Hidden Stress

Hidden Stress

by | Apr 13, 2015 | Motivational Mondays

Nature walkI fancy myself a fairly relaxed person, but when I notice the other drivers on the road are more annoying than usual I can safely assume that I’m probably stressed out.

At times, I do not yet know what I’m worried about. Could it be an interview or business meeting? Something regarding my health? Or perhaps an upcoming trip?

Talking with a friend – in the woods of course – she explained how relieved she was after her team successfully completed a project last Friday. My friend then said she did not even realize how stressed and preoccupied she was until Friday came and she felt that sigh of relief. It got me wondering, how often are we responding to things out of stress or worry and not thinking clearly?

I believe one healthy way to cope with this is through meditation or prayer. I’m curious, how do you deal with it?
Some of us are able to turn to things like exercise such as dancing, kickboxing or crafting projects to deal with stress. Others might be apt to turn to food, alcohol or tobacco. Clearly, some of these choices and coping mechanisms are healthier than others.

Food for thought

First step is recognizing.

If you find yourself reaching for a less healthy coping strategy first say it out loud; “Yes, I am eating these cookies because I’m stressed out!”

From here, you are able to take away some power from the food because you know in your mind that cookies will not make your problems or stress go away. That doesn’t always mean that we won’t eat a couple anyway, but maybe we will eat less or instead go on a walk to clear your mind.

What’s Your Vice?

by | Apr 6, 2015 | Motivational Mondays

cakeThis was a question posed to me last week – specifically someone that wanted to know what foods or beverages I indulge in, because let’s face it none of us (especially the dietitian!) are eating perfectly all the time.

Ironically, that question was easy to answer last week… I’m a sucker for anything with icing! The new clinic I work at is filled with women that will use any excuse to eat cake (it’s BOGO at Payless, let’s get a cake to celebrate!).

I spent the week eating the edge pieces because I like a little cake with my icing.

I have found, people often believe it’s the cravings for sweets, a delicious beer or the occasional fried chicken with all the fixings is “the problem.”

I disagree.

It’s the day-to-day habits that make up our overall health and well-being. This includes but is not limited to habits such as making time to include movement or exercise daily, packing lunch to take to work, ordering the side-salad instead of French fries or spending 10 minutes in the quiet to meditate.

Food for thought:

What daily habit do you have that is not serving you? What can you do differently tomorrow?

Pick one small change and see how it feels.

Polenta with Fresh Veggies

by | Apr 4, 2015 | Well Balanced Wisdom

This creamy polenta has added flavor because of the Parmesan cheese. For a healthier dish, this recipe includes lightly steamed and sautéed vegetables instead of a mushroom butter sauce. Try any combination of vegetables, including leafy vegetables such as spinach.

Polenta with Fresh Veggies

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