Positive Mind Equals Positive Results

 Just like everyone else, I have my good days and my bad.  Keeping a positive mindset isn't always easy...life isn't easy.  But, I have found it's important to genuinely look in the mirror--every morning--and say at least one positive thing about yourself.  It can be anything from the bright smile you posses to the talent you have for keeping a balanced bank account--ANYTHING.  We are all beautiful on the inside, no matter what we look like on the outside.  However, as cheesy as a daily self-affirmation sounds, by giving yourself that positive reinforcement internally, you begin to feel like your goals are obtainable and you are truly worth meeting and exceeding the goals you set. 

 I stare into my mirror and finding that positive something about myself starts my day with a smile.  I walk into my kitchen and I'm geared up to take the time to make a healthy, filling, delicious breakfast to get my day going.  Not only does that healthy, nutrient-filled breakfast fill me up until lunchtime, but it gives me the energy to do my job and a clear mind to keep myself one step ahead of the challenges of that day.

 You are ultimately in control of your success and happiness.  I'm in control of mine.  If it's weight you need/want to lose, the only obstacle that stands in your way is you.  If it's making changes to your eating habits or the amount of exercise you incorporate into your life, again, you are the only thing keeping it from happening.  Choose to make each day fulfilling and meaningful.  It all starts with a positive attitude!

 Much love,
 Marisa

Delivery Me From Temptation

  All my life, I've been surrounded by food.  Food was never simply used as fuel or sustenance, but as a reward, comfort, band-aide…and yes, even as punishment (usually self-inflicted).  I love food; almost all foods.  I was never considered a picky eater by any means.  Broccoli? Yes, please.  Salad? Bring on the “rabbit food”!!  Steak?  A perfect medium-rare is the way to go.  Chocolate cake?  The only thing missing is a tall glass of milk.  You get my point.   My problem has always been that I liked too much of all of it.  It most certainly didn't help that I loved all the convenient processed food to go with all the natural stuff. 

  However, it wasn't until I met a former classmate, who had become a Vegan for almost 10 years prior to us meeting,  that my mind started to open up to what I was really doing to my body!  So, I started to read.  I read about the effects different food can have on the mind and body.  I started to understand how the foods I ate and drank daily, or on the regular affected me.  I started to make small changes and have noticed the difference.  The human body is completely amazing.  It’s a well-oiled machine that given the right care and maintenance, it will run smoothly and efficiently.  

  Unfortunately, we, as humans, get in the way of our best health more often than not, and pollute our systems with excess and potential poisons simply for self-gratification. 

  I’m not perfect…I’m human.  Sometimes I choose not to listen to what my body says and I indulge.  I’m learning, on occasion, that indulging is OK.  Doing it every day only sets me back on my new goal to live a happy, quality life.

 Much Love!

 Marisa