Valentine's Day + Heart Health Month : Celebrate Health With Your Love!

I am so over flowers, chocolate and big expensive dinners for Valentine’s Day.  It’s February.  Most peole have already forgotten thier resolutions and we are all lacking sun and missing the outdoors.  Therfore, I say to do something good for your love this Valentines day by doing something healthy!  As a couple, moving towards a healthy lifestyle together will only make you more successful and accountable.  Here are some healthy Valentines celebration ideas.  If you’re single, don’t stop reading- find a friend!  None of these ideas involve snuggling- so you’re good.  =)

1. Get in some cardio: run a 5K together.  There are a number or 5Ks this February and what better way to beat a winter slump than by sweating like it’s summer!  Charities Challenge is hosting a 5k this Saturday.  I just checked the weather and it is going to be 36 degrees.  That is the perfect temp!  There are more opportunities listed on http://www.active.com.
2. Bake a Flourless Almond-Honey cake! Almonds contain omega-3 fatty acids which are shown to improve heart health.   Plus, this cake is gluten free and there are 8 grams of protein in each piece!  Here is the yummy recipe from Eatingwell.com.
3. Give a stress reducing gift.  Yoga, acupuncture and massages are all healthy, natural ways to unwind and relieve stress.  Relieving stress not only improves mental clarity, it also helps reduce blood pressure and improves sleep.

I was inspired to post these ideas, because lately many of my clients and friends have been talking to me about “this event” or “that holiday”, that is derailing them from their goals.  I totally get it, and it is hard to find balance when we are faced with these special events that focus on food.  I mean, the Superbowl was just last weekend, and we are already turning the corner to another holiday.  But on the other hand, why does celebrating have to equal unhealthy behavior?  Remember that there are healthy, yummy things to eat, and there are fun physical activities to take part in.  So give it a try and see how you feel!  I guarentee you will not regret it.  Cheers to good health, balance and moving towards your goals!