A New Year...A Healthier New You!

It's the start of the new year, and most of us have incorporated health and fitness into our list of resolutions. I believe that when you feel great, you also look great. Chica Guapa's goal is not only to help you find the clothes that are right for you, but to help you feel great in them, exude confidence and positive energy! Our posture, energy, mood and confidence level all improve when we feel positive about our physical appearance. If you have recently lost weight or are have set a new fitness goal, Chica Guapa can help you. With a personal wardrobe consultation to dress your new physique or with fitness training sessions to set a plan and achieve your weight goals. In addition to fashion consulting, I am also a Certified Fitness Instructor. Contact me to inquire further!

Here are some tips to get 2010 off to a healthy start!

1) EXERCISE

Steady weight loss requires a consistent exercise plan. A plan that combines cardio activity along with strength and power training will help accelerate your body transformation. Joining a gym and doing self workouts along with a variety of group classes will keep you motivated and on track. If you can't make it to the gym, consider getting a personal trainer to come to your home. A Trainer will not only put together a plan specific to your goals, but also will ensure you are performing accurately and not causing any injury to critical joints and muscles. Always consult with you doctor before starting any exercise routine. Contact me if you are interested in personal training sessions or to organize a group boot camp!

2) EAT SMART

Let's face it, we're all busy and always on the go. Planning for your meals is often a challenge, and even more difficult if you have a family. However, the only way to make a diet work is to really commit to it.

-Spend the time writing out your weekly meal plan. Shop for all the specific food items and ingredients, and when possible, prepare meals in advance. Check out some great recipes at Fitness.com, Shape.Com and Cooking Light.

-Pre-portion meals and snacks. At dinner, don't leave the serving bowls on the table. Plate out your portion. Before having seconds, drink more water and allow yourself to digest a bit. This will help to prevent overeating!

-Snack healthy. Almonds, apples and low fat yogurt are great snacks. Beware of snacks that appear healthy, but can actually pack on more weight. Some trail mixes are loaded with a lot of sugar and some baked snacks are loaded with sodium.

-Pack a snack. Pour some almonds in a ziplock or grab a travel size packet of healthy crackers or dried fruits and put in your purse. Keep a bottle of water in your car or bag. If you are on the go or running late and get hungry, you'll have something healthy on hand to refuel you. This will also help avoid over eating at your regular meal time and prevent a trip through the fast food drive through!

-Track your calorie intake. Notice which foods and drinks are high in calories and either cut them out of your diet or consume only as a planned "treat".

3) DRINK LIGHT

The holidays are over, so we have no more excuses for over indulging in gingerbread martinis or eggnog lattes! A major contributor to our daily calorie intake are beverages. Your morning smoothie or mocha can be packed with calories and fat and your lunch time soda can be loaded with sugar and sodium. Wine and and cocktails consumed in large quantities can also hurt our diet and push us over the daily calorie limit. Bottom line, watch what you drink just as you are watching what you eat. Try to fuel your body with water throughout the day and save your calories for important meals and snacks.

4)REDUCE STRESS

Try to make the time for stress reducing activities and catch your breath during the week. If you can't fit in a yoga class, take time to do some stretching and simple breathing techniques at home. Log off of Facebook, turn down the ringer on your blackberry and clear your mind! Take a hot bath and relax. Reducing stress and anxiety will help you be more focused, get a better night's sleep, prevent illness and feel healthier.

5)GET ORGANIZED

Keeping yourself organized will not only help reduce stress levels, it will save you valuable time and money. It will also help you to put forth your best image to others and show that you have control of your life. Having a clear outlook of your schedule for the week ahead, blocking out time for the gym, and knowing what you need to shop for at the grocery store are all important and will help you to maximize your time and live a healthier lifestyle. Use a daily calendar to keep on top of obligations and avoid overbooking yourself or your family. Clear the clutter from your home and office. Donate items that you don't need or use. Take charge and get organized in 2010!

CHEERS TO A HAPPY AND HEALTHY YEAR AHEAD!

Contact me to get you on your way to looking and feeling great!