Start Good New Habits

4 smart ways to simplify the family schedule to make room for healthy habits.

How is it possible to eat dinner together and exercise more when both parents work and kids are overscheduled? It can be done, says William Doherty, co-author of Putting Family First.

• Schedule it. Make time for meals together just like you do for soccer practice or dentist appointments. Plan meals in advance, shop for groceries on weekends and freeze what you can.



• Make it fun. Benefits from a family meal don't happen just by sitting and eating together; it's what you do with that time. First, turn off the TV and talk to one another. But avoid stressful subjects like report cards or work, or power struggles over food. Keep conversation light.



• Go out and play. Remember that swing set in the backyard, the basketball hoop at the end of the driveway, the bikes in the garage? Even 15 minutes of fun together burns calories, reduces stress and promotes family bonding.



• Take a break. Limit passive computer and TV time. Get up every 20 minutes and do some stretches, tackle a household chore or go out for a walk. It clears your mind and helps burn off lunch!

From Reader's Digest - July 2006

 

• Nutrition
• Healthy Habits
• Family Life
• Exercise
• • Family Fun

• Lose the Weight
• Maintaining a healthy weight is always important. Here are some easy changes you can make to your diet and fitness routine in 2008 to get back on the track to wellness.
• 
• Quit Bad Habits
• Bad habits are crutches that hold us back. Read the following articles to begin the process of moving forward with your life in 2008.
• 
• Organize Your Life
• Put everything in its place this year with these tips for maximizing space and cleanliness.
• 
• How to Make Time For Friends and Family
• Ideas on how to spend more quality time with your nearest and dearest.
• 
• Fun Ways to a Healthier and More Active Family
• Embrace the ultimate exercise machines -- your kids!
• 

What's your New Year's resolution?

Quit smoking or drinking Get out of debt Lose weight Spend more time with loved ones I don't have one.

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“ Stuck inside? Walk on your treadmill or, if you don't have one, do arm circles or march in place during TV commercials. ”

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