Thursday, March 20, 2014

5 Day Slim Down

 Fit girl running outdoors by the beach

Cleanse Your Body & Clear Your Mind

 Wouldn't it feel great to be in control of your eating again?
What would it feel like to have some wiggle room in your jeans?
Wouldn't it be great to feel lighter?
Wouldn't it be great to be heading in a positive direction?

I get it, I really do! As a busy mom who’s seen the scale go up and down over the years, fallen into emotional eating patterns (potato chips, bowls of cereal and salty foods are my weakness) and struggled with weight gain as I’ve gotten older (metabolism slowing down, which applies to men AND women) I GET IT!       

I won't lie and say that I wasn't a little nervous to do my first detox, because I was. 


I was thinking, “a detox means I can’t eat anything, it’s just liquid and that’ll never work for me.” But THIS detox has PLENTY of healthy whole foods and protein. I am so glad that I did this because creating and doing this detox was a game changer for me. It helped me gain control of my eating again, get rid of processed foods, junk and sugar and I needed that change to fuel me so I could move forward. I was finally able to lose those extra pounds around my belly, I had more energy, was sleeping better and feeling refreshed. That's why I'm so excited to share this detox with you. You'll have oodles of support from me along the way. It literally changed my life and I know it will do the same for you. 

LauraMcDonald-5 - Version 2 ~Laura McDonald, HHC, ACE, AFAA, YOGA-FIT 

Why Detox? Everyday our body is bombarded by harsh toxins and chemicals from our surrounding environment. Chemicals, pesticides, hormones and other pollutants are found in all the processed foods we eat, and often in the water we drink and the air we breathe. Under natural circumstances, the body is able to eliminate many of these toxic substances safely provided that is getting proper nutrition in sufficient quantities and the organs of detoxification are functioning at optimal levels. The problem is, most of us are not functioning at our optimal levels due to stress, poor sleep, and vitamin deficiencies. That's where a detox can help! 

Believe it or not, your body may be carrying around 5 to 10 pounds of toxic waste, which slows down your ability to lose weight! This detox is for you if you often have...
  • Headaches
  • Low energy
  • Indigestion
  • Constipation
  • Skin conditions such as acne
  • Insomnia
  • Belly weight gain
  • Chronic yeast infections
  • Eczema
  • Excess weight
  • Mood swings
You might be thinking... Is this a deprivation detox?  
~Absolutely not! You are going to be able to eat as much food as you want, according to the detoxing guidelines. 
Will I have enough support? ~Yes, you will! Support is the cornerstone of this cleanse. You'll have individual support from me when you need it via email and you'll also have a private Facebook group where you can share your experience with other people enrolled in the cleanse. 
Will I be able to eat out? ~Yes, there is an Eating Out Strategy Guide included in the program. 
How 'easy' can this really be? ~The entire detox is laid out for you so you'll know what to eat everyday. There's even a shopping list so you can literally hit "print" and run off to the grocery store. I made this as easy for you as possible so you don't have to worry about the food. 
What happens after the detox? ~Don't worry! We're going to walk through the details on how to transition back to a diet that works for your unique body type and lifestyle together. There is an extra week of group support if you get stuck and of course, continual support from me! 
HOW WILL I BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM?
  • Worry less about your food
  • Jump start your weight loss
  • Blast off your weight loss plateau
  • Reset your metabolism
  • Reduce cravings
  • Feel energized
  • Better sleep
  • Reduce mood swings
  • Develop new and healthier eating patterns
  • Cleanse your body of unwanted toxins
  • Identify food sensitivities
  • GLOW again
Change your thoughts       ARE YOU READY TO WORRY LESS ABOUT YOUR FOOD, LOSE WEIGHT AND FEEL GREAT?  SIGN UP TODAY! 5-Day Simple Spring Detox Group Experience ONLY $29.00! I want to make this affordable for everyone because we can all use a little help and support! 
Includes: Simple Spring Detox Instruction Guide (12 pages) (Value $27) Simple Spring Detox Recipe Guide (25 pages) (Value $49) Simple Spring Detox Eating Out Strategy Guide (4 pages) (Value $27) Simple Spring Detox Shopping List (2 pages) (Value $17) Private Facebook group with daily inspiration & detox tips (Value $150)

BONUS! FREE personalized email coaching support through out the entire program (value $197) 

CLICK HERE to find out more and purchase program: buy 

 What are you waiting for? Let’s do this!

All data provided in this program are to be used for informational purposes only.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Summit Rock Workout



Looking for a simple, effective, kick-ass workout today?

You don't need any equipment for this routine, and you can do it indoors or out. Go for it! 

Summit Rock Boot-Camp Routine 


FIRST: Warm up with a light jog/jogging in place for several minutes. Take a few moments to stretch.


One Minute Intervals Each: (perform each for one minute, take about 30 seconds recovery between each exercise.)


