Making Procrastination Work For You

Procrastination is generally considered a negative trait as it involves the practice of carrying out less urgent tasks in preference to more urgent ones, or doing more pleasurable things in place of less pleasurable ones, and thus putting off impending or important tasks to a later time.

What if you could use procrastination to help you ditch bad habits? It almost sounds irrational to think the power of two bad things (procrastination and a bad habit) can be positive.

Let's put it to the test.  Suppose someone really loves eating creamy, gelato (and who doesn't?). But this gelato habit is causing weight gain and it needs to stop.  Yet, every night after dinner, the gelato is irresistible. Instead of saying no gelato which makes someone feel loss or deprivation, think instead, "I will have the gelato later." Isn't this what we do when we put off exercising, working on a report or cleaning the house? We say we will do it later. It makes us feel good like we are taking care of the valuable and necessary task.  Treat the gelato habit the same way.  Push it off for an hour, a day or even a week.  You will eat the gelato but just not now.

Some might argue that comparing exercising or menial drudge work to gelato or some other indulgence makes this procrastination tactic unrealistic.  It will be unrealistic if one chooses to believe that. Our beliefs shape our choices and actions. However, deep down inside us there is a pure part of us that wishes we could give up the gelato and take care of the stuff that will be beneficial for us. Believing that you cannot make better choices is letting that pure part of us down.  The pure part is our inner child that needs the nurturing and caring that you would give to a small child.

Play the procrastination game to your advantage and become the person you would like to be.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Why Do Yogi's Have Healthy Habits?

It seems like many of the people who practice spiritual enlightenment (like Eastern philosophy, religion, Buddhism, etc.) seem to be naturally drawn to simple lifestyles. They have a routine that emphasizes spiritual practice and learning but they seem to have a routine to take care of their bodies too.  Generally, they eat lighter, have a basic exercise program, go to sleep early, rise early and make time for good deeds (like helping the needy, sick and lonely).  There is a vibe of equanimity, which means mental calmness, composure and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation.

What makes a yogi have these qualities? Is it the spiritual leaning or is it the physical lifestyle? I think it is a symbiotic cycle that begins with the intent to infuse their life with meaning.  The mind and heart can desire something but it does not exist unless the body works in the physical world to create it.  When the body takes action, the desirous thing exists. For example, one may want to help the poor. Until one gives money time or effort, the desire to help the poor remains a thought and never really comes into existence.  Everyone gives on the level they are able.  Some people give a few dollars because that is all they can do. Another person may organize a weekly event where care packages are made and delivered to homeless shelters.  Planning the weekly event takes clarity.

When someone wants to succeed, they try to plan and figure out the best way.  this takes mental clarity.  A yogi wants to attain spiritual connection but they live in a body that needs tending.  This body needs adequate, proper care to feel good.  A body that feels good has a better chance of having a clear mind, loving emotions and an openness to learn. This is the root of the yogi's healthy habits.

Think how you feel when you wake up refreshed, have daily elimination, are a healthy weight and a working digestive system.  Is it hard to remember the last time you felt like that? Maybe it is time to trade some outdated habits for new, innovative habits that will sky rocket your mental clarity and body health.  Ayurveda has a great daily routine that will have you feeling like a yogi in no time.  I am happy to introduce you to it anytime.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Can You Read Yourself Out Of Stress?

You can read yourself out of stress and live longer too. Stress is your body's way of responding to any kind of demand. The demand can be caused by both good and bad experiences or things.  Any physical, mental, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension is stress. Stresses can be external (from the environment, psychological, or social situations) or internal (illness).

Stress is a part of life, and in many situations it can be good.  It pushes us forward and motivates us get things done.  A little tension creates situations for things to happen.  Too much tension or chronic stress can create a negative environment and harm the health of the body and mind.

Ideally, the tension of stress needs to be taken in small doses.  If the flow of stress is hard to control, a person needs to take measures to release stress periodically.  This helps deflate the constant tension and lets the body come to balance.  There are many stress reducing techniques like meditation, exercise, deep breathing, listening to music and more.  Reading a book for 3 1/2 hours a week provides the fabulous benefit of stress reduction and living longer.  Reading news and periodicals helps but does not seem to confer the same benefit.  The ability to lose oneself in a narrative distracts the mind from everyday worries and anxiety, while allowing muscles to relax as well.

