The Women's Nest's Healthy Challenge!
The Women's Nest
With today's busy lifestyles, our spending and nutrition can quickly zoom out of control.
Regardless of the state of the economy, the worries of today's families remain constant - Health and money top the list. The Women's Nest is going to try and help our members reach healthier lifestyles and learn savings techniques through empowerment. Our new Healthy Challenges are designed to help you get a handle on the areas of our life that can easily spin out of control - We'll will help bring your lifestyle choices to the forefront.
Your life may be chaotic, but you DO control your future!
We hope you'll join our new Healthy Challenges!
Healthy Challenges are for members only (Join here - FREE and EASY!)
WINNERS
All members who follow the guidelines of the monthly challenge will be honored on our homepage!
Join us for our
April 2011, Healthy Challenge
April Healthy Challenge!
Everyone likes to feel good, and you feel your best when your body is healthy. This month's healthy challenge will focus on our inner health. I hope you'll join us!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of healthy eating.
Challenge Basis:
Strive for five! That's what we want you to think about every day this month. We're going to strive for eating five fruits and/or vegetables each day.
We suggest that you have 2-3 servings of fruit and 2-3 servings of vegetable each day.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: April 8, 2011 - April 30, 2011
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo your 5 servings for two days this month.
What constitutes a portion?
The United States Department of Agriculture sets a serving size for fruit or vegetables to be equal to about one-half cup. Greens like spinach and lettuce have a serving size equal to one full cup. One serving of sliced fruit is equal to one-half cup; however a single piece of fruit, such as an apple or an orange counts as one serving. How did the USDA decide that one-half cup is a serving size? The decision was based on the portion sizes that people typically eat, ease of use and nutritional content of fruits and vegetables.
Here are some typical serving sizes for fruits and vegetables:
Fruits
- one banana
- six strawberries
- two plums
- fifteen grapes
- one apple
- one peach
- one half cup of orange or other fruit juice
Vegetables
- five broccoli florets
- ten baby carrots
- one roma tomato
- 3/4 cup tomato juice
- half of a baked sweet potato
- one ear of corn
- four slices of an onion
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already eating 5 fruits and/or veges each day. Good for you! Then please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer and motivation to others:-)
We know you can do this!
Think of how great you'll feel when you know you're eating well, substituting grains and chips for fruits and veges.
Good Luck!
Winners will be honored on our homepage and announced on Facebook and Twitter.
Winners may be honored with a little something extra, too.
August's Healthy Challenge!
August's Healthy Challenge!
Summer is in full-swing and August is the time of the summer when most women are either getting kids ready to go back to school, starting school themselves, or winding down from a hot summer and a wicked work schedule, volunteer schedule, or life in general. Now it's time for some me-time!
This month's healthy challenge is going to challenge your creativity - and I'll do my best to help you with our Daily Dose of Exercise thread! But it's up to you to move your body - I can't do it for you, I can only cheer you on!
But then again, a challenge wouldn't be considered a challenge if it were easy.
Challenge Basis:
Every day we push ourselves to be healthy and keep our bodies functioning well. But..it can have a hefty impact on our wallets, too. I'm hoping you'll get creative with this challenge and be competitive - Exercise without a gym!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: August 3, 2009 - August 30, 2009
Members will exercise 20 minutes per day, 5 days per week without the use of a paid gym membership or class. This includes pay-as-you-go.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month.
What constitutes exercise? Moving your body! Whether it's walking you dog, grocery shopping, cleaning your house, running up and down your stairs - just about anything that makes you move (okay, nothing intimate counts ladies! LOL! Don't even ask!)
Is it cumulative? Absolutely! You can exercise for 5 minutes 4x on a given day, 10 minutes 2x that day, or 20 mins all at once - just move your body - jumping jacks, windmills, anything but finger exercises! If you are confined to your chair, try leg lifts, or arm raises - be creative!
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply confirm that you have exercised for a total of 20 minutes fives day per week - you can choose the days!
