A few years ago, I was watching a popular morning show on one of the major networks. Tim Larkin, author of “Surviving the Unthinkable” was demonstrating self-defense techniques and promoting his book.
Watching the show ignited two things inside me. Fear and envy.
I ordered the book immediately.
Every few months, I pick it up and read it again. I don’t want to be one of the many women who’ve joined the “Me Too” movement. I prefer to create a new movement.
“Not Me”
By protecting myself. And creating the kind of power and income to protect myself from as many horrible things as possible.
Like debt, stress, limited choices, narcissists, stalkers, becoming a victim and envy.
Why was I envious?
I have always wanted to be a published author. Not sure why exactly. Maybe because I love to write. Or because I’ve always been a bookworm.
I was a little envious of the man on television promoting his book. Not because he was on television. I’ve been on TV. Not that big a deal.
Because he was a “published author.”
This might not mean much to you. But to me? At one time I wanted to be a writer and a journalist. I was shot down by an English teacher, who told me “You’re a bad writer.” He wasn’t even an English teacher. He was an unemployed substitute, taking the place of my real English teacher, while on a leave of absence.
My dreams were crushed. Yet another way, we can become victimized.
It was a big deal to me.
I finally did it. I wrote, published and sold my first book within a couple of weeks.
Once I set my mind to it and set a goal.
Like Tim Larkin, I have knowledge about something people want. And Need. To lose weight, feel great and live a happier and healthier life.
You do too.
We all have a superpower.
You have a superpower. Something that you can teach others. Writing a book is one of the best way to reach millions of people who need what you can teach.
Who can benefit from your knowledge and experience.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Too many people die without achieving their dreams.
Don’t say “Me Too.” Say Not Me.
Download your FREE checklist to start writing your book now.
Have you ever looked in your medicine cabinet and thought “this is where eye creams come to die?”
I have. And it isn’t pretty.
I’m not sure when my obsession with ant-aging creams began. Even though people are always surprised by how young I look – for my age.
Is that even a compliment?
Over the years I have tried at least a dozen different eye creams. Everything from the most expensive brands to drug store over the counter creams.
Spending hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars hoping the answer lies somewhere within one of the many half empty bottles.
There is no way of knowing how many bottles I have gone through.
Or how much money I have spent. If you’re counting face wash, face moisturizers, face masks, anti-wrinkle pads and crazy roller things. You know that thing you roll on your face. That feels like tiny little pin pricks. It supposedly helps the moisturizer sink deeper into your skin.
It took me a while to realize that the answer does not lie in a jar. Or a bottle. Or a tube.
Don’t get me wrong, there are many great moisturizers and face products you can use. Every person is different and different products work differently for everyone.
I honestly don’t think it makes that much of a difference which brand you use. As long as you moisturize and stay hydrated.
The answers may not come from a jar. Or lie in the most expensive skin creams.
However, there are actionable steps you can take today that can make you look up to 10 years younger.
Since people claim that I do.
Look at least 10 years younger than my age that is. I figured I would share what I’m doing to stay youthful, vibrant, full of energy and young looking.
In the following chapters you will discover how you too, can look up to 10 years younger.
The Ketogenic diet commonly known as Keto, is a low carbohydrate high-fat diet used for rapid weight loss. Success stories of weight loss are growing in numbers. With people toting all over social media about their weight loss success. The diet is spreading rapidly as one of the hottest weight loss trends.
The diet creates a low blood sugar effect which puts your body into a state of ketosis. This causes the body to burn excess fat quickly. Although it is recognized for weigh loss success, the diet consists of mostly fat and very little protein which causes some concern.
The Ketogenic diet was developed in 1924 by Dr. Russell Wilder at the mayo clinic. It was originally developed to help treat children with epilepsy. It has since been widely used by doctors and patients as a treatment for epilepsy. Although Dr. Wilder is recognized for coining the phrase Ketogenic, the diet may have been around longer. His studies were based on fasting and similar diets used to treat epilepsy since as early as 500 BC.
It’s not clear exactly when Keto became a popular weight loss trend. However, as with most diets, there are already many cases where the weight is gained back after going off the diet.
The positive effects of the Ketogenic diet are rapid and significant weight loss. Making it appealing to those wishing to lose weight. However, there are drawbacks. Negative side effects have been reported as low energy, constipation and dangerously low blood sugar levels from the lack of carbohydrates. The biggest negative effect is weight gain after going off the diet.
Often times you gain even more weight back. Yet, remaining on the diet can be equally dangerous. The high fat food you consume while on the diet can put you at risk for stroke, heart disease and heart attacks.
