Time for tea!

Part of my mission is sharing amazing, healthy deals with you when I run across them. As many of you probably know, tea is one of the best health drinks there is. Packed full of antioxidants and an excellent replacement for stronger stimulants like coffee, tea is something everyone should try to incorporate into their day! Check out this deal:

Enjoy 20% of Earl Grey Tea -

All Quantities

Shop Numi Now


What makes Numi's Earl Grey so special?

Numi's Aged Earl Grey is made with 100% real fruits, organic tea, and nothing else!

Step1: Premium, organic, fair trade black tea is purchased from Assam, India

Step 2: Real Italian Bergamot orange flakes are layered on top of tea for 30 days

Step 3: The tea absorbs the scent of the Bergamot fruit, then orange flakes are sifted out.

Step 4: You enjoy a robust Earl Grey with subtle fruity notes


Enjoy 20% of Earl Grey Tea - All Quantities Shop Numi Now

Let me know what your favorite kind of tea is and why. I'd love to hear what everyone is drinking and learning about some that I might have not tried yet!

No More Excuses!!!!

I hit a really big milestone recently. My oldest son turned 18 years old. I can hardly believe it myself, but my little boy is all grown up. The time has literally flown by. Just last week he was a sweet, happy, loving baby and now he is (technically) a man. Really make a person take a good, hard look at their life, I must say.

How does this relate to no more excuses? Well, let me tell you. We, as humans, are always making excuses as to why we can't do something. I know you all have done it from time to time. It is just human nature. We have this false sense of belief that we have all the time in the world to accomplish this or take care of that. Remember when you turned 18? Didn't it seem like it would be forever until you turned 30 or even 40, and how old that sounded? Looking back (no matter how old you are), doesn't it seem like just yesterday that you were 1, 5 or 10 years younger? The clock is ticking folks, and it's time to get rid of all the excuses why you aren't living the healthy, happy, fulfilling life you should be living. Hold on, we are going over some of the excuses that are really grating on my nerves, and it is likely going to be a bumpy ride!

1. I don't have the time to workout and eat healthy-

Really? Were you giving a day with less than 24 hours? A calendar with fewer than 365 days? I don't think so. We are all given the same 1,440 minutes in a day, 168 hours in a week.

The deal is, we don't all use our time in the best way. Tell me, what's the latest on "Grey's Anatomy"? Who got kicked of "The Biggest Loser" last night? Who did the Bachelor pick and will it actually work out for them? Seriously, if you have time to sit on your butt and what TV, you have time to spend 30 to 60 minutes exercising and making healthy, nutritious meals for you and your family. I'm totally not against enjoying your favorite TV show, but if you must watch, then get treadmill and get your butt on it (walking or running, not just sitting) while you watch the show. Or, DVR it so you can speed through the stupid commercials for stupid crap you don't need anyway. Then, you've freed yourself at least several minutes.

Another practically useless time sucker is the computer. How many times have you gotten on to "check email really quick" or "update my Facebook status" just to find that an hour has mysteriously disappeared? I've done it, so I know you have. You can try to deny it, but I know the truth. There again, not saying stay away from the computer (heck, you are reading this on the computer right now!) but set limits or better yet, do your workouts and reward yourself with some computer or TV time.

2. The kids/spouse/parents/whatever just keep me so busy-

I have kids and a spouse and parents and volunteer activities and a business and a couple hourly paid jobs and a dog and....... Get my point? We are ALL busy! Get rid of that lame excuse. Find the time (see #1 for a few ideas how, just in case you skipped over it!). If the kids keep you running taking them from this activity to that, then find a way to sneak in some exercise while they are at baseball/soccer/football/basketball (can you tell I have boys?) or whatever activity they are at. Instead of sitting in the bleachers shooting the crap about what happened on Grey's, get up and walk around the field or gym. Did you know that an hour's worth of walking can burn up to 400 calories, depending on how big you are and how fast you walk? So, instead of sitting around, grab one of your buddies and go for a walk while the kids are at their practice and lose this pathetic excuse. If you still want to shoot the crap, you can, but doing it moving instead of sitting still.

I know we all overextend ourselves with everything we have going on in our life, but if we don't start taking an hour a day to exercise, we will be dead 24 hours a day a lot sooner than we'd like. When we don't make our health a priority when we are healthy, we will have to make time for it when we aren't healthy. And the last I checked, the doctors offices have not gotten any more punctual, so you lose even more time every time you have to go pay them a visit. Get my drift?