Support: Want to play but afraid you might cave in to the couch calling you? We'll be here to support you all the way! If you feel the urge to skip your exericse - jump on our boards - help is just a click away :-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at all the money you will save and how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
December's Healthy Challenge 2009
December's Healthy Challenge!
What do the holidays mean to you? Presents? Large meals? Desserts? Stress? They can mean all of those things, and we aim to help you get through them unscathed. December can be a very stressful, weight inducing month for many - Let's try to make it happy and come out weighing the same as you did in November!
This month's healthy challenge is geared to help you get through the holidays in a safe, sane, and healthy way.
Challenge Basis:
We are going to try to relieve stress, exercise, and eat healthy all in one month. Sounds HUGE, right? Not really - check out the details below.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: December 5, 2009 - December 30, 2009
Member's responsibilities
Each member is to do one stress relieveing activity of their choice each week, accomplish 3-30 minute exercises each week, and eat healthily for at least three days each week. This sounds like a lot to accomplish, but truly, it is not. Your week migh tlook like this:
Monday - meditate and skip dessert
Wednesday - take a walk and skip dessert
Friday - clean the house
Sunday - take a walk and skip dessert or wine
Members must check in every other day and post their success or their problems - we can help you through the tougher days!
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month. Oops! The brownies got you! No problem! Use a day!
What constitutes exercise? Anything that gets your heart rate up! Walk, dance, ride a bike, do a Richard Simmons tape! Just move!
Can I do only part of the challenge? Sure, but you won't win that way.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, and if you were able to turn it around, how you achieved it.
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to reach your goal, that's what we're here for! We'll support you the entire way - every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then please give it a try! We would love to have your positive inspiration helping others!
We know you can do this!
Once you succeed, bigger goals will seem much easier to accomplish.
Good Luck!
Fall 2012 Healthy Challenge!
Fall 2012 Healthy Challenge
Did summer take its toll on your body? Are you carrying a little extra something around your middle? It's okay to have a little fun and really cut loose every once and a while, as long as you reign it in before it becomes too difficult--it's a slippery slope. Everyone likes to feel good, and you feel your best when your body is healthy. This month's healthy challenge will focus on our physical health. I hope you'll join us!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of healthy eating and exercising.
Challenge Basis:
This challenge is a long-term challenge, and will last until the end of the year. We're focusing on losing those extra pounds and not gaining during the holidays. If you don't have weight to lose, you can still play along by motivating those of us who do. Remember, water is key and strive for five fruits and/or veges each day! We know that we are what we eat and drink. We have one body, and if not fueled correctly, it won't work as efficiently or last as long. That's what we want you to think about every day.
RULES OF THE GAME:
- Choose and post your goal. Goals can be increments of exercise (ie: to excercise 15 mins/day), or specific weight loss goals.
- Check in at least every other day and tell us how you are doing, provide support to your other Nest sisters, too! We love our cheerleaders
- Be honest. Your health is in your control. We are here to help cheer you on and get you back on track if you are swayed by chocolate, too much television, or whatever other things you find problematic!
WINNERS: Winners are selected as each person who meets their goal, and yes, YOU set your own goal. We trust our members, and we do not require photographic evidence of weight loss (though we know our site sisters will be thrilled to share their new images!). We work on an honor system, however to be honored as a winner, you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: August 27, 2012 - December 31, 2012
Diet/Exercise: We will post diet and exercise suggestions each week, but feel free to modify, ignore, and of course, share your ideas with us, too.
Goals: YOU set your goals! That's right - this is YOUR program. No one else can do this for you, but we will be right here with suggestions, support, and positive energy boosts throughout each day. YOU CAN DO THIS from the privacy of your own home, anonymously, without anyone knowing what that scale says!
Exceptions: There is no need for diet/exercise exceptions with this challenge, as there is no formal diet to adhere to. Each member is given two exceptions for checking-in during each month of the challenge.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This work on an honor system, however to be honored as a winner, you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already in perfect health. Good for you! Then please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer and motivation to others:-)
We know you can do this!
