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May 15, 2013

How to Get a Rocking Beach Body in Two Weeks

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 2:21 pm

Summer is coming quickly, which means beach time, fun in the sun and swimsuits. There is still time to get a beach body; these slim down tips will help.

With a little adjustment to your diet, you can have a flat belly, glowing skin and a gorgeous beach body in less than two weeks, these ingredients will help.

Eat More Cucumbers

Summer time can leave your skin feeling flaky, dry and cracked. You can instantly hydrate your skin by drinking more water and adding cucumbers into your diet.

Stay hydrated during the summer for optimal health and vital energy.  Cucumbers are 96% water and will keep you full without the calories. Slice them up and eat alone or with dip, juice them, or add to a smoothies. Cucumbers are great for beauty and removing the circles below your eyes. Place two slices on your eyeballs for instant relaxation.

Eat More Dark Leafy Greens

Eating dark leafy greens are great for your health, no matter what the season. But in the summer they can help you stay full longer. They are low in calories and rich in fiber. This helps you shine from the inside out.

Skip the iceberg lettuce, and go for the dark types, like spinach, kale, broccoli, chard, or arugula.

Eat More Pineapple

Pineapple is a tropical summer fruit. It’s loaded with fiber, which will keep you full longer. It can prevent you from eating other less healthy foods as well. It has a lot of vitamin C, which helps produce collagen which will keep your skin firm. It can support your immune system, and it is a great anti-inflammatory. The enzymes in pineapple will aid digestion and help reduce gas.

Add More Mint

Mind is a cooling herb that does more than just refresh your breath. It it on a hot summer day and you will Wisk your troubles away. Mint can reduce bloating and indigestion while soothing the digestive tract.

Mint is used in mouthwash and toothpaste because it helps freshen the breath.

Dr. Marostica a dentist in Tigard says that “Mint is an all around good ingredient to help you live a healthy lifstyle and maintain a clean smile.”

 

 

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May 14, 2013

Clean Up Your Oral Health Routine with These 3 Tips

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 5:11 pm

Did you know that the majority of the cavities and oral health problems you have can be prevented by taking a few extra precautionary steps at home?

Visiting the dentist is not fun for everyone, in fact many people have dental fear and it ranges from anxiety to being paralyzed. Many of these fears trace back to people having an unpleasant experience as a child.

Whether the dentist probes and picks at you until your gums bleed or they use tools that hurt your mouth, chances are that way you take care of your teeth contribute to the pain.

People who take care of their teeth on a daily basis have less oral health care problems. These tips can help you clean up your routine so going to the dentist will be fun and enjoyable.

Store your toothbrush in a clean dry place

Many people put their toothbrush on top of the bathroom sink, this is the worst place you can store your toothbrush.

This is because your toilet is usually close by and there are over 3.2 million microbes per square inch in the toilet bowl. It’s one of the most germ-infected places in the entire house. Putting your toothbrush in this area is going to affect your brush.

The best place to store your toothbrush is in a clean and dry area such as a medicine cabinet or cupboard. You and your smile will thank you for taking the extra step.

Drink more water

People who drink more water usually have fewer cavities than those who do not. Drinking water is an important step in having a healthy smile; water acts as a natural mouthwash and removes food particles and bacteria buildup.

Replace your toothbrush

Ehen the last time you replaced your toothbrush? Many people do not replace the toothbrush enough, therefore they just end up washing and mixing bacteria and plaque around in their mouth. Your toothbrush can hold onto germs that float around in the air for a healthy smile. For improved oral health replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months.

Dr. Andrew Thompson, a dentist in North Plains says that ”If you use an electronic toothbrush, make sure you replaced the head as often as possible this will help prevent cavities and improve your smile.”

 

May 13, 2013

How Mindful Eating Can Improve Your Health

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 2:22 pm

Food can be your friend or your foe. Many people have food insecurities or use food as an escape when they feel stressed or overwhelmed. Food doesn’t have to be your enemy. In fact you can enjoy your food and feel great in your body.

Be Present When You Eat

When you are present when you eat you tend to eat only what your body needs instead of what you think you want.

The more present with food you are, the better you will feel. It means tasting it, smelling it, feeling its texture and allowing yourself to be 100% in the moment with your food. When you’re mindful, you feel more connected to your food. Most people who eat mindfully eat much slower. You can also chew your food more which will help aid in the digestive process.

Be Thankful

Being thankful for your food is one sacred practice. It can actually help you lose weight. Just as someone who smells flowers and enjoys the moment and is thankful for the beautiful bouquet. You can apply the same technique to your food. Think of what you are going to eat and be thankful for the food as it enters your body.

Designate an Eating Spot

Only eat at a table. Many people take their food and then go in front of the TV or they eat at their desk. Instead practice being present with your food and eat it at a table. Families that eat food at a table instead of in front of the TV normally weigh less and are more connected. You can tap into your inner voice when you aren’t distracted by TV music or work.

