SPRING CLEANING: INSPIRATION STATION!

IN TWEET: IRVING DER SHARES PRACTICAL INSPIRATION FROM HIS OWN FITNESS JOURNEY. IN HIS WORDS: “GETTING OFF MY ASS – ONE FAT MAN’S STORY.” PERFECT FOR THOSE WHO THINK THEY CAN’T DO IT!

EDITOR’S NOTE: I COERCED IRVING INTO SHARING HIS STORY BECAUSE I WANTED TO END SPRING CLEANING WEEK ON AN INSPIRING NOTE AND REMIND YOU THAT WELLNESS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE. NO MATTER YOUR AGE, GENDER OR BODY TYPE, THERE IS A DOABLE FITNESS AND NUTRITION PROGRAM OUT THERE FOR YOU. I HOPE THIS WEEK OF SPECIAL POSTS HAS, AT A MINIMUM, GIVEN YOU A PLACE TO START. AS ALWAYS, CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING ANY DIET OR EXERCISE PROGRAM.

Why get up? Why try? Isn't it much easier to sit on the couch and eat pizza and drink a 32oz Big Gulp of soda? Well, it is hard. It is downright PAINFUL to actually get up and be active. I won’t get into any nutrition or diet information as I am not qualified (plus I cheat weekly and am not the best “nutritious eater” out there). With that said, I try to workout at least 3 or 4 times a week and I do pretty meaningful workouts where I am trying my best to push my strength, agility, speed and power.

TRY:  Which I guess is a lot better than doing nothing. I started a blog a few years ago. Just a personal diary of sorts, covering things that I was doing in life. Photos of my interests like cars, food, sneakers, poker etc.  Typical guy stuff. But in the last 2 years my blog has become more and more about posting fitness information. It’s a diary of sorts, covering my personal experiences and workouts. I use it as a database of workouts just in case I need to go back and see what I did or if I need to remember certain movements or even share my program with others. 

I would never call my blog "successful" but I have a couple readers and have inspired a few friends to try something different and they see that hey, if I can do it, maybe they can too.  So I am happy it’s had that impact.

Here are some tips, tricks and strategies that have helped me and will hopefully help you!

READ/TALK/LEARN: Before starting anything, know what you are doing or at least read up on it. We are living in a great time where the internet gives you access to most information with little more than the click of a mouse. So READ! There are so many good websites with information on all kinds of fitness-related topics. YouTube is also full of good info. Here are a couple of sites that I like and personally read (CLICK on each hyperlink to visit):

    BREAKING MUSCLE

    LIVE STRONG

    OPT

    AGAIN FASTER

    GIRLS GONE SPORTY (great for women)

    BLOGILATES

One caveat: not everything on the internet is real or good for you.  So take it all in with a grain of salt and be open to anything. Just remember to educate yourself as best you can!

TRY EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING: Ever wanted to go hiking or kayaking or take a boot camp class in the park? How about yoga or Pilates or spinning? Don’t be scared. Just TRY IT!  Best part: with all the coupon sites out there, (Groupon, Living Social, Amazon Local and Google Offers) you have tons of options that will let you play and experiment at discount prices.

Don’t commit to a crazy Pilates gym or a spinning studio long term when you can pay $50 and go for 5 classes on a coupon offer. That way you can try all fitness buffet style.  One month go to a bootcamp, next month take Pilates and the following month do kick boxing. If you find something you love, stick with it but experimenting minimizes getting discouraged or ending up in a fitness rut. 

Use the same approach for gyms. Many participate in the various localized online coupon programs and/or offer limited memberships.  What better way to try a gym, check out the members, try some classes and have zero commitment? If you are not sure what you like, try as much as you can and do it all on a discount!

BEST EQUIPMENT FOR A WORKOUT? YOUR OWN BODY! I have no patience for the “I hate gyms” excuse. Same goes for “I don't have space for a gym” or "I can't afford a weight set." Some of the best workouts I’ve had were ones that didn’t involve a free weight or a machine of any kind.

How many push ups can you do? Pull ups? Sit ups? There are so many things you can do at a public park, in your office, hotel room or at the side of your bed that require only one piece of equipment: YOU. There are tons of sites that list bodyweight workouts. Start with these (CLICK on each hyperlink to visit):

    BREAKING MUSCLE

    MEN'S FITNESS

    LIVE STRONG

BUY A JUMP ROPE: Seriously, ask any trainer. A jump rope is probably the best investment in "gym equipment" that won’t break the bank. They are super light and easy to travel with or throw inside your gym bag.

Depending on where you like to workout, you need to get an INDOOR rope or an OUTDOOR rope. I have 2 ropes, one for each. They are technically both indoor ropes but I use one more freely and save my other rope for strictly indoor. Why do 30 minutes on a treadmill or the elliptical for your cardio? Jump rope for 10 minutes and you’ll be warmed up while also improving your coordination.

