New Year, New You!

So here we are in 2012 - have you given up on your resolutions yet?  Let's hope not because as a mom, we need to stay happy and healthy in order to raise our happy and healthy kids.  So for 2012, let's do a few things to take care of ourselves. 

-We can start out by turning off all electronic devices and turn the tv off at least one hour before going to sleep allowing our minds to calm down and prepare for a restful night of sleep. 
-Aim to sleep at least 7-8 hours each night to allow our adrenal glands (the glands responsible for releasing stress hormones) to rest and recuperate and to give us the much needed energy to make it through our crazy and hectic day.
-Treat yourself to a haircut or trim to get rid of those split ends and damaged hair.  And while you're there, touch up your roots by getting your hair colored or highlighted.  You'll walk out feeling refreshed and recharged all by having your hair done so make your appointment today!
-Drink at least 64 oz. of water and/or decaffeinated beverages each day.  You need to keep your body well hydrated to avoid feeling sluggish and prevent dehydration.  Not to mention that adequate hydration is important for skin health, hair health and your overall health.  Fill up that water bottle and take a sip.
-Go through your makeup drawer and start inspecting.  Throw out all products that have an odd smell that didn't start out that way.  Try to remember when you started using your mascara - if it's been more than 3 months, throw it out.  Replace your mascara every 3 months to prevent bacterial infections.  Wash your brushes often with either a daily brush cleaner (i.e. MAC brush cleaner, Sonia Kashuk brush cleaner) to spot clean or deep clean (every 2-4 weeks) with a gentle baby shampoo and water.  Remember to dry your brushes on it's side and never upside down to prevent water breaking down the adhesive used to keep the bristles together.  To maintain the life of your brushes, also avoid getting the ferrule wet (the metal part of the brush between the bristles and brush handle) and keep them clean.
-Exercise or engage in some sort of physical activity daily (or at least 4-5 times per week).  I know that this seems hard to do especially when time is a busy mom's enemy but this is very important for our health.  To make it easy, break up your workouts into spurts - 10-15 minutes here or there but aim to do some sort of physical activity totalling at least 30-60 minutes daily.  If you are a member of a gym - join a class and make some friends.  Working out with a buddy will help you maintain your regimen and keep you motivated.  Or try some of the popular workout videos or games (i.e. Wii Fit or XBox Kinect) like Zumba or Dance Central.  Get your kids involved and have fun!!  You will find that you will have more energy, a sharper mind, more restful sleep, a slimmer waistline all thanks to a little exercise. 
-Don't skip meals - that's just asking for a binge session and ultimately weight gain.  Try to eat small, frequent meals every 3-4 hours. This will help stimulate your metabolism, give you more energy, and prevent the carb and sugar cravings throughout the day.

Just a few ideas to treat yourself and live a happier and healthier life.  Here's to a New Year and a New You! 

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