5, 2012

Yoga- I tried it!

Always eager to try something new, last Thursday was my first ever yoga class. I know there is different types of yoga; the one I attended was Bikram Yoga, which means hotter then the Bahamas in August! lol My knees were sweating and it was 90 minutes long.
Now that I've had the weekend to absorb it and get my thoughts around it- the jury is still out! lol

What I liked: 
friendly, accepting atmosphere
competent teacher
the hot room

What I didn't like:
I was exhausted the next day, completely empty
the hot room
leaving the building drenched from head to toe
The ache where my legs attach to my body for two days after.


I did a little research online to see how my running could benefit from yoga and it looks like there aren't really any studies done, but more personal experience stories.

I've got a few things coming up this month and December so I may try this style of yoga for the month of January.
If you have any experience with yoga I'd love to hear it!


Friday, August 3, 2012

Would You Rather??

 Would you rather enjoy this view?
 Or this view?
 Or walk next to the pretty wildflowers?
Or sit in a waiting room while your car is being serviced?

Take every opportunity to get out and enjoy LIFE!

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Carbs! Protein! Fat! Oh My!

I am using My Fitness Pal app on my phone and really love it. Here's a pie chart breaking down my carbs, protein and fat for the week.


Oops, doesn't seem to be enough protein in that week so I've tried to increase that.



That's a little better.... looks like my fat increased too..booo

My protein is better. hmmm, carbs back up... 

 This is making me cross-eyed and crazy! I think I'll just make sure I eat healthy, wholesome food with an emphasis on whole grains and plenty of fruits and vegetables!!