Laugh alittle harder!

The weather across the country and the globe is nothing to laugh about. Earthquakes, Tsunami's, floods- it's Mother Natures version of March Madness. There are plenty of relief organizations that you can give to who are providing help to those devastated by these natural disasters. You can Google: how to help Japan, and the American Red Cross to learn more. 
So, it is no surprise that the world in which we live in gives us a lot of stress, which can make us depressed and sad. Being sad can make us susceptible to acquire diseases. There is however, a bright side- they say that laughter is the best medicine. You may not know this, but constant laughter and being happy is a great way to boost your immune system. Did you know that happy people get sick less than those who are always sad and angry? Here are some great reasons as to why you should laugh:

• laughing is good for heart health as it increases blood flow
• laughing is a stress buster
• laughter is good for one's mental health
• laughing helps ease pain felt by the body
• laughing boosts the respiratory system
• laughing helps you to look younger

So, remember that while these natural disasters are not funny, you can do something to help. This will empower you to feel good and in turn to be happy! Spring flowers are around the corner and laughing everyday will put the spring back in your steps! 

For information on this and other ways to live healthy, contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com

Go Green for St. Patrick's Day!

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day by eating lots of GREEN! Healthy fruits and veggies are abundant this season. Fruits: Kiwi, honeydew mellon, granny smith apples, green grapes, and pear. Veggies: broccoli, kale, bok choy, zucchini, artichoke, brussel sprouts, spinach, asparagus, cucumbers, okra, edamame, and avocado to name a few.

Here is a great recipe for edamame hummus:

• 1/2 pound frozen shelled edamame (green soy beans), about 1 1/2 cups
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons), juiced
• 1 clove garlic, smashed
• 3/4 teaspooon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• Suggested serving: Sliced cucumbers, celery, and olives

Directions

Boil the beans in salted water for 4 to 5 minutes, or microwave, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes.

In a food processor, puree the edamame, tahini, water, lemon zest and juice, garlic, salt, cumin, and coriander until smooth. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and mix until absorbed.

Transfer to a small bowl, stir in the parsley and drizzle with remaining oil. Serve with the suggested vegetables, or refrigerate, covered, up to 1 day.

Oh Honey!

When was the last time you did it at home? Ok, stop fantasizing! I'm talking about an at home facial. This is not just for women, men need good skin too!

The best scrub may be right in your pantry- and I bet that you have all of the ingredients. Honey, sugar, lemon, and olive oil. 

Honey draws water into the skin, while sugar gently buffs away dead cells. You can add a touch of citrus to offer a nice scent.

You will need:

1 tsp of pure honey

Add 1/4 cup light olive oil

Blend with 1 cup of raw (brown) or granulated (white) sugar

Mix in 2 tsp of fresh citrus zest

Blend the ingredients until well mixed. Can be stored in a jar.

Take time for yourself to LIVEHEALTHY!!!

For more information, contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com

Spring is in the Air

We're being teased by the "weather man" (or woman)! First, let me talk to the gals in the group- we want to wear our spring capri's and flats without socks. Guys, you want that six-pack and cut pipes. And, yet, we're still under layers of wool (or cashmere or fur). Trying your best to eat right and exercise and still need a "pick-me-up"? Go shopping! No, I'm not advocating going for bust! All the stores are packed with the new spring line of clothes, shoes, and make-up. Go browse and be inspired for what you want. Do you want to fit into those "jeggings" or "skinny jeans"? Do you want to be able to wear a tank and not feel like you have to cover your arms with a cardigan? And, how about those platform shoes- you can totally rock the look with your legs and butt in better shape! So, rather than think that it will never happen, get out and take an exercise class, a run in the park (c'mon, it's not that cold), pick up some free weights at the gym and do an extra set of ab crunches! Grab a friend if you need the extra motivation (I guarantee they could use the push too!). Don't forget to eat right too! Be thoughtful before you put that bite into your mouth! (Fresh fruit, veggies, or trail mix are great snacks to grab and go).

And, before you leave the store where you've been browsing, stop at the make-up counter and buy a new lipstick color for spring and start wearing it! I like the lipsticks and lotions from Fresh (www.fresh.com). Guys, maybe upgrade your headphones (apple or sony make great ones to hook into your tunes), or a new training watch(Timex Ironman Global Trainer or Adidas miCoach Pacer are cool). Wearing something new (that does not break the bank) is a great way to feel good and will keep you inspired as you work towards your healthy goals for the season!

Want more info? Contact me at my new email address rachel@livehealthynyc.com