Showing posts with label vitamins. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vitamins. Show all posts

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Top 10 Fitness and Health Picks for 2015

Top 10 Fitness and Health Picks for 2015



In 2015, I would like us all to set a new standard of beauty: healthy! What does that mean exactly? 
Well, that means not worrying so much about the scale or the opinions of others; that means listening to your body and doing what you and your doctor think is best for you and your body; that means not shaming others for being too fat or too thin or too curvy or too buff; and that means loving yourself every step of the way, so that you can enjoy your life and uplift and inspire others along the way! 

It means living in a healthy way to keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy! 


But, I honestly think people get scared off sometimes by people who promote "healthy living" or "healthy lifestyles," because their posts on social media and such can be very intimidating. Believe me, I completely understand! Looking at pictures of their refrigerators stuffed full of fresh fruits and veggies and pictures of their clean, green houses and pictures of their rock solid abs CAN be intimidating. But even those amazing people who look like they are living the perfect healthy lifestyle did not get there over night. It takes time!




And in that time that it takes to grow and change, it is important that you focus on one of the most important aspects of healthy living - loving yourself. Why is that important? Well in order to truly embrace things that you know are good for your body, mind, and spirit, you have to LOVE your body, mind, and spirit. I know... that takes time too.

For me personally, and I think for many others, transitioning into a healthier lifestyle is not just about taking your time, but it is also about variety. Yes, you have to invest a lot of time into changing bad habits and making new adjustments to your life, and learning to love yourself... but if you are not varying your routine and challenging your body consistently, you may get burnt out quickly, especially if you're not seeing results for a LONG time. Then what happens? Well, you may give up. 

Not this year! Let's make THIS the year that you start to work toward a healthier you!!!




How are we going to do this? Well, to start, I have this handy, dandy list here that gives you MY personal top picks for fitness and health items to incorporate into your life in 2015.  You can purchase them through the links provided. (I do receive commission from Amazon for promoting and selling the items listed through their website, just so you know. However, that does not change the fact that I love these particular items and hope that they can benefit others as they have me.)

 I hope you enjoy my picks for the top 10 fitness and health items for 2015.

Top 10 Fitness and Health Picks for 2015


1. Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred


"Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred" is one of my favorite DVDs to use when I have been slacking off for awhile. Jillian leads you through effective warm up stretches and then works you hard before providing a little cool down at the end. Throughout, she pushes you to perform at your best, reminds you that even people who weigh over 300 lbs can do jumping jacks, and truly inspires. "30 Day Shred" includes 3 different workouts (Levels 1,2, and 3) that each provide their own unique challenges, helping to keep variety alive in your healthy life.



2. 10 Minute Solution: Pilates



"10 Minute Solution: Pilates" with Lara Hudson is by far my FAVORITE workout DVD EVER!!! I love the workouts, I love that each one is only 10 minutes, so I can have a 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 minute workout depending on the time! My personal favorites on this DVD are "Pilates for Abs," "Pilates for Buns and Thighs," and "Pilates for Flexibility." Lara is an excellent guide too. Pay close attention to her advice on how to use your breath as you work your way through each of the exercises, because she is great at telling you just what to do, in a calm, reassuring way. 



3. The ItWorks Ultimate Body Applicator


Better known as "that crazy wrap thing," the ItWorks Ultimate Body Applicator is an awesome product that helps to slim, firm, tone, and detoxify you. (I even notice that I tend to poop better after I use them!) Results start in as little as 45 minutes, and each "wrap" continues to work for 72 hours after application! Wow, right?They are only available through ItWorks because there is nothing else out there like them! If you buy them in the "Wrap Pack," you get 4 body applicators (wraps) and a tube of their defining gel as well. If you sign up as a loyal customer, you get the pack for cheaper. And if you sign up to be an ItWorks representative, you can make money and get free product.  I don't personally run an ItWorks business, but my dear friend Kelsey (aka: Crunchy Hippie Mama) does, so if you have any questions, please contact her!