  1. Jog in place ---(about 20 seconds each -- Easy--Medium- Harder (knees up) 
  1. Jumping Jacks 
  1. Side to Side Shuffles (shuffle side to side about 4 paces, touch ground, shuffle back) 
  1. AXE Chop - (With legs wide, imagine holding an axe overhead and chopping a piece of wood right down on the ground in front of you. Keep knees a little loose and engage core as you raise your "axe" up and down.) 
  1. Jabs (don’t snap out elbows) 
  1. Touch toes- - - JUMP with arms in the air 




 STRENGTH: 

  • 20 Alternating Lunges 
  • 20 Push-ups 
  • 20 Squats 
  • 20 Triceps Dips 
  • 50-100 crunches 


REPEAT ABOVE INTERVALS ONE TO TWO MORE TIMES Make sure to stay hydrated and rest when needed. Take a moment to cool down and stretch muscles. Take a few deep breaths, inhale, exhale.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

12 Simple Steps for Self Care



1. If it feels wrong, don't do it.

2. Say "exactly" what you mean.

3. Don't be a people pleaser.

4. Trust your instincts.

5. Never speak bad about yourself.

6. Never give up on your dreams.

7. Don't be afraid to say "no".

8. Don't be afraid to say "yes".

9. Be KIND to yourself and others.

10. Let go of what you can't control.

11. Stay away from drama and negativity.

12. LOVE yourself, your family, your friends, life.

Let me help you become the healthiest person you know!

Find out more HERE and to set up a FREE 30 minute consultation!

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

5 Steps To Flatter Abs



If you’re like a lot of people you’ve worked hard for years to attain a leaner, flatter, toned stomach. Have you been on crazy diets and done tons of crunches, or maybe even considered lipo?  All for the sake of that glorious, flatter, toned and tight tummy?

Here are just a few of the reasons for a flabby tummy:

  • Pregnancy - Having gone through three pregnancies and gaining a significant amount of weight each time, this has always been one of my biggest obstacles.
  • Age - Starting in our 30‘s our metabolism slows down. 
  • Stress - Stress and lack of sleep elevate cortisol levels which leads to excess fat around the middle. (Check, this applies to me, also).
  • Hormones - For both men and women this can be an issue.
  • Not enough exercise - You’ve got to stoke that metabolism to burn that belly fat.
  • Poor nutrition - Eating too much junk and not enough healthy, whole foods.

5 Steps to Help Flatten That Belly:

1. Cardio Exercise - Warm up for several minutes then move into at least 30-45 minutes of cardio (biking, hiking, power walking, jogging, running, aerobics class, etc.) Start at a comfortable pace but when you’re ready push yourself past your comfort zone. This means you’ve got to break a sweat, get your heart-rate up, release those feel-good endorphins, dig deeper! Once you’re able to do 30 minutes without feeling overwhelmed, up the intensity. On a scale of 1-10 (1 sitting watching tv and 10 being ready to pass out from exhaustion) you want to be around 7-8. To shed fat you've got to step up your game!

My personal favorite Cardio:  
Kickboxing! This is popular with both men and women and has the added benefits of improving power, balance and coordination.  Kickboxing helps work out stresses and frustration, enhances confidence and burns a ton of calories. The moves also target multiple muscle groups, especially the core.  


Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Become The Healthiest Person You Know!

Are you ready to ROCK your world and CHANGE your life? I can honestly tell you IIN has changed mine (and the life of my family) in so many positive ways, I feel SO good and want to share this with you! Whether you're interested in taking this course to create or expand a business, or to dig deeper into what really makes you happy and healthy, why not join me on my journey! 

The course is organized and laid out so well and completely mobile. Even with my busy life I have found I look forward to making the time to listen and learn from fascinating speakers and motivators in the blooming Holistic field. 
This is so much more than FOOD--It's about how we LIVE our best, heatlhiest, happiest life and how THAT is the connection for curing many aches and pains, weight gain and the fog you may be walking in. FIND your passion, your energy, your healthiest life EVER! You will not regret going on this journey. It is worth EVERY dime and then some. PLEASE message me here if you have any questions.

See what YOU can gain personally and professionally with an Integrative Nutrition education.

CLICK BELOW FOR MORE INFO:

 

Create Healthy Habits


Healthy habits are learned in the same way as unhealthy ones - - - through practice.



By creating and implementing healthy habits, you can begin to make and sustain major changes for the rest of your life.  The good news is it’s NEVER too late to make changes, even little changes like learning to slow down and relax can add quality and years to your life. Here are 6 easy suggestions to get you going:

Simple Morning Stretch:
When you rise in the morning, take a few precious moments to slowly and gently stretch out your body. Think about cats and dogs, when they wake from slumber they move and bend and stretch.  This will wake up the muscles and get blood and oxygen flowing throughout your body, better preparing you mentally and physically for the day ahead of you.


Eat a Little Less: 
Use a smaller plate, a smaller fork or spoon, even chopsticks. Prepare a simple table setting and sit down to eat. Chew slowly and take little breaks by putting your utensils down for a few seconds. Enjoy your meal and of course make it healthy. A good rule of thumb is fill your plate with 3/4‘s whole grains, fresh colorful vegetables and fruits, and the rest lean protein.