Listen to Your Body

Food has a way of giving you energy; many times people turn to food when they are feeling as if they need a boost of energy. However many people tend to over eat and stop listening to their body. Practice mindfulness when eating by picking healthy food that is good for not only your body but also your teeth. When you feel good and your body you will smile more.

Food such as leafy green vegetables can help improve your oral health and your well-being.

Dr. Andrew Thompson, a Dentist in Forest Grove, OR says that eating food such as leafy green vegetables can help improve your oral health and your well-being.

 

April 29, 2013

8 Health Tips that Will Make You Happy

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 6:28 pm

Many doctors do their best to help patients out but sometimes patients aren’t willing to listen. However, there are other times when a patient is diagnosed with something from a doctor, but the patient does not agree.

If your doctor is quick to prescribe you antibiotics or tries to fix the symptoms, dig deeper and recognize there is usually more you can do.

The best health advice is to Look within. Always ask yourself how you can heal and help yourself feel better.

Prevention is about being proactive and putting your health first. That means taking responsibility for your life, every piece of it.

If you want to strengthen your immune system, try one of these easy steps

1. Eat More Organic Food

Eat more organic, fresh vegetables and fruit. Instead of turning to processed foods, pick food that will help you feel better after you eat it. Wash your fruit and vegetables and enjoy them.

2. Avoid High Acid foods 

Food that has a high sugar or acid content can hurt your health. Avoid sugar! Also consider stop eating wheat, grains and drinking alcohol or coffee. All of these food choices are highly acidic and can eat into the enamel of your teeth.

3. Know Your Superfoods

Superfoods are food that is powerful because of its high energy contend. Choose super foods instead of coffee or candy. These are powerful foods that are rich in nutrients and vitamins.

4. Eat More Coconut Oil 

One of the best sources of energy for your health is coconut oil. Start to cook with it and use it for everyday uses.

5. Get Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an important part of a healthy body and mind. It comes from the sun, so it is necessary to go outside and soak up some rays. You can always take vitamin D pills if you live in a grey environment such as the Pacific Northwest.

6. Sleep

the majority of people are sleep deprived and they do not even know it. If you have a headache or feel tired maybe it is because you don’t get enough sleep. Adults should get an average of 7-9 hours a night. Make sure you are taking care of yourself by sleeping enough.

7. Drink water

Water is the best tool for detoxing, relaxing and relieving stress.

8. Smile

Smiling is one of the easiest ways to feel better. When you smile you feel happy and your outlook on life seems more pleasant. Many people don’t smile because they are afraid of their smile because it is crocked or ugly.

Doctor Feldmanis a dentist in Eugene OR, says that people who feel good about their smile, are happier.

 

Spring Health Tips

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 1:39 pm

Spring time is officially here, many people are removing winter cloths from their closets and ramping up their exercise programs. As spring time hits we focus on health for many reasons. We come out of hibernation, so to speak, and we want to look and feel good for the summer. Spring is a great time to revamp your diet and focus on health. Here are tips to help.

Clean Out Your Closet

Spring-cleaning is great for your body, but your closet can use a makeover as well. Starting in the closet is a great way to make over your body and mind. When we remove out clutter it helps stimulate more balance in our life.

Drink More Water

Many people don’t realize they are dehyrtraed. The key indicator to know if you are not getting enough water is headaches, dry skin or sleepy eyes. People who often think they are hungry are really thirsty and they over eat but still feel tired. Instead drink a glass of water before each meal, this will help regulate the metabolism and rev up your digestive system.

Don’t Skip Meals

People who are dieting try to skip meals in an effort to save calories, but research shows people who eat smaller meals throughout the day vs skipping a meal weigh less and have more energy throughout the day.

Drink Your Vegetables

Kale, cucumber, celery, pears, apple beets, lemon and ginger are all great ingredients but put them in a juicer or blender and you have a perfect fruit vegetable smoothie. Drinking your greens is a great way to improve your health. It can help stimulate your body. This is a great way to cleanse and nourishes your blood and body.

Vegetables are good for your body and teeth.

People who are healthy often smile more. The doctors at Klamath Falls Dental Specialists, for braces in Klamath Falls, Oregon say people who smile often and have straight clean teeth have more confidence and self esteem.”

 

 

April 27, 2013

Eat for Energy

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 4:49 pm

It is spring, and detox, cleanse and eating healthy is top of mind for many people.

After a long cold winter many people crave the sunshine and look forward to spring flowers. Springtime is a great time to practice healthy eating habits. As the days get longer these power foods will help you eat healthier and have more energy.

