HEALTHY TIPS FOR 2009:

Notice something about nature every day

Laugh - Studies show that laughter strengthens your immune system

Take deep breaths - Breathing exercises calms emotions, increases oxygen flow and promotes relaxation.

· Count 10 things you are grateful for every day to reinforce a positive attitude about your life.

Focus on chewing your food because "conscious chewing" forces you to slow down, pay more attention to what you are eating and be in the moment.  So sit down and take time to chew and enjoy a good nourishing meal.

Have a massage - take time out for yourself.  Men this includes you too.

· Meditate and/or pray daily

Clear up unresolved relationships - Anger or resentment toward family or friends festers in our bodies.  Finding forgiveness and making amends is beneficial to your health.

PARENTS:
Do be a good role model
Do be positive
Do make healthy eating a family affair
Do avoid portion distortion
Do start the day off right with a good breakfast
Do pack a nutritious lunch for schoolchildren
Do rise to the challenge
Do make time for physical activity
Do keep trying again and again
Do think outside the box
Don’t count calories
Don’t say diet
Don’t take supplements

(2006 Healthy Tips Compliments of Maryland Smart Step Forward and Totally You)