There are many different types of jump ropes. I personally use the "speed rope" variety that many crossfitters use. Here are a couple of examples of what I have (CLICK on each hyperlink to visit):

    AGAIN FASTER ULTRA SPEED ROPES

    ROGUE BEARING SPEED ROPE

Don’t forget: the key to a good rope and success in jumping is CORRECT SIZING. Yes, back in grade school, you just grabbed a rope and went out to jump. It doesn’t work that way as an adult! Once you have a correctly sized rope it makes using it much easier and gives you a better workout. Trust me, once I had my ropes properly dialed in, my jumping was better and more comfortable. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: IF YOUR ARE TALL LIKE ME (I’M 6’4”) YOU MIGHT HAVE TROUBLE FINDING A JUMP ROPE OF THE RIGHT LENGTH AT YOUR LOCAL STORE. CLICK HERE FOR A LINK TO THE SKLZ WEIGHTED SPEED ROPE THAT I USE AND LOVE. IT’S AROUND $15 ON AMAZON AND IT’S GREAT FOR HEIGHTS UP TO 6’6”.

FIND A FRIEND OR FRIENDS: Look, there are very few lone wolf workout people out there. It’s one area where flying solo usually doesn’t work. Most of us don’t have the discipline, determination or focus to actually workout alone, on a consistent basis. The same goes for “DVD only” fitness plans where it’s just you, the TV and DVD player (or gaming console). Ask yourself: “left to my own devices, will I really move the couch/table every night, pop in a DVD and work out?” Realistically, most people won’t.

I’ve known so many people who have grabbed a DVD or their Kinect, all gung ho and ready to take on the world. Two weeks later, their shiny new toy is collecting dust. Ideally, you would find a great certified personal trainer or a reputable online system like Beachbody where your individual workout plan is monitored and enhanced by 1 on 1 coaching (CLICK HERE to read more about this from Erika Jacobson in an earlier SPRING CLEANING WEEK post).

What do you do if those are not options you can afford or you are simply not ready to take that much of a plunge? What if you’re nervous or scared of going to a gym or joining a class? Then you’re stuck, right?  WRONG. 

Trust me on this, above everything else: find like minded people and workout together. Peer accountability is a powerful motivator. If you make plans with your buddies to go hiking on a Sunday morning, you are more likely to follow through than you would be if you planned to go alone. The alarm goes off, you are tired, hung over or just lazy and want to sleep in. Then you think about your buddies giving you crap for trying to worm out of the hike and you find the motivation to get up and go.

Accountability is key. Having like minded friends on the journey with you gives extra motivation to go go go.  Even if you find yourself having to go it alone, I say take a class at your gym or a local boot camp. Go in, take it. Get beat up. Feel like crap.  Then go again.  And again. I promise by the third time, you will have meet one or two people in that class and now you’ll have new friends and won’t have so many solo flights to trip you up. Having friends at my side and working out with me is what helped me get this far. It just may be the trick that gets you up and started on your own personal fitness journey. 

GOOD LUCK!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Irving Der lives in the Pasadena, CA area and has had a successful career as a publicist in the entertainment industry. You can follow him on Twitter or check out his blog for additional workout tips, hints and inspiration. Irving would also like to give some kudos to his trainer and has asked we  post his contact information here. Of course, we are happy to: BRANDON HENRY (click on his name to check out his website or contact him at info@performancestrengthconditioning.com.

CLICK HERE to catch up with all of our Spring Cleaning Week featured posts!

SPRING CLEANING: GET IT UP(CYCLING)!

IN TWEET: UPCYCLE YOUR WAY TO ECO-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN WITH RHONDA KONOWALOW ANGELL, EDITOR OF THE DESIGNOLOGY LA BLOG AND OWNER OF RK TEXTURE INTERIOR DESIGN.

A couple of years ago, I attended an Earth Day lecture on, what else, green design. While I’ve always been a major recycler and energy conservationist, I hadn’t really focused on using green products in my work as an interior designer. This lecture changed the course of my career. I became so fascinated by what I’d learned, that I’ve continued doing my own research on the subject so I can bring more eco-friendly options to my clients.

Green, or eco-friendly design, is not only necessary to conserve our dwindling resources and lessen the impact on overstuffed landfills, but it can also add great character to our living spaces and work environments. Today, I am pleased to share some of my favorite ideas with you!

RECYCLE VS. UPCYCLE: Is there a difference? Yes! Recycling is altering or adapting items that would otherwise be disposed of in order to make new items (e.g. converting plastic bottles to make synthetic fiber for carpeting). Upcycling, on the other hand, means taking an item that is no longer needed and  using it in a new way (e.g. using empty plastic bottles as planters).

