My Fitness Exploration

A lot of time has passed since I was the girl in the eggplant purple, Abercrombie & Fitch henley, wearing khaki pants and an extra 40+ pounds on my 5'11.5" frame.  I came across this photo, along with some others, in recent years.  Several times I have explored the possibility of sharing them, one day, when I was "ready."  

"Ready" meant on the verge of publishing a memoir of my life story.  "Ready" meant I had established myself as a leader in the industry and was fully prepared for my moments of "fame" as I revealed the progress I have made since that photo was taken, around 1997.  As years passed and social media evolved, I was amazed to observe all of the transformations, success stories, fitness journeys and makeovers.  Before and afters fill my news feeds daily and none of these transformations are to be taken lightly.  Whether your workouts involve holding plank for an endless 15 seconds or bench pressing more than your own body weight, your progress should be recognized and respected.  If you went from ordering a burger, fries and milkshake once a week instead of five times a week, your progress should be recognized and respected.  

As I recognized these accomplishments in others I asked myself, "If these people are willing to expose their struggles and a new six pack, revealing the progress they have made, why haven't I?"  During the past 17 years of my fitness journey, I have dropped the excuses and excess weight while raising my self awareness and confidence.  Now, I am helping others do the same with my online training programs. 

To me, having a fit body is the manifestation of your goals and success, fueled by hard work and commitment.  My goal is to use what I have learned to inspire and motivate others.  

Last summer, I was given the opportunity to be featured in the Rising Stars column of Oxygen Magazine.  I have been a fan of Oxygen  Magazine since it's early stages in the late 1990s.  I vividly remember when a friend of mine introduced me to Oxygen during one of our shifts at the Illinois State Rec Center (little did I know that was the start of my fitness career AND my addiction to such a solid source of information).  My friend was more familiar with the industry and used to point out Adela Garcia when she would come in to use the StepMill.  We were one of the only gyms to feature this piece of equipment!  The machine has since received the attention it deserves, as has Adela.  I have decided to share my fitness journey, as described in the following Q&A article that was submitted to Oxygen Magazine in April of 2014.  A portion of this article was then featured in the Rising Stars column of the August 2014 issue.   

Were you athletic in your youth?  Not at all! Unless having a newspaper route counts! From the time I was about 8 years old until sophomore year of high school, twice a week I walked what felt like MILES.  It probably took about 45-60 minutes and, looking back, I am certain it helped me stay in shape.  Once the paper route officially ended, I gained a lot of weight.  In high school, I ate too much and moved too little, reaching a high of 210 pounds.

Before I began high school, my mom gave me the choice of playing golf or tennis (to encourage me to break out of my shell and become "more social.")  The golf lessons she signed me up for consisted of a bunch of grade school boys and myself!  I didn't mind the tennis lessons, so that is what I pursued in high school.  I rotated between third and fourth doubles.  If you know anything about tennis, that doesn't say much about my ability.  Going into my junior year, the coach ordered a double X t-shirt for me. THAT was a wake up call.

What were some of your athletic accomplishments?  Oh gosh.  I ran the entire 1-mile in gym class my senior year of high school without stopping to walk.  That was the first time I completed it without walking, about a year after I joined the gym.  Also, throughout four years of tennis practice, I despised the drills my coach made us do.  I strongly disliked someone telling me how hard to work.  Now, I find the motivation and discipline within to push myself and stay challenged.

When did you start working out and what inspired you to do so? My mom gave me a membership to Women's Workout World for my 16th birthday.  I was very shy, kept to myself and did not have many friends.  As a result I spent a lot of time at home, eating too much and feeling lonesome.  The gym helped me lose the extra weight I had put on, and helped me gain confidence.  To this day, I hear Gina G's "Ohh Ahh Just a Little Bit" and have flashbacks to my first step aerobics class!  It's a great memory.

Who is your role model? Why? Both of my grandmothers are my role models.  While they have passed away, they stayed active well into their 90s, one riding the stationary bike for 20 minutes a day and the other going to water aerobics class.  The quality of your years is so important, even more so than the quantity.  I'm a firm believer in brain health as well.  So although they may not have gotten their heart rates up very high, among the benefits of their activity was retaining mental awareness and social interaction.  I admire them for taking such good are of themselves and their family.