Stress reduction doesn't have to be difficult.  It simply requires us to choose an activity (that isn't harmful in and of itself like drugs or binge eating) that distracts us from our every day concerns.  We can then come back refreshed and with a better perspective.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Craving Sugar? You Can Blame It On Your Gene

Some people have a harder time saying no to sweets, while others can take it or leave it. Why is it people react so differently to the very same sugary snacks?  It seems that it's not just our taste buds but it is in our genes.  People with certain gene variants of GLUT2 seem to prefer sweet foods and drinks which puts them at risk for becoming overweight and developing cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders like diabetes.

People might be thinking what is a person to do?  After all, my genes made me do it is the perfect excuse.  It may initially feel that way until someone becomes overweight, imbalanced and manifesting illness.  Ayurveda offers a solution based on how it treats individuals not people with a general guideline and one size fits all suggestion.

Kapha is one of the three main body types (doshas) in Ayurveda.  It is sourced from the elements of water and earth, manifesting with its principle of stabilizing energy, structure and immunity.  Ayurveda counsels kapha to eat of the tastes of bitter, pungent and astringent to remain balanced and very small amounts of the tastes of sweet, salty and sour are recommended as those tastes tend to be heavier, grounding and building.  Kapha being the energy of stabilization and structure does not need to become more of that.  Rather, it needs to be balanced in its function without becoming heavy and/or too big.

Eating foods that are better for its type will help kapha remain balanced and not become addicted or excessive to the sweet taste.  Add other balancing lifestyle recommendations for kapha like movement and change will further strengthen the ability of the kapha type to make lifestyle choices that positively maximize their special, unique gifts rather than becoming too heavy or solid.

The desire for the thing that will harm us means we are out of balance. A balanced, happy person is usually able to make the right choices for health, energy and happiness.  If you are craving sugar or anything else that makes you feel out of control, talk to an Ayurvedic health practitioner to take the small steps that will add up to big changes, freedom and balance.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Feeling In A Funk? A Few Quick Tips

We all have bad days, bad weeks, or even bad months.  Sometimes it feels like we are trapped in a bad movie or circumstances we wish we didn't have.  It can be hard to find the way out of a bad mood.  The main thing is to focus on shifting the energy. Can I get myself to think about something else and get distracted?  This should not be done with alcohol, food or drugs.  There are many natural, easy things to do that can take you out of the negative slump.  A little perspective change can do wonders.

Shifting the mood requires two types of actions. One is taking new action. The second is stopping negative action.  Even if one can't take initiative for something new, there is tremendous power and victory in stopping the negative.

First, stop feeling bad about feeling in a bad mood.  We are human and it is impossible to be positive all the time.  Instead, allow yourself to be present with your emotions, label the negative emotion (anger, sadness, fear, etc) and let it move through you. Just feel it and it will pass in a couple of minutes.  You may still be aware of the negative feeling but it won't feel like that gut wrenching power it originally had.  Avoiding a feeling is the perfect way to make sure it stays with you.

Second, stop bringing up the problem to everyone you are friends with rather than just confiding in a special confidante.  This magnifies it and lets it suck up your energy. A bad situation may make you angry. Label and feel the anger. Next, focus on what you can do rather than on how bad it is.  Even if the only thing you can do is get through the day, feel pride in that. There is power in carrying on without needing to bring other people into the story.

Third,  Lose your expectations of how things should be.  We are not in charge and feeling entitled to a certain result only brings negativity and disappointment.  Instead of feeling like a victim, be grateful for what is positive in your life and appreciate it.  This is very important.

Fourth, get out in nature and boost your mood.  It is one of the quickest ways to turn everything around.  If you exercise by doing a brisk walk or taking a bike ride, you have found nirvana. Ayurveda recommends going outside the first thing in the morning with the rising sun for depression and mood elevation.

Fifth, stop the thinking and ruminating.  Just do something. It can be cooking, coloring, reading a book or cleaning a closet, but it stops the affront of negative thoughts.

You can shift your funk, and you can even feel happy.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

When The Coach Needs A Coach

When I was younger, I use to think that authority figures or experts had it all together. They seemed to know all the right things to do. As I developed more of a sense of self, I realized people have different things together and we all need help at one time or another.

