In last weeks post, I discussed my absolute resolve to live me life in the here and now. Though it sounds a wonderful ambition, the actual follow-through is a weee bit difficult. When you are a life-long stresser, taking the time to "enjoy the moment" dosnt exactly come naturally.
However, I am absolutley and totally determined to change the course of my health and happiness---and begin enjoying the everyday gifts life so often presents us with. As such, I am examining what hobbies, activities, food choices, etc make me happy and allow me to "mellow" (if only temporarily ; )
These are five great things, I have noticed this week alone, that help calm the extreme chaos that IS my stress level. I really hope others will enjoy these quick de-stress tips : )
1) Cooking. I have always sucked at cooking....and "sucked" is putting it lightly. But lately, with the extra time of unemployment on my hands, cooking has become quite the daily task. I've found that I really enjoy the time it takes to prepare different dishes---adding your own seasonings and garnishes. Lately, I've even gone so far as to branch out and create my own recipes. I've reinvinted all the fatty, yummy, salty cravings I have and fashioned them into equally satisfying, yet healthy meals. For instance, a bleu burger craving last week gave birth to my turkey and onion fat free cream cheese/bleu spread burger. And I'd be lying to you if I said it wasnt just as good. I can't wait to blog new recipes as I continue to create them!!
2)Excercise. Just 30 minutes of cardio really helps me get out of my own head. I love mixing up my everyday exercise routine by throwing in a random round of kickboxing, riding the eliptical, or going out for an evening jog. On busier days, if I dont have the time or energy to exercise, I force myself to get my heart rate up by doing such constructive tasks as dusting expediently, sweeping the floors, and doing the dishes standing up. I feel so much better about my health and my productivity if I exercise at least once every day.
3)Rental DVD's and Movie Stop Movies. What did people ever do before RedBox? Thanks to ever-changing technology, movies are so easily accessible these days! I mean, what is more economical than spending one dollar to RENT a movie, or three dollars to OWN one??!! Sometimes after a healthy dinner, there is truly nothing better than curling up on the couch and watching a new story unfurl. Getting lost in the fantasy of a fictional story can be wayyy overrated and I highly recommend it. Some extra tips for movie fanatics are as follows: a) Movie Stop often runs specials which can include $2 used movies and buy two get the third free! If you hit the store at those peek times, you can save yourself a bundle b) Research your movie choices before you rent/buy them! I know it sounds cheap, but every penny counts! Make sure your movie choice is exactly what you want.
4) Chipolte lunches with friends. Spending time with friends can sometimes be tricky, due to "hang out" options. Meeting with friends can be intimidating to those on a budget, looking to diet, or wanting something a bit different. Chipolte is the answer to all those concerns. The very filling rice bowls range from $6 to $8, while rank at a surprisingly low 700-800 calories. In addition, the bowls are always DELICIOUS and fresh---made with yummy vegetables and healthy lime rice. I love eating there with my friends and knowing that my investment is DEFINITLEY worth it. Not to mention, a visit with a friggin friend (especifically MY Chipolte friend) is ALWAYS awesome : ) Trust me....no matter how bad your day is...it cna be fixed with Chipolte.
5) A half glass of white wine with dinner. My personal reccomendation is the $3 bottle from Wal-Mart. They give you a great bang for your buck, and the wine is pretty dang good! I enjoy slowly drinking a small glass with dinner and enjoying the "cool down" from the rest of the day.
I can't wait to start blogging some pictures of the aforementioned recipes and show you guys what I"ve been up to : ) Until then, happy blogging!