Are you more of a cardio woman or a weights gal? Why?  I used to be a Cardio Queen!  Every time I went for a run, I felt the need to run the same distance (or more) than the last time.  You can only do that for so long before your body breaks down.  In October of 2010, my back went out and I had a herniated disc.  It was the result of too much working out and not enough rest.  Now, two years post-surgery, running is a thing of the past (except when the weather is good and I need some time outside, jogging usually no more than 30-40 minutes).  In April 2013 I began working with a strength coach at Hard Pressed High Intensity Workouts.  He put me through 30 minutes of butt kicking, sweat dripping routines twice a week.  It changed my perception of what I was capable of, and I do the best I can to reach that intensity level when I train on my own.  They helped me bust through a major fitness plateau--one I didn't even know I had reached!

What is your favorite training move? Why? I am a huge fan of the split lunge and the single leg-leg press.  It's so important to focus on unilateral training to help correct and prevent imbalances.  My right leg is still weaker than the left due to nerve damage from the herniated disc.  I like explaining to clients how unilateral movements will help activate stabilizing muscles as well.  When you are not using as much muscle to move through a range of motion, you have no other choice but to focus on form and quality.

What is your workout plan like? I strength train for about 30 minutes, 5 times a week.  There are days the leg press feels like a concrete wall during the last couple of reps, and there are other days when my legs are shaking from muscle overload due to high repetition with my own body weight.  The variety is what keeps my body (and mind) stimulated.  I love seeing all of these concepts incorporated throughout Oxygen.  If you are constantly using the same training methods and principles, your body will adapt and progress will slow.  This variety also helps to prevent injury from overuse.  For cardio, my favorite machine is the StepMill.  When I'm not on the StepMill, I blast through sets of my cardio/strength circuits, usually incorporating the XBAR.   

What do you love most about Oxygen?  

I love the sense of community that Oxygen creates.  It amazes me to see so many women of different backgrounds, careers, life challenges, and life accomplishments come together with the common bond of fitness.  Before there were Pinterest boards, I used to cut out pictures from Oxygen Magazine and tape them into a notebook as inspiration.  The notebook still exists.  Via social media, it has become easier to establish connections with these women and contributors.  Two of my favorite fitness role models are Kim Dolan Leo and Emily Skye.  As leaders in the industry, it makes me happy to interact with them.  I'm working hard to influence others in my own unique way.

What's your favorite type of cardio? I write up my own routines and take over any open space with my music, notes, weights and a clock!  Using combos of cardio and strength exercises, I create about 7 "pairs" and run through the entire set 3 times.  For example, one pair might be 30 seconds of burpees (cardio) followed by 30 seconds of pushups (strength).  Another would be jumping rope and alternating lunges.  It's a great way to get the heart rate up during the cardio segments and then bring the heart rate down during the strength.  It's full body, efficient and keeps me from getting bored!

What gets you pumped up the most right before a workout? Reminding myself of my goals.  If you don't have a destination, you're more likely to go in circles!  Or pull over! And once you pull over, who knows when you'll get back "on track."  Having a competition to train for motivates me to plan my workouts, record my sets, reps, and weights and make sure that my actions and decisions today are directing me to where I want to be in the future.

Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you?  
“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not people or things.” -Albert Einstein  

Have you ever competed and if so, how long have you been competing? I have!  I competed in my first show in November 2013.  A friend in the industry told me I was doing it and started talking to me as though I had already signed up.  I went along with it, unsure if I would follow through.  About two months out from the show, when I ordered the suit, reality hit!  It took me some time to believe in myself and to build the confidence. This was a great example of showing how important it is to have a support system and establish relationships with people who believe in you.

Who has supported you the most throughout your fitness journey? My family.  They have dealt with my moodiness, peculiar eating habits, physical and emotional setbacks and more.  As you become more committed to a specific goal (of any kind), your lifestyle changes.  That sometimes means a shift in your support system as well.  When it comes to family, they're there regardless.

What are your big plans for the future? I enjoy creating a strong community of like-minded individuals through my blog and on social media.  It is a long term goal of mine to enhance my online training services and publish a fitness ebook, team up with Vitamin Shoppe, and lead the very first XBAR Fitness class.  The support system through social media is amazing and I would love to continue educating others and providing resources to help them achieve their goals. 