Normally, I am strong in holding together my health routine and executing my basic responsibilities. There are certain times I get thrown off but I am usually able to pull it together.  Recently, I was blessed to marry off my second oldest son and attend the wedding of my favorite (and only) brother, about a week later.  Between travel arrangements to bring another son home from Israel, my daughter in from upstate New York for 2 weddings and being an active planner and participant in both weddings, I had a hard time keeping the routine.

I was careful with what I ate and made sure to swim or walk daily, but I didn't have time to really check my emails, research and learn new things and blog.  I was cut off from social media and was interacting with family instead.  This was good for me because I felt like I was immersed in this experience. Sleep was difficult to get because I was very involved with so many things, but overall I felt okay.

Then, it was all over and I had to catch up on old emails, correspondence and tasks. Feeling incredibly overwhelmed and annoyed at myself for not being better prepared (my irritating perfectionist inner critic), I had a really hard time getting started between the somewhat large to do list and my judgmental mind.

In my really down state, I looked for some new lessons.  The first thing to do is ignore all the mind chatter. Second, pick one or two things that need doing.  Next, start just a small part of them with no intention of finishing them.  After doing this a couple times, things fell into place.

For example, my email inbox was horrendous (and it still is pretty bad). I set the goal of dealing with a days worth of email and for no more than 7 minutes.  As I got started by investing some time, I could do much more than 7 minutes. I even felt motivated to get more done.

The moral is just do one small step. The action will lighten the resistance and propel you forward.  It will also lead you to other efficient and effective action.  Once I was less nervous about my to do list, I realized how I was tired from this jam packed month.  My negativity wasn't just sloth and poor planning, there was a physical component.  Holistically, we are both body and spirit.  If my spirit is down, it can come from my mind but my body state can weigh down my spirit too. It is important to be conscious of the holistic model when trying to move past difficult situations.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

How Boring, Repetitive Chores Will Make You Happy

The concept seems impossible. How can boring and repetitive make you happy?  The answer is mindfulness. Mindfulness is the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.  Yes, you are aware that a certain activity like washing dishes or vacuuming is boring and repetitive, but how can it make you happier? The point of being in the mindfulness mental state of focusing on one's awareness of the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, is a therapeutic technique.

Most of the time these household chores are time killers that have to be done.  They are usually rushed through with great irritation and stress.  Your mind is racing and you may even become anxious or agitated.  Yet, what if the time needed to do the dishes and vacuum were viewed as time for mental rest?  These times can be a way to relax and slow down our usually busy, overactive mind.  If we approach the chores with mindfulness, where we focus on breathing, being present in the physical action, let our thoughts come and go without getting hooked into them  and noticing the smell and or sounds around us, the time can be a meditation or break for us.  It gives us the time needed to recharge and rest.  There is no place to be but here in the chore and you can take the time to re-frame your thoughts into a more positive and productive place.

A recent study had two groups washing dishes. One group read a descriptive statement about dish washing. The second group read about the benefit of mindfulness during dish washing.  The mindful group increased their feelings of inspiration and joy by 25% while lowering their level of nervousness by 27%.  An additional study taught children how to be mindful during yoga poses, and these children had solid benefits of  improved classroom behavior, paying attention more, increased self-control, more participation in activities, and displaying caring and respect for others.

Mindfulness in virtually any mundane activity seems to serve as a simple way to reduce stress and improve your mental health.  Bring on the boring and see how much better you feel.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Some Tips When Dealing With The Stuff We Don't Want

We all have days when everything seems like it is going wrong or there is just one issue or problem that seems to be overshadowing your life.

While adversity is common, certain people are better at dealing with it.  It is not that they are special, but they tend to choose certain mental approaches or make choices that help pull them through in a more positive way.

Here are a few of their methods:

1. They take a look at the bigger picture.  Rather than focusing on the problem, they put it in the context of life.  The adversity becomes a bump in the road, instead of a train wreck.
2. They find meaning in the problem.  When we make mistakes, we have an opportunity to learn.  Make your struggles worthwhile by learning from them instead of just feeling hurt by them.
3. They only deal with an issue one day at a time.  Most situations probably won't be fully resolved in a day. But, breaking the necessary steps into smaller steps make it seem more manageable.  Plus, being able to cross off the small steps makes one feel accomplished. 
4. They view change as an opportunity.  Many people fear change because it is unknown. However, change is a part of life and there is always a reason for it. Look for the opportunity in the change and it will become much more positive. 
5. They look to themselves for stability.  The external things that happen to us we have very little control over.  When we realize, we only have control over our reactions and actions, we become resilient.  Every challenge is an opportunity to become a better version of ourselves by choosing to be the person we would like to be.