4. Tone Fitness Hourglass Shaped Dumbbells



Dumbbells are truly an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, in my personal opinion. I regularly use my hand weights to aid in my exercises. They are great for chest flies and for use during squats.  It is also fun to march and curl dumbbells along to some upbeat music.  I recommend this set because it has three different sizes/weights AND it has a handy stand. (Plus... not going to lie... I love the colors!)



5.  Sundown Naturals Gluten-free Adult Multivitamin Gummis




I believe that a daily multivitamin is a very good idea for everyone. Sundown Naturals Gluten Free Adult Multivitamin Gummis happen to be the multivitamins that I take on a daily basis. I'm not sure how much more I could say to promote them other than that. I use them and I love them! These gluten free multivitamin gummis are good for you and taste good too. So with that, my promo is through!



6. Gaiam Stainless Steel Water Bottles


These fashionable water bottles from Gaiam are not just cool, convenient ways to carry around the ever so important water, they are also recyclable, BPA free, and eco-friendly. I like that. If you like that too you can order a Gaiam stainless steel water bottle on Amazon through this link:



7. Natalie Jill's Rev 4




Natalie Jill is an amazing, inspiring, hard working and beautiful woman! She is truly on a mission to help others live healthier and happier lives. In "Natalie Jill's Rev 4," she offers up 4 complete 10 minute workouts that focus on using your own body to become stronger. I love it! It is a great workout DVD for those pressed for time, those who like variety and constant challenge, and those who want to live healthier, happier lives while helping support the careers of others (like Natalie Jill) who make those kinds of better lives possible for so many.
To buy Rev 4, go here: Natalie Jill's Rev 4 DVD on Amazon
For more inspiration and advice from Natalie Jill, "like" her on Facebook: Natalie Jill Fit on Facebook



8. Natural Fitness Roam Folding Yoga Mat




This eco-friendly, folding yoga mat is super portable, which is good. Because healthy living is a round the clock thing; it is not just about gym time or yoga class once a week! Truly! 
Use this mat for yoga, pilates, meditation, and more. It even comes with a groovy recycled carrying case, for convenience, style, and that good "Earth saving" vibe!
If you'd like your own, you can pick one up on Amazon here:



9. Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit




The Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit is an awesome set to get you started with balance ball routines. It is also just a fun thing to sit on sometimes. Balance balls can help strengthen your core as well as several other muscle groups when used in regular workouts. They can also be tossed and rolled around and freak cats out.
If you want one, you can of course get it through me on Amazon:



10. Lebert Equalizer



You can simplify your exercise routine and conquer your fitness goals with the Lebert Equalizer Total Body Strengthener. It's a simple, portable, yet multi-purpose and versatile piece of strength training equipment that works arms, chest, back and core muscles by using your own body weight as resistance. Created by personal trainer and Taekwondo Black Belt, Marc Lebert, the Equalizer is now used by athletes of all levels and ages, as well as those of us who have learned to love our own bodies and take our health and fitness into our own hands.
If you want to purchase the Lebert Equalizer bars, you can get them on Amazon here:




And of course, keep checking back with The PonchoMeg Program blog for more great inspiration, fitness, health, and food advice, product recommendations, helpful health and fitness lists, and more!

And please, talk to your doctor before starting any diet or fitness program. I am NOT a doctor; I am just a health conscious fitness trainer, minister, model, actress, musician, writer, & artist who wants to help people.

Peace and Love to ALL!
Meagan


Sunday, July 20, 2014

Let's Talk Power Foods

Let's Talk Power Foods

Blueberries

What exactly are power foods? Well, they're just foods that happen to do amazing things for your body. Sometimes people call them "Superfoods" or "Magic foods" or "Foods for Health." But I call them Power Foods, because they restore power to our bodies. They help our bodies to reclaim their health.

Different Power Foods do different things, obviously, as they are packed with different vitamins, minerals, nutrients, proteins, sugars, etc. In this post today, I am going to share with you a few of my favorite Power Foods that address these key areas:

Power Foods & Drinks to:

Boost Metabolism & Increase Energy
Improve Focus, Memory, & Mood
Increase Sex Drive
Cleanse & Detox
Fight Belly Fat
Improve Skin & Diminish Signs of Aging
Prevent & Fight Cancer
Build Muscle
Grow Healthier Hair & Improve Eyesight & Hearing 
Improve Bowel Function

 So please, enjoy this post on Power Foods & maybe even bookmark it for later, so that you can write a healthy, powerful new list for the grocery store.