What piece of advice would you give to a newbie in the gym? Make sure your goals are based on your current fitness level and what is achievable for YOU.  There are so many program, methods, and specialty studios, that you can feel "lost" not only in the gym, but in the industry as a whole.  Always take into account what your current fitness level is so you can assess what a reasonable goal looks like.  Enlist the help of a trainer or knowledgeable friend if you are unsure.  From there, map a course based on your abilities and resources so you can reach that destination.  Also, I encourage you to track your progress with photos and measurements.  Even if you are not training for a specific event, this type of goal will hold you accountable and remind you to work hard and stay committed.

What's your best fitness tip (This could be related to training, nutrition, personal attitude, fitness gear, etc.)? The only person you should do this for is for yourself.  Along the way, you will likely inspire and motivate others.  This creates a positive cycle--motivating individuals who, as a result, then motivate you.  The healthier you are, the more equipped you will be to help those you care about. 

Megan is certified as an AFAA Personal Trainer and has competed in two NPC Bikini Competitions.  Upon graduating from Illinois State University with two degrees (Commercial Recreation and Program Management) along with an Exercise Science minor, Megan continued to work in the fitness industry.  Her experiences range from commercial to corporate to governmental fitness programming. When working with clients and participants, Megan’s approach features bodyweight movements and plyometrics, while incorporating free weights and resistance equipment. She has worked with athletes, beginners, prenatal clients, and more. Click here for more information about personal training and online training.

For more fitness inspiration, visit Tod at Meisner Musings.  Tod was featured as my first guest blogger and shared an introduction to his fitness journey. 

Healthy Eating for the Person Who Hates to Prep: Part 2

In the first part of this two part series, I discussed methods for eating healthy while maintaining a busy life.  The majority of us do not have the time to shop for and cook elaborate meals on a daily basis.  Below, I have listed a variety of food combinations that I incorporate as snacks and meals throughout the day.   Keep in mind I am a vegetarian, so feel free to add your choice of protein to the following (egg, chicken, tuna, other lean meats).  At some point, I'm pretty sure I have eaten any of the following as breakfast, lunch OR dinner.

• Italian Nachos.  This consists of a low carb tortilla wrap and blue corn tortilla chips topped with melted mozzarella shredded cheese, marinara sauce and spinach.  Add your choice of protein which, for me, is usually black beans.
• Oatmeal Concoction.  This is my creative name for regular oatmeal topped with natural peanut butter.  It gets more exciting when I add fresh fruit, honey, yogurt, protein powder, chunks of Quest bars...anything!  I also add cinnamon because it is an anti-inflammatory and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.  Just be sure to watch portions because it's easy to go overboard and the calories will add up.
• Nicecream.  I have been making "nice cream" for quite some time. But it wasn't until I discovered the hashtag that I realized there was a name for it.  Basically, I freeze bananas (break into chunks first and store in a ziploc bag), then blend with a scoop of protein and a minimal amount of almond milk.  The result is a protein shake so thick, you can eat it with a spoon. Thus, resembling ice cream.  Feel free to use fruits other than bananas!  Add protein for more flavor and nutrients!
• Protein Jello.  Prepare sugar free jello as instructed.  Before refrigerating, add 1 container of nonfat Greek yogurt and mix thoroughly.
• Cottage Cheese and Chips. Or cottage cheese and crackers! Veggies! Pretzels! Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which is digested slowly and keeps you feeling full.  I've been know to add salsa to this as well.
• ProYo Bowl.  This is a combination of nonfat greek yogurt with protein powder, mixed with some water.  This "bowl" is similar to the oatmeal recipe listed above.  Once I stir the yogurt and protein with some water, I get creative.  I'll add raisins, nut butter, fruit, Kashi cereal, etc.  Again, watch portions because it's easy to go overboard and the calories will add up.

