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Wednesday Wellness: Live a Life Fulfilled

By Tammy Parkinson | January 4th, 2012 0 Comments

The other night, Saturday to be precise, many of us went out to celebrate New Year’s Eve in our own diverse way. My personal intention was to have a mellow dinner and be tucked into bed by 10:30 in order to wake up early the next morning. Well…that didn’t happen! I ended up staying out much later than intended…however unexpectedly I had an amazing dinner which could have lasted well into the early hours given great conversation. Our group started to talk about “life” and “what if’s”; posing questions which I have spent the last few days mulling over, hence causing a thought process to ignite my New Year.

I thought for our Wednesday Wellness this week, I could pass on some of these topics to share with you and see if they might ignite your new year in a healthy and productive way!

  • “If money were not an issue, what would you do for work and why?”
  • “If you were to pass away tomorrow, what would you want said about you at your funeral?”
  • “What was the best part about 2011?”
  • “What would you like the best part of 2012 to be?”
  • “How and who do you inspire?”
  • “What is something athletic you would like to accomplish this New Year?”

The conversation was broad and fun; however the general theme was living a life fulfilled! So, in this New Year, I ask you to read through the above and share your answers with someone or ones close to you, have fun and dream. You might find an emotion and even new energy will be born from one or more of your answers!

PS…a few of the Intero offices are considering a boot camp and nutrition challenge. If you would like to get involved, let me or your Manager know!

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Wednesday Wellness: Cherish Your Life

By Tammy Parkinson | December 28th, 2011 0 Comments

We are ending the year of 2011; some view this as the hardest year of their life, others the absolute best. I know amazing people on both ends of this spectrum.

Traditionally we (as a culture) look to the New Year and set our resolutions of what we want to accomplish in the future along with what we want to let go of from our past.

Now, I am all about goal setting, it gives us direction, a structure and a purpose. To understand where we want to go, how we want to get there and why, we often need to look behind us as well so we can evaluate what to repeat, or conversely what not to replicate.

There’s an obvious problem here though, too often we are so busy looking in the rear view mirror so we can look to the future, we forget all about where we are right now!

Right now…this very moment…what do you have in your life that you cherish? When you look in the mirror, who are you? What do you see in yourself that you respect, admire, love and want to continue to have, to do?

In this moment, how is your health, your heart, your activity level, your clarity and your energy? What do you do every day to take care of yourself that you appreciate and can continue to have in your regiment?

As you read this, who in your life do you love and who loves you? Why do you love them and they you, how can you always hold that dear?

Take some time before the New Year’s festivities and take stock in all you have in your life that you love. Not just what you have materialistically, but what you have that is inside of you and makes you all you are.

Thank yourself for taking care of you, your family, your friends, your clients and bring all that wonderful YOU, into the New Year!

To yours in health in 2011, 2012 and always!

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Wednesday Wellness: Happy Holidays

By Tammy Parkinson | December 21st, 2011 0 Comments

Tis the season to be Jolly! Happy Holidays! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Fa la la la la…

Do these all sound familiar? I love this time of year; however there’s an element of stress and pressure that goes with these days before, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year ’s Day. There are obligations, parties, events, charities, shopping, travel, family and hosting, just to name a few.

As I observe, I can’t help but notice how most around me (and I can do this too) are so caught up in what commitments and responsibilities they have on their plate that the Holiday Season is more about making them unhappy, not Jolly. We thrive on “one upping” each other’s story of what we have to get done in order to make it through this most wonderful time of the year!

How about you (we) take a step back for a moment and look at our own lives right now.

Do you…

  1. Have friends and family who want to be with you during this time?
  2. Have enough money to bring a Hors d’oeuvre to your Holiday gathering?
  3. Have a coat to keep you warm while party hopping (Girls, we are our own worst enemy here with sleeveless outfits!)
  4. Have friends and/or family who YOU want to be around?
  5. Have your health? (trust me…this is a biggie)
  6. Get the opportunity to cook and bake, then share your creations?
  7. See people you don’t normally see and visit with?
  8. Have children in your life whose eyes are lit with wonder?
  9. Use this busy time to walk a little more while doing errands to help you stay in shape?
  10. Reach out to people less fortunate who would give anything to have your stress?