Lemons

Lemons are a great way to detox the body and reve up the bodies’ energy levels.  They can help aid in cleaning the liver and they are known to help the body detox. If your body is full of toxins, you will feel sluggish and tired.

Try to drink some hot water and add some slice of lemon into the water. Do this every morning and you will wake up your inner digestive system. Your organs will thank you as they will function better. Lemons in general are great for cleansing the system, you can put them in salads, dressings on chicken and rice. They are a good addition to many dishes and treats.

Berries

Berries especially dark colored berries, can boost your mood and energy. Goji berries are a good berry for energy because they are one of the most nutritionally dense fruits as they are full with vitamins, minerals, iron, antioxidants, protein and beta-carotene.

Berries can add a great boost of protein and energy to any smoothie  or meal. They are great steeped into hot water, as you can make  homemade Goji tea, if you need an energy kick turn to berries.

Matcha

Mathca is green tea from japan. It is a green powder that is a powerful energy kicker. Mathca is a powder green tea that is packed with antioxidants, as well as beta carotene, minerals, and even fiber. It has some caffeine, which will help you get moving and more motivated.

You can add matcha powder to your smoothie or tea, or you could mix with cold water or coconut water for a tasty treat.

Matcha is also a great addition to many types of desserts. Match green tea has been known to improve your oral health as well.

Dr. Teasdale, a Portland OR Dentist, says people who drink green tea instead of coffee have less cavities and whiter  teeth. Which means not only will you have more energy but you will be smiling from the inside out.

April 25, 2013

9 Power Foods To Give You More Energy

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 3:10 pm

Preparation is the key to living healthy. If you are trying to say in shape, or feel more balanced the first place to look is your diet. What you put in your mouth has a huge impact on you overall well being. Most people do not even think about their diet and the effect it has on their well being.

For an added boost of energy choose healthy, fresh food. Here is a list of best foods to improve your energy level.

Say good buy to coffee  and hello fresh fruit.

 

Almonds

Too feel more energy, eat more almonds.  Raw and unsalted, are better than the flavored and salted almonds. They are a good source of healthy fats and protein which will balance blood sugar level. One serving an ounce of almonds (about 23) can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Quinoa

Quinoa is rich in complex carbohydrates and protein. It is a highly nutritious grain that will help keep you full and energized throughout the day.

Dark Chocolate

Forget caffeine and reach for a chocolate bar. Studies show that dark chocolate energizes the body by providing an excellent source of iron and magnesium. Make sure it’s at least 70 per cent dark chocolate for best results. Eat chocolate sparingly because it is high in fate and calories.

Bananas

Eating bananas are a great way to boost your energy. They are rich in potassium and vitamin B. They will help slow down digestion and will keep blood sugar levels stable.

Bran Flakes

Cereal can have a lot of sugar in it, which can spike your blood sugar and make you more tired. Instead replace your morning bowl of cereal with bran. Bran flakes are full of energy producing B-vitamins, magnesium and iron. The fiber will also keep you full for longer and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Salmon

Salmon is a great protein based fish because it is high in essential omega-3 fatty acids that are needed for energy production for your brain activity, and circulation.

Curry

This is used in traditional dishes in Asia and the Caribbean, but spicy curries made with turmeric, cinnamon, cumin and other spices will boost energy levels with added antioxidants.

Coconut

Coconut oil that is found in coconuts is made of medium chain triglycerides, which are types of fat that are turned into energy quickly and efficiently, she says. These oils can prevent you from feeling sluggish throughout your day.

Water

It may seem too simple, but drinking more water can improve your health. It is an integral part of keeping your body balanced. Many times, when people think they are hungry, they are really just thirsty. Drinking water is a good way to feel more energy and keep you body healthy.

Dr. Bennett a Dentist in Portland Or, at Laurelhurst Dentistry, suggests drinking more water to improve your health and smile.

 

April 24, 2013

6 Ways to DeStress Your Hot Mess

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 7:26 pm

Stress is inevitable. But how you deal with stress can affect your overall wellbeing.

What us most important is how you react to pressure and stress. The methods you use to manage and reduce your negative emotions can impact every aspect of your life. It is possible to make healthy choices, which can make a big difference in how you feel and your outlook of life.

1. Breath

Breathing in and out is one of the simplest forms of relaxation. People, who practice yoga regularly, often understand the benefits of breathing in and out. They use it to help calm them down. If you are stressed and overwhelmed, stop and breathe.

2. Make a list

Making lists can help you feel less stressed out. Focus on what needs to get done and not on things that don’t matter. Use the list as a check list to help you stay on track.

3. Shake it

Exercising can give you body and mind a boost of energy. People who work out also smile more often because they feel better in their bodies. It’s a great de-stressor and will reduce pain. Practice healthy habits by moving your body for at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity, at least 5 days a week. Find an activity you love, such as walking, cycling, dancing, swimming, or anything that raises your heart rate.