• Sweet Potato Fries.  Microwave your sweet potatoes, let cool and then cut into slices.  Mix with coconut oil (about 1 T. per large potato) and cinnamon.  Bake for 15-20 minutes at 375 or until crispy.
• Veggie Wrap.  Has anyone else tried those individual boxes of vegetable medleys from Green Giant?? I love them! I'll cook one and put in on top of a low carb wrap, then top with cottage cheese.
• PBJ! A classic favorite.  I recommend using Ezekiel bread because of it's a source of complete protein.  My favorite peanut butter is Skippy's low sugar/low sodium, natural variety.  Opt for fresh strawberries or a low sugar jam.
• Popcorn.  Using popcorn seeds and a brown paper lunch bag, I make my own! This allows you to add your own choice (and amounts) of toppings.  Place about 1/4 c. of seeds in a brown paper lunch bag.  Seal the top by folding it over a couple of times.  Microwave for 2-3 minutes or as needed.  I'll usually top with butter spray.  I have also sprinkled it with low sodium taco powder.  Ranch dressing mix is another option I have used.
• Fiesta Bowl.  Brown rice, black beans and salsa. Add avocado for some healthy fats! Want more greens? Add spinach!
• Quest bars!  When all else fails. 

Have you tried these snacks or do you have ones that are similar?

Comment below or tag me on social media at @inspirelingefitness.  I'd love to hear from you.

Optimal Snacks for Optimal Health

Do you find yourself continually losing attention and dozing off between the hours of 3pm and 4pm? Not sure you can survive the 11am hour before heading to lunch? You will be happy to hear that snacking two hours after your lunch (or an hour before) can prevent this from happening. A snack that contains fiber, some protein, healthy carbs and healthy fat slows digestion and provides steady energy to calm your cravings. The same principle also applies in the morning, depending on the time frame between breakfast and lunch, if you find yourself ravenous. Otherwise, you may be more likely to choose unhealthy foods and risk overeating at lunch time.

While we focus on healthy eating to prepare our breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is equally important to consider the quality and timing of our snacks as well. Consumed throughout the day, healthy snacks will stabilize your blood sugar, serve as a source of protein for your muscles, and provide carbohydrates to keep you energized and focused on the task at hand. Carbohydrates are your brain's primary source of fuel. The body breaks carbohydrates into glucose, which it uses toward brain activity.

Popcorn and a Low Fat Cheese Stick
Be aware of the microwavable popcorn you find in the chips and dips aisle at the grocery store. Many are loaded with saturated fat and are high in calories. Without these additives, popcorn is a very nutritious source of fiber and many nutrients. Check out my previous blog for a simple and easy way to make a healthy version--using just seeds and a brown paper lunch bag!

Carrots and Hummus
A perfect combination of crunchy and creamy. The carrots provide a solid source of healthy carbs and the hummus is derived from chickpeas, a healthy source of protein.

Peanuts and Raisins
Ahhhh...my favorite! I have this daily. It is a great sweety-salt combination and the fats from the peanuts are very satiating. While dried fruit and nuts tend to be high in calories, I prepare this snack in a plastic baggie so I have a single serving of each.

Apple
I like to pair an apple with a protein or fat source. Any of the following are great examples.
-Cottage Cheese
-Protein Shake (Quest Nutrition Salted Caramel is my current fave!)
-Peanut butter
-Greek Yogurt

Quest Nutrition Bar
Quest bars are a great source of whey isolate protein which has been shown to increase muscle mass, aid in the loss of body fat, enhance immune function and much more. They're gluten free and contain 17g of fiber too so they'll keep you full! Almost every ounce of carbohydrate in the bars comes from fiber, which will keep your insulin levels low and your stomach satisfied. Fiber has been shown to do many things such as controlling hunger, improving digestive health and preventing certain diseases. Click here to order your Quest bar (shipping is free on orders over $25).

Oatmeal with Peanut Butter
I have been addicted to this since a friend told me about it in college! Cannot tell you how many others have become addicted as well. Try it, you will love it! Keeps you full for hours.

Tea
Sometimes you may not be hungry at all, just restless and/or dehydrated. There are several benefits to drinking tea, including increased alertness without the jitters induced by the caffeine in a coffee. Green tea also improves your body's ability to burn fat!

Yogurt and Peanut Butter
This one may sound strange at first, but again, like the peanuts and raisins it's an amazing treat to satisfy your salty-sweet cravings. Add a piece of fruit for a complete snack!

Fuel Your Fitness Product Guide

Whether shopping for yourself or for your favorite member of the fitfam, the following products and services support a lifestyle of healthy habits and wellbeing.

XBAR Fitness System
The XBAR's unique and innovative design allows for unlimited exercises.  Workout every body part
with one compact device.  Work your abs, shoulders, chest, legs, back, biceps, triceps and more!  It's simple, portable and functional   Train on your time, in your place, at your pace.  Save 10% on your entire order at www.xbar.com with code MeganLinge at checkout.  Shipping is free.