Make no mistake; while I wholeheartedly encourage recycling, we still utilize precious resources to produce the new item (e.g. water and electricity to run the plant, oil and gas for transportation, etc). With upcycling, the item never leaves your possession. You just find a new and creative way to use it.

Today, I will be offering an array of simple projects to get you started as well as some inspiration if you’re planning a renovation. Once you get the hang of it, I know the ideas will flow easily and you’ll have so much fun finding ways to put your used items to good, new use. Not only that, you can feel good knowing you created a unique design element yourself. So, read on and get ready to look at your old stuff in a whole new way!

WHIMSICAL WIND CHIMES: Do you have any old or mismatched silverware in your drawer (or garage or basement)? Drill some small holes in the handles and attach a fishing wire or thin picture hanging wire to each piece. Hang from a reclaimed piece of wood or wrap on a fallen branch. Voila: wind chimes!

Feeling ambitious? Let your imagination run wild! Keep it simple using only silverware or add a little “bling” with small beads. Use larger utensils, bicycle wheel rims or other found metal objects to hang the pieces from.

BRIGHT LIGHT: Have an empty Mason jar, wine bottle or olive oil decanter? Then you have (almost) everything you need to make a pendant light, chandelier or sconce light. Grab a wiring kit (check your local Lowe’s, Home Depot or CLICK HERE to order from Amazon) and you’re ready to create!

Start with a simple Mason jar lamp. CLICK HERE for project instructions. Once you’ve mastered that, the bright ideas are almost limitless.

If your lighting project requires cutting the glass bottles or jars you want to use, visit your local craft store to buy an inexpensive glass cutting kit or CLICK HERE to order on from Amazon for about $20.

OH, THE VANITY: Turn an old dresser into a beautiful, functional bathroom vanity. Perfect for a single or double sinks, undermount or vessel styles. I love the options shown here. Especially the sink that is installed to one side, leaving plenty of room for your other bathroom necessities.

READ BETWEEN THE LINES: How about this ingenious bookcase idea? Okay, so what are the odds you have an old piano lying around? Just wanted to show you that there is no limit to what you can upcycle.

WHEN ONE DOOR CLOSES: Give an old, discarded door new life as a coffee table. The gorgeous architectural details add such interest in this room. You can also make a one-of-a-kind mirror or chalkboard! CLICK HERE to find out how to do it!

If you don’t have any doors lying around, they’re easy (and inexpensive) to pick up at your local thrift or architectural salvage store. Use as is, or strip and refinish to fit your decor.

PALLET, SCHMALLET: You know those really unattractive pallets that are used to transport large items? How about these ideas? A simple “where to get wood pallets” in your search engine should uncover local results for you. As a matter of fact, I was at Lowe’s yesterday and it turns out they sell them, cheap!

Some cautions about pallets: if using outside, be sure to treat for the weather. There are some concerns about indoor use, as pallets are made from cheap wood. Some have been treated with formaldehyde, a chemical you don’t want to bring into your home! Remember, if pallets were used outdoors,  you may inadvertently bring a critter’s home into your home. So, if you decide to use pallets, do your research and know your sources.

SALVAGE YOUR RE-MODEL: Getting ready to renovate? You can use reclaimed windows (you may have to replace the glass for energy efficiency), old sinks, door knobs, cabinet pulls, light fixtures and even architectural elements such as pillars and stair railings in your re-model. The list is endless. Trust me, when you hit the salvage store, you will no doubt be drooling over all the possibilities. Be forewarned: it’ll be a mishmash of stuff, probably not too organized and perhaps a little musty. But go in with your eyes peeled and your mind open and I know you will find treasures perfect for your project.

RECYCLED GLASS: There are many companies producing recycled glass tile products, from high-end lines like Ann Sacks (available through your design professional) to more affordable options at retailers like Home Depot. You can easily incorporate this versatile product into your remodel project. From floors to backsplashes to countertops, recycled glass will add color and shine to your space.

In this powder room (image above), a project I worked on, we incorporated a custom countertop made from a recycled glass product. You can’t beat the combo: eco-friendly and stunning.

RECLAIMED WOOD: Salvaged wood products are everywhere; from that great organically-shaped table to reclaimed wall cladding. Not only is it gorgeous, but it’s also eco-friendly. Instead of letting it go to waste, consider bringing this beautiful design element into your home. Even if your taste doesn’t tend to the rustic, adding a key piece of reclaimed wood can enhance almost any room and add inviting ambiance.