Think of how great you'll feel when you know you're eating well, substituting grains and chips for fruits and veges.
Good Luck!
READY TO JOIN THE NEST? It's FREE and EASY - JOIN HERE
Winners will be honored on our homepage and announced on Facebook and Twitter.
Winners may be honored with a little something extra, too.
January 2010 Healthy Challenge
January 2010 Healthy Challenge!
Did everyone enjoy the holidays? A little too much? If you are like most of us, you've probably walked on the wild side of your diet for a few weeks and you're ready to get back on a healthier path. Spring is right around the corner and we're going to help you fell good as you shed your layers.
This month's challenge is going to be a difficult one! And I mean that in the most caring way possible - but understand, if it weren't difficult, you wouldn't see results.
This month's healthy challenge is designed to help you get back on track to a healthy lifestyle.
Challenge Basis:
The goal of this month's challenge is to raise your awareness of how you're eating and if you're exercising, and if you are trying to lose weight, this month's goal is a 4 lb loss. You might not think that's a lot, but over a six month period, you'd lose 24 lbs and be ready for summer!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: January 4, 2009 - January 30, 2009
Member's responsibilities
Each member is required to weigh in once each week and post your status. We won't do anything embarrassing, like asking your actual weight. But we are setting a goal of a weight loss of 4 lbs this month if you are trying to lose weight, and if you are not actively trying to lose weight, than the goal is simply to raise your awareness.
Each member is to exercise 5 days each week for between 20-45 minutes. If you have not exercised in the past, you can start with 5 mins of walking, and increase your walking by 5 minutes every 3 days of exercise, but please check with your physician before starting any exercise or diet program, this one included.
Nutrition - Each member is to try to maintain a 1200 calorie/day diet which is low in refined sugars and simple carbohydrates. If you need some advice on eating plans, please visit our 6 week exercise program forum or post in our Nutrition forum and we'll be happy to help you!
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month. Oops! The brownies got you! No problem! Use a day!
What constitutes exercise? Anything that gets your heart rate up! Walk, dance, ride a bike, walk around the mall, do a Richard Simmons tape! Just move!
Can I do only part of the challenge? Sure, but you won't win that way.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. Our challenges work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, and if you were able to turn it around, how you achieved it.
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to reach your goal, that's what we're here for! We'll support you the entire way - every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then please give it a try! We would love to have your positive inspiration helping others!
We know you can do this!
Once you succeed, bigger goals will seem much easier to accomplish.
Good Luck!
January 2011 Healthy Challenge
January 2011 Healthy Challenge!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of exercise. When we were in elementary school, we were taught about the food pyramid, and the need for daily exercise. Some of us are very good at our exercise routines, and some of us need a little push. But many days, even those who are doing great need a little motivation, too. So here it is!
Challenge Basis:
Strive for 20 mins of exercise per day!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: January 6, 2011 - January 30, 2011
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo your 20 mins of exericse for two days this month.
What constitutes exercise?
Exercise can be aerobic or strength training, and yes, window shopping is walking, and walking is exercise! Everyone grocery shops, right? Well, move the cart a little faster and take 20 mins in the store - voila! You've got your exercise for the day.
Does it have to be continuous?
No! Our goal is to get you moving, and cumulative exercise has been shown to produce great results. If you can only do your exercise in 10 minute intervals, that's okay! As long as you're getting 20 mins total each day!
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already moving for 20 minutes each day. Good for you! Then turn it around a bit and add 20 minutes to your daily routine! And please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
July 2010 Healthy Challenge
June Healthy Challenge!
We're going back to goals again for our June Healthy Challenge. Summertime is a difficult time to stay on track with eating, exercising, and for some, even thinking positive.
Challenge Basis:
Each member will choose one goal per week, and accomplish that goal. The goal can be anything you choose--relating to healthy (mental, physical, or emotional). We suggest that you choose a goal of something that is different than your norm. Push yourself. Go for the gold!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: May 4, 2010 - May 30, 2010
Members will choose one goal per week and accomplish that goal each week.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed one exception to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can not accomplish your goal for one week this month.