Personal Training Services
If the person you're shopping for is new to exercise, has reached a plateau, or is looking to improve their athletic ability, working with a Personal Trainer provides several advantages over working out on your own. I am a Chicago-based Personal Trainer, insured and certified in CPR/AED. I am certified through AFAA as a Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor. My experience includes working with beginners, athletes, recreational exercisers, prenatal clients, and clients preparing for their wedding day!  Online programs are available, as are partner and group sessions.  Click here for more information.

Vitamin Shoppe Treats 
Vitamin Shoppe is my go-to place for protein, vitamins, collagen and various other products such as hemp seeds and shaker bottles!  They have a full line of skin care products as well. Click here for a variety of gift items and special offers.

Wahoo Fitness TICKR Heart Rate Monitor
The Wahoo Fitness TICKR monitors your heart rate, calories burned, and time plus distance and pace when connected to your phone.  The TICKR's dual band technology works with smart phones and GPS watches, making it the ultimate heart rate monitor!  The TICKR is available for purchase here.  

Share Your Story Locket
I'm in love with this necklace and everything it represents.  During my last bikini competition I remember feeling mentally and physically exhausted the day of, not having placed and having "nothing to show" for all of my hard work.  Yes, that though, at some point, entered my mind.  Then I knocked it out as quick as a set of burpees! Focus on the progress, not just the end product.  Competitions, triathlons, marathons, performances...they are OPPORTUNITIES for us to REVEAL our talents and strengths.  Opportunities to witness our accomplishments, evaluate the outcome and reassess with a new (or modified) goal in mind.  Click here for necklaces and more.

Power Systems Fitness Equipment
Power Systems carries all kinds of fitness equipment including exercise mats, workout DVDs, stability balls and more.  Be sure to check out their New Products as well.

Shields of Strength
I discovered Shields of Strength through Instagram and was so intrigued by the products and the company's presence in various communities, particularly in the fitness industry. It is amazing to see women like Jamie Eason and Paige Hathaway not only represent their commitment to a healthy lifestyle, but to a spiritual one as well. This is a great opportunity to share faith in God and passion for fitness.  Explore the options from Shields of Strength here. 

Which of these items are you wishing for? Forward them to a friend!

Glow-Getter Smoothie

Strengthen your hair, skin and nails with this fruit infused smoothie.  NeoCell's Super Collagen is 100% pure collagen protein that provides building materials for growth and maintenance of a healthy body.  

• Collagen is the number one protein in your body!
• Collagen is the "glue" that holds your body together, making up your bones, tendons, ligaments and giving skin its elasticity.
• Collagen supplementation not only can increase the amount of collagen fibers, but new fibers are more organized and less prone to fraying--leading to a more youthful appearance.
• Collagen supplementation has been shown to reduce joint pain caused by arthritis.
• Typically, after age 25, we lose about 1.5% of collagen each year.
• Collagen is absorbed best when consumed on an empty stomach (wait 30 minutes before eating).
• Vitamin C plays an important role in the production of collagen.
• The Vitamin C in the Vitamin Water improves the absorbency of the collagen.  A 20 oz. bottle contains 150% of your daily value.
• Pineapple is also a fantastic source of Vitamin C.  It contains 105% of the daily value per 1 cup serving.  Pineapple also contains bromeliad, an enzyme that can reduce bloating and may help arthritis pain by easting inflammation.

Ingredients
1 scoop NeoCell Super Collagen powder
8 oz. Vitamin Water Zero Orange
1 cup frozen pineapple

Blend and serve.  The NeoCell brand can be purchased here from Vitamin Shoppe.

Creamsicle Protein Treat

This easy to make treat is low in sugar and high in protein.  It will satisfy your craving for something sweet, without the extra calories!  

1 box of gelatin

1 scoop of Quest Nutrition Salted Caramel protein

1/4 c. nonfat Greek yogurt

2 T. water

Prepare gelatin according to instructions.  Once it has gelled, mix the remaining three ingredients and scoop on top! 

Purchase your Quest Nutrition protein at Vitamin Shoppe and shipping is free.  

