Foods, movement, fresh air, appreciation and mindfulness (even while sitting) can set you on a positive track
Keep track of how you feel as you make changes – do you have more energy? are you able to accomplish tasks with more ease? are you sleeping better? how is your mood and ability to concentrate?
Have a water bottle and pack snacks (like nuts, fruit, cheese) to take along or keep handy
Lago d’orta (Orta Lake, Italy) photo by Jeanne Florini Spend time in nature (or even looking at photos of nature) to help improve memory, restore mental energy, decrease stress, improve concentration, encourages natural movement. . . and more! The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative. Williams, Florence 2017Chagall windows – Art Institute of Chicago (photo: Jeanne Florini) Appreciation and observation of the arts – helps us learn through surprise, creates a new way of seeing things to develop empathy, recognizes the contributions of others . . . and more! Art as experience – John DeweyArugula, pea shoots (microgreens) topped with grilled shrimp. squeeze of lemon juice, lemon zest and drizzle of olive oil Photo and recipe: Jeanne Florini
Save money and gain the physical and mental rewards of preparing your meals and snacks
Every day eat the following:
Whole grain bread, cereal, rice, and/or pasta
Starchy vegetable such as potato, peas, corn, beans
Non starchy vegetable such as tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, various greens, beets . . . and more!
Fruit (limit juices) canned and frozen ok!
Yogurt – prefer plain, add your own fruit and cereal
*Lean meats – baked, roasted, grilled
*Eggs – two per week
*good sources of iron, but can replace with beans and vegetables