What constitutes a goal?
A goal can be anything that you opt for that relates to mental, physical, or emotional health. If you are working on a mental goal, you might choose to do a crossword puzzle each day (we have them on the Nest), or you might choose to post one affirmation each day in our Daily Affirmation thread, or whatever else you choose. If you are shooting for a physical goal, perhaps your goals are exercising for 20 minutes each day, or walking to get your mail from your doorstep instead of driving in and getting out of your car to retrieve it. Goals can be as large or as small as you wish.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or if you need some motivation from other members. Remember, this is a healthy challenge that you are guiding, so don't beat yourself up if you do not make your goal one week. Simply choose a better suited one the next week.
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already meeting all of your goals in life. Good for you! Please come share your healthy habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
July's Healthy Challenge
There are so many things in life that we feel we must do - and many of us try to do it all! But there are also things in life we should do, and we tend to forget sometimes, how important they are.
July's Healthy Challenge will cost you no money - and maybe even save you a few pennies! It surely will make you feel better!
Challenge Basis:
Every body needs 8- 8oz glasses of water each day to function properly. We're going to help motivate you to get there!
Challenge Guidelines:
Drink 8 - 8 oz glasses of water based liquid each day. That means, water, iced tea, regular tea, coffee, flavored water, etc.
You may not count diet soda or regular soda toward your water consumption (sorry ladies!)
Exceptions:
Each person may have two days during the month that are considered freebies - during those days you do not have to meet your daily water consumption challenge!
Requirements:
Check into our Healthy Challenge forum at least three times each week to tell us how you're doing and stay motivated!. We work on the honor system - you've got no one to fib to but yourself.
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at all the money you will save and how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
June's Healthy Challenge!
June's Healthy Challenge!
Many of us feel like our lives spin out of control around us - between the kids' schedules, our spouse or significant other's needs, and work, who has time to cook, plan....or for that matter, to slow down enough to enjoy our time?
This month's healthy challenge is not going to be easy - especially for busy women on-the-go!
But then again, a challenge wouldn't be considered a challenge if it were easy.
Challenge Basis:
Every month, many people spend hundreds of dollars on fast, unhealthy foods because they're in a rush, on-the-go, and food is not a priority. For others who enjoy eating out, this challenge will be a great time to reevaluate just how much you really spend on restaurant/fast food over the course of a month.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: June 3, 2009 - June 30, 2009
Members will refrain from eating out for 30 days. This includes foods only - For all of you Starbucks fanatics, as much as I'd like to nix that habit as well, that may be another challenge - but for now we'll take baby steps.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used for special events or work-related commitments.
Can I eat at any restaurants at all? Yes! We understand that for some people, eating out is a way of life, and rather than put you in an uncomfortable situation, we will allow eating at Subway Restaurants (wow, we should get paid for this promotion - Someone contact Jared! LOL!), provided that you eat one of their six-grams of fat choices.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum daily and simply confirm that you have refrained from eating out - tell us what you did instead - how you fought the urge!
Support: Want to play but afraid you might cave in to the fast food calling you? We'll be here to support you all the way! If you feel the urge to cheat - jump on our boards - help is just a click away :-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at all the money you will save and how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
March 2010 Healthy Challenge!
March Healthy Challenge!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of healthy eating. Somewhere along the lines of our busy lives, our children's schedules, and our hobbies, we forgot how to eat the things that are made from the earth, and don't come in a convenient little package. It's time to remember what people used to eat--you know, before 100 calorie packs!
Challenge Basis:
Reach for three fruits per day!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: March 8, 2010 - March 30, 2010
Members will eat three servings of fruit per day.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo three servings of fruit for two days this month.
What constitutes a serving?
One serving of fruit is equal to one piece of fruit, if the fruit is whole (about the size of a tennis ball).
If the fruit is cut-up, then about the size of seven cotton balls equals one serving.
Does it have to be fresh fruit?