Drink Plenty of Water:
It doesn’t have to be super-expensive fancy bottled water, in fact I urge you to carry a reusable water container with you to stay hydrated, save a few bucks and do the planet a favor. Add some fresh squeezed lemon or doTerra DoTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS Lemon/grapefruit/lime oil. The citrus will help rid petrochemicals in your system, cleanse and detox. 


Exercise:
However you do it, you need to get your body moving on a regular basis. Incorporate some type of fitness into your day, whether it’s one longer session at your local gym, a class you can attend, a brisk walk on your lunch break, or a fitness dvd.  Take your kids to the playground and play with them, take the dog for a long walk, call a friend and meet up for a power-walk/jog.
If you live an apartment building like me, you can go up and down 2-3 flights of stairs for 20-30 minutes for a great calorie burning cardio workout. Just MOVE...it all counts and it should become one of your top habits!



Do Something for You:
Most of us tend to do, do, do for others in our lives.  We work hard, take care of the home, run errands, and do chores. Be selfish a few times a week and take a few minutes to do something you enjoy! Read a book or magazine, get a manicure or 10 minute massage, go to a movie, or call and catch up with a friend or family member. Nurturing and pampering yourself a bit is good for everyone in your life, because if your happy and feeling good, so is the rest of the gang.

Meditate:
This one can be difficult, yet it’s simple to do.  Taking 5-10 minutes to sit/lie still, calming your body and mind is very healing and rejuvenating. Allow yourself this gift as often as you can. Find a quiet spot, turn off the gadgets, dim the lights, put on some soothing music, light a candle, use some essential oils DoTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS and let your mind and body relax. Lie or sit comfortably, close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths in and out. You deserve a moment of serenity. 

Any of these suggestions above will ease you into healthier habits and when you create healthier habits, you create a healthier life.


Pump Up Your Power Walk!

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Inexpensive Exercise Toys for Home/Travel Workout

These are my favorite must have exercise toys. Well, the mat's not really a toy but super important for home work-outs or to take with you to a yoga class.

These items are also recommended for my week long JUMPSTART PROGRAM:  7 DAY SLIM DOWN.

It's not absolutely necessary, but it is helpful in taking your workout to the next level. I have a few links to products to make it easier to purchase, or you can find any of this equipment at a Target, Sporting Store, K-mart, etc. Chances are you might even have some of these items stashed away somewhere already. (These are great pieces to have for everyday at home workouts!)

One set of 2 and 5 pound dumbbells.

One medium resistance tubing band. (It's always good to have a few extra gauges for exercising, light, medium, hard, and these are sometimes sold in sets).

Twist Board (This is an amazing little contraption to really whittle the waist, super inexpensive
and very portable).

Yoga or exercise mat.









Thursday, November 7, 2013

How to Make a Quick, Healthy Veggie Sandwich



Here’s a quick, warm veggie sandwich that’s great for lunch or a snack. My kids love these and they are so easy to prepare.
I’m listing the basic ingredients that I use, but get creative and make it personal. If you use cheese or vegan cheese, you could melt it on top under a broiler or in a toaster oven for a few minutes. 
I always have a box of veggie burgers and sprouted grain on hand in the freezer. That makes putting together one of these yummy veggie sandwiches a snap!

Ingredients: (serves one)

  • Sprouted grain, whole grain or bread of choice, toasted
  • One veggie patty cooked in skillet with oil of your choice, or heat in oven.
  • Avocado
  • Mushrooms
  • Spinach
  • (Or any other fresh, seasonal organic vegetables you have on hand.)
  • Dressing: 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons Olive oil. Whisk all together.

I like to moisten the toast with a little olive oil. Pour on some of the dressing, build your sandwich, add a little more dressing if you like. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve with some fresh cut veggies on the side and enjoy!



Saturday, September 28, 2013

6 Ways To Get Your Kids (And You) Moving



When I was a kid we were usually outside all day, biking, swimming, playing games, running behind the mosquito truck as it pumped chemicals into our lungs and the air. (That’s just what you did back then, who knew?) Life has changed drastically since the 60’s and 70’s. Much of America's farmland has become parking lots while fresh foods are less available and more expensive and the creation of processed foods offer cheap, quick, easy meals. Television now dominates the “quality” time families spend together. Computers and social networking can eat up to 7 hours a day!





As awesome as technology is, our children are paying heavily (yes, a pun) for these modern conveniences. Inside passive entertainment combined with high calorie, chemical laden, fast foods are contributing to an all out epidemic. Childhood obesity in America has doubled in children and tripled in adolescents over the past 30 years.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
In 2010, more than one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese.
These children also have all the risk factors that adult obesity brings:

  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Higher risk of cancer
  • Bone and Joint issues

They are also more likely to become obese adults with potential social and psychological problems leading to depression and low self-esteem.

Here are 6 fun ideas to get your family moving, get healthier, and create a stronger bond: