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Make a commitment to be more healthy. It all starts with this decision to take action, whether you decide for personal reasons or to improve your health for your family. If you improve your overall health, you will feel better, look better, perform better and have a better quality of life with your family and friends.
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Only you know what positive changes will work in your life. Be realistic when you make your goals. Everyone is different - your friend may set a goal to run a 10K race, while you may decide to take the stairs at work instead of the elevator. Setting small goals, to reach the larger goal of overall health will help you to succeed - one step at a time!
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Record your goals and include a positive step about food. Goals include watching portion sizes or following Canada's Food Guide. Also record a fitness goal. Choosing to record your dietary and fitness goals will help you keep track of your destination, while reminding you of how far you have come! Your record does not have to be complicated or high-tech - a simple lined notebook or journal will be just as useful!
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Experience your healthy living plan. Live it and see what works and what needs to be adjusted to customize it and make it work for you. Once you implement your plan, you will see how your ideas translate into practice. Be flexible and allow yourself to make changes that will help to make your plan a reality for the long term. Set yourself up for success!
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Family and friends are your allies in your healthy living plan. Ask them for support. Try new recipes that suit your goals (i.e. lower fat or salt), but are delicious for the whole family. Ask partners or children to help with the preparation to make it fun for everyone! Make fitness fun - go for a walk with family or friends or ask a child to show you how to ride a skate board! When your family sees the positive changes in your life, they may decide to make changes too!
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Inspire yourself by trying new foods. There are many wonderful ethnic stores and restaurants where you can sample foods of the world, e.g. passion fruit or an ethnic bread! Try fun activities, such as salsa dancing or pilates to keep your plan interesting. Your local Parks and Recreation Centres offer a variety of programs and classes that are fun and economical!
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Structure will make your plan work. Stick with a daily pattern of 3 meals and 2 snacks or whatever modification of this pattern works for you. Most people thrive on routine. Choosing a plan that is easy to implement and fits into your lifestyle will help you to make changes that will last a lifetime!
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Health and happiness are your rewards. When you make a commitment and follow it through, you deserve to enjoy the results. Live smart, eat right and enjoy life!
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