No! Fresh fruit is portable and the size is already figured out, but we're shooting for healthy eating habits, and if you need canned or frozen foods, that's totally fine!!
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already eating three fruits per day. Good for you! Then turn it around a bit and eat three servings of veges! Please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
March 2011, Healthy Challenge!
March Healthy Challenge!
Since so many of our members are trying to gain motivation to move our bodies again after the long cold winter, we're revisiting an old Healthy Challenge. I hope you'll join us!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of exercise. When we were in elementary school, we were taught about the food pyramid, and the need for daily exercise. Some of us are very good at our exercise routines, and some of us need a little push. But many days, even those who are doing great need a little motivation, too. So here it is!
Challenge Basis:
Strive for 30 mins of exercise per day!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: March 4, 2011 - March 30, 2011
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo your 30 mins of exericse for two days this month.
What constitutes exercise?
Exercise can be aerobic or strength training, and yes, window shopping is walking, and walking is exercise! Everyone grocery shops, right? Well, move the cart a little faster and take 30 mins in the store - voila! You've got your exercise for the day.
Does it have to be continuous?
No! Our goal is to get you moving, and cumulative exercise has been shown to produce great results. If you can only do your exercise in 10 minute intervals, that's okay! As long as you're getting 30 mins total each day!
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already moving for 30 minutes each day. Good for you! Then turn it around a bit and add 30 minutes to your daily routine! And please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
All winners will be honored on our homepage and will receive a free Women's Nest t-shirt of your choice!
May 2010 Healthy Challenge !
May Healthy Challenge!
Once again we're going to relearn, or remind ourselves, of the basics of healthy eating! Most of us know to reach for fruits and vegetables as snacks, not to eat too much red meat, and to limit our fat intake, right? But what we forget, is how much our eating environment impacts our intake.
Challenge Basis:
Sit down with no distractions, tv and computer off, for each meal. No eating over the sink or in the car
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: May 4, 2010 - May 30, 2010
Members will eat in a peaceful environment without any technilogical or on-the-go distractions.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo three servings of fruit for two days this month.
What constitutes a distraction ?
A distraction is anything that is not another person, or perhaps a book that you are reading. Technology of any sort is a distraction. Eating while driving is a distraction.
The idea is to focus on relaxing and eating. Eat what you set out (hopefully healthful choices), and this will hopefully eliminate the on-the-go poor choices, or the noshing without mindfulness that many of us do.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already eating in peaceful environments. Good for you! Please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
November 2009 Healthy Challenge
November's Healthy Challenge!
Goals. How often do we make goals, stick with our plan for a few days, and then watch those goals go out the window? For some of us, that occurs all too often, for others, not so much.
This month's healthy challenge is geared to help you achieve one health related goal. The cool thing about the challenge, is that you get to decide what that goal is!
Challenge Basis:
We are going to help you obtain one healthy goal. This can be a mental, physical, or emotional goal.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: November 5, 2009 - November 30, 2009
Member's responsibilities
Each member is to choose a goal. It can be a big goal or a small goal. The goal must relate to health, and can relate to physical, emotional, or mental health.
Members are to post their goals within the next 5 days. Please be specific when posting.
Members must check in every other day and post their success or their problems.
Examples of goals:
Challenge yourself to do daily mental puzzles, such as crosswords, sudukos, etc.
Challenge yourself to cut out refined sugar.
Challenge yourself to read three pages of an enjoyable or self-help book each day.
Challenge yourself to exercise for 20 mins each day - or even 5 minutes!
Challenge yourself to go out of your way to help others.
Challenge yourself to clean out your drawers or closets.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month.
What constitutes achieving your goal? We want you to succeed! Achieving your goals is meeting the criteria that you have put forth. For example, if you challenge yourself to clean out drawers - did you spend the allotted time that you've outlined or cleaned out the areas you had hoped to clean out? If you are challenging yourself to do 3 hours of exercise each week, did you meet that goal?