PUT A CORK IN IT: If you’ve never considered cork as a material for your flooring, then allow me to be the first to introduce you to this incredible, sustainable product. Cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree, found in the Mediterranean. One great aspect to this product is that the trees do not have to be cut down to be harvested. The bark grows back every three years.

Cork is naturally flame-retardant, has anti-microbial properties and is a natural insect repellent. It can be finished with a variety of paints and stains, making it suitable for just about any design preference. Depending on quality, it can last from 10-30 years.

For even more eco-friendly tips and ideas, CLICK HERE to visit my blog.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: After discovering her destiny was not fulfilled working in Corporate America, Rhonda Konowalow Angell went back to school to study her first love: interior design. She lives in Los Angeles and strives to give her clients the gift of their dream home. CLICK HERE to check out her company, RK TEXTURE INTERIOR DESIGN. Not in Los Angeles? You can still benefit from Rhonda’s design expertise. She recently launched INSIDE HELP: the new way to interior design. INSIDE HELP is a unique solution for the do-it-yourselfer who wants the magazine look without the magazine prices. It’s online design with a personal twist. Rhonda has also used her keen eye for great design to create a  successful line of custom-made jewelry. She designs and crafts one-of-a-kind pieces using real leaves preserved in gold and other metals, as well as semi-precious stones. CLICK HERE to visit SHE SHE ARTISAN JEWELRY. You can also follow Rhonda on Facebook and check out DESIGNOLOGY LA, her blog.

CLICK HERE to catch up with all of our Spring Cleaning Week featured posts!

THE QUICKIE: FACE TO FACE WITH TERROR

IN TWEET: HE LOST BOTH LEGS IN THE BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING. NOW JEFF BAUMAN TELLS OF HIS FACE TO FACE ENCOUNTER WITH DECEASED SUSPECT TAMERLAN TSARNAEV.

The image is already iconic: a gravely wounded Jeff Bauman is wheeled away from the scene of the Boston Marathon bombing by paramedics and everyman hero Carlos Arredondo.

Bauman lost both legs in the attack but only now do we know about his face to face encounter with terror: he stood right next to deceased suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev just before one of the two bombs was detonated. Jeff Bauman’s eyewitness testimony was a key factor in the success of the FBI investigation into the terrorist attack.

On Friday April 26, 2013 Bauman gave an interview to Boston area radio station WEEI FM. Here is the audio of his gripping interview on the DENNIS AND CALLAHAN MORNING SHOW.

NOTE: YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO ACCESS THIS AUDIO CLIP FROM ANY DESKTOP OR LAPTOP BROWSER. SOME MOBILE BROWSERS, HOWEVER, DO NOT SUPPORT AUDIO PLUG-INS. IF THAT IS THE CASE, CLICK HERE FOR A LINK TO THE ORIGINAL INTERVIEW HOST SITE.

CLICK HERE to read the PDF of the criminal complaint against Tsarnaev, filed on 4/21/13.

CLICK HERE to read the PDF transcript of Tsarnaev's first hearing, held bedside in his hospital room on 4/22/13.

CLICK HERE to visit the news archive of RONTHINK coverage of the bombing and subsequent manhunt.

SPRING CLEANING: A NO VOODOO CLEANSE

IN TWEET: DOES THE WORDS “CLEANSE” TRIGGER YOUR FIGHT OR FLIGHT INSTINCTS? SAME HERE! ERIKA JACOBSON IS BACK TO INTRODUCE ONE THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR MIND.

 

EDITOR’S NOTE: CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING ANY DIET OR EXERCISE PROGRAM. WORKING WITH A CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER WHO IS ALSO A QUALIFIED NUTRITION COACH WILL KEEP YOU MOTIVATED AND PROVIDE EXPERT GUIDANCE.

 

Ever wish there was a way that you could lose some weight and feel great without having to exercise? Well, hold onto your seats because your your wish is my command! With Beachbody’s 21 day program, THE ULTIMATE RESET, one of the requirements is that you cannot exercise. Yup, that’s no working out for three whole weeks! Dare I ask if I have piqued your interest?

 

Before I get to the good stuff, let me make one thing clear: normally I turn away and run as fast as possible whenever I hear or see the term “cleanse.” I don’t approve of starvation diets, strict and abrupt programs that are harsh on the body or laxative-based, colon-focused cleanses that have you running to the bathroom every hour.

 

I believe that our bodies are sophisticated enough to rid themselves of toxins (see: sweating, bowl movements). However, what impressed me about THE ULTIMATE RESET is that it’s an educational and integrated, whole-body solution that lets you have real food. The program also helps make you more aware of food labels and what you are putting into your body .

 

THE ULTIMATE RESET is a 21 day cleanse program that is figuratively like taking a scrub brush to your insides. It's a comprehensive, no-starvation, inner body tune-up that can help restore your body to its original "factory settings.” You’ll have more energy, focus and better digestion; a combination that enables your body to function more efficiently, helps you lose weight and improves your overall health.

