|
|
| Staying on the Program
- It's not that hard to eat healthfully when you are eating out. If it's not on the menu, ask the waiter for what you want, and you're likely to get it. For example, if you're on the Healing Diet, you might ask for a broiled piece of fish with the sauce on the side, and ask the chef to cook it with as little oil as possible.
- For those who love certain ethnic food, experiment with new cookbooks -- simply substitute and modify ingredients to meet your nutritional goals (for example: veggie cheese, egg beaters/whites, applesauce).
- While this isn't for everyone, you might even consider starting your own herb/vegetable garden to enhance the quality and experience of cooking healthy meals at home.
- Some may find that having a personal affirmation is a way of gently bringing yourself back to a desired focus, goal, or feeling state. You may want to recall one from the past or create a new one -- one that exudes a positive self image, a personally meaningful state of being - use it like a rudder, steering as you go along.
- Have a favorite restaurant? Ask them to provide a heart-healthy option, such as Boca burgers. They're in business because of patrons like yourself; so let them know what will keep you coming back. After a while, you can just ask for "the usual," and you don't have to draw any attention to yourself.
- Turn regular house chores into a means of fun exercise -- turn some music on, sing or hum as you vacuum, mop, sweep and dust. Knowing that you're getting a work out while getting necessary tasks accomplished eases stress and tension.
- Explore new ways that make cardiovascular training fun. Diversify activities, some that allow time alone, others that allow sharing time with others. Changing environments may also feel right; such as finding a pool, or trying a new dance class (for example, NIA -- neuro-integrated action -- is a popular, new aerobic dance class that combines yoga, martial arts, dance and imagery).
- Plan a "Get away" day or mini vacation. Life can get going at quite a rapid pace -- it's only natural to feel "in a slump" from time to time. Stepping away from your everyday routine may give you the kind of refreshed perspective that allows you to stay aligned with your goals.
- Ask your loved ones to gently remind you of your heart-healthy intentions, make sure you let them know how to do so in a way that feels both motivational as well as loving and supportive.
Home Page | |
|
|