Small Step = Big Results

That's right you do not need to make huge leaps in order to get from where you are to where you want to go. In this week's article we are shedding some light on easy steps to shedding excess weight and unhealthy habits.

Here are 5 Small Steps with Huge Gains:

Step #1 Take care of your Tummy. Eat slowly and avoid eating on the run. If you are in a hurry take something with you that's easy to digest. A nutritious smoothie may be optimal (ask for my recommendations). Smoothies can be very nourishing and satisfying. Make sure you have adequate protein in your smoothie and as little juice as possible - dilute the juice. Use the whole fruit instead. Add some nuts and seeds for additional crunch and some healthy fat.

Step #2 Snacks for Life. Always choose wisely when it comes to your snacks. Usually you will find yourself snacking more and on the wrong things if you have not eaten healthy, wholesome meals throughout the day. We think unhealthy snacks are more available than healthy ones. But shift your focus - you will see the apples, oranges, carrot sticks, nuts and seeds almost everywhere. Make sure you choose the unsalted variety if you choose nuts or seeds.

Step #3 Moderation, Please: Eat well and eat in moderation and with enjoyment. In order to have the best of health, including energy and mental focus - always eat 3 meals a day. This is a continuation of Step #1 - if try and relax and eat calmly savoring each flavorful bite you will get more benefit from what you're eating. Giving yourself time to relax while you enjoy your meal is essential for good digestion, helping you make better food choices and eat less.

Step #4 Take the Phone off the Hook: It's called down time and that means no talking on the phone, texting or checking emails. It means close your eyes for at least 20 -30 minutes. No interruptions - this is your time so make sure to tell those who may want to distract you from this necessary and rejuvenating practice. Don't think you are "doing nothing" that thought may prevent you from taking this seriously. You may judge yourself as being lazy and unproductive but try not to. Think of this as re-charging your batteries - everyone needs this - young and old. It'll center you, help you get clear on your priorities for the rest of the day versus just being on automatic pilot. You may not know it - but you don't have to be to on automatic pilot. You have my permission to take a time out - at the very least for 10 minutes.

Step #5 Hydrate: Here's another habit that is often overlooked. It's one of the things I am consistently reminding my clients to do. Being hydrated is so very important to good health. You may be overeating when you are actually just dehydrated. If you are thirsty you may have forgotten to drink consistently earlier - the good thing is you can correct this oversight pretty quickly. If you are exhausted you may only need a sip or two of water to replenish. Rule of thumb: drink half your body weight in ounces and you should be fine. Example: if you weigh 150 lbs drink at least 75 ounces of water every day.

(c) Monika Klein