Let it Go!

Be honest, how many of you followed the challenges yesterday? Did you sincerely compliment at least 3 people and did you build yourself up with positive reinforcement instead of tearing yourself down every time you passed a mirror? What about adding something healthy to your diet or adding something to your fitness routine?

I hope you did! If not, let's get started with that today. If yes, let's do it again today! Make a habit out of encouraging others and yourself... make activity and healthy choices a habit! Pretty soon, you won't have to think of those things as challenges anymore; they will be a way of life! The more positivity we can put into the world, the better. Let's stay focused on yesterday's challenges as we move into a new day.

A Couple Benefits to Exercise:
Of course, everyone knows that, "exercise is good for you." But, why? There are a ton of positive outcomes you achieve by exercising. Today, I am going to list a few that you might not typically think about.
-Allergies-- Yes, that's right! With Spring approaching, I know many of us are dreading our allergy issues. But, did you know that exercise is one of the body's most efficient ways to help you control nasal congestion and the discomfort? Another more natural way to handle sinus issues is by a chiropractic adjustment...
-Depression-- Feeling down? Go to the gym or go for a walk! Exercise helps to speed your metabolism as well as allow for more oxygen to be delivered to the brain... the increase in circulation in the brain improves your mood!
-Back Pain-- Exercise helps to strengthen your core muscles; resulting in less back pain! Of course, if you have a back condition it is important to consult a professional as to which exercises will be the most beneficial to you!

Nutrition Challenge:
Water, Water Everywhere!
It is SO IMPORTANT to stay hydrated. I would assume that most of us do not consume anywhere near as much water as we should; and luckily, that's an easy problem to solve! If you normally drink 2 waters a day, drink 3 today... that still isn't enough, but it's a small step in the right direction (and we like small steps that we will stick to, right?). If you normally don't drink any water-- please please please at least drink 1 bottle today.
Did you know that our bodies often confuse thirst for hunger? If you are hungry, drink a serving (at least 8 ounces) of water first. That way, if it was a thirst issue, your body is starting to be satisfied... and if you are still hungry, it will help prevent you from over-indulging.
If you think you already drink enough water... Great! You are a step ahead of the game--- but still, increase it!

Everyone carry a bottle (I am by no means suggesting you be the guy we have all seen at the gym carrying a gallon of water... any size bottle will do!) around with you today and make a conscious effort to drink water throughout the day. If you must drink a soda, drink a water right after. You will eliminate empty calories once you start replacing other beverages with water... You will be hydrated... It is great for your skin... Just drink it! :-)

Fitness Challenge:
Beginners-- Yesterday we walked, either outdoors or around the house. How did you feel after that? I know, you might feel silly walking around the house while you are doing it... but didn't you feel a since of accomplishment when you were done? Starting a fitness routine--no matter what it is--is a great step in the right direction! I sincerely wish I could sit down and come up with a personalized routine for everyone who reads this-- but hopefully, the general challenges give you the jump-start you need!
Today, I want you to repeat the walk you did yesterday. We are going to start slow and be careful not to over-exert ourselves. After your walk, I want you to stretch. It can be as basic as you want it to be, but just make sure you get yourself in the habit of stretching AFTER your exercise. Stretching can improve your flexibility and reduce muscle soreness (which will be especially important when the challenges gradually increase in intensity), but be sure to stretch either after your complete workout or at least wait until after your muscles are warmed up. Stretching a muscle that has not been warmed up increases the chance of injury; and that is obviously something we want to avoid!

For the more advanced exercise crowd, you know your routine and you know what you are comfortable with. Today, I want you to help someone who appears to be confused in the gym. Plus, if it has been a while since you have truly felt you had an effective workout-- Switch it up!!

Out of Your Comfort Zone:
I have thought long and hard about this one-- and honestly, I have tried to talk myself out of using this one for today. If I extend the challenge to you, I also have to follow the challenge myself-- and this one is going to be hard for me. How many of you have an old friend, or maybe even family member, that you haven't spoken to in a while? Maybe it was a fight or a disagreement... Maybe it was a misunderstanding... Maybe it was their fault or maybe it was yours. Today, I want you to let it go! And, I want you to take it a step further and contact them about it... tell them you want to move on and put it behind you and that you value the friendship you had before conflict came in the way. Maybe they will be receptive; maybe they won't. But, you will feel a sense of relief knowing that you have let go of a grudge that has been holding you back. And, whether they let you know they appreciate it or not, they will.

Changing Your Thinking:
Today, I want you to reflect on aspects of your life where you try to have too much control. This is going to take serious thought--and commitment--on your part. Then, I want you to take the areas you are trying to control and I want you to trust God and trust in His plan for your life. Pray about it and leave the control in His hands.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all of your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NIV)