Marilu Henner's Blog, page 139

Adversity at the Buffet Table

In a few days most of us will face mounds of food.  And many of us will face the proud family members who created those mounds of food.  You may have made some lifestyle changes since the last time you were together with friends and family.  We're not suggesting that you forego the feast and huddle up with the raw veggies.  Everyone has a little cheat now and then so if you want to taste that pie and it won't set you off on a binge, go ahead.  Keep in mind though, that if you want to say "no thanks" to something that you (or your doctor) have determined is not good for you…then stand firm.  Enjoy the company, enjoy the healthy dish that you brought, and keep your eye on your ultimate goals.  We're going to get lofty and quote George Patton today:

"YOU NEED TO OVERCOME THE TUG OF PEOPLE AGAINST YOU AS YOU REACH FOR HIGH GOALS."

 

Fill Your Pockets

Saturday can take you out of your normal routine.  You might be driving to a friend's house or a sporting event, fitting in extra chores around the house or catching up on paperwork left over from the work week.  You can still play it smart.  Find pockets of time and fill those pockets with healthy habits. 

- If you're waiting for your kids in the school parking lot put down the book or the coffee, or whatever you use to pass the time, and get out of the car.  Take a walk on the track.  Marilu does this ALL THE TIME.  You don't have to sit passively.  Get out and move.  You'll also meet people and be a presence in your child's world.

- Place some hand held weights in your office, near your television, and by your phone. 

- Resist the urge to delegate chores.  When the family is around it's too easy to say "Take this to the mailbox for me" or have them run upstairs to find your reading glasses.  Make it a true "Do it yourself". Get up from your chair and do it yourself.

- Involve others.  Suggest a walk after dinner if the weather is still mild in your area.  Instead of meeting for a lunch date, meet at a farmers market or a sporting event, someplace that will keep you on your feet.  Hiking with friends will not only save you the bar bill it can be very conducive to  cementing friendships when you're being active together.

This list is meant as a jumping off point.  Visit us on the boards and add your own ideas.  Tell us what works for you in keeping up the momentum of your healthy lifestyle.

Energy Boost

When those around you are reaching for coffee or energy drinks you can increase your energy levels using healthier, smarter, more effective methods.  Use your common sense…in fact use all of your senses, to get a natural, longer lasting, energy boost.

Try turning on your favorite up-tempo music, or listen to a new artist. 

Call a friend or relative you can count on for being supportive. 

Fill your surroundings with bright colors.  Research has shown that yellow, lilac and orange all build positive moods.  You don't have to paint your walls or dress in a color that doesn't flatter you but you can accessorize, or fill a vase. 

Peppermint and lemon scents are know to boost mood and energy levels.  Try a body scrub, after shave or hand lotion in those scents. 

Involve you taste buds by snacking on oranges, tangerines, or add some lemon and lime to your water.

You can even get tactile.  Researchers at Harvard, Yale and MIT have found that rough objects can make a person feel anxious a surefire energy depletions. Having a smooth stone or the sensory experince of stroking a pet isnt just for relaxation.  It can boost your mood making everything easier to tackle.

There are lots of alternatives.  No need to get your energy in the check out line, packaged near the air fresheners.  Use your sense (s).

Marilu Celebrates "CHICAGO"

Marilu was recently on hand to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Broadway's Chicago.  Some of you may be  fortunate enough to have seen Marilu in the role of Roxie.  But even if you've never seen the show you'll enjoy these photos and the accompanying article about the celebration !   It's no surprise that Marilu looks sensational !

http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm?int_news_id=44899&int_city_id=1&intPage=2#content

Finding time for that workout !

The Total Health Makeover recommends breaking a sweat for 10 minutes a day.  That's ten minutes of sustained exercise.  If you spend an hour at the gym, or training for a race, or playing with your kids, that's great !  Exercise should be fun!  But it doesn't have to consume your day!  Don't make the mistake of thinking you don't have time because you don't have a lot of time.  Take a look at this list and see if you can't carve out an extra 15 or 20 minutes in your day.