3. It's too expensive to eat healthy and to exercise-

This is probably one of the weakest excuses there is. I know money is an issue for a large majority of people, yours truly included. But where there's a will, there's a way. So start with the will...

Take a look at what you are blowing your hard earned money on that could go towards eating healthy and exercising. When was the last time you bought a soda at the checkout at Target? Better yet, what kind of useless crap is even in that cart you could really live without? I find it totally amusing that someone would complain about spending $3 on a dozen free range, organic eggs but they have no problem buying 20 oz of brown, sugary liquid candy for $1.49 without batting an eye. And you know which one is going to end up on your butt, gut and legs and lead you down diabetes road? Give you a hint: it's not the eggs....

You really need to evaluate where your money goes. Don't tell me you have no money to buy Shakeology or organic produce when you have a cupboard full of chips, candy and soda. Don't tell me you have no money to buy P90X or Brazil Butt Lift or even just a set of dumbbells when you go out to the bar or to dinner every weekend. Don't tell me you can't hire a personal trainer or join the boot camp when you have every magazine there is out there. You get what I'm saying? I'm on to you and it's time to face facts; you do have the money, you are just not putting your exercise, nutrition and overall health on the top of the priority list.

So, give up Starbucks or your 20oz soda everyday, cut back on the magazine subscriptions, get rid of the junk food because the only thing that is doing is making you and your family fat and sick. Cut back on the going out and definitely get rid of the alcohol! That stuff will actually kill you and I really don't buy into the whole "red wine is healthy for you" BS because to me, that is just an excuse to drink. Get the same health benefits from red grapes, grape juice or acai berries.

Here are a few things to think about:

The corporations and the government are not looking out for your health or that of your family-

If you don't believe me, then check out movies such as "Food, Inc" and "Fast Food Nation", just to name a couple. The corporations also own Washington DC, so don't count on the government to make sure there isn't crap in the so-called food we are sold. And, just one more thing, that garbage in the boxes and packages they are selling you? It really isn't food, for the most part. They strip all the nutrients out of the real food, process it, put random chemicals, dyes, high fructose corn syrup and maybe add a few nutrients BACK in, then sell it to you with some crappy toy made in China and make the box all pretty and colorful so little Johnny will see in and start begging and throwing a temper tantrum just so he can get it.

So, you cave (we've all been there), buy the crappy cereal (in this example) and then head to the dairy aisle to get milk so little Johnny can pour it all over his bowl of dyes and chemicals. That milk, you know, the stuff from the "Got Milk?" ads? That stuff is full of antibiotics, because the momma cows get infections in their udders from being constantly hooked to the milking machines. You do know what infections are, right? Usually involves icky stuff like pus and blood, but milk is so good for you, so I don't what to freak you out. So, the next time you take Johnny to the doctor for yet another ear infection and you have to try another antibiotic because the regular ones just aren't working anymore, you can thank the dairy industry. Because of all the antibiotics the animals we use for food get pumped into them, we suffer the consequences too, by not having drugs that work when we really need them. Just another reason you need to be extremely aware about the stuff we are being sold under the category of "food".

Your lack of sleep is making you fat!
Back to "we're all busy" from earlier. What's the one main thing that we skimp on, other than our workouts, when we feel we are short on time? You guessed it, sleep. Well, I'll let you in on what that staying up too late an hour here and there is costing you.

• Lack of sleep is dangerous for your heart.
• Lack of sleep increases your chances of getting cancer.
• Lack of sleep makes us more stressed out.
• Lack of sleep increases inflammation.
• Lack of sleep make us less alert.
• Lack of sleep makes us forgetful.
• Lack of sleep contributes to weight gain.
• Lack of sleep makes us more prone to depression.

Now, I know that the amount of sleep a person needs varies from one to another, but a good rule is 7-8 hours of sleep. Less than that, you are doing harm to your body, but sleeping much more than that can also lead to a variety of problems too, like weight gain. So, if you are actually watching what you eat and aren't eating garbage food, for the most part, and are also exercising but still aren't losing weight, factor in your sleep. If you aren't getting enough, change that now! Stop making excuses for not taking care of yourself. If, yet again, you find you are spending time you should be sleeping doing things that waste time or can hold off until tomorrow, then stop it. Sleep is way to important to your health to put it low on the priority list.