What is also fantastic is that THE ULTIMATE RESET is laid out for you. There is no guess work. The program comes with a nutrition guide that details step-by-step instructions, all the supplements that you will need and a 3-week eating plan with recipes, cooking tips, shopping lists and more. In addition, you get two DVDs, RESET YOUR HEALTH and COOKING CLASS, which give instructions for getting started on the program, an explanation of the recommended foods you’ll eat and meal preparation videos.

So if your body is in need of a serious spring tune up and working out and eating clean just aren’t enough, then it’s time to dig deep and restore your health with THE ULTIMATE RESET.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Erika Jacobson is a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. After more than 18 years as a health professional, Erika partnered with one of the nation’s most successful fitness and weight loss systems: Beachbody, creators of workouts like P90X and INSANITY. Erika has a great deal of personal success using  Beachbody products and loves the fact that she is now able to help more people at affordable prices. She currently runs successful fitness challenge groups across the country and is also available for in-person, 1 on 1 coaching/training in Los Angeles. Follow Erika on Facebook or add her Twitter feed to your mix. She also posts to her Instagram page.

 

CLICK HERE to catch up with all of our Spring Cleaning Week featured posts!

iCANDY: BOSTON MAGAZINE MAY COVER

IN TWEET: BOSTON MAGAZINE CREATES A STUNNING MAY COVER THAT TURNS “BOSTON STRONG” INTO A POWERFUL VISUAL. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO LEARN MORE.

UNDER5: ICED TEA & LEMONADE

IN TWEET: UNDER5 BRINGS YOU GREAT STUFF THAT COSTS LESS THAN FIVE BUCKS. UP FIRST: TWO EXCELLENT TAZO TEAS AND A YUMMY ORGANIC LEMONADE FROM NEWMAN’S OWN.

EDITOR’S NOTE: IF WE FEATURE IT IN AN UNDER5 POST, THAT MEANS IT’S A PRODUCT WE KNOW, USE AND LOVE. YOU CAN BUY THIS STUFF FOR LESS THAN FIVE BUCKS BUT, NO PRODUCT, SERVICE OR COMPANY CAN BUY THEIR WAY INTO AN UNDER5 ON RONTHINK. PERIOD!

If you love iced tea but want to avoid those powdered mixes that are filled with artificial ingredients, sugars and high fructose corn syrup, here are two great options for you from TAZO. Nutrition information panels are located at the bottom of this post for both teas.

TAZO teas are available at Starbucks and Target. You can also CLICK HERE to search and order from the RONTHINK Amazon store.

If you want to go the caffeine-free route, try TAZO PASSION. It’s a sweet, aromatic and lively blend of hibiscus flowers, natural colors and flavors, citric acid, licorice root, orange peel, cinnamon, rose hips and lemon grass. On the flavor spectrum, it’s more floral and fruity with the cinnamon and licorice root providing delicate back notes that round out the taste experience.

For a lively twist to your next cup of green tea, TAZO ZEN is a great way to go. An 8 oz. serving has 30 mg. of caffeine (compared to 180 mg in a 8 oz. Starbucks short drip).

The tea is a nice balance of citrus and mint and, as far as green teas go, is pretty mild flavor-wise. The ingredient are green tea, lemon verbena leaves, spearmint leaves, lemon grass and natural flavors.

While TAZO PASSION and TAZO ZEN can be served hot, they make great iced teas.

I fill a 2 quart glass pitcher with water that has just come to a boil. Float 2 TAZO tea bags in each pitcher and refrigerate. Once chilled, remove the tea bags and enjoy. Add a little honey, coconut palm sugar or raw organic agave nectar if you want a sweeter taste.

Lemonade is a warm weather favorite but, make no mistake, it’s not a health food. In fact, many store bought lemonades don’t contain any lemon juice! Still, there is a great option if you’re looking to indulge. NEWMAN’S OWN ORGANIC VIRGIN LEMONADE. Look for the product in the refrigerated juice section of your grocery store. Plus, Newman’s Own donates 100% of profits to charity.

It contains 15% real lemon juice and no high fructose corn syrup. Ingredients are pure filtered water, organic sugar, organic lemon juice from concentrate, organic lemon pulp, organic lemon juice and organic lemon oil. One 8 oz. serving has 110 calories, no fat, 40 mg. of sodium (2% recommended daily value), 27 grams carbohydrate (9% recommended daily value), 27 grams of sugars and 4% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin C.