4. Sleep more

Getting a good night sleep is important for a balanced life. People who sleep for at least 7-9 hours a night are more balanced than people who get less sleep.

5. Play

Creating a work/play balance is essential for a healthy life. Your emotional health will feel more purposeful when you play and have fun. Making playtime a priority will improve your focus, productivity and feelings of relaxation.

6. Put your health first

People who practice self-care live longer, are happier and healthier than those who do not put their health first. Putting your health first means listening to your body.

The dentists at TenderCare Dental, a dentist in North Plains suggest staying up to date on all of your health appointments for optimal health and less stress.

April 23, 2013

5 Things To Eat If You Are Trying To Be Vegan

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 3:40 pm

With all the health craze surrounding Kris’s Carr’s Crazy Sexy Life Revolution, we have pledged to go vegan or at least try these veggy filled lifestyle.

Many people choose to go vegan for all kinds of reasons. The first step to trying any new diet is to understand your motivation. Let the reasons why pull you to a healthy new state.

But changing your diet requires changing habits.

You don’t want to come home from a long day, open up your fridge, and find nothing to eat. This will lead to ordering greasy takeout, and straying from your health goals.

Keep your fridge stocked with healthy essentials, and you’ll always be prepared to make good choices. These vegan essentials are a must.

Greens

Greens are a centerpiece to all plant-based diets. Greens are versatile; you can make green juice, green smoothies, salads and kale chips. Always have a variety of greens washed and stored in containers to help them remain crisp and ready to eat. Darker greens are great for your health, such as kale; collards, spinach and chard are best for sautéing. For tasty salads, use arugula, romaine, and bibb lettuce.  Kale is a smart choice for salads.

Fruits

Organic, fresh, seasonal fruit is a great breakfast option. Papaya, apple and melon can start your day off right. Keep a few of your favorites in the fridge for ultimate easy access. Apples, berries and grapefruit are lower-sugar options and satisfying. Tropical fruits are our favorite, such as bananas, pineapple and mango, as they are great frozen and work well in smoothies.

Raw Vegetables

Cut raw vegetables and eat them raw. They make great snacks or toppers to any green salads. They’re much healthier than chips and dip. Carrots, celery, peppers, and cucumbers are a great choice.

Avocados

Avocados are an incredible source of feel good fat. Put them in your refrigerator to add to salads, smoothies, and dips. For a nutrient dense snack, put avocado on your tofu. Yum.

Nut Butters

Nut and seed butters like almond butter, cashew butter and sunflower seed butter are a great source of healthy fat and protein.

Dr. Andrew Thompson, a Dentist in Hillsboro says “When buying nut and seed butters try to stick to the raw, organic variety with no added oils or sugar, this will protect your teeth and smile.”

 

 

Detox without Going on a Diet

Filed under: Healing Lifestyles Blog — Tags: , , — Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team @ 2:34 pm

Detox, weight loss, and cleanse, these seem to be the buzz words this spring season. Cleaning up your act is an important first step to getting more health and wellness into your life, but you don’t have to overhaul your entire life to achieve positive results.

Being healthy is a mindset not a destination.

Cleansing  be great for your body, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re trying to lose your padding piled on from winter insulation, or simply trying to increase your energy, these tips can help:

1. Eliminate packaged foods.

Stop eating food that causes you to be bloated, tired or moody. Each body is different but look at your own habits. Try omitting gluten, dairy, and sugar for an entire week, then check in and see how you feel. These three food groups are often considered by health experts to be the top culprits of weight gain and water retention.

2. Drink more water. 

Water is a natural detoxing method. Drink more to remove toxins that build up in your body. The majority of people actually walk around dehydrated without even noticing. Put flavor in your water to encourage drinking even more. Water can soften the tissues and allow your body to naturally release toxins. Water is also good for your gorgeous smile. People who drink more water often have less cavities and tooth aches. This is because water acts as a mouthwash and removes bacteria in the mouth.

3. Ditch the sugar.

Hear at Healing Lifestyles & Spas we are fans of everything in moderation, but if you’re trying to do a cleanse, give up sugar, this means no alcohol including. Instead drink up on water and green tea. your waistline, skin and cells will thank you.

4. Eat more leafy greens. 

Eat more vegetables because they can help you detox. Greens are superheroes because they break down fats in the body and boast cancer-fighting antioxidants. A good rule of thumb is to look at your plate, and make sure it is half filled with greens like kale, and broccoli. Experiment and see what works for you!

5. Move Your Body

Do an activity that you love. If you don’t like going to gyms than stay away and dance in your living room, go for a walk in nature or do yoga in your living room. Finding an activity you love is important for your wellbeing.

Dr. Bos, a Dentist in Gladstone, OR says that finding an activity you love can help improve your confidence and will help you smile more.

 

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