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 4, 2014
Knocking bad eating habits can be difficult, but thankfully we’re Kickin’ It with healthy living blogger Rachael Moshman today. Join Rachael’s journey on Shrinking Momster as she makes healthy lifestyle choices for her and her family. She shares her weight-loss story, recipes and more!
Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
I’m a mom and want to be around for my daughter for a really long time. However, I got a big wake up call from my doctor that I wasn’t living like that was my goal. I realized that in order to be the strong, healthy mom she deserves for many years to come, I needed to lose weight and get my health in control. I started www.shrinkingmomster.com to chronicle my journey to lose weight, get fit and overcome my battle with emotional eating.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
Vinnie Tortorich, author of “Fitness Confidential,” has given me lots of great no-nonsense, easy-to-implement advice. Kai Hibbard speaks out about the dangers of reality TV weight loss competitions. I also admire my friend Ruth who makes fitness a priority, no mater what else is going on in her life – she even rocks a Wonder Woman bathing suit while doing it!
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
Ham, cheese and veggie omelet with a side of fruit – and not just in the morning. We love breakfast for dinner at our house.
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
Make small changes in a fun way and get the kids involved. For example, let everyone pick a new fruit or veggie to try at the farmer’s market. Also, get in physical activity every day, such as a walk around the block or dancing around the living room.
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
I would have said edamame until a few days ago, but that’s just because I thought I hated it. (Then I tried edamame hummus on an airplane and really liked it!) I don’t consider any foods off-limits, unless there is a food allergy or intolerance. Finding the balance in “all things in moderation” is something I’m still working on, though. Making treats just that – an occasional treat – is admittedly a challenge for me.
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
Make time for yourself. So many of us give to everyone else – our kids, our spouses, our jobs, our parents, our volunteer obligations – and save nothing for ourselves. You have to take care of yourself or you’ll run out of steam and have nothing left to give to anyone. Plus, you deserve to give yourself the same care you give everyone else.
What is your favorite Cascade Ice flavor and why?
It’s a tie between the Coconut Pineapple and the Pink Grapefruit. The Coconut Pineapple reminds me of a pina colada – how can you not relax while sipping those flavors? I’m a Florida native, so I’m partial to all things citrus. I love the sweet and tart mixture of Pink Grapefruit.
To see more of Rachael’s tips, visit her blog Shrinking Momster. You can also connect with her on Facebook, and Twitter.
by Cascade Ice on August 7, 2014
As a working mom it may be hard to stick to a healthy lifestyle, but doing so is a great way to set an example for your kids. Luckily, we’re Kickin’ It with lifestyle blogger Cassie Freeman at Hi Sugarplum! She’s sharing some tips on how to balance food choices to achieve a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.
Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
I want to teach my kids healthy habits and attitudes about themselves and food, and the best way is to live it myself.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
I’m a working mom, so time is short more often than not. I’m guilty of pulling out a frozen pizza or mac & cheese at least once a week, but I’ll serve it with a green smoothie. I figure the spinach and fruit, with Greek yogurt, balances out the junky part of the dinner. #Rationalization
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
No foods are off limits completely because then we’ll just crave them more, which will lead to over-eating. I’m big on moderation.
To see more of Cassie’s tips, visit her personal blog Hi Sugarplum. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest!
by Cascade Ice on July 24, 2014
Living healthy doesn’t happen overnight, it takes commitment and perseverance to achieve your goals. Today we’re Kickin’ It with lifestyle & mommy blogger Cassidy Phan. She’s sharing some great tips on how to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
My father passed away when I was young due to poor health choices. Not only do I want to be around for my family making the best choices possible, it just makes me feel better.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
Not one individual in particular, but parents who are able to balance working out, cooking (delicious) healthy meals and keeping their kids involved the entire time.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
My current obsession is a microwaved sweet potato with different toppings like feta and green onions or broccoli. It always surprises me how one little potato can be so filling!
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
Start small! In the past if I attempt an extremely lofty goal, I end up getting discouraged and just fizz out on momentum. Making smaller, more attainable steps towards the bigger changes helps me keep going.
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
Only because I am a baby, but spicy food. I don’t think it is wise to completely ban something you might desire. If you have personal objections to a particular food sure, but if you want it in moderation why not? Food is one of my favorite parts of life!
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
I notice I am feeling my best when I getting a lot of time doing three things:
- Sleeping well
- Drinking water
- Practicing yoga
For me, a great yoga class and a good night’s sleep go hand in hand.
To see more of Cassidy’s tips, visit her Dallas Moms Blog or her personal blog Teh Wifey. You can also connect with her on Instagram and Pinterest!