Want to cut those sugars, carbs and calories in half? Fill a tall glass just over half-way with either of the TAZO iced teas. Do not sweeten. Add 4 oz. of NEWMAN’S OWN ORGANIC VIRGIN LEMONADE to each glass. Voila! A perfect balance of herbal and sweet! It mixes especially well with TAZO PASSION for an almost berry-like lemonade.

SPRING CLEANING: BODY, MIND & SPIRIT

IN TWEET: SPRING AHEAD WITH MARION SIMMS, OWNER OF SKINSENSE WELLNESS IN LOS ANGELES. THESE TIPS WILL MAKE YOUR SKIN GLOW AND YOUR SPIRIT SOAR!

EDITOR’S NOTE: CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING ANY DIET OR EXERCISE PROGRAM. CLICK ON THE HYPERLINKS THROUGHOUT THIS POST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND HEALTHY RESOURCES. I CANNOT SAY ENOUGH GOOD THINGS ABOUT SKINSENSE WELLNESS AND OWNER MARION SIMMS. IF YOU LIVE IN OR PLAN TO VISIT THE LOS ANGELES AREA, DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND MAKE AN APPOINTMENT OR GIVE THE GIFT OF WELLNESS TO SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT.

I think at this point we are all a bit tired of hearing the terms “detox” and “cleanse.” They tend to pop up around Spring because this time of year suggests renewal and new beginnings. Certainly, an occasional cleanse to give the liver, kidneys and digestive system a break is a great idea but I think a healthier and more realistic approach would be to consider your overall health and lifestyle and make a list of the things you need to improve.

We all have them: less cheese and chocolate, more exercise, less coffee and alcohol, more water and more sleep. Those recurring “must do’s” that we never fully get around to somehow. And guess what: they all affect our skin and our general well-being! So, I am going to suggest a few important steps that may help you.

EXFOLIATE THE BODY: Get that dead winter skin off with some vigorous dry brushing, followed by a good soak and scrub session in the bath tub. Then slather on a body lotion. Gently exfoliate and moisturize the face too. No dry brushing the face please!

FACE TIME: Treat yourself to a customized facial that includes a light peel to get rid of dead cells, rehydrate and rebalance the skin after the stress of winter. Have your facialist take a look at what you are using at home every day. It might be time for some revision. Guys, facials are a great idea for you too!

GET A PROFESSIONAL PEDICURE: Start prepping for sandals and flip flops, hiking and extra time in the gym. Comfortable feet make exercising much more fun!

RENEW YOUR SHAVING KIT: For all you men out there, check your supplies. Invest in a good shaving brush (preferably badger), a single-blade razor, good quality shaving crème/soap ( the old-fashioned type in a tub, not a can), topical salicylic acid and/or Neosporin crème, gentle toner and soothing balm. Finally invest in a silk pillow case to prevent in-grown hairs and facial creasing while you sleep!

EDITOR’S NOTE: IF YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN OR A ROUGH SHAVE AND ARE LOOKING FOR A GREAT SHAVING CREAM PRODUCT THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK, TRY CREAMO CREAM. I DISCOVERED IT THIS YEAR AND SWEAR BY IT. IF YOU CAN’T FIND IT AT YOUR LOCAL DRUG STORE, CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE SINGLE 6 OZ. TUBES FROM AMAZON OR CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A THREE PACK.

CHECK YOUR SUPPLEMENTS: Make sure you have vitamins E, C and zinc to boost the skin’s immune system. Use fish or flaxseed oil capsules and probiotics for your internal immune system. Add milk thistle if you want to do a gentle liver cleanse and then recharge with ginseng, garlic and ginger.

HEALTHY SHOPPING: When you go grocery shopping add the following to your list: asparagus, blueberries, pineapple, cinnamon, grapefruit, beets, and pomegranates. All of these fruits and vegetables are loaded with anti-oxidants that aid digestion, give you lots of energy and radiant skin.

I know cinnamon is not a fruit or vegetable but it is great for the heart and circulation which you need to stimulate on a regular basis to maintain good health.

EDITOR’S NOTE: IT’S IMPORTANT TO BUY QUALITY HERBS AND SPICES. THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOU HAVE TO SPEND A FORTUNE. I BUY MOST OF MY DRIED SPICES AND HERBS FROM PENZEY’S. IF YOU DON’T LIVE NEAR ONE OF THEIR STORES, YOU CAN ORDER ONLINE. THEY HAVE A GREAT SELECTION OF CINNAMON. MY FAVORITES: CHINA TUNG HING AND THE EXTRA FANCY VIETNAMESE.

HEALTHY DIET: Drink a green juice daily with lots of water to aid in elimination and overall bodily function. Leave out the alcohol for at least one month . Keep the diet light. Avoid meat and dairy; try using almond or hemp milk instead. Stick with fish, legumes, nuts and green vegetables for protein during the same month that you are eliminating alcohol.