Power Foods & Drinks to Boost Metabolism & Increase Energy

Broccoli

Avocado
Spinach
Broccoli
Salmon
Sardines
Pistachios
Dried Apricots
Walnuts
Bolthouse Farms Protein Shakes
Chili Peppers
Chick Peas
Lentils
Tempeh
Asparagus
Bananas
Black Beans
Brown Rice
Quinoa
Green Tea
Yogurt
Almonds
Edamame
Soy Protein Powder
Tofu
Halibut
Tuna
Amaranth
Hempseeds
Pork
Chicken
Eggs
Cottage Cheese
Coffee
Milk
Water

Potatoes
Squash
Orange Juice
Pumpkin
Carrots
Apples
Cashews
Pecans
Walnuts
Mushrooms
Clams
Raspberries
Grapefruit

Power Foods & Drinks to Improve Focus, Memory, & Mood

Salmon
Oatmeal
Avocado
Broccoli
Blueberries
Beans
Chia Seeds
Dark Chocolate
Quinoa
Collard Greens
Red Cabbage
Rosemary
Spinach
Sunflower Seeds
Garlic
Tomatoes
Salmon
Olive Oil
Peanuts
Ginger
Red Wine
Strawberries
Kale
Butternut Squash
Carrots
Water
Coffee
Walnuts
Trout
Kiwi Fruit
Grapes
Shrimp
Oysters
Curry
Acai Berries
Ginseng
Sage
Parsley
Green Tea
Flax Seeds
Sweet Potatoes
Almonds
Eggs
Lentils
Hemp Seeds
Clams
Shrimp
Brazil Nuts
Chicken
Honey
Chamomile Tea
Potatoes
Salt
Green Beans
Peaches
Lemonade
Bananas
Figs

Power Foods & Drinks to Increase Sex Drive

Strawberries
Black Raspberries
Cloves
Figs
Watermelon
Broccoli
Celery
Eggs
Oysters
Strawberries
Asparagus
Avocados
Spinach
Wine (Not in excess)
Dark Chocolate
Pumpkin Seeds
Chilies
Garlic (Raw is best)
Steak (6 oz. or less)
Salmon
Cranberry Juice
Oatmeal
Peaches
Kale
Almonds
Almond Milk
Sweet Potatoes
Sesame Seeds
Pine Nuts
Ginseng Tea
Bananas
Green Tea
Water
Cabbage
Cashews
Sunflower Seeds
Blueberries
Brown Rice
Saffron 
Jasmine
Lettuce

Power Foods & Drinks to Cleanse & Detox

Basil
Water
Artichokes
Asparagus
Avocado
Beets
Basil
Broccoli
Cabbage
Dandelions
Garlic
Dandelion Root Tea
Ginger
Cayenne Pepper
Aloe Vera
Green Tea
Grapefruit
Kale
Lemongrass
Lemons
Olive Oil
Seaweed
Turmeric
Watercress
Wheatgrass
Brazil Nuts
Goji Berries
Acai Berries
Onions
Sesame Seeds
Spinach 
Collard Greens
Pineapple
Oregano
Cinnamon
Tomatoes
Fennel
Parsley
Apples
Cilantro
Flax Seeds
Chia Seeds
Dill 
Celery
Cucumbers

Power Foods & Drinks to Fight Belly Fat

Cucumber
Grapefruit
Cucumber
Water
Fennel
Dandelion Root Tea
Oatmeal
Brown Rice
Green Tea
Lemons
Almonds
Watermelon
Celery
Tomatoes
Avocado
Tart Cherries
Pineapple
Pears
Peaches
Apples
Spinach
Kale
Collard Greens
Lettuce
Chia Seeds
Hemp Seeds
Salmon
Almond Milk
Cilantro