A healthy lifestyle change with increased exercise and eating a well balanced diet is a safer way to lose weight and keep the weight off for longevity.
Making healthy lifestyle choices has always been and will always be the safest and healthiest way to lose weight. And keep it off for good. Eating a well balanced diet filled with vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes and lean protein is not only safe but effective.
One of the downfalls of any diet is not incorporating a healthy exercise routine into your weight loss plan. Exercise is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Whether you are trying to lose weight or not. It relieves stress, keeps your metabolism going giving you energy, it burns calories and releases endorphins that make you feel good. It also increases your stamina. For more productivity, better sex and happiness.
To learn more about weight loss and healthy lifestyle choices watch this video: Vital to Your Weight Loss Success
This post may include affiliate links. Which means I may earn some money if you click on one. This does not affect your price. Please see my disclosure for more information.
Are you ready to crush your weight loss goals?
Exercise and healthy eating are the a big part of reaching your goals. Old school methods that have worked for decades. The methods I teach in “Zipping It Up: How to lose 5 pounds fast and look great in that little black dress!”
Methods like:
*Drinking lots of water
*Squeezing in exercise to burn extra calories
*Eating your vegetables
*Reducing carbs and sugar
These things are all essential to living a healthy lifestyle. But there is one thing that is vital to your success.
This one thing can work wonders for your weight loss success.
It is so potent that it can also work wonders for everything in your life.
Including changing your career, relationships, financial freedom, finally publishing your first book, or anything else you are trying to achieve in life.
Discover the one vital thing that can help you succeed in everything you do. Watch the video now:
https://youtu.be/mqbdmIku7LY
Discover more ways to lose weight fast here.
Is it possible to eat dessert and indulge on vacation without gaining weight? Yes! Discover how to dine at the best restaurants and enjoy your vacation without getting post-vacation tummy bulge.
A few weeks ago I traveled to Washington, DC to visit the White House at Christmas time. A good friend of mine won two tickets to see the beautiful Christmas décor. She asked me to join her on the tour and I couldn’t resist the offer. I couldn’t wait to see the beautifully decorated home of the President and First Lady of the United States at Christmas time.
After shopping around for airline tickets, I decided to drive. It’s only about a 7 hour drive from where I live and I was looking forward to spending time alone. Getting lost in my thoughts and planning my business strategy for the upcoming new year.
I packed up the car with my laptop, luggage, healthy snacks, my jump rope and hand weights. And all of my favorite boots. The perks of driving. You can bring as many pairs of shoes as you want.
The trip was amazing. I spent time with friends in Virginia and went to see a light show. I walked around downtown DC and had a delicious lunch at a place I now call DC’s best kept secret. Café Soleil located at 839 Seventeenth Street NW. I enjoyed a triple berry kale salad topped with yogurt poppy seed dressing. For dessert I had the decadent homemade crème brulee.
The restaurant was only a short walk to the White House where we met for our tour. There was no wait for a table and the service was fantastic. The waiter even escorted me to an elevator to direct me to the private restrooms inside the adjoining hotel.
After a successful weekend of traveling and eating out I was able to make it through my quick vacay without gaining a pound. Even after the crème brulee.
Read on to see exactly how I did it. Below is a list of 10 ways you can stay healthy while traveling and indulge in delicious desserts without gaining a pound.
1. Pack healthy snacks. Whether you are flying or driving it’s always a great idea to bring healthy snacks. Cut up your favorite vegetables and put them in a disposable container. Or a reusable one. This way you can pack healthy snacks for your return. Easy to grab fruit like apples, bananas or grapes are small and easy to pack. Either in your carry on bag or a small cooler for the car. For protein bring nuts, granola bars, protein bars or trail mix.
2. Use every opportunity to walk. If you are traveling with friends or family, use their restroom breaks as an opportunity to get up and stretch or take a walk. Get out of the car every time you stop even if it’s for someone else. If you’re at the airport walk with them to the restroom or stand up and stretch every so often. Especially if it’s going to be a long flight.
3. Take the stairs. Whenever you have a choice between taking the stairs or an elevator, always opt for the stairs. After all you’re on vacation. What’s the rush? I once lost 5 pounds on a cruise ship just by taking the stairs. And still enjoyed all the delicious food served on the ship. It’s a great way to tone your legs, thighs and glutes.