BREATHE: Hang out under the trees. Antoni Gaudi called trees the “lungs of the earth” and designed the interior of his Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona in the shape of a towering forest.

Gaudi had a point. Get outdoors and take a walk in the park. Inhale deeply and enjoy the blossoms and flowers that are so abundant at this time of year.

I know you have heard this a million times before but try this easy technique. Breathe in for a count of four, hold for a count of seven and exhale to a count of eight. Repeat four times and you will find yourself feeling much more relaxed and you’ll have a smile on your face.

UNPLUG: Plan face time with close friends. Turn off the phone and enjoy good food, conversation and, most of all, company. Life would be very dull and lonely without the support of good pals.

TUNE-OUT TO TUNE-IN: Finally, I dare you to take a news break one day a week. Listen to music when driving or turn off the sound completely. Use smartphones for necessary calls only and step away from the computer. I know…it’s challenging but, if there is anything you really need to know, you’ll hear about it. A little distance from all the chaos in the world is not avoidance. It gives perspective.

The general idea here is that without doing anything too drastic, you will develop healthier habits that make you feel better, look better and that you will stick with all year long.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Marion Simms has been part of the skin care industry for over twenty-five years and has worked in many different capacities including teacher, facialist, business owner, lecturer, consultant and writer. Trained in England, she worked and traveled throughout Europe and South Africa before coming to the United States as a technical director for Guinot. In 1984, Simms opened SkinSense Wellness Spa in Los Angeles, CA and now employs seven other staff members who perform an extensive selection of spa services, including customized facials, micro-current, manicures, pedicures, reflexology, body massage, Brazilian waxing and make-up application. Marion’s philosophy is simple: maintaining your appearance should be part of a full time commitment to preventative health and well-being. Marion's other interests include reading, opera, travel and gardening. She is also a literacy advocate in the Los Angeles Unified District and enjoys working with teenagers to improve their self-image and self-esteem. SkinSense Wellness is open seven days a week and offers late evening appointments Monday through Thursday. CLICK HERE to visit the SkinSense Wellness site. You can also follow Marion on Twitter or check out her Facebook page. Both offer great tip and hints throughout the year no matter where you live.

CLICK HERE to catch up with all of our Spring Cleaning Week featured posts!

SPRING CLEANING: FIT AND FABULOUS

IN TWEET: ERIKA JACOBSON IS MUCH MORE THAN A PERSONAL TRAINER. SHE’S A SPECIAL PERSON WITH A GIFT FOR MOTIVATING AND INSPIRING EVEN THE MOST FITNESS-PHOBIC AMONG US.

EDITOR’S NOTE: CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING ANY DIET OR EXERCISE PROGRAM. WORKING WITH A CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER WHO IS ALSO A QUALIFIED NUTRITION COACH WILL KEEP YOU MOTIVATED AND PROVIDE EXPERT GUIDANCE. CLICK ON THE HYPERLINKS THROUGHOUT THIS POST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND HEALTHY RESOURCES.

Memorial Day is right around the corner and you know what that means: unforgiving white jeans, tank tops, pool parties and yes, the inevitable bikini or board shorts. It’s time to lose that winter flab and spring into action. These tips will help heat up your motivation and metabolism so you’ll be ready for summer fun.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY: The best exercise is the one that you will do consistently. Aim for a fitness program that you can actually see yourself sticking to on a weekly basis. If going to the gym isn’t something you enjoy, don’t tell yourself “I’ll just stick it out and suffer in silence…anything to be thin.” Opt instead for taking a Zumba class, joining a running club or a cycling group or, if you prefer, start at home with some fun exercise DVDs.

One reminder: make sure to include both aerobic and strength training in your weekly exercise routine. This will ensure that you are getting the benefits of burning calories and building muscle. 

WORK HARD. PLAY HARDER: In addition to getting yourself on a structured workout plan, why not incorporate some fun and games into your daily activities? Shoot some hoops with your friends, go for a bike ride with your family or arrange a doubles tennis game.

You can also play video games, like ZUMBA FITNESS for Wii, Xbox 360 and PS3 or NIKE+ KINECT TRAINING for Xbox 360, to add some fun and variety to your personal fitness program. Not only will your kids love this, it’s a great way to start them on their own path to wellness. Plus, they may even think you’re cool. 

No matter how you choose to play, the more active you are during the day, the more calories and fat you will burn and the faster you will lose weight.

NEW WORKOUT CLOTHES: Let’s face it, we always feel better when we sport a new outfit or a fashionable pair of shoes. The same goes for working out! Wouldn’t you be much more excited to go for a run when you’re wearing great-fitting, sweat-wicking exercise clothing and shoes that make you feel comfortable and confident? It’s a far cry from throwing on an old cotton tee and that random pair of sweat pants (you know, the ragged ones that have been in your closet for the past 7 years). Guys, this goes for you too!

