Simple steps week 6
It’s time for week 6 of the Simple Steps program. Each week (well, actually I’ve taken a little extra time to incorporate some of the steps) the program introduces 4 new habits, one each for nutrition, fitness, home and self. The trick is that they accumulate, so obviously, you have to keep doing the ones from the previous weeks. This week’s habits are:
1. Find healthy alternatives to processed carbohydrates
This sounds complicated, but it just involves simplifying. Instead of boxed, canned, packaged dinners, buy more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. When you’re buying pasta, rice, cereal, or bread, choose whole grain varieties. This makes it easier to get the daily dietary fiber we need, helps us look and feel better and gives us more energy.
2 . Do a few minutes of crunches every day.
Crunches are not a full sit up, just raising head and shoulders off the ground. Remember to breathe, and keep your head and neck relaxed. There are many different techniques so find one that you are comfortable with.
3. Clean out your car.
A clean car is a reflection of the driver, a wise investment, and gives us a sense of control and power. Keep the things that you need in the car organized (maps, cds etc.), and emergency tools in the trunk. Once your car is clean, pick one day a week to maintain it.
4. Update your look and your closet.
Most of us have lots of clothes in our closets that we never wear. Give away the clothes that don’t fit, or that you don’t like any more. Once your closet is cleaned out, you can see what you actually have, and then refill it if necessary with new clothes that really fit you, look fabulous and help you feel good about yourself 
I’m a big follower of #1. I eat very specific carbohydrates - nuts, fruits and veggies. As for #2, I’ve been doing 100 sit-ups per day for a very long time. It makes a huge difference in my waistline! Thankfully, my husband takes care of #3 (otherwise I shudder to think what my car would look like!) and I would just love to do number 4! (The new clothes part, especially!). Great tips as always!
These are great tips for everyone! 1-3-4 are the easiest to follow. Although, I have found a modified version of the Captain’s Chair most helpful. I sit on the bed or floor, pull my knees close (but not touching) to my chest. Feet should not touch the floor. Arms are stretched out on the side. I keep the position for as long as I can while watching TV :)…usually in 3-5 minute intervals for about 20 minutes.
About #3, I really wish most people would follow this.
Have a great day!
Thanks for the tips! I was doing some sit ups without thinking about breathing or my neck and head. Thanks again! I will have a look at the link you are sharing.
Have a lovely weekend,