4. Watch workout videos in your hotel room. You can find them on your laptop, iPad or phone. There are tons of free videos on YouTube. My favorite fitness YouTube channel is Blogilates with Cassey Ho. She has a great selection of short videos ranging from 5 to 10 minutes. Making it easy to squeeze in a quick workout. The important thing is to find something you like. So you will actually do it. Check out a few before you leave for vacation. This way you’ll have it planned out and will even look forward to doing them while on vacation.
5. Exercise in the car. Bring hand weights or a resistance band to work your arms and core while sitting. You can do bicep curls, shoulder presses and over the head tricep lifts depending on your vehicle. Get creative. Obviously, if you’re driving you should have both hands on the wheel. Squeeze in a few sets while making stops instead.
6. Bring a jump rope. Jumping rope is a great way to get the circulation going in your body. They are light and easy to carry. Even when flying. Do repetitions by your car at rest stops or find a quiet corner at the airport. Worried about what people might think? C’mon, you can’t tell me you haven’t seen stranger things at the airport. It’s also a great exercise to do inside your hotel room or on the balcony with the ocean breeze cooling you off.
7. Work your lower body while sitting. Try doing thigh squeezes and butt crunches while sitting in your car, on an airplane or at the airport. Don’t worry, no one can tell. If you’re worried about appearances, do Kegels instead. No one will ever notice and they are great for your core. Helping you get ready for your bikini and making vacation sex even better. Learn how to do Kegels here.
8. Make healthy eating choices. You can enjoy delicious dining and treats while on vacation and still eat healthy. If you are eating seafood, select something broiled instead of fried. Make sure your side of vegetables isn’t laden with butter. Fresh steamed vegetables taste better when they are plain. Order a small side salad instead of french fries. And go ahead have a little dessert. You deserve it with all the Kegels you’re doing!
9. Drink lots of water. Always bring water with you wherever you go. In the car. To the airport. You can bring an empty water bottle through the gates and fill it after you go through security. Or allow yourself time to stop and buy a bottle before getting on the plane. This way you won’t have to wait to hydrate while on the airplane.
10. Get your friends and family involved. Go for a walk in the airport while waiting for your plane. Take walks on the beach. Utilize the exercise center together or go swimming in the hotel pool. You will sleep better after getting much needed exercise. Making it easier to adjust to your hotel bed and vacation surroundings.
Throughout your vacation, make healthy choices. Burn as many calories as possible by walking whenever you can. Don’t skip your workouts. Unless you’ll be hiking, swimming or doing something that will exert a lot of energy. Enjoy treats in moderation and reward yourself for sticking to a healthy plan. Most importantly, relax and enjoy your vacation.
Ready to lose 5 pounds fast before your trip? Go here now: Learn more…
Shower your loved ones with gifts that keep on giving. Gifts that will keep them happy & healthy all year long. If you’re not sure what to give someone this year, check out a few healthy ideas. From luxury bath items to life changing ideas. Below I share 10 ideas for unique gifts that keep on giving.
Yoga is a common practice derived from a Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline. It is a combination of breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures. It is widely used for health, exercise and relaxation. There are many types of yoga and choosing the right one depends on your style and preference. Whichever style you choose, you can reap many benefits from adding the practice to your exercise routine.
Yoga improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina. Power yoga is my personal preference. It combines strength and meditation to build muscle, increase your heart rate and decrease stress.
Don’t let the headstands and pretzel-like twists scare you. Beginners can start slowly with easier poses that almost anyone can do. Yoga stretches help you improve balance and flexibility while working multiple muscle groups at once.
Yoga breathing can greatly improve your mental health and overall well being. Benefits include improvements in mental clarity and concentration, stress relief, and relaxation of the mind. They are very easy to do and help improve your focus and concentrate. You become more in tune with your entire body and your mind.
You can practice yoga breathing for relaxation. Sit or lie in a relaxed position. Inhale deeply through your nose as you feel your lungs and chest fill completely with air. Tighten your core while inhaling and exhaling. Release the air by exhaling slowly through the mouth. Feeling the air leave your body, while concentrating on your inner core. The breathing helps you concentrate as you feel the breath entering and slowly leaving your body.
Yoga is a form of exercise that can be used to maintain a healthy weight or lose unwanted weight. It is often practiced in a heated environment to increase metabolism and pulse rate. Which can help you lose weight quickly. Maintaining a healthy weight gives you more energy, helps you prevent illness and builds confidence. To make better decisions in life, better career choices and enjoy healthier relationships.
To get started practicing yoga today, all you need is a yoga mat and a little guidance. You can find a class near you, buy a yoga DVD or find free yoga videos on YouTube.
For more ways to get more balance in your life and build a strong hard core read How to Get Flat Abs Fast.