Cake Batter Protein Pancakes

These pancakes are easy to make and full of clean, high protein ingredients. Give them a try and you'll want to have breakfast all day, every day! The recipe made approximately 6 pancakes.

Ingredients: 2 scoops Pro Supps Vanilla Cake whey protein, 1/2 cup fat free cottage cheese, 1/3 cup liquid egg white, 1/2 cup plain oatmeal, and about 1/3 cup water.  

Blend all ingredients. After cooking pancakes, top with a mixture of 1/2 scoop Cellucor Cake Batter whey protein with 1/3 cup nonfat Greek yogurt with 1 t. nectresse or truvia and 1-2 T. of water. Enjoy!!

Interested in learning more about my online fitness programs and challenges?  Click here to stay hot and get healthy with the Fuel Your Fitness method!

Cherry Chocolate Protein Pizza

This vegetarian dessert is full of nutrients and high in protein.  It's a crunchy, chewy, salty, sweet food party! Makes 2-3 servings.

1 Cherry Chocolate Squarebar
1/2 c brown rice flour

1-2 T water

1 T peanut butter

1/2 c nonfat Greek yogurt

1 t cocoa powder
1 t honey

1/3 c Kashi GoLean cereal

1/4 c dried cherries 

Preheat oven to 350. Mix flour and water, add water as needed. Spread into circle on pan. I coated mine with coconut oil. Bake 12-15 minutes.  Mix peanut butter, yogurt, honey and cocoa powder. Spread on cooled crust. Top with Kashi, dried cherries and Squarebar pieces.  Give it a try and let me know what you think by commenting below or tagging me on social media. @inspirelingefitness

Double Mocha Frozen Latte

This tasty treat was inspired by National Coffee Day! It contains over 25 grams of protein and as much caffeine as a cup of coffee.  The potassium from the banana plays an important role in balancing electrolytes and nervous system functions.  Cacao powder is high in antioxidants and can help reduce blood pressure and support heart health.

1 frozen banana (break into chunks before freezing for easier blending)

1 serving of instant coffee

3/4 cup almond milk

1 tablespoon cacao 

1 scoop Optimum Nutrition Mocha Cappuccino

Blend all ingredients. The less almond milk you add, the thicker the latte will be!  Give it a try and comment below or tag me on social media! @inspirelingefitness

Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

This is a super convenient, nutrient dense breakfast that could be enjoyed any time of the day. It requires only a few ingredients and a sealed container. 

1 1/2 cups oatmeal

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 cup maple syrup 

2 T coconut oil

2 t cinnamon

3/4 cup coconut milk

Mix all ingredients. Refrigerate overnight.

Chia seeds are an excellent vegetarian source of protein, much higher than most plant foods.  Protein is a weightless friendly macronutrient that can reduce appetite and cravings.  Coconut oil is high in short and medium chain fatty acids, which are easily digested and sent right to the liver, providing instant energy.  What are your favorite ways to incorporate chia seeds and coconut oil into your diet? Comment below or tag me on social media! @inspirelingefitness

Beauty From Within: The Benefits of Collagen and Mindfulness

What makes you glow?  For some of us, it's reminiscing about our well-earned vacation over dinner and drinks with a friend.  For others, it's the completion of a 5k race or our first blog entry. "Glow getters" all have one thing in common.  They strive to achieve their goals in life while attaining a beautiful glow both inside and out.

The following tips are ways to achieve that healthy glow, starting from within. 

1. Be generous. Give without expecting anything in return. People appreciate sincerity and when you can give freely, your actions will be more meaningful to you and the recipient. 

2. Say hello. "The more strangers I talked to, the better I started to feel about myself." This quote from Walking the Camino resonated with me recently. We say hello to strangers on Facebook, on Instagram, on Twitter. Imagine if we extended those well wishes in real life. Remain present and focus on who is around you and the moments you are experiencing. 

3. Less is more. Accumulating possessions requires effort. Effort to organize, clean, upgrade!! The less you possess, the more energy you will have for the people, yourself included, and experiences in your life. 

4. Reflect. Who doesn't enjoy a little bit of R&R, or rest and reflection as I like to call it. Just because you have an opening in your schedule, that doesn't mean you need to fill it. Quite often, I feel more productive after I have spent some time doing nothing. Reflect on the day, the week, the year. Adjust your schedule and daily routine (that's where change occurs!) accordingly based on where you are going and what your goals are. It's better to spend an 8 hour workday feeling energized, working at 100% than to drag through it, operating at 5%, with a "low battery."