It feels good to look good! I’m not suggesting that you have to spend a fortune on the latest Nike fashions, especially with the availability of great workout clothes at national discounters like Marshalls and retailers like Target. No matter where you shop, your workout clothes should fit well, have some sense of style and be made from quality fabric. Sometimes it’s the little things that help the most and get us up off of our asses!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP AMAZON ATHLETE AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WINTER MARKDOWNS

LEAN AND MEAN: Avoid any kind processed food. Instead, you want to opt for as lean and natural as possible. The leaner your meat selections are (e.g. chicken breast, egg whites and fish) the less fat you’ll be consuming. Plus, unprocessed foods tend to be lower in calories and sugar.

Processed foods are also typically much higher in calories from fat and are often full of refined sugars, high fructose corn syrup and sodium. Our bodies are designed to thrive off foods in their natural state; things full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Whole foods not only keep our metabolism humming but they also provide the vital nutrients our bodies need.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A GREAT RESOURCE IS THE NUTRITION ACTION NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT CENTER FOR SCIENCE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST. FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION, CLICK HERE. THEY ALSO OFFER A FREE MOBILE APP THAT WILL HELP YOU DE-MYSTIFY FOOD LABEL INGREDIENTS WHEN YOU’RE ON THE GO. CLICK HERE FOR THE iPHONE APP AND CLICK HERE FOR THE ANDROID APP.

RAID YOUR KITCHEN: Attack your kitchen with a vengeance! It’s time to get rid of all the temptation that is lurking in your fridge, freezer, pantry and any other “secret” hiding places. Now is the time to throw out all the fattening, sugary and processed foods. I’m talking about cookies, candy, frozen dinners, ice cream or that half eaten bag of M&M’s stashed away in the back of your kitchen cabinet. You never know when you will have a craving and you don’t want temptation sitting right in front of you! Moderation is one thing but ready access to over-indulgence will end up biting you in the butt.

WATER, WATER, WATER: Your body is 80% water and being properly hydrated is super important. Not only does water help regulate your body’s temperature, but it also aids in cell metabolism. In order to burn calories and function efficiently, your body needs an adequate supply of water. Dehydration inhibits the fat-burning process. Also, burning calories creates toxins and water is vital to eliminating them from your system.

Try to avoid or limit your consumption of alcohol. Your body just sees it as a sugar and has no use for it. Alcohol does not get used as energy. It’s either stored as fat or eliminated from your body.

Basically, you can’t drink a few beers and then decide to go for a run to burn them off. It doesn’t work that way. If you can, try cutting back to one or two drinks a week and skip those daily beers or glasses of wine. CLICK HERE for an infographic approach that is pretty cool. It’s a UK site but you’ll get the picture.

JOIN MY CHALLENGE GROUP: If being accountable isn’t your strong suit and you can’t afford a trainer but you desperately need to get in shape, then why not join a group where you can have access to a personal trainer (that would be me) every day? Yes, you read correctly, every day.

In a nutshell, my Beachbody Challenge Group consists of 2 to 7 members. It’s web based so you can work with me from anywhere. You’ll be using an exercise DVD that we’ve picked out together in order to best accommodate your goals and fitness level. You’ll be drinking Shakeology to replace one meal and you will be checking in with me DAILY. If I don’t hear from you, you better believe that you’ll be hearing from me!

My challenge groups have been super successful because of three things: FITNESS + NUTRITION + SUPPORT. These groups kick serious ass and my challengees have been seeing some real results. Does 103 pounds lost or 61 pounds lost sound impressive?

CLICK HERE for more information about my Beachbody Challenge Group. If you have special circumstances, dietary restrictions or other unique challenges, feel free to email me at erikajbbc@gmail.com first and I can help you get started. When life hands you lemons and you are short on time or money, fear not! There is a way for you to accomplish your goals and turn those lemons into lemonade, with my help.

 

Oh, by the way, the lemonade will be sugar free!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Erika Jacobson is a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. After more than 18 years as a health professional, Erika partnered with one of the nation’s most successful fitness and weight loss systems: Beachbody, creators of workouts like P90X and INSANITY. Erika has a great deal of personal success using  Beachbody products and loves the fact that she is now able to help more people at affordable prices. She currently runs successful fitness challenge groups across the country and is also available for in-person, 1 on 1 coaching/training in Los Angeles. Follow Erika on Facebook or add her Twitter feed to your mix. She also posts to her Instagram page.

CLICK HERE to catch up with all of our Spring Cleaning Week featured posts!