Now, don’t get me wrong, I can get caught up just like the next person, but for some reason this year in particular, I was able to get out of my own way and really look at how fortunate my life is to have this stress; this opportunity to have such a busy and healthy life.

See if you too can step out of your own way and take a look at this extraordinary time of year as a blessing, even if it makes you a little crazy! That crazy making might keep the fa la la la la in your life all the way in to the New Year!

Happy and Healthy Holidays!

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Wednesday Wellness: Stay True to Your Intentions

By Tammy Parkinson | December 14th, 2011 0 Comments

Usually in early to mid December, everyone’s thoughts and actions are driven by the Holidays. It’s a magical time, a busy time, and hopefully a fun time.

Then the infamous, New Year’s day comes and hits us like a brick. Resolutions are the talk of the town and getting back in to our skinny jeans seems ever elusive.

So, while we are still in a calm and centered (for the most part) state; before the rush of hitting every Holiday event out there, give some thought as to how you want to feel and see yourself come January 1, 2012! In fact, think about a very powerful word…intention.

How is it you intend to feel when you wake up in the New Year? How is it you intend to see yourself when you look in the mirror on January 1st? What do you intend to do now and for the next 2 weeks to feel and be that way?

We rarely look at our resolutions, or goals for the New Year ahead of time, but I would like to suggest you do just that! If you can understand and declare your intention(s), then your actions at Holiday events, opportunities to exercise, how you deal with the ever present See’s candy boxes will be manageable and not quite as stressful.

Enjoy this delightful time, while at the same time, enjoy the feeling of staying true to your intentions in this forthcoming 2012 year!

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Wednesday Wellness: Decide your best “line”

By Tammy Parkinson | December 7th, 2011 0 Comments

When you go down a mogul hill on skis, you “choose your line.”

When you are flying a plane, you “plan your route” and in the air often “course correct.”

When you are kayaking or rafting down rapids, you “choose your water path.”

When you are mountain biking, you “choose or pick your line.”

When you are on a road ride, you “plan your route.”

When you go on a trip, you “plan your itinerary.”

The key words here are “choose” and “plan.” The message is in order to get the experience we desire and the outcome we want, we need to look at the path or route ahead and think about how we are going to navigate through it so that we can safely and pleasurably get to the other side.

Sure, we can ski down a bumpy run without a thought as to how we’ll get down, but I assure you it’s a lot more fun and rewarding (not to mention safe) to stop, take a pause at the top and decide our best “line” on getting down the hill.

This is the same concept with any course we want to take in our life. If we expect a certain outcome, then we must decide the line we will choose to get there! Navigating our health through these next few special weeks of Holiday “moguls” will be a lot easier if we choose our path before we just jump into all the parties and festivities. Of course, we might fall down occasionally, so if and when that happens, dust off, course correct and get back on your skis so to speak!

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Wednesday Wellness: The Three Day “Rule”

By Tammy Parkinson | November 30th, 2011 0 Comments

Have you ever heard “it takes 21 days to create a habit?” Many of you might have. The caveat here is it takes 3 days to break it! 3 days!

Let’s say you have spent a good part of the month eating healthy, exercising hard and you slid into Thanksgiving at a svelte weight feeling terrific. Then the stuffing hit…cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, pie, cake (is this sounding vaguely familiar!?) and it wasn’t just for one day, but for the 2 days following Thanksgiving. I mean, what’s better than leftover turkey and stuffing?

Now it’s Sunday, you’re feeling a little pudgy and lethargic, kicking yourself because you let yourself go. All that hard work, down the drain!

The good news is it’s only been 3 days since you “indulged!” At the end of that 3rd day, that is when the habit is broken. If you are able to catch yourself at the end of day 3, you can keep your momentum without putting a crack in the foundation!

