Kickin’ It With Carrin Cheney!

by Cascade Ice on January 15, 2015

Today we’re kicking it with Oh, Sweet Basil Food and Fitness blogger Carrin Cheney!             

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?

From a very young age I felt this great desire to care for my body. The older I got the more I realized what a blessing our bodies are and just how much we need to care for them so that they can continue to work for us. The more I take care of my mind and body and keep my priorities in order the happier my life is. And those around me as well.

Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?

My husband and sister are my role models, which is probably not the expected answer. My husband, Cade has just finished his masters degree in exercise science and he lives and breaths healthy living. No matter what is going on in life he makes his physical, mental and spiritual health a priority and because he does that he can keep moving forward and progressing in life instead of letting things hold him back. And my sister who recently lost nearly 100 pounds by changing her eating habits and exercising every day in order to really be with her children for as long as possible. She is teaching them through example how to have a happy and healthy life.

What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?

Oh, I need a couple! We love a good garden skillet. We can do it with or without meat. We also love almond joy protein shakes for a busy morning. This last one isn’t a meal but I love these frozen yogurt banana dippers for a quick snack.

Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?

Our biggest tip is to make decisions as a family and go shopping together. When everyone is on board you are a lot more likely to stick to it. Shopping together helps everyone understand what meals are going to look like so mentally, you all begin to switch your thoughts to healthier living.

In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?

A good nights sleep, letting go of anger-hurt-or negative feelings and finding techniques to overcome stress are essential to healthy living. Make sleep as much of a priority as work and play. If you’ve been hurt or had bad situations in life it’s time to let it go and find forgiveness. That poison will eat at you and destroy your health far more than it will ever hurt the one you’re angry with. Stress will make you eat more, sleep less, become depressed etc. You’re not meant to live in a dark fog so find help and let it go.

Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?

We actually believe in balance in all things, so we try to not say “I’ll never eat hot french fries again”. It just makes me crave them! For us, it’s more about choosing healthy options the majority of the time and allowing ourselves little treats every now and again.

What is your favorite Cascade Ice flavor and why?

That’s another hard one, but I think I have to go for the coconut. We need a year supply!

Carrie is full of great tips so be sure to check out her blog and follow her on  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!