The Benefits of a Daily Smoothie

For many people, consuming enough of the daily recommendations of fruits and vegetables can be a challenge. Blending some servings of each into a smoothie can help you meet your body’s daily nutritional needs. Making a nutrient-rich smoothie is easier than preparing most meals, so it will not only support your health, but it can also add precious time to your day. To make a fiber-rich smoothie you’ll need a high-performance blender (I use a Vitamix), since a regular household blender doesn’t puree fruits and vegetables sufficiently. The recipe below is one that I have for my lunch every day. Feel free to improvise, based on your preferences and needs.

INDULGE IN WATERMELON!

According to holistic physician Dr. Andrew Weil, indulging in the delicious summer treat of watermelon is a good thing. Watermelon is rich in anti-oxidants, low in calories, and a great source of vitamins C, A, B6, and B1. Many people in tropical regions eat watermelon on a daily basis to protect themselves from heat stroke.

Yoga for Greater Health and Wellness

Yoga is the ancient practice of physical poses meant to unite the mind, body, and spirit. Along with this powerful union come endless physical and psychological benefits. Yoga exercises have been proven to strengthen and tone muscles, as well as promote circulatory health. Mentally, yoga puts the mind in a state of relaxation and can even encourage positive thoughts and self-acceptance. Studies show that just thirty minutes of yoga, five times a week can improve energy level, concentration, memory, and overall mood.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast
Your mother was right—breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Eating breakfast jump-starts your metabolism and boosts your concentration, energy, and productivity levels. Be sure that what you eat has good nutritional value. Protein and fiber are vital in your daily diet; they keep you fuller longer and help your body burn fat calories.

Trust Your Intuition
Your intuition is your instinctive knowing about whether something’s right or wrong for you. It’s part of your innate human nature and a practical tool for honoring who you really are. To develop your intuition, start paying attention to it. When you have to make a decision, ask yourself: How does this feel for me? Is this what I should be doing? Use your intuition to help you create the life you want and to avoid situations that are detrimental to you.

Many Americans can’t tell you the names of the people living across the street. Although keeping to yourself has become a popular trend, knowing your neighbors has many benefits. People are more likely to look out for each other, exchange occasional favors, and gain greater enjoyment from where they live.

Strawberries are chock full of antioxidants that can support heart health, and help protect you against cancer and inflammatory diseases. They are a very versatile fruit that can be used in everything from baked goods, smoothie drinks, oatmeal, and salads.

Planning meals and snacks in advance has many benefits. Planning helps you optimize your time, reduce stress, and improve your health. Spending less than an hour a day on food preparation often leads to eating more fast food, while spending more time promotes better eating habits, like consuming more fruits and vegetables.