Stave off Stress

February 2009

Reproduced with permission from WeddingBells.ca

• Eat nutritiously every three hours. Try to include protein at each meal—this slows down the digestion of the meal, which ensures that you will have a steady release of energy to sustain you throughout the day. It will also keep your metabolism revved, help stabilize moods, prevent you from getting too hungry and help minimize cravings. Always have breakfast! This will set the tone for the rest of your day!
• Drink plenty of water. It will help keep your skin glowing, flush toxins from your body, increase energy levels, help manage your appetite etc., etc., etc. Herbal teas are also great!  Make sure you constantly have a bottle of water handy—on your desk, in your bag, at the gym….
• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fibre and water—all the things you need to stay healthy and vibrant! Frozen fruits and vegetables are great, as well as homemade soups. So stock up and make sure they are always available for you.
• Dry skin brush. This is a fantastic way to stimulate circulation, improve your complexion and skin tone, help reduce signs of cellulite and make you feel vibrant and healthy. You will need a soft natural fibre brush with a long handle so that you are able to reach all areas of your body. Some basic instructions:

Always dry brush before you shower because you will have to wash the impurities from your skin that result from the brushing action.

Do it once per day, preferably in the morning.

Always brush upwards in the direction of your heart.

Begin with your feet and brush vigorously in circular motions.

Continue brushing up your legs.

Proceed to your hands and arms.

Brush your entire back and abdomen area, shoulders and neck.

Use circular counter-clockwise strokes on the abdomen.

Use light pressure in places where the skin is thin or sensitive.

Brush upwards on the back and down from the neck. 

Enjoy your shower!

Get enough sleep. This may be challenging but it is so important in order to achieve all of the above—energy, good mood and glowing skin. Remember that it is during sleep that your body repairs and recovers. Make this a priority and establish a good sleep routine.

About Wedding Bells.ca New Year New You series by Lauren Jawno

Nutritionist, certified personal trainer and life coach Lauren Jawno contributes a series of blogs which offer inspiring advice to get your mind and body on track before your big day. With more than 15 years of professional experience, she has made appearances on TV, led speaking events and trained athletes. Her mission is to inspire others to realize their true potential, which is why she’s thrilled to share her expert strategies with you!