Although she is currently a very fit mother, Ashlee Kanter was not always so health conscious. It took years, but Ashlee has developed a passion for learning everything she can about health and nutrition. Ashlee went from being unhappy about herself to becoming a healthy and happy fitness instructor. Her gained love of health and fitness led her to achieve a group fitness certification, which allows her to teach boot camp, Piloxing, and yoga. She also studied to receive her health and nutrition certification and more recently became a virtual health coach.
Here are Ashlee’s top ten tips to living a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle:
1. SET GOALS AND MAKE A PLAN
Goals without a plan are just dreams. Getting healthy will not happen by chance, you have to make it happen. Write down your goals and read them aloud. Read them often and share them with others.
2. LEARN ABOUT THE NUTRITION PLAN FOR YOU
Food is fuel, and what you eat is literally the most important aspect of health and life. One size does not fit all! You really need to understand your body from the inside out. There are many diets on the market, and some people find great success in some of them, but don’t be discouraged if you don’t. Keep searching until you discover the nutrition plan that works best for you.
3. READ LABELS
There are so many hidden ingredients in packaged food that not only hinder success but can actually set you back by making you feel crappy and sluggish. While reading labels, know what to look for. Educate yourself to understand which “bad” ingredients to look for.
4. JUST SAY NO TO SUGAR
Added sugar will do more than just add to your waistline. Sugar is addictive, and it can lead to obesity, inflammation, high blood sugar and high blood pressure. These are all risk factors for heart disease, the leading cause of death in both men and women. Sugar changes the way our bodies process food, so once you eliminate sugar, your taste buds will change and food will start to taste so much better (no more sour strawberries).
Ashlee Kanter working out in her corporate gym, Photo by Blair Caldwell
5. DRINK, DRINK, DRINK
Water, that is. Water is essential for your body to function correctly. Drinking the correct amount of water each day (1/2 your body weight in ounces + an additional 8 oz. for every 30 minutes of exercise) will properly hydrate you for optimal health. Water has a significant impact on your energy levels and your brain function. Drinking enough water can also help reduce headaches, promote regularity and proper kidney function, and aid in weight loss.
6. SLEEP ON IT
Rest is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle and can benefit your heart, weight, and mind. Adequate sleep is defined as 6 – 8 hours a night, but everyone’s needs are different. Listen to your body and give it the rest it deserves.
Ashlee Kanter working out in her corporate gym, Photo by Blair Caldwell
7. EXERCISE
Not only does working out make you feel great, but it is also a great form of stress relief. Exercise releases endorphins that make you feel happy and good. It will also aid in weight loss, help tone and tighten, and help make your outside feel and look as good as your inside.
8. BE CONSISTENT
Stick to your plan, work hard, be persistent, and you will see results.
9. JOIN A GROUP
You do not have to do this alone. Find like-minded people who are on a similar journey. Get a group of friends together and challenge each other. Join a social media group. Surrounding yourself with positivity and excitement will aid in your success.
10. HAVE FUN
Find a nutrition plan you enjoy and do workouts that make you smile.
