by Cascade Ice on October 16, 2014

Today we’re Kickin’ It with Bite Out of Boca Food Blogger, Shaina Wizov, who shares her healthy lifestyle tips! Read more to learn how she balances working a hectic full-time schedule and eating healthy.

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
Living a healthy lifestyle gives me the energy needed to live the crazy busy life I lead! Aside from blogging, I have a full time job in book marketing/publishing, and I’m invited to SO many food events and restaurants to review throughout the week. If I didn’t make healthy choices such as working out everyday, getting a good night’s sleep, staying hydrated, and eating the right foods, I would never be able to keep up with everything. Not to mention, healthy living just makes you feel good about yourself — mentally and physically, and that is always important.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
My gym buddies! I have a few really great friends whom I work out with on a regular basis. We take spin classes and lift weights together a few times a week and really love each other’s company, both in and outside of the gym. Also, the various teachers at the yoga studio I go to, especially the owner. She is such an amazing advocate for healthy living.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
Quinoa Bowls. I basically cook up some quinoa with whatever veggies I have in the fridge or freezer, add in some spices and herbs and call it dinner! It’s quick, healthy, and as long as you have a good variety of vegetables and spices/herbs laying around, you can really put together some really flavorful dishes.
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
If you are a family who eats a lot of meat, try to go meatless at least once a week — Meatless Mondays. Or switch things up and use seafood instead. Eat in season — buy fresh fruits and vegetables when they are at their peak. They’ll be less expensive and so much tastier!
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
Well, meat, because I don’t eat it. I try to stay away from deep fried foods as much as possible, but sometimes a girl’s gotta have french fries! Moderation is key. When you tell yourself you can’t have something, you will only want it more.
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
Get into a sleep routine. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each night. Stay active, whether you like to run outside, go to the gym, or get together with friends for a game of tennis, just do something. Yin Yoga is amazing for anyone who ever feels stress or anxiety and just needs time to unwind and relax. Yin is not like your normal flow, it’s all about deep stretching and you rarely leave the floor.
To learn more about Shaina and her tips, visit her blog A Bite Out of Boca to find recipes, reviews, DIY tips and much more! Check Shaina out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest!
by Cascade Ice on October 2, 2014

Today we’re Kickin’ It with lifestyle and review blogger Connie Ott, who shares her healthy lifestyle tips! Read more to learn how she overcomes her neurological disorder on a daily basis by eating healthy nutrients rather than counting calories.

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
Healthy living is important to me because changing my nutrition has improved a neurological disorder I have that most take medication to manage. I’ve been able to keep it in check by keeping track of my nutrition instead of counting calories.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
I’m a huge follower of Dr. Andrew Weil. I use his breathing techniques to take care of anxiety and stress naturally. His breathing techniques have gotten me through spinal taps and other painful procedures.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
My go-to healthy meal is a banana and raw almonds. I’m a vegetarian who eats mostly organic, so finding healthy snacks on the road can be difficult. I always pack organic peanut butter crackers, almonds, and bananas in my luggage along with my filtered water bottle.
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
Start by changing what you eat. Start tracking food by the nutrients instead of calories, and you’ll be surprised how much sugar you’re eating.
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
Nothing is off limits (well except meat, but that’s a personal choice). I limit artificial colors, flavors, GMO’s, etc. I’m 100% vegetarian and 80% organic eater, but I do have 20% now and then that falls into the other categories.
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
I can’t exercise because of my neurological disorder so I am overweight. That doesn’t mean I don’t do what I can to keep moving and stay limber. I stretch in bed, keep my legs in constant motion while lying in bed, and do everything I can to keep from losing muscle tone.
To learn more about Connie’s journey, visit her blog Baby to Boomer Lifestyle to find recipes, reviews, DIY tips and much more!
by Cascade Ice on September 25, 2014

It’s time to pull out your sweaters, boots and scarfs because fall is officially here! In honor of the new season, we mixed up some new and refreshing drink recipes featuring Cascade Ice.

Whether you plan on hosting a soiree this fall or just have a small gathering with friends and family, surprise your guests with a Pomegranate Berry Sparkler. To make this delicious spritzer, start by filling a glass half way with your choice of champagne. Next, add a splash of Cascade Ice Pomegranate Berry and top off your glass with fresh pomegranates. Serve, sip and enjoy.

For a family gathering or a refreshing happy hour drink, prepare our Pink Grapefruit Punch. You will need 6oz of club soda, four 17oz bottles of Cascade Ice Pink Grapefruit and fresh grapefruits, lemons and limes. Combine all the ingredients into a large pitcher, mix well and relax. Feel free to add your choice of champagne or wine to kick the punch up a notch.
Don’t forget to stock up on Cascade Ice this fall so you’ll be ready to mix a refreshing beverage at any time! Check out our Where to Buy map to find a retailer near you.
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by Cascade Ice on September 18, 2014

Keeping you and your family on track with a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge! Thankfully we’re Kickin’ It with Health Coach and Fitness Blogger Scarlet Paolicchi. She shares her family-friendly recipes and tips on battling common health challenges.

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
Healthy Living is important to me because life is so much more enjoyable when we are healthy and ready to meet our challenges. As a mother, I want to be healthy to take care of my family and their health is intricately tied to my happiness.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
My mother was always a great role model and she taught me healthy living habits every day. I try to do the same for my kids and constantly increase my knowledge so that I can take care of our health.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
Chicken Marsala with rice and steamed asparagus.
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
I think it all starts with choosing natural and organic ingredients whenever possible. I try to limit sugar, increase whole grains and make sure we get plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. These are simple guidelines with a big impact.
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
I have always prided myself on being an excellent sleeper. I know that, for me, sleep is essential to my health and mood so I keep that sacred. As far as exercise, this is a week area for me but I do try to get in a daily walk which helps me relax as well as get fit.
To see more of Scarlet’s tips, visit her Family Focus Blog. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.