Can I change my goal? Nope, sorry ladies! We are allowing 5 days for you to figure out your goal. Think it through. Challenge yourself, or, if you need a pick-me-up, go with something that you know you can achieve. The choice is yours, but once you select your goal, it cannot be changed.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, and if you were able to turn it around, how you achieved it.
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to reach your goal, that's what we're here for! We'll support you the entire way - every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then please give it a try! We would love to have your positive inspiration helping others!
We know you can do this!
Once you succeed, bigger goals will seem much easier to accomplish.
Good Luck!
November 2010 Healthy Challenge
November's Healthy Challenge!
Goals. How often do we make goals, stick with our plan for a few days, and then watch those goals go out the window? For some of us, that occurs all too often, for others, not so much.
This month's healthy challenge is geared to help you achieve one health related goal. The cool thing about the challenge, is that you get to decide what that goal is!
Challenge Basis:
We are going to help you obtain one healthy goal. This can be a mental, physical, or emotional goal.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: November 8, 2010 - November 30, 2010
Member's responsibilities
Each member is to choose a goal. It can be a big goal or a small goal. The goal must relate to health, and can relate to physical, emotional, or mental health. Members are to post their goals within the next 5 days. Please be specific when posting. Members must check in every other day and post their success or their problems.
Examples of goals:
Challenge yourself to do daily mental puzzles, such as crosswords, sudukos, etc.
Challenge yourself to cut out refined sugar.
Challenge yourself to read three pages of an enjoyable or self-help book each day.
Challenge yourself to exercise for 20 mins each day - or even 5 minutes!
Challenge yourself to go out of your way to help others.
Challenge yourself to clean out your drawers or closets.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month.
What constitutes achieving your goal? We want you to succeed! Achieving your goals is meeting the criteria that you have put forth. For example, if you challenge yourself to clean out drawers - did you spend the allotted time that you've outlined or cleaned out the areas you had hoped to clean out? If you are challenging yourself to do 3 hours of exercise each week, did you meet that goal?
Can I change my goal? Nope, sorry ladies! We are allowing 5 days for you to figure out your goal. Think it through. Challenge yourself, or, if you need a pick-me-up, go with something that you know you can achieve. The choice is yours, but once you select your goal, it cannot be changed.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, and if you were able to turn it around, how you achieved it.
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to reach your goal, that's what we're here for! We'll support you the entire way - every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then please give it a try! We would love to have your positive inspiration helping others!
We know you can do this!
Once you succeed, bigger goals will seem much easier to accomplish.
Good Luck!
October's Healthy Challenge!
October's Healthy Challenge!
When we think of the word health, we usually think of our physical health. This month we'll be working on our mental health! It's just as important to be emotionally healthy as it is to be physically healthy.
This month's healthy challenge is geared to make you be very introspective. You may find that you are drawn toward negative thoughts and actions, and we're challenging you not to go in that direction.
Challenge Basis:
We're going to see if we can help you reach for happiness! No more self-depricating thoughts.
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: October 3, 2009 - October 30, 2009
Members will replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month.
What constitutes "negative"? We want to move away from thoughts such as, "I'm so bad, I ate a brownie!" For those of you who know me, you're probably laughing right now because you've heard that phrase A LOT! LOL! We all do it, we chide ourselves for eating something that's not healthy, for not exercising, for forgetting an appointment. We're going to (hopefully) learn the act of forgiving yourself for the minor bumps in the road of life.
How do I change my thoughts? This is the most difficult part of the challenge. It's not easy to change the way you think, or how you react to your thoughts. Here's what I recommend. If you have these thoughts often, practice a daily affirmation such as, "I am smart, I am worthy, I am likeable." I like to follow that up with reality, such as, "I am human." It may seem silly, but trust me on this, in order to change your thoughts, you must first CONVINCE yourself of your positive attributes.
My hope is that by doing this, as the negative, or "I'm bad because..." thoughts enter your mind, by the end of the month there'll be a transformation. When you begin to think the "I'm bad," it will immediately be replaced by either a positive affirmation or turned around with a laugh, "I'm not bad! That cookie was good!"