The crap in your house or main living area is ruining your health.
For starters, if you have a clutter problem, odds are you have a shopping problem. Now that that's out of the way, here's some other bits of advice to chew on:

• If you have money to spend of junk you don't really need, then you have the money to spend on healthy food, workout DVD's and a gym membership.
• If your house is in disarray from too much crap, most likely that depresses you. When a person is depressed, they don't eat well and don't exercise.
• If you are in debt from buying too much junk you don't really need, you are more likely to be depressed, which tends to lead people to eat bad and not exercise.

So now is the time. Stop spending money on junk. No more bad food, no more bad purchases. Take some time and get a garbage bag. Go through your house and throw out things you don't need. If you need some guidance, check out FlyLady.net or get the great book "Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat?" by Peter Walsh.

I know I've been a bit harsh and in your face in this article, but the thing is, people always make excuses. Your health is NOT something to play around with. One of these days, if you put it off long enough, you WILL be forced to face some frightening health news. Does it mean if you do everything right you will never have any problems? No, it doesn't. But it does significantly increase your chances.

If you have ever had a parent that has had a horrible health scare or even worse, died from the poor health choices they made in their lives, take a step back and imagine your kids and your loved ones facing the same thing with you. If that isn't enough to push you into making the best choices for your health, then I don't know what is.

I am here to help you in any way I can, but you are the one that needs to do the work. I am here to help you get on the the path, so please feel free to reach out to me. It is my mission to help as many people as possible get on the right path. Let me know what you think, what your excuses are or what you feel is holding you back!

Get Fit and Healthy With Your Very Own Health Coach!

Is a goal of yours in 2010 to get fit and healthy? Then increase your chances with a health coach. I am looking for people who are ready to make a change in their lives and want someone to hold them accountable. As your health coach, I will also be there to answer questions and give advice.

If this sounds like something you would like to learn more about, go here to sign up for only $38.87 for 3 months. Once signed up, you will get your very own personalized diet plan, access to a large amount of information on health, diet, exercise and more and 10% off all future purchases.

I look forward to working with you in the near future and helping you reach your health goals!

• Join Now or Upgrade

  
  Join Team Beachbody or upgrade your account now to experience all the benefits of membership. You'll reach your health and weight-loss goals even faster when you take advantage of Team Beachbody's total fitness solution.
  
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Want to make the new year the healthiest one ever?

If you do, you will want to check out Shakeology, called "the healthiest meal of the day". How can it be called this?

More than 70 different ingredients were chosen from around the world for their potency and bioavailability (the ability to deliver the nutrients your body needs). Here are the key nutrient groups that these ingredients deliver:*

* Protein and Essential Amino Acids to help build long, lean muscles and reduce food cravings
* Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes, which aid in improving digestion, regularity, and nutrient absorption
* Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to help counteract free radical damage that can lead to degenerative diseases
* Vitamins and Minerals your body needs to function for
optimal health

Not only does it have 70 of the healthiest ingredients known to man, all in one glass, it also works in two ways:

This patent-pending daily nutritional shake helps your body gently eliminate toxins more efficiently while allowing for better absorption of the essential nutrients you need.*

People are having amazing results, like:
*Weight loss
*More energy
*Improved digestion & regularity
*Lower cholesterol

I have been using Shakeology for a few months now, & have noticed all of these as well as thicker, healthier hair & improved complexion. I have one friend that has actually lost over 20lbs. by using Shakeology & is looking amazing!

Beachbody stands behind this product so confidently that they have a "bottom of the bag' guarantee. Meaning, if you use it for 30 days straight & don't feel healthier, more energized or thinner, you can call them for your money back. It's that simple.

They also reward those that sign up for home direct by giving you free shipping as well as a free gift both the first & second months. You can choose between a 30 serving bulk bag or a 24 to-go packets. The flavors are Chocolate & Greenberry, which you can alternate on home direct for the bulk or get a combination in the to-go packets. I can also supply you with delicious recipes to change up your shakes.

You don't have to take my word for it, but I do highly recommend that you try this out for 30 days if you are serious about living a healthy lifestyle. Go to http://myshakeology.com/esuite/home/iowagirl69 , then after reading the information on the website, click the "order now" button to get your Shakeology on its way.

Rebecca Ingham
Independent Beachbody Coach
http://www.ExtremeHealth4Life.com

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

What Is This Thing Called Shakeology?

I've been using Shakeology for several weeks now, & from starting from a point of skepticism, I have now become a full fledged fan of Shakeology. Here are some of the reasons why:

What's In It

Even if you searched all over the world, you probably wouldn't be able to find all of the 70-plus, ultra-high-quality ingredients we've included in Shakeology. Not only do you get a wide range of essential nutrients, from the fruits and vegetables you should be eating more of every day, you'll also get the benefits of important foods from all around the world—foods that the latest scientific research has shown to be highly advantageous to your well-being.

More than 70 different ingredients were chosen from around the world for their potency and bioavailability (the ability to deliver the nutrients your body needs). Here are the key nutrient groups that these ingredients deliver:*

* Protein and Essential Amino Acids to help build long, lean muscles and reduce food cravings
* Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes, which aid in improving digestion, regularity, and nutrient absorption
* Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to help counteract free radical damage that can lead to degenerative diseases
* Vitamins and Minerals your body needs to function for
optimal health

Protein and Essential Amino Acids*

* Help build and repair muscles
* Reduce hunger and food cravings
* Help keep blood sugar steady
* Support brain function to help promote alert thinking and reduce anxiety
* Promote healthy skin, hair, and nails

Shakeology includes whey protein isolate, an easily absorbable source of high-quality protein that's ideal for building and maintaining lean muscle mass. It also helps keep your blood sugar steady, reducing hunger and junk food cravings. Essential amino acids, found in protein, help the body repair muscle tissue and heal wounds; support the brain to promote calmness and alertness; and reduce hunger pangs. The whey protein in Shakeology provides a highly bioavailable source of essential amino acids.
Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes*

* Aid digestion
* Help boost the immune system
* Increase absorption of nutrients
* Help keep you "regular"

Shakeology contains many ingredients that are beneficial to the digestive system. Prebiotics, natural components of certain plants, help support the "friendly" bacteria in your digestive tract. They may also help with the absorption of minerals such as calcium. Digestive enzymes, from plant sources such as pineapples and papayas, help your body break down food into its individual components, making the nutrients easier to absorb. Cooking can destroy food's natural digestive enzymes, so there's a good chance that you don't get enough of them in your diet.

Antioxidants and Phytonutrients*

* Get rid of harmful free radicals
* Help decrease inflammation
* Help boost your immune system

* Potentially decrease the risk of degenerative diseases
* May even increase longevity


Many of Shakeology's fruit and vegetable sources have been chosen for their high concentration of healthy natural substances known as phytonutrients, including flavonoids, polyphenols, anthocyanins, and catechins. These substances have antioxidant properties, meaning they help get rid of molecules known as free radicals, which damage cells and may be a key component of the aging process. In laboratory tests, phytonutrients have shown promise in helping prevent a wide variety of degenerative conditions. What's more, studies suggest that the natural mix of phytochemicals you get from whole-plant sources is more effective than taking them individually as nutritional supplements.

23 Vitamins and Minerals*

* Get a wide range of essential nutrients
* Get your necessary vitamins every day
* Make up for dietary deficiencies

Most of us don't get the complete range of essential vitamins and minerals in our daily diets. Some important vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins, are water-soluble, meaning they're flushed out of your body after a short time and need to be replenished regularly. Others, like vitamin E, can be difficult to get enough of in food. Shakeology provides all these nutrients in an easy-to-take, easily absorbable form, so you never have to worry.

Now, by choosing to add Shakeology to your diet everyday, you are eliminating the need to run through the fast food joint down the road for your breakfast, lunch or dinner. You can replace the amount of money you would pay for a no or low nutritious meal with one full of everything you need & more to live a healthy lifestyle. It has been said that one Shakeology shake is equivalent in nutrition to 5 salads. So, if you either hate your veggies or would just find it difficult to eat that amount in a day, everyday, try Shakeology.

People, myself included, have lost weight using Shakeology. One person I know personally has lost over 20lbs by eating healthier, exercising more consistently & having one Shakeology shake a day. This is just one story out of hundreds.

I've also noticed my hair is thicker & has stopped falling out as much as it has. This isn't just a vanity thing (although it is partially) but proof that if you are healthy on the inside, it will show on the outside. I love the fact that it is showing up in this way.

This is just a brief overview of what Shakeology is about & why I love it & am convinced that it is a must for anyone living or wanting to live a healthy lifestyle. It is far more than just a meal replacement; it is a nutritional must have for a healthy, happy diet.

For more information, check out www.ExtremeHealth4Life.com. If you are interested in a free sample, email me your contact information at Rebecca.Ingham@mchsi.com & if you would like Chocolate or Greenberry.