5. Focus on your "done" list, not your "to do" list. Has anyone ever really completed their to do list? Mine seems to grow each day, as I check things off...more things are added to it. At times, it feels like you're barely staying afloat when someone throws you a ten pound brick, right? Well, rather than feel like you are sinking with things to do, focus on what you have already accomplished. Write them down if you have to! This encourages good organizational skills, ensuring that you work efficiently and at a healthy pace. 

Another form of beauty from within can support healthy hair, skin and nails.  A few years ago, I discovered NeoCell, a collagen company that believes in, and promotes, neurocosmetics. Neurocosmetics refers to ingredients that are applied or ingested to reduce fine lines, moisturize skin and encourage strong hair and nails. The very first product I tried from NeoCell was the Super Collagen powder.  Containing 6,600mg of collagen per serving, this hydrolyzed form of collagen stimulates your body's own collagen production. The collagen fragments enter your body's collagen matrix, turning on the receptors to produce more collagen.  Without supplementation, collagen production declines about 1.5% every year after the age of 25. Collagen is the number one protein in your body and also makes up 100% of your tendons and 86% of your ligaments. Your skin? A whopping 75% of it is collagen! NeoCell collagen is available here from Vitamin Shoppe.  Shipping is free when you spend $25. 

Recently, two new products were introduced to the NeoCell family.  I have been able to experience both and have been pleased with the high quality ingredients and research that has gone into both of them.

Glow Matrix
Glow Matrix is an advanced skin hydrating formula that provides scientifically advanced ingredients to internally hydrate the skin.  This premium formulae supports the skin's lipid barrier which helps lock in moisture and smooth the skin.  Like all NeoCell products, Glow Matrix is standardized to be both bioavailable and bioactive for maximum absorption and efficacy.  Glow Matrix uses clinically proven ceramides--specific lipids naturally present in the skin, essential to the lipid barrier or moisture barrier.  The ceramides present in Glow Matrix are clinically tested to improve smoothness, moisture and elasticity in just 15 days.  This scientifically crafted blend of nutrients promote hydration in the skin while combating free radicals.

Derma Matrix
Derma Matrix is a skin strengthening formula that provides scientifically advanced ingredients designed to internally nourish skin based on NeoCell's three pillars of collagen health--strengthen, hydrate and protect.  This formula uses Advanced NeoCell Collagen, which is created through a proprietary micronization process so that it dissolves instantly. It has a neutral flavor and dissolves easily. 

Collagen is best absorbed on an empty stomach, at least thirty minutes prior to a meal. This will ensure maximum absorption. 

Strawberry Pumpkin Protein Cake

This six-ingredient recipe requires only three steps!  Pumpkin is a great source of fiber which aids weight loss--by keeping you fuller, longer and on fewer calories.

1 15 oz can pure pumpkin

3 scoops Quest Nutrition Strawberries & Cream protein 

2 T coconut oil

1/3 c almond milk

1 t baking powder 

1 egg

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Combine all ingredients.  Bake for approximately 30 minutes.  

Clean Eating Apple Crisp

Clean Eating Apple Crisp! This took less than 5 minutes to prepare and contains more grams of protein than you can count on two hands! In a small dish, combine 1/4 c regular oatmeal, 2 t cinnamon, 1 T lemon juice and 2 t xylitol. Stir. Pour over sliced apple. Microwave 1 minute. Top with cottage cheese, cinnamon and 1 T maple syrup! Enjoy.

Banana Coconut Bites

This sizzling snack is a sweet treat that provides healthy fats from coconut oil, cinnamon to stabilize blood sugar levels,  fiber from flaxseed meal to help manage your weight and reduce the risk of heart disease, along with bananas which can help eliminate depression due to their effect on serotonin levels (the brain's neurotransmitter that keeps you happy).

Ingredients
2 bananas, sliced
2 T. Coconut Oil 
2 t. cinnamon
1/2 c. flaxseed meal
2 t. Xylosweet

Directions

Melt coconut oil in small bowl.  Pour dry ingredients into small bowl.  Place pan on stove, over low to medium heat.  Coat sliced banana with coconut oil, then transfer to dry ingredient bowl to coat.  Place on frying pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.