However, if you have let 4+ days go by, then unfortunately, there’s a bit of a hill to climb. You will need to recommit to going 21 days solid to restructure your habit. You cannot let one day go by without sticking to your goal.

This might not be the most enthusiastic note to read if you have let more than 3 days go by to undo your good habits…but it is invaluable knowledge moving forward.

Whatever your goal, commitment, aspiration or mantra, dig in for a solid 21 days here on out…then moving forward, never let a 3rd day go by without re-grounding and sticking to your regiment. It becomes so much easier when you know your boundaries and can live within them. Start today and before you know it, Christmas will be here! At that time, remember the 3 day “rule!” Live by this, and your health goals, work ambitions, lifestyle purpose will always stay on track!

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Wednesday Wellness: What are you thankful for?

By Tammy Parkinson | November 23rd, 2011 0 Comments

They say…
“I am so busy at work; I have no time to do anything!”

You say…
“I am so thankful I have a job and am kept busy.”

They say…
“I have no time to myself; my children must be driven all over the state to play their soccer games.”

You say…
“I am incredibly blessed to have athletic and active children; they will always stay healthy as long as they are active, and we get the chance to go to fun places together.”

They say…
“I ran today and am sore and beat; I wish I didn’t have to work out.”

You say…
“I love challenging my body, even though it’s hard some days. I am grateful I have the ability to use my legs and feel sore.”

They say…
“I can’t keep up with all my friends demands; it seems I am always trying to please someone.”

You say…
“I have such a variety of friends; it’s always entertaining to spend time with such an assortment of personalities.”

They say…
“I have to go on a diet…again…it seems I am always losing and gaining the same 10 pounds.”

You say…
“I am going to finally lose those 10 pounds…forever…think of all the money, frustration and time I am going to save spending my energy on something other than the same weight loss battle.”

They say…
“I am up to my eyeballs in debt, I can’t believe I am struggling so much with my finances, yet I still spend unnecessary money. I blame the economy, my boss, my parents and my clients. “

You say…
“Even though I am barely rubbing 2 nickels together some days, I am incredibly thankful I live in a free society where the choice is my own on how to make my own income and how to spend the profits.”

They say…
“I am bored, worn-out, and frustrated.”

You say…
“I am so grateful I am alive and have the power of gratitude at my fingertips and in my heart whenever I need it.”

During this week of gratitude, what are you thankful for and what do you say about it?

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Wednesday Wellness: Stay Healthy During the Holidays

By Tammy Parkinson | November 16th, 2011 0 Comments

The Holidays bring about many temptations and challenges, but also a lot of fun and love.

Sit down, take a moment and absorb some suggestions (below) which might help you stay healthy over the next month and a half: (can you believe Christmas is almost a month away?!)

  1. The “Holidays” consist of 3 days from here forward…Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve! Just 3 days!!
  2. Remember one very important “tip” before heading out to a holiday party with all the rich foods, desserts, and drinks – EAT before you go! Yes, EAT! That way you will have the chance to have something healthy and when you get to the party – you won’t be so quick to devour a plate of goodies.
  3. Sugars, fats, and sodium do more damage than just add calories to your figure – they cause fatigue, headaches, stomach upset and bloating. Remember, you will pay dearly afterwards.
  4. Find a “Holiday Buddy” who will agree to eat sensibly with you over the holidays. Challenge each other and hold each other accountable. Join our “no sweets during the Holidays club” or find a nutritional accountability coach. I know a good one!
  5. Keep track of what you eat in a food journal. A journal also holds you accountable and you won’t be so likely to cheat if you know you must document it. You can also share this with your Holiday Buddy via text or email.
  6. Be proactive – think ahead to how another 5 – 10 pounds (or more) will look on your figure by the time the holidays are over. Is that what you really want? Maybe it wouldn’t be so unrealistic to actually be in better shape come January!
  7. Treat yourself to a new outfit on January 7th – as long as you haven’t gained any weight between Christmas and New Years. If you are on a budget, pull out an outfit you have right now which you love and fits snug. Have that as your goal for January 7th!