By the way, we are human and we may not always be able to have the perfect reaction to adversity.  Take pride in the fact that you are conscious of wanting to do better.  The minute you have have that realization, you have already done really, really well.

Stay healthy & well,

Lisa

Does Self-Compassion Make You A Wimp?

Even the word self-compassion makes success oriented people with Type A personalities and a side of perfectionism uncomfortable. People tend to associate self-compassion with self-pity, weakness, self-complacency, narcissistic and selfishness.  The world seems to be a place that respects results and not feelings, especially feelings that coddle the individual himself.  Compassion for others is okay and even praiseworthy, but cutting oneself some slack is just not deemed professional or respectable.

However, self-compassion is helpful for long term success and happiness. Moreover, thinking that success or the meeting of a goal will bring you happiness is a fallacy. Compassion can be defined as feeling the suffering of another and wanting to alleviate the pain or improve the situation.  Alleviating pain and improving our situations are considered normal drives. It is when a person admits to suffering that is when the self-compassion becomes wimpy so to say.  If one can take suffering out of the equation, the self-compassion becomes a tool for growth and greater success.

Kristen Neff, a psychotherapist, explains that self-compassion has an inherent element of wisdom. Specifically, the wisdom of realistic expectations of ourselves and our common humanity that teaches us that we are as likely as any one else to have a mistake, misstep, set back or fatigue. When we allow ourselves to be normal, we will ruminate less and take responsibilities in stride. People without this cognitive self-compassion push themselves beyond their limits and are prone to burnout.  Even if we push beyond the burnout, we may meet our goals and have 'success.'  Yet, the success won't necessarily make us happy, and we may even feel a bit empty. Or we may have lost touch with what was our authentic self and replaced it with the extrinsic goals of professional successes and milestones. There is a certain emptiness. For example, first year law students, after three months of the arduous and stressful curriculum, begin to lose the sense of what intrinsically made them happy. They feel disconnected from their inherent self-worth and self-esteem, substituting accomplishments earned through competition and other people's approval in its place.

True self-compassion requires emotional intelligence that brings long term success and better effectiveness in life's many responsibilities. As one becomes comfortable in their own life, they are in the position to connect with others and succeed without riding the train of burnout.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Tip To Reduce Chronic Pain

Many people today experience chronic pain, whether it is in the form of fibromyalgia, joint pain, muscular pain, lower back pain and more.  This tendency seems to increase as we age.  There are prescription drugs and over the counter remedies like tylenol or ibuprofen that help reduce the pain temporarily but they do not address the cause of the pain.  Additionally, many of these remedies have harmful side effects like liver toxicity and promote gastric bleeding or they are contraindicated because of certain medical conditions.

Pain is uncomfortable and it is stressful.  While each person's physical pain is personal and has its own individual body history, there are general things we can try that are universally helpful to many situations.  One of the biggest predictors for pain in people over 50, according to a recent study is poor or insufficient sleep.  It is also a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease sooner than those who sleep well.

Sleep is one of the pillars necessary for good health in Ayurveda as well.  Ayurveda teaches that poor sleep is linked to emotional issues like depression and anxiety.  It also increases the likelihood of weight gain and obesity.  Ayurveda recommends getting to sleep early and having an evening bedtime ritual to enhance sleep quality.  There are also some Ayurvedic herbal combinations that promote sleep, and there are some foods that are suggested to be consumed in the evening.

While some people may argue that the pain may be causing bad sleep, everyone can agree that better sleep both in terms of quality and quantity is needed.  Your doctor may be a place to start, but beware if the doctor is just offering you pain pills and sleeping pills.  These pills are a temporary fix that do not address the root of the problem and they have health risks.  It is better to have a holistic practitioner help you develop a natural, satisfying sleep routine.  Ayurveda offers much guidance in this area.

Even before you head to a professional, try to increase your sleep time and see if you are not feeling more vibrant and  happy with your body.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Do Certain Foods Make You Sad?

While eating is done at least three times a day and is a way for our bodies to receive fuel, eating is more than just a 'refueling' or impersonal experience.  People prefer to eat in nice places and socialize with family or friends while they eat.  Additionally, people want to eat food they like and food that makes them happy.  Therefore, a food that would make someone sad is avoided.  No one wants to feel sad.

