Less Trash Month

I'm really challenging myself.  I'm trying to see how aware I am of the amount of trash I produce, and then make a true effort to reduce it.  I will tell you it's not easy.  Not easy at all.  I'm finding I am really very mindless when it comes to waste.  I've been doing a lot of research and regular reminders to help.  It has been very eye opening learning about the reasons for the excess trash and the sheer amount of trash in our environment daily.  So far I know I'm making an effort in my corner of the world, but sadly I have not noticed a big impact in the weight of my garbage bags being hauled to the curb each week.  :(  Stay tuned!

The Exercise Ball

I have only used an exercise ball for exercise, but have been considering it at work for sitting at my desk too.  I teach, and don't sit all that much, but when I do, I'm thinking it might be good for me!  I've been reading about how it causes "active sitting", activating back and stomach muscles, and not allowing you to slouch as much as normal desk chairs do.


Some important points:


*to make sure you inflate it to almost maximum capacity so it's actually supportive
*research a high quality ball so it holds up without leaking
*start using your ball in short increments to get used to it safely

5 Tips To Cut Back On Sugar

1. Cut yourself some slack if you slip now and again.  We're human.
2. Eat 3 meals a day opposed to snacking in between.
3. Incorporate coconut oil into your diet daily.  Can cut cravings and give your energy.
4. Choose side dishes carefully.  Looking for simple, sauce-less options.
5. Don't food stress.

Hide And Seek With Sugar

Sugar is hiding in places I didn't even think about before.  It's not just lurking is your desserts anymore, and it's not always easy to find out just by reading labels (although that's important too).  By now we all know a typical soda contains as much as 9 teaspoons of sugar, but hold the phones...

Fat Free Yogurt- up to 6 teaspoons of sugar
Frappuccino- up to 11 teaspoons of sugar
Boxed sweet and sour chicken- up to 6 teaspoons of sugar
Tomato soup- up to 4 teaspoons of sugar
Pasta sauce- up to 3 teaspoons of sugar

Even many low fat foods are flavor enhanced with sugar!