- Prioritize. Make a list of what needs to be accomplished and don't stray from it for less important tasks.  (Put exercise on that list.)

- Log off.  We don't want you to ignore Facebook completely and we really want you to check in here with us.  But we're talking about the time suckers of "just one more cute panda video" before I push away from the desk.

- Be in the moment.  You'll be surprised at how much you can accomplish when you give the task at hand your full attention. Just because you CAN multi task doesn't mean you HAVE to.

- Eliminate clutter.  The time you spend looking for your shoes, your keys, that bill you meant to pay, can all be put to better use.  A few inexpensive containers, baskets, and post-its can buy you better health.

- Lay out your gear in advance. If you hate digging through your work out clothes in the morning have them prepared and waiting to step into.  This applies to your water bottle, outerwear and sneakers.  Even your towel and shower supplies for after your workout can be in place before you head to bed.  It all leads to a smoother ride in the morning.

- Shift your clock by 15 minutes.  You don't have to get up a full hour earlier in order to exercise.  Try hitting the sack just 15 minutes earlier than usual and getting up 15 minutes earlier in the morning.  The feeling of not being pressed for time can contribute to carving out a little more time for a walk, some crunches or a bike ride.

UNFORGETTABLE

This is one of the most innovative crime dramas on television; drawing from Marilu's Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory, it also boasts a wonderful cast, and some excellent writing and directing.

If you haven't seen this show yet you'll want to set aside some time (or set your DVR) to catch tonight's episode.

Not only is Marilu a consultant on this show but tonight she's the guest star! 

UNFORGETTABLE…Tuesdays at 10/9c   

On CBS

5 Questions for Marilu Henner and Poppy Montgomery

 Have you been watching Unforgettable on Tuesday nights?  It's the new, crime drama inspired by Marilu's Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory.  The main character of this series is Carrie Wells, played by the wonderful actress Poppy Montgomery.  As a detective Carrie uses her memory to help solve crimes but, in an ongoing mystery, can't access the memory of her sister's murder.  It's one of the most fascinating shows on the air this season.  And add to that, Marilu is the guest star in this week's episode.  She and Poppy Montgomery were recently interviewed together.  You can watch that interview here:

http://www.usatoday.com/video/news/five-questions-for-marilu-henner-and-poppy-montgomery/1269143667001
Two gorgeous redheads being interviewed together ! 

Gratitude in Action

NOT WHAT WE SAY ABOUT OUR BLESSINGS, BUT HOW WE USE THEM, IS THE TRUE MEASURE OF OUR THANKSGIVING.

W.T. Purkiser

Weekend Sizzle !

Everyone knows that self confidence is sexy!  Boost yours by following a few simple rules that will reinforce your worth and boost your self esteem.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET   — You're in control of how you care for your body.  Putting the best fuel into your body will help you get the most satisfaction from it….in so many ways. 

GET MOVING — Choosing physical activities that work your muscles will make you more aware of your body and more appreciative of your health.

TAKE TIME FOR DETAILS — By taking a few minutes to pay attention to what makes you feel good you'll send yourself a message.  You're worth the time and effort.  You know what that means for you.  It might mean a few minutes to decompress with your favorite music, some time to file your nails, or pick up your favorite wine, tea or weekend snack.  We're not saying you need to be selfish but there's nothing sexy about a martyr. 

Knowing your own worth is super sexy!

TOTAL MEMORY MAKEOVER

Marilu's book, Total Memory Makeover is due to be published soon.  Of course we'll keep you abreast of all the latest.  (Marilu's book tours are always the best.  High energy…and a great time for the members to get together!)

But we know that you're anxious to get your hands on this new release as soon as possible.  It's available for pre-order now.  Follow this link and you can be reading The Total Memory Makeover the minute it's available !!

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Total-Memory-Makeover?store=book&keyword=Total+Memory+Makeover