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up the positive thoughts? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, you must believe that you already are a very positive person - Please come share your upbeat attitude! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
September 2010 Healthy Challenge!
September Healthy Challenge!
This month's challenge is going to take us back to the basics of exercise. When we were in elementary school, we were taught about the food pyramid, and the need for daily exercise. Some of us are very good at our exercise routines, and some of us need a little push. But many days, even those who are doing great need a little motivation, too. So here it is!
Challenge Basis:
Strive for 30 mins of exercise per day!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: September 9, 2010 - September 30, 2010
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - for any reason - you can forgo your 30 mins of exericse for two days this month.
What constitutes exercise?
Exercise can be aerobic or strength training, and yes, window shopping is walking, and walking is exercise! Everyone grocery shops, right? Well, move the cart a little faster and take 30 mins in the store - voila! You've got your exercise for the day.
Does it have to be continuous?
No! Our goal is to get you moving, and cumulative exercise has been shown to produce great results. If you can only do your exercise in 10 minute intervals, that's okay! As long as you're getting 30 mins total each day!
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply share how you are doing. Tell us if you stumbled, if you were able to turn it around in a particular instance, or even just share a positive affirmation. Remember, this is a positive thoughts healthy challenge, so I hope not to receive posts that say, "I blew it!" Turn that frown upside down! "Today was hard, but tomorrow will be better!"
Support: Want to play but afraid you might not be able to keep up with the challenge? Does it sound silly? If you are worried about not being able to keep it up- that's what we're here for. We'll support you the entire way- every step! If you think the challenge sounds silly, then perhaps you are already moving for 30 minutes each day. Good for you! Then turn it around a bit and add 30 minutes to your daily routine! And please come share your healthy eating habits with us! After all, you can never have enough friends, or bring enough good cheer to others:-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel!
Good Luck!
September's Healthy Challenge Guildelines
September's Healthy Challenge!
September brings cooler temperatures, takes children back to school, and for many, the change in seasons brings an uplifiting feeling to their days. We're going to take advantage of the weather and build it into our challenge!
This month's healthy challenge is two-fold, thanks to Bekah_Shrinks:-) The first part of the challenge is to simply take advantage of the great outdoors. That's right, in orde to meet September's challenge you must spend 20 minutes outdoors 5 days each week, weather permitting, of course. The second part of the challenge is to simply floss your teeth once/day (thanks, Bekah).
You would be surprised how many of us negate the outdoors - Let's enjoy our environment, 20 minutes at a time!
Challenge Basis:
Most of us try to stay healthy and in a good mood, however, we take for granted the little things in life, like the sun and our teeth! LOL! We are going to soak up the sunshine and make sure our teeth remain healthy at the same time!
Challenge Guidelines:
Dates: September 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009
Members will spend 20 minutes, five days per week, outdoors. Members will also floss their teeth daily.
Exceptions: Each member is allowed two exceptions to be used as you wish - any reason - two days this month. That means that twice you can skip flossing, and twice you can skip going outdoors. Inclement weather does not count as a freebie day. That's just nature's way of giving us a break.
What constitutes outdoors? Not indoors! Do screened in areas count? Sure - as long as they are screened and not windowed. Does driving count? Nope! You're in your car, not outdoors.
Is it cumulative? Absolutely! You can spend 10 minutes two time each day outside if you wish. What does NOT count? Walking back and forth from your car to home/work/store. However, walking to the store would count.
Member Responsibility: We trust our members. This will work on an honor system, however you will be required to check in to our Healthy Challenges Forum every other day and simply confirm that you have been outside for a total of 20 minutes fives day per week - you can choose the days!
Support: Want to play but afraid you might cave in to the couch calling you? We'll be here to support you all the way! If you feel the urge to skip your exericse - jump on our boards - help is just a click away :-)
We know you can do this!
We believe that, if successful, you'll be surprised at how good you will feel! Who knows, you might even decide that taking an after dinner walk is a wonderful new addition to your day.
Good Luck!