However, the chemical composition in certain foods can impact the mind and body thereby affecting one's mood and mental state.  The food you eat can have a pronounced biochemical effect on your mental health.  A recent study found that diets with foods having a higher glycemic index (particularly those rich in refined grains and added sugar) were associated with greater odds of depression, It was the added sugars, not the total sugars or total carbohydrates, which were strongly associated with depression. Further, some aspects of diet could have protective effects against developing depression.  These were foods like fiber, whole grains, whole fruits, vegetables and lactose (a sugar that naturally comes from dairy products).

Someone might argue that eating whole grains, fiber and vegetables make them sad.  Yet, with depression on the rise and the increased consumption of processed foods (which is connected to the rising obesity rates), the definition of sadness comes into question.  Maybe the issue can be reframed in the context of short term versus long term happiness.

There is also the idea of being open to change and getting curious about ways we can feel balanced and energetic.  Saying that your diet’s bad causes guilt or resistance.  Maybe consider the ultimate benefit and be willing to try a new way to eat for a couple weeks and see how you feel.  The increased energy level and better mood might be enough for you to change your diet on a more permanent basis.  The effort will be worth it.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Routine & Willpower

We all strive to make our lives a little better.  Further, we all know what would we 'should' be doing to make ourselves skinnier, healthier, wealthier and happier.  Why are the good lifestyle changes, which are the most affordable and effective paths to better health, so difficult? Why do some people have such a hard time with temptation?

The short answer is willpower.  If yours is strong, then you can accomplish many things. Unfortunately willpower is a limited resource and it gets tired the more you use it. To keep it strong, you have to find ways to limit its use.  This is the blessing of routine.  Ayurveda teaches that a daily routine is essential for good health.

Routine simplifies your life and allows you to focus on more creative and productive things.  Routine is especially helpful for your food choices.  By having a few go-to meals that you can eat on a consistent basis, you don’t have to think about meals. This strategy helps you conserve your willpower and it helps you turn down any junk food offers throughout the day.

First, organize some nutrient-dense meals on a regular basis, which ensures that your body is getting the nutrition it needs to be healthy and fit. Once you know what it feels like to get consistent, nutritious food, it will become easy to stick with those meals because you know what feels good for your body (instead of eating just because it tastes good or you didn't have time to plan something else).  With focused meals, you need fewer ingredients and a shorter grocery list.  You will find yourself saving more money and spending a lot less time in the grocery store (who doesn't need more money and time?).  A coach can help you get started if it feels overwhelming.

Many people fear they will get bored with 'regular' meals.  This can be avoided by spicing the food with different condiments and sauces or swapping the usual proteins and veggies for different ones  You can also take a time out for a few days or have a designated cheat day.  But overall, you will prefer the time you save and the way you feel great eating nourishing food.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

7 For 7

A strange blog title, I know.  It means giving up seven foods for seven days.  You can eat as much as you want but just eliminate these seven foods for a week to cleanse your system, probably lose weight and see how much better you will feel.

Most people have a hard time dieting and many people experience the lose/gain cycle.  These are not reasons to give up.  Sometimes you have to get creative and try new things to make you conscious and motivated.  Many times the quality of a person's food is causing the weight problems. 

In Ayurveda, it is recommended that food be as pure and natural as possible because it is easier for the body to digest and absorb.  Undigested food becomes ama (toxins) and it weakens the body so that the metabolism becomes sluggish. 

This is where the 7 foods to avoid comes in.  Eliminate these foods for a week.  Why a week? It is enough time to experience a change but not enough time to overwhelm you.  Our psyche can handle, "I am just trying this for a week."

So NO high fructose corn syrup, food coloring, chemical preservatives (Nitrites, Nitrates, Benzoates, MSG, GMP, BHA, BHT, Sulfates, Sulfites, Sorbates, TBHQ), artificial sweeteners (Neotame, Acesulfame-K , Aspartame, Saccharin, Sucralose), transfats, bleached flour (or bromated) and hormones/antibiotics given to animals. 

There is a good chance you will need to feed yourself from real foods that do not come in a package.  Try to shop in the produce section or in a natural foods grocery store. Remember not to diet only to eliminate certain ingredients.  Also remember to have fun as you take the 7 for 7 challenge. I would love to hear feedback on your efforts!

