So many people tell me they just don't have time to exercise. I bet if you were to add up all the time you sit in front of your computer, TV, iphone, ipad, books, magazines, looking in your pantry, fridge, or cupboards for something to eat, you might be able to find 30 minutes of extra time. I admit sometimes it's hard to find time to get all sweaty, then showered, and ready for the day, so then what do you do? You find every way possible to incorporate movement into your life. Park as far away from the store or your work entrance as possible, take the stairs, when you have a few minutes at home while you're waiting for the water to boil do some jumping jacks or squats or lunges. There are wasted minutes in your day that can be put to better use and if you have too much going on in your life, get rid of the stressers in your life. And no, I don't mean get rid of exercising... exercising is as important as eating. Those who exercise for at least 30 minutes a day will see a lower risk of early death, stroke, high blood pressure, Type II diabetes, and colon or breast cancer. Exercise also prevents unwanted weight gain, helps with weight loss, improves cardiovascular health and muscular strength, helps with the prevention of falls, reduces depression, increases bone density, improves sleep quality, and improves your functional health overall. Having read all those pros, can you see how important exercise is? I hope that you do.
And now to practice what I preach.... Get into a plank where you're on your toes and forearms and move in a back and forth motion, like a saw for 20 counts, rest for 10 seconds and repeat 5 times. And know that you are strengthening your abs, back, arms, shoulders, and even your legs. Do this several times today. I'm cheering you on!
Here is a Yummy Pumpkin "dessert" to try:
PATTY'S PUMPKIN PUDDING
1/2 C. Sugar
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
2 Large Eggs
1 - 15 OZ can 100% pure pumpkin
1 - 12 OZ can evaporated nonfat milk.
Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves in a small bowl. Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Stir in the pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in the evaporated milk. Pour into a shallow oven proof dish and bake in a preheated 350 F oven for about 40 minutes. Don't overbake! The center should be slightly wiggly. Cool and enjoy at room temperature or refrigerate for later use. (Sorry I don't know how many this serves, but I usually bake it in an 8x8 glass dish.) So it could serve about 9.
ENJOY!
