Happy New Years Friends!
As we go into the new year, I wanted to share 7 things that made my 2016 extremely healthy and fun.
As Peter and I like to say, if you can make your healthy lifestyle enjoyable, you’re more likely to stick with it long term.
Today I’m sharing 7 healthy things I think you should try in 2017
1. A Plant-Based Diet
We’ve been following a Plant-based diet for seven years now, and I cannot recommend it enough. Now it’s easier than ever to make the switch. You can find almond milk at just about every grocery store, documentary after documentary is coming out sharing the health benefits + the environmental benefits of switching to a plant-based diet.
Don’t over-think it, just give it a try, and if it doesn’t work for you, you can always go back to the way you’re currently eating.
But, I have feeling you’re going to feel a whole lot better. If you need help making the switch, check out our Free FB Group, as I share Plant-based recipes and resources every day in the group. Eating plant-based is a great way to shed extra weight, and increase your nutrients while preserving environmental resources like water.
2. Matcha
In 2016, I went a little Matcha crazy. This warm, earthy green drink, fired me up 3-5 times a week. I have a feeling this year won’t be any different.
If you’re not familiar, Matcha is simply ground-up green tea leaves. It contains caffeine, but it’s released at a more steady rate, making it a great replacement for those trying to get off coffee. I love Matcha hot, in the form of a latte in the morning, as a little pick me up. Here is my favorite recipe…
Matcha Latte
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp. Matcha powder (invest in a good brand, as the cheap stuff tastes cheap, I love Domatcha)
- 1 Tbsp. hemp seeds
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tsp. coconut sugar
- 1 dash cinnamon
Directions
Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend on high. Pour into a mug and enjoy.
*You can also add matcha to your smoothies (I add about 1 tsp.) or baked goods for some added antioxidants + a healthy energy boost.
3. Unplugging
I don’t know about you, but 2016 got really “loud”. I found myself spending more and more time online, managing emails and social media. And, less time being present in real life – which is the opposite of what I wanted – so I took a few weekends totally “unplugged”, and it did wonders for my health and my relationships. Therefore, I knew it belonged on this list.
I highly recommend unplugging. If you’re thinking it’s not going to happen, try 24 hours on the weekends, or maybe just a 1 weekend a month. After only 24 hours, I guarantee you’ll feel more inspired, refreshed & grounded.
4. Staying in an Airbnb
Peter and I took a few trips this year, and stayed in Airbnb’s. We’ve been using this company for years, and always have a pleasant experience. If you’re trying to eat healthy, I can’t recommend it enough.
Airbnb is where you rent someone else’s house. You can rent the entire thing (which is what we do), or just a room. The thing I love about Airbnb is that you can see the photos, and other reviews to make sure it’s a good fit. We always make sure it has a full kitchen, and is nice and clean – we’re kind of clean freaks! We’ve stayed at an Airbnb in Boulder, Taos, LA, and a few in Northern California – all of them have been great.
You can use this link to get $40 off your first stay. In full disclosure, we will also get $20 dollars off.
5. A New Yoga Studio
Peter and I have been going to the same yoga studio consistently for the past 4 years. However, we’ve been trying new classes here and there, and I all I have to say is WOW: there are a lot of very talented yoga teachers out there!
When you go to the same place over and over again, you get comfortable, you stop pushing yourself, and you stop trying new things. Switching up your studio can be a great way to keep your exercise and mind fresh. It can also be a little intimidating, which is why I recommend doing this one with a friend or partner.
6. Journaling
I finally started journaling consistently in 2016, and it made a huge difference. In my mindset, and in my drive to achieve my goals. I even encouraged my clients to give it a try, and they loved it too.
What worked for me was starting my day with journaling, writing what I’m grateful for, and then transitioning to what I want to create. I write as if I’ve already achieved it, which gets me very excited to get to work. Now I look forward to doing it each day.
Another method you might try (if the one mentioned above doesn’t excite you) is writing at the end of the day. Write down anything that’s on your mind, or that you’re worrying about. My clients found this extremely helpful when trying to get a good nights sleep, as it has a very meditative effect.
7. Connecting with others that share similar values
Like I mentioned in #1 above, more and more people are switching to a plant-based diet or a healthier diet – which is great, because there are more and more people to connect with. If you’re feeling stuck or down, get on the phone, or meet up in person with someone who’s working on a similar goal, or who’s been there before.
I’m guilty of saying I’m too busy, but the truth is I just wasn’t making time for it. Every time I pencil these connections in, I get re-inspired & motivated. We opened up The LifeStylers Mastermind this past year, and it’s been a great way for us to connect with our community on a deeper level. We always leave the calls in a better mood than when we started.
I hope you’ll give some of these a try. And remember, like anything, they only work if you implement them. I suggest starting by incorporating 1-2 of the suggestions this week!
These 7 things really made our 2016 fun and healthy, and I’m hanging on to them for at least another year :)
AND…
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