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Using Lunch To De-stress, Refresh & Work Better

Our daily schedules sometimes feel like a daily grind and rhythm that are bodies are set to.  There is the wake up, rush to work/school, breakfast, work, lunch, work, the late afternoon slump, social/family time and dinner.  In Ayurveda it is taught that our bodies do have a circadian rhythm and recommends a daily routine to maximize this principle for better health and well being.

Life is also made up of moments.  The individual moment builds the hour, the day, the week, the month and your life.  While the afternoon slump may be just something you come to accept, it doesn't have to be that way.  Making one small change can change how that slow, tired and sometimes unproductive time can be made better.  Chances are making that one small change will make the rest of your day better to.  The moment building the next the moment is elevated, so the continuing moments have to be better as they come from a stronger foundation.

The first step to making lunch better is to take time to eat lunch in a relaxed way, even if it is a short period of time.  Next, take a walk.  Yes, a walk for thirty minutes will boost your mood.  A recent study found, "...walkers said they felt considerably more enthusiastic, less tense, and generally more relaxed and able to cope than on afternoons when they hadn’t walked."  I hear that many people don't have time to take a thirty minute walk.  Instead of dismissing the advice, try to use it as best as possible.  Maybe take a twenty minute walk and consider how your increased energy levels will make you more efficient, making the investment of time pay off in your schedule.  Start with a small by taking the walk once or twice a week at lunch and feel your mood lighten.  The most important thing is to try it.

The initial resistance is the hard part.  Many times we are not open to experimenting because we don't think we will do it right or be successful.  We only need to find a few moments to build the momentum to move to the next place.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Better Health: It's a Group Thing

Usually a doctor's appointment is a one to one experience with the patient and the doctor discussing and monitoring the health of the patient.  Recently, medical treatment has been experimenting with group clinics or shared medical appointments where 10 to 20 people with the same medical condition meet on a regular basis with health care professionals (which included nurses, pharmacists and physicians) .  Apparently, these shared appointments create a better health outcome for the patient.  A recent study found diabetic patients to have significant improvements in their blood sugar and blood pressure over patients seen in the traditional fashion.

While the researchers could not explain why the shared medical appointment patients fared better, it seems they are ignoring basic social culture.  Support groups are organizations of people who share a common disorder, like depression or anxiety, and who meet together to discuss their experiences, share ideas, and provide emotional support for one another.  Support groups are also used for addiction, bereavement and many other issues.  The biggest advantage of support groups is helping a patient realize that he or she is not alone -- that there are other people who have the same problems. This is often a revelation and a huge relief to the person.  Additionally, these groups help one develop new skills to relate to others. Further, the members of the group who have the same problems can support each other and may suggest new ways of dealing with a particular problem.  It is an environment that facilitates support and change. Even business coaching models, like Weight Watchers or professional coaches, use it.  And it is a recommended course of care for treatment of serious medical conditions.

A group also provides accountability to make changes.  Specifically, one is supported and gains approval for positive actions and one may fear embarrassment with back sliding.  One can achieve this type of accountability with a one to one coaching experience, and move forward in their health goals.  Some people prefer the one to one relationship, because they may feel intimidated by a group.  This one to one coaching interaction is better than a doctor/patient one because the coach has time to delve into the blocks of the patient and co-create a health plan that suits the patient.  People need support and a personal touch to move towards better health, whether it is in a group or individual setting.  The study's results show a team of people meeting many needs of the patients in supportive, frequent meetings.  This is the coaching model, and it clearly works. 

Stay healthy & well,

Lisa

Resolutions: Why Bother?

It is human nature to desire to do better.  Animals work from instinct and survival, but humans want to grow, move forward and just do more.  New Year's Resolutions take many forms.  There are the ones related to fitness, like losing weight, exercising and eating better.  There are the business related resolutions where people want to improve their careers, finances and status.  Some people want better relationships with communication, love and satisfaction, or some people just want a spouse or children.  Other people may want to expand their experience by traveling or learning a new hobby.

No resolution is better than another one.  Each soul has a longing to accomplish more, fulfill themselves and feel they have a purpose and matter.  We yearn to be in that space and consciousness.  While there is no one path or easy answer to get there, we can do two things everyday to focus ourselves to take positive action from a solid foundation. 

