Skating Uphill - March 2021

Living a Healthy Lifestyle

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 “I am called by Nature
in so many different ways. Are You?” 
– The Uphill Skater –


As spring emerges, our life rhythms change and reflect the many shifts this can bring. I like to look at this time, especially now, as a challenge. Newness, even though it is recurring, is new, nonetheless. It is time to see what this year’s newness means to us at that deeply personal level where we all function.  

First, I see my challenge in the original purpose of this column— food! What started as "diet" advice has morphed many times and even become a successful BLOG. I like to get back to basics regularly and stay up with new developments in research and discoveries. One of the most interesting developments to me is now some research is showing that water may not be the best hydrator, and in fact, almost any liquid that is non-caffeine and non-alcoholic can serve that purpose. The best now has been found to be milk. It is not only milk, but also juices, power drinks and so on. In addition, the "drink when you are thirsty" idea has been debunked, too. Waiting until you are thirsty can lead to dizziness, nausea and kidney issues. So drink up, and do it regularly. 

Many foods are now being viewed differently. The lowly breakfast cereal is now a vitamin-fortified, good healthy breakfast. Read the labels. Some cereals have 100-percent of your iron requirements and many other vitamins and minerals, too. Yes, they are fortified, but hey, so is a vitamin pill. I would rather eat it.  Add milk and fruit and have a nice, easy breakfast. Oh, and don't forget the big new one—overnight oats. See the BLOG, www.skatinguphill.com for quick, easy, portable, recipes that are easy to customize. Another new one? Move over tortillas, wrapping anything in a piece of Naan Bread for a new twist is all the rage.

Exercise has also somewhat changed. I have, for the first time in my life, hired a personal trainer, and I have learned a lot. It is not just about machines and the treadmill. Walking has changed, too. Words like brisk, striding and quick step now define interval walking, and you now need to move your arms, too. Fitbits (most brands) are new and improved and also come down in price. I find mine useful. I record my steps every day. It is a fun challenge and keeps me on track.

New to me is the concept of lifting weights. I had no idea, but fat to muscle ratio is a huge factor in overall health and body strength. Body weight is made up of fat and muscle, but muscle burns more calories much faster than fat. The way to build muscle it to lift weights. I started with five pounds—don’t laugh—and I have already doubled that! I feel better and have more stamina, too!

My final challenge, and I pass it on to you, is to get outside. Between the many freezing cold and rainy days we just endured and the pandemic, it was a hard indoor winter, and I have had enough of it. I want to go outside. Nature is calling me…and my dog. (He is wondering when we are going to go for an actual outing, not just up the block.) I plan to walk on the beach (with a mask and coat if necessary) and my neighborhood. Budding trees, blossoming flowers and warm sunshine are there for all of us to enjoy.

You can shop outside, too! Our county offers some of the best farmer’s markets around. This is all a part of spring, too—getting outside to smell the flowers, buy fresh veggies, marvel at the redbud trees, walk the numerous nature/conservancy trails throughout the Lowcountry, enjoy a park, comb the beach, or simply grill out. Oh, glorious spring, the gifts you bring! Give it all a try, and come alive with nature for a great spring. Love, Judith

Visit www.skatinguphill.com blog for new recipes, daily thoughts and décor ideas.
Also find reprints of Pink articles and shared comments. Blogging is fun and easy.
Look at my blog and maybe you will want to try it yourself!

Judith Lawrenson is a former Hilton Head Island resident who has a huge heart and is loved by all who meet her. She has served and volunteered with numerous charitable organizations while living in the Lowcontry making an impact wherever she went. She and her husband recently moved to the wild hills of West Virginia to be closer to grandchildren. Judith is an avid sailor, a retired reading resource specialist, and a children's TV host whose local show originated from the Boys and girls Club. Judith is also a long time seeker of healthy, happy living and a lifestyle dedicated to service to others balanced with love of God and love of self. Check out her BLOG www.skatinguphill.com for fun info, recipes and nutrition ideas, current updates on nearly everything in the world, and lots of comments and opinions.

 

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