Power Foods & Drinks to Improve Skin & Diminish Signs of Aging

Oats
Water
Green Tea
Turkey
Almonds
Brown Rice
Edamame
Oats (Oatmeal)
Spinach
Tuna
Kale
Potatoes
Collard Greens
Pomegranates
Carrots
Kiwi Fruit
Blueberries
Dark Chocolate
Garlic
Tomatoes
Olive Oil
Salmon
Broccoli
Walnuts
Sardines
Sage
Parsley
Paprika
Peppers
Almond Milk
Yogurt
Plums
Canola Oil
Cod Liver Oil

Power Foods & Drinks to Prevent & Fight Cancer

Raspberries
Papaya
Broccoli
Spinach
Tomatoes
Ginger
Beets
Kale
Garlic
Collard Greens
Lemon
Water
Walnuts
Acai Berry
Navy Beans
Black Beans
Grapefruit
Apple Cider Vinegar
Raspberries
Avocado
Salmon
Aloe Vera
Cauliflower
Orange Juice
Lettuce
Apricots
Watermelon
Cabbage
Carrots
Peppers
Red Cabbage
Sunflower Seeds
Blueberries
Shrimp
Dandelions
Cashews
Almond Milk
Pomegranate
Grapes
Kiwi Fruit
Mushrooms
Onions
Oregano
Basil
Pumpkin Seeds
Almonds
Strawberries
Apples
Pears
Yogurt
Green Tea

Power Foods & Drinks to Build Muscle

Eggs
Pistachios
Brown Rice
Cantaloupe
Black Beans
Venison
Oysters
Milk
Cheese
Peppers
Flax Seeds
Bison
Elk
Eggs
Salmon
Chicken
Turkey
Pork
Yogurt
Olive Oil
Almonds
Walnuts
Cashews
Blueberries
Cranberries
Broccoli
Cabbage
Bok Choy
Pistachios
Soy Protein Powder
Kale
Spinach
Quinoa
Tomatoes
Orange Juice
Apples
Carrots
Water
Green Tea
Coffee
Bolthouse Farms Protein Shakes
Cottage Cheese
Chickpeas
Lentils

 Power Foods & Drinks to Grow Healthier Hair & Improve Eyesight & Hearing

Carrots
Salmon
Walnuts
Oysters
Sweet Potatoes
Almond Milk
Eggs
Spinach
Almonds
Lentils
Yogurt
Blueberries
Kiwi Fruit
Strawberries
Tomatoes
Edamame 
Kidney Beans
Cottage Cheese
Kale
Collard Greens
Swiss Chard
Arugula
Chicken
Pumpkin Seeds
Trout
Sardines
Soy Flour
Avocado
Oatmeal
Olive Oil
Green Tea
Cucumbers
Lettuce
Carrots
Peppers
Orange Juice
Black Raspberries
Seaweed
Black Currants
Goji Berries
Pumpkin
Garlic 
Green Onions
Papaya
Raisins
Pine Nuts
Celery
Lima Beans
Liver 
Artichokes
Lay's Potato Chips
Honey
Apple Cider Vinegar
Cauliflower
Pineapple
Cod Liver Oil
Red Wine

Power Foods & Drinks to Improve Bowel Function 

Green Beans I grew! (Personal photo)
 Water
Pears
Apples
Yogurt (especially Greek)
Apple Cider Vinegar
Aloe Vera
Chia Seeds
Hemp Seeds
Flax Seeds
Broccoli
Green Beans
Cabbage
Celery
Fennel
Cauliflower
Radishes
Spinach
Lettuce
Kale
Collard Greens
Watercress 
Cucumber
Asparagus
Brown Rice
Navy Beans
Kidney Beans
Green Tea
Black Beans
Pinto Beans
Peas
Artichokes
Raspberries
Prunes
Prune Juice
Lentils
Cranberries
Zucchini
Carrots
Chamomile Tea
Popcorn
Figs
Raisins
Pecans
Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Bananas
Chives
Cilantro
Basil
Canola Oil
Olive Oil
Coconut


Which Power Foods & Drinks will YOU be picking up the next time you're at the Grocery Store, Dairy, Butcher's Shop, or Farmer's Market?


(ALL PHOTOS USED - UNLESS NOTED OR MARKED OTHERWISE - ARE COURTESY OF FREE FOOD PHOTOS)