The key is mindfulness.  Ayurveda recommends meditation (which is scientifically proven)  as a way to achieve mindfulness, but sometimes that even feels too much in our demanding, stress filled lives.  The easiest and next best thing is our wake up and going to bed routines.  In the morning upon waking up, acknowledge that you are awake today  so you can fulfill a unique purpose.  This is true every single day that you open your eyes. Say it with gratitude and mean it. I can assure you that the day will be better because of it.  Notice it is your unique purpose and no one else's purpose.  Remember that your purpose and role evolves everyday and being open will help you navigate better.  In the evening before you go to bed, know this is your last thought for the day.  What do you want it to be.  As you sleep, you will dream, process emotions and memories, and have your body repaired and restored.  Send your thoughts and intent off to a good night.  Say a prayer, feel gratitude or something else that helps you to remember how even in this unconscious state you are receiving what you need to have a meaningful life.

While resolutions are easy to make and hard to keep, the knowledge that we as human beings have a higher calling may help you reach your goals.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Why Do I Find Banana Peels in the Parking Lot of My Health Club?

As an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner and Health Coach, I have to walk the walk.  This means I exercise 7 days a week, and yes, I really do like it. Four days a week I swim at the health club, and sometimes the inconsiderate behavior of others really irritates me.  Maybe it's just me, but I think of health club exercisers as more conscious, upbeat people.  Therefore, my reasoning expects them to be considerate.  This means no trash in the parking lot.  Even if you did a great thing by exercising and an even better thing by eating a healthy snack after, you are not entitled to dump the banana peel.  Same goes for smoothie drinks and apple cores.  Additionally, please clean up your towels. They shouldn't be shoved in a locker or left on the floor.  Maybe cut price tags from your new exercise clothes and the hair from your brush can be thrown in the garbage too.

Now, I certainly feel right in the points I made.  I also cleared my emotions by verbalizing them.  Yet, a part of me still feels negative.  It is like a me versus them thing.  Further, when I find the inevitable trash where it shouldn't be, I will still be irritated.  My being right won't change their behavior and I end up still frustrated.  I have come up with a strategy that helped me.  I learned it from the lady who is paid to clean the locker room.  One of the club members offered their sympathy as she was picking up towels discarded by another member.  The club member said, "I hate when people just throw their towels on the floor and expect you to clean them up." The wise lady responded, "Oh, they just forget.  It's okay. I don't mind helping out."  I felt blessed to hear the exchange because she taught me a lesson.  She judged the other person favorably and she felt happier.  She would be cleaning up the towels either way, but now she felt good about it.  Some may call her naïve, but I disagree.  Because of her, I try to fulfill the vision of being a more conscious, upbeat person because I exercise.  I try to avoid feeling judgmental about the trash, and I just help out.  I remove the dirty towel or throw out the price tags and hair (washing my hands after because I am a germaphobe). 

Ayurveda teaches that everything we are exposed to impacts us on some level.  We can learn from our experiences and grow.  We can make changes to make things better for us.  Each situation is unique and requires a different strategy, but we should try to avoid the negative reaction or circumstance as best as we can.  Sometimes this transition may take time, but it is worth the investment.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Can Changing A Bad Habit Be Just A Dream And A Sniff Away?

Change is really hard. There are some people who find change so hard that they will not even consider the need to make a change.  Others may acknowledge the need to change something in their life, and they may even want to change, but they find making a change too overwhelming.  Especially today in our busy, hectic lifestyles, making a change requires time and energy that we do not always have.

As a holistic coach, I specialize in walking people through the process of change one step at a time.  However, many times people feel like they are not doing it right because the old habits some how feel more comfortable for a period of time.  This is completely normal and it will pass.  Old habits and beliefs have become a part of us and the subconscious mind is lazy and relies on them.

