Let's face it; every one of us would probably like to improve something about our bodies. Whether it's the size, shape, proportions, or health and fitness level, we all have things that are important to us and things we would like to work on! Keeping ourselves in shape is so beneficial for our lives. It is important for the health of the heart and organs that keep us functioning every day! I will share some simple and (some may seem small) but important tips that everyone can incorporate into a day! Things that will not only help your fitness but also will help change the way you feel about your body. I believe attitude is one of the key factors in staying motivated and realizing the importance of taking care of the body you've been given. So let's get started!

Setting some Goals

1. Water for Hydration....

Keeping your body hydrated is very important. Drinking water every couple of hours is beneficial in keeping your body systems running smoothly. Of course, one would drink more if engaged in a concentrated workout! I don't think the average person drinks enough water, this is something we could all improve on. If you have a hard time drinking plain filtered water try this fat-burning green tea beverage.

Take 3 green tea bags and steep them in boiling water. Once steeped pour into a juice pitcher to which you add a teaspoon of honey. Stir together and add some fresh lemon slices. Add some ice cubes to this and refrigerate. Drink this every few hours or as thirst acquires.

Studies have shown that there are great fat-burning compounds in green tea. So this can also help to keep one slim.

The Most Important Meal of the Day

2. Breakfast

A breakfast of fruit, yoghurt and granola is great! Add a cup of coffee if you need it! (I do, or at least I love it)

A Healthy Brain requires....

3. Fish Oil

It was found in a study done at the University of Western Ontario in London that taking a fish oil supplement every day can help your body burn up to 400 extra calories. This is one good reason for you to add this to your diet! A great fish oil supplement is Omega 3! Research shows that fish oils can also help prevent hardening of the arteries which we all know leads to heart disease.

Disclaimer- Always check with your physician or health care provider when adding new supplements or changing your dietary regimen! The information in this lens is for informational purposes only!

And one and two and three

4. Exercise

Snacks & Meals

5. Healthy Snacks

In order to stay fit and slim one needs to plan meals and snacks at least with a little thought! The meals that you eat should be balanced and provide your body with good nutrition. Remember portion size is key here! Snacks too, should be healthy and not just something you mindlessly eat your way through while watching your favorite movie! (Of course, the occasional chocolate, or higher fat food is okay, as long as it is only once in a while)

Some good snack choices:

• An apple
  
• Small yoghurt and slice of fruit (melon or handful of blueberries)
  
• Small muffin (homemade) store bought ones have way to many calories
  
• Cut up veggies, dipped in hummus
  
• Whole wheat pita bread

For fun ...... Skipping

6. Skipping

Okay it's the middle of the day, you just finished folding two loads of laundry and you are feeling a little exhausted. First have a glass of water, now grab that skipping rope and jump for a few minutes. You can do this in the garage (if you have room) in the backyard, or wherever you have the space. Skipping for just 10 minutes can burn off an easy 100 calories and you'll have your energy renewed!

Grab a couple of dumbbells and put your favorite song on and do a few exercises. Bi-cep curls, triceps curls, and deep knee squats. This burns calories and rejuvenates you too! I often find myself doing this around 4:00 pm or 4:30 when I'm feeling a little tired but have to get moving to prepare dinner! It really helps!

Another fun idea is to take an instrument break. Maybe you play the piano, trumpet or guitar. Guess what, this burns calories too and it's fun and gets your brain in gear too!

Sleep

7. Enough Sleep

Often times we don't listen to our bodies when they are tired and perhaps sleep deprived. The average person needs 7 - 8 hours of sleep a night! Some need a little more and some can get by on a little less. A key step to maintaining a healthy weight is also getting enough sleep. Studies show that those hours when we are sleeping is the time that our bodies are healing and repairing themselves. I'm sure when you don't get enough sleep and if it happens several nights in a row, you feel sluggish and your energy supply is much lower. So be kind to yourself and get the needed hours of sleep to help your body function the way it should! You will feel much better for it!