Exercise

Do you want to know what the real trick is to starting and staying on an exercise plan? It’s not only the actual exercising – it’s the thinking, planning, feeling, and preparing.

  1. Sometimes we do things out of obligation, guilt, peer pressure, etc. If you really want to begin an exercise program you must feel committed, know you’re ready, plan, and prepare for a permanent change.
  2. Know that exercise (and nutrition) needs to be a permanent lifestyle change. Our bodies aren’t made to be sedentary – they need to move. Daily! Meaning, exercise must be consistent and forever. An understanding of this will set your mental stage and you’ll have a better chance of success.
  3. Buddy up with someone (friend, coworker, personal trainer) who can support and motivate you. This person should also hold you accountable.
  4. Know what you’re doing when it comes to exercise. There are many different methods, programs, and techniques for exercise. Plan out your strategy before you begin a program.
  5. Plan out your workout schedule (days, times, length, etc.)
  6. Organize your gym clothes, set the alarm, have an alternate plan in case of rain, etc. The more organized you are – the less chance you’ll have of making excuses NOT to workout.
  7. Plan an exercise program you’ll enjoy. If it’s a chore – forget it. If you don’t think any exercise is fun – that’s just plain negative thinking! This might be the time to think about getting a personal trainer just for the Holidays!
  8. Be prepared to chart your progress – because you will see progress! Charting it will help keep you motivated.

Have a blast. Enjoy family, friends, and festivities and make the Holidays about the experiences vs. the food!

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Wednesday Wellness: Realize, Visualize and Achieve Your Goals

By Tammy Parkinson | November 9th, 2011 0 Comments

If you want something, but can’t imagine actually having it…how can you actually have it?

When I work with weight loss clients and they want to lose for example 30 pounds, but can’t really imagine themselves even 5 pounds thinner, it’s often likely they will struggle in getting to their goal. Not impossible…but difficult.

If we work with fitness clients who want to run a marathon for example, but cannot envision themselves running 5 miles, it’s (pun intended) an uphill battle.

If you want to earn $1,000,000.00 this year, but have no idea how to get there and can’t visualize yourself coming up with the funds to even pay your property taxes in 6 months, chances are the bigger goal may not be attained. Again, not impossible, but certainly very challenging.

The belief system that we CAN, that we are CAPABLE, and that we can CREATE our goal is vital in order to more readily achieve our desires.

So, back to our weight loss person, if he or she can picture themselves 5 pounds thinner (I mean really hold on and believe in that picture of themselves), 10 pounds thinner and so on; then picture how they will feel when they reach their goals, the reality of the goal is much more attainable.

Realize your goals, visualize yourself achieving them, and think about how it’s going to feel when you DO achieve them; then go for it!

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Wednesday Wellness: Accept Change

By Tammy Parkinson | November 2nd, 2011 0 Comments

Is there something in your life that you are holding on to desperately, but it’s still slipping through your fingers; possibly a little out of your control?

I feel this way about summer and the warm weather. I relish (practically live for) the warmth, the sun, the long days. So much so, that I realized that I was forgetting to appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons.

Today I went for a long bike ride. The leaves were an amazing color of red and orange, there was the smell of smoke from fires heating up people’s homes and there was a special “energy” in the air that was crisp and cool. I was shocked to realize I was enjoying the change of the seasons!

When we (I) try so hard to hold on to what we love, we can forget to move out of our own way and appreciate the newness that this vast opening provides us.

For instance, I am on a “no sweets” challenge until January 2nd with a few clients and friends. I have officially given up my beloved peanut butter malt balls for the challenge. Now I have a vast open “space” of something else I can enjoy in my day! I realized I was craving new foods I hadn’t had for a while and just like the example of opening myself up to loving the crisp air, I am enjoying different foods because I decided to switch and change. I accepted my change.

It’s a healthy reminder to appreciate those habits we love and the time of year which we favor. I also realized today, it’s equally important to open our arms to the flow of our circumstances we are able to experience because we have accepted change. Especially those changes beyond our control!

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