This post includes affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission if you click on a link. This does not affect your price. Please see my disclosure for more information.
One morning, I was walking to my car from the grocery store. I was feeling a little discouraged and sad about some challenges I am facing. As I was getting into my car, I heard a woman’s voice.
She said, “I was looking at your cute little figure and I started to feel a little bad about myself.”
I turned to see a beautiful woman sitting in the car parked next to mine. The window was open, so I could see her clearly.
My first thought was “Angels are real.”
Admittedly she looked overweight. I personally see beauty from within. As it goes far beneath the surface of our skin.
I responded by telling her that she was beautiful.
And that I truly believe sometimes Angels are put in our paths. Often when we need them the most. She asked me to share my sorrows and offered to help by listening.
But her kindness was enough.
We chatted for a bit longer and she told me a story about the tragic loss of her young daughter. It immediately made me realize how minimal my problems were. In comparison anyway.
Wanting to thank her for her kindness, I asked for her email address. I wanted to give her a free copy of one of my books. “Zipping it Up: How to lose 5 pounds fast and look great in that little black dress.” Not to insult her in any way. But Because she was telling me how she wanted to lose weight. I felt it was the least I could do.
I’ll soon be giving her a copy of yet another book I am writing. She will be in this book. As a key character and as my inspiration to begin writing the new book. It’s about angels in our path. The real life Angels we meet in our day to day lives.
Angels are real.
Incidentally, my heart wasn’t the only thing hurting that morning. My whole body was sore from exercising. Not in a bad way. It was the good kind of muscle ache that makes you proud of your accomplishments. I have been working out really hard lately.
It’s hard work getting (and keeping) your body in shape. It takes time and dedication.
If you have the desire to turn heads and get noticed, all my secrets are packed into 12 little chapters. Of the same book I offered my beautiful Angel that morning.
If you want a cute little body that turns heads, gets you noticed and has perfect strangers dishing out compliments – out of the clear blue…
Discover *exactly* how I do it.
You can find my little black book (black, white and red to be exact) on Amazon in Kindle and in print. Just click the link below:
A couple of weeks ago, cross-country running season started at my daughter’s school. I love going to the races to cheer on her on. The team too, of course. It was the first race of the season so it was really important to her that I be on time.
The races begin at 5 pm every week at various locations. Not the best time of day because of rush hour traffic. Despite anxiously sitting in my car during stop and go traffic we have to show up for our kids, right? Even at the risk of getting there too late and missing the race.
Luckily, there was only a little traffic that day and no car accidents so I was there in plenty of time to wish her a good race and cheer her on. Most importantly, though, is that I was there for her.
There are many ways we can show up for our kids. But the absolute best way to be there for our children is to take care of ourselves first. Not only do we demonstrate the importance of living a healthy style, but we’ll live longer and healthier lives.
This can often be hard to do. We live in a world filled with work deadlines, car pooling and rushing around to sporting events, dance classes, music lessons and other extra curricular activities.
So you can be there for your kids too, here are 5 simple, no brainer, things you can do to live a longer and healthier life:
1. Eat a healthy and well balanced diet. A healthy diet consists of a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and protein. It’s okay to indulge in a treat now and then. Depriving yourself can lead to binge eating so just think in terms of moderation. Most importantly, try to stay away from processed foods such as fast food and prepared frozen meals that are high in saturated fat and sodium.
2. Get enough sleep. I read an article recently that sleep deprivation will shorten your life. Getting a good night’s sleep helps keep you focused. You can think more clearly and accomplish more in less time. It also prevents you from overeating. Sleep fuels your body in similar ways as food. If you’re tired you’ll need to eat more to keep up your energy.
3. Exercise. Regular exercise can help protect you from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, noninsulin-dependent diabetes, obesity, back pain, osteoporosis, and can improve your mood and help you to better manage stress. It will also help you sleep.
4. Reward Yourself. Reward yourself for your accomplishments. Whether it’s a decadent treat or picking up a new page turner to lose yourself in. Rewarding yourself will help you feel good about yourself and inspire you to conquer new goals.
5. Spend quality time with those you love. It’s easy to get wrapped up in everyday life. Things are very different from when I was a kid. Going for a bike ride and hanging around the schoolyard seem to be a thing of the past. Our days are now filled with car pools and activities. Plan an evening at home with just the family. No sleepovers or friends. Dust off an old board game and make some popcorn. Or plan a family movie night. It’s a perfect time of year to turn on the fireplace and cozy up on the couch in your favorite fleece blanket.
Discover more ways to eat healthy, exercise and live happier here.