What if you could reprogram the subconscious mind?  What if it could be done easily while you sleep? No, I am not selling you anything.  Exciting new research has found that people can strengthen their ability to break bad habits by reprogramming the subconscious mind to make new associations with a habit, which in turn allows one to change a habit more easily.  The researchers exposed smokers to pairs of smells while they slept.  For example, cigarette smell was paired with the foul smell of rotten eggs.  The smokers did not wake up during the experiment and had no memory of the process.  These smokers did report smoking less the next week.  Interestingly, the smokers who were awake and were exposed to the smell pairing did not smoke less.  During sleep, people dream, and the dreaming serves as emotional and learning processing and consolidation.  There is no conscious knowledge of this, but we need it for physical and mental well-being.  This is one of the reasons sleep is so crucial for our health.  In the experiment the smokers were exposed to the smells while their brains were undergoing this process and had the capability to learn in this unconscious state.  The sense of smell affects the brain and the brain was more receptive to the smell pairing message during this time of sleep.  When one is awake, there can be a conscious resistance to learning from the subtle sense of smell.

The opportunity to learn new associations when we sleep and improve our life by making better choices is fascinating.  More importantly, it is a tool that can be used to help us create the life we want to live in a relatively easy way.  It is also a reminder that everything we are exposed to affects us in some way.  Smells during sleep impacts our mind without us being aware of the process.  Therefore, we should choose the things in our environment with great care.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

Watching Renee Zellweger's Transformation & What I Learned

Anyone who has been online in social media or the news saw the unrecognizable change Renee Zellweger did to her face.  First, I want to state unequivocally that I am not judging her, because I don't know everything and I don't want the karma.  I do admit to being a celebrity watcher, which is a habit I am not that proud of but sometimes I learn something. 

By way of background, Renee Zellweger is an over forty movie star that was out of the spotlight for a few years after having been quite successful.  She emerged on the runway of an event honoring successful women in Hollywood with a face that was totally transformed by plastic surgery to the point of her being almost unrecognizable.  When asked about her change, she indicated that her looking different was a reflection of her living life differently and finding it more fulfilling.  She also talked about how she burned out by pushing herself too hard and how she needed to take a step back to reflect and change.  She is now ready to get back into the business, but this time on her own terms.

Despite her famous status, she is in many ways just like the rest of us.  Someone, who after years of running around to be more, do more, realizes they can't do it anymore.  They also realize that there is a lot of life that they are missing out on.  The change comes slowly as we learn how to say no, rest and choose different things despite the chaos and pressure we face.  Making a change is really hard and I respect when someone is willing to do it.

I also learned that Hollywood despite its image of being evolved,  giving women so many choices and being a standard of feminism really promotes sexism and gender bias.  Here a talented actress like Renee Zellweger and many other like her lose their famous status when they age and the wrinkles start showing.  From her comments, we see that she has made a spirit and mental change.  But we also see she felt that she needed a physical change to make herself appear more youthful to remain in her professional field.  It is a change that men do not have to make.  When someone allows other standards and other people to dictate their value, they lose sight of the special unique gift they have to share with the world.  Someone's beauty comes from sharing their true self.  We all like to package our self and take pride in our appearance, but it should not be the ultimate determinant.  I hope that I can remember that as I age and hold a place for others to know it too despite the Hollywood images around us.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

How To Increase Your Paycheck By 16% & Improve Your Work Performance

This sounds like a headline from The National Enquirer.  But it is statistically true and done in the privacy of your home!  A recent study found workers who are sleeping too little, like less than seven hours a night, can increase their wages and work performance by getting an extra hour of sleep.

Getting more sleep seems somehow lazy and makes a worker less of a go getter.  Yet, growing research is demonstrating that those who get a good night’s sleep are usually more productive at work. Additionally, they think more clearly, quickly and creatively than their sleep deprived coworkers that get by on little shut eye and lots of caffeine. Sleep does rest the brain and the body.  It also allows the brain to perform vital maintenance and restoration tasks that increase its ability to perform.  There have been comparisons to sleep deprived people having the reaction and responses of someone who is legally drunk. 

Sleep is one of the pillars of health in Ayurveda.  Someone who is not sleeping well will become imbalanced emotionally and physically, causing illness.  This latest scientific study is simply supporting what Ayurveda has always taught.

When I counsel clients, sleep deprivation is one of the most common causes of health issues.  With electric lights, television, 24 hour stores, the internet and smart phones, people have many reasons to stay up past their bed time.  If they are able to get more sleep, people see a dramatic increase in energy, mood, and relief from physical symptoms.  Even when they know they need more sleep, people have a hard time getting into bed when they should.  The first step to change is knowing what needs to be done.  The second step is taking small steps to get it accomplished.  Having a health coach can be a huge support and help you make a doable plan.  However one chooses to get more sleep, they should just do it for a tremendous payoff.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa