Tag: healthy

1 min read

Food

Spinach Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

June 28, 2015 6:35 pm June 28, 2015

1 min read

Spinach ice cream? How odd does that sound? To be honest, I was a little skeptical when I read the recipe. But, I decided to try it, and boy am…

Spinach ice cream? How odd does that sound? To be honest, I was a little skeptical when I read the recipe. But, I decided to try it, and boy am I glad I did! I ate a ton of this stuff, and could do so without any guilt because it is totally healthy! Here is how to make your very own mint chocolate spinach ice cream.

2 frozen bananas
2-3 drops peppermint extract
1/16th tsp salt
1/4 cup or more frozen
2 tbsp milk of choice
chocolate chips

Blend all of your ingredients together and then use an ice cream scoop to serve your delicious treat! Mint chocolate chip ice cream is a total weakness of mine, so I love that I can make a much healthier version at home! Trust me, you don’t even taste the spinach!

Try this delicious recipe and comment what you think!

XOXO, Chels

No Comments

1 min read

Food Lifestyle

Coconut Water: Why Drink It?

Chelsea

June 6, 2015 10:14 am June 6, 2015

1 min read

No Comments

1 min read

If you haven’t noticed coconut water is everywhere! It’s becoming all the rage with fitness fanatics and beach-goers alike! So why grab a bottle of coconut water rather than a…

If you haven’t noticed coconut water is everywhere! It’s becoming all the rage with fitness fanatics and beach-goers alike! So why grab a bottle of coconut water rather than a bottle of regular water? I’ve researched all the hard-hitting facts about the newest fad drink!

Coconut water is more hydrating than regular water! If you have dry or acne-prone skin, drinking a few cups of coconut water can greatly approve the look of your skins appearance. Amazing, right?! This is also great as an after-work out drink or if you’re feeling dehydrated. Coconut water is also full of electrolytes. If you fall ill with the stomach flu or find yourself very sick, drink coconut water to replenish your body and give you more energy! While regular water is always a healthy option, coconut water contains nutrients including calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium, making it the ultimate healthy drink!

If you were curious about coconut water, now’s your time to go out and try it! Let me know what you think of it!

XOXO,

Chelsea

No Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

At Home Outdoor Workout

Chels

April 17, 2015 3:33 pm April 17, 2015

1 min read

4 Comments

1 min read

As we all know, gym memberships are pricey, and we don’t always have time to go to the gym. I love quick little workouts that I can do outside and…

As we all know, gym memberships are pricey, and we don’t always have time to go to the gym. I love quick little workouts that I can do outside and at my house. Working out outside is so much better for you than when you go to the gym! Here is a speedy workout you can do the second you walk out the door of your house.

Sprint 25 seconds down the street and then 25 back
Do 50 jumping jacks
Do 50 crunches
20 push ups
30 jump squats
1 minute plank

Do this routine 3 times through and you will have completed a great easy, efficient work out! Get that summer body in no time!

XOXO, Chels

4 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

One-Song Workouts

Chels

April 13, 2015 4:30 pm April 13, 2015

1 min read

5 Comments

1 min read

Do you have a specific song that always gets you pumped to work out? Or, do you have a go-to song that you always do abs or cardio to? I…

Do you have a specific song that always gets you pumped to work out? Or, do you have a go-to song that you always do abs or cardio to? I have a few songs that never fail to pump me up. I also like having a workout plan to follow when I am at the gym. So, imagine how excited I was to find workout plans…that go to specific workout songs! Ill explain.

On Buzzfeed they posted a few workouts that are called “One-Song Workouts.” These workouts last the length of one specific song, and they give you the specific exercises and reps that you do during the round. They even have little illustrations next to each move so you can see how to do it! Here is one of the one-song workouts:

Head HERE to see more one-song workouts! The best thing about them? All you need is the song and your body and you are ready to workout! No equipment needed.

XOXO, Chels

5 Comments

1 min read

Food

Spaghetti Squash!

Chelsea

April 12, 2015 6:00 pm April 12, 2015

1 min read

4 Comments

1 min read

Pasta is one of my biggest weaknesses! I can fill my whole plate up with heaps and heaps of spaghetti, fettuccine, or lasagna and finish it all. You name it,…

Pasta is one of my biggest weaknesses! I can fill my whole plate up with heaps and heaps of spaghetti, fettuccine, or lasagna and finish it all. You name it, I like it! Unfortunately, certain pastas can be really bad for you; full of carbs, creams, and butter. While browsing the internet one day, I discovered spaghetti squash! It’s a healthy alternative to regular pasta and it’s so easy to make! All you need is a spaghetti squash and your favorite pasta sauce. Let’s get started!

Preheat the oven to 365 degrees and bake the squash for 60 minutes. Punch small holes in the squash with a knife before placing it in the oven. This will allow the squash to get soft on the inside. Once the squash has finished baking, cut the squash in half and use a fork to discard all seeds. Continue using the fork to scrape the squash long ways to make pasta strands. If the squash is not soft enough to do so, then bake it for 10 more minutes before continuing to make the pasta. Once you have turned all the squash into pasta strands, place it in a skillet, add your favorite sauce or butter, and enjoy!

This is such an easy and healthy meal that everyone will love! If you make it, comment below and tell me how you liked it and what you added to your pasta!

XOXO,

Chelsea

4 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

Why We Weight lift

Chels

April 12, 2015 3:36 pm April 12, 2015

1 min read

3 Comments

1 min read

Usually when I think of working out, I think of doing cardio. But, experts are saying that weight lifting is just as or even more important than getting that cardio…

Usually when I think of working out, I think of doing cardio. But, experts are saying that weight lifting is just as or even more important than getting that cardio in! When I say weight lifting I don’t mean getting huge bulky muscles, lifting can actually help you get slim, toned, and in the best shape ever! Here is how.

You will burn more fat: Seriously! Researchers have found that those who lift weights shed 6 more pounds of fat than those who only did cardio.
Max your metabolism: As you get older you begin to lose muscle mass, which can tank your metabolism. By lifting weights and building muscle, you are keeping your metabolism kicking!
You will torch more cals: You continue to burn calories even after your workout is done when you lift weights. This is because your muscles have to work extra hard to repair their fibers!
You will catch more Zzz’s: Strength training helps you improve your quality of sleep and helps you fall asleep faster.

Lifting weights is not my favorite thing in the world, but I make sure to work some weight training into my exercise routines because I know it will help me maintain a healthy, fit lifestyle!

XOXO, Chels

3 Comments

1 min read

Food

Oatmeal Cookie Dough Protein Smoothie

Chels

March 21, 2015 1:00 pm March 21, 2015

1 min read

7 Comments

1 min read

Lately I have been allll about protein smoothies/shakes. Since I have been stepping up my workout game I need to keep to give my muscles the goodies they need to…

Lately I have been allll about protein smoothies/shakes. Since I have been stepping up my workout game I need to keep to give my muscles the goodies they need to be strong and energized! I recently wrote about a thin mint smoothie, a cinnamon roll smoothie, and now I am writing about a oatmeal cookie dough smoothie! Read on if you want the 4-1-1 on this cookie filled combo!

Ingredients:

1 small frozen banana
¼ cup raw oats
½ – 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
½ tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. vanilla flavor
1 Tbsp. almond butter (or peanut butter if you so desire)
½ cup vanilla almond milk (regular milk works fine too if that is what you prefer)

All you have to do now is add all of the ingredients to your blender and blend them together! This protein smoothie is a great post-workout snack, breakfast smoothie, or just a yummy snack!

Would YOU make this smoothie? Comment below if it sounds totally delish!

XOXO, Chels

7 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

How to Improve Your Endurance

Chels

March 7, 2015 1:55 pm March 7, 2015

1 min read

2 Comments

1 min read

I am always looking for ways to improve my endurance, which is low long/far your body can go without tiring. When you are running, having good endurance is vital because…

I am always looking for ways to improve my endurance, which is low long/far your body can go without tiring. When you are running, having good endurance is vital because it keeps you going for longer distances and allows you to stop less. Here are a few ways to help you improve your endurance so you can become the best runner you can be!

Run outside: When you are running on the treadmill and you get tired it is easy to just stop and hop off. When you are running outside, you have to make it home somehow. If you walk, it takes you twice as long to get home, so you are motivated to keep running in order to make it home faster!
Run with a goal in mind: When you run, have a specific distance in mind. When I am running I keep track of my distance so I can see how close I am to my goal. It is such an awesome feeling when I am close to the end of my run and I can see the end in sight.
Run with a bud: Having a running buddy is always a good idea! They motivate you to actually get out and run, and they also help you improve your running time by pushing you to run faster!

Now, get up, go run, and improve your time!

XOXO, Chels

2 Comments

1 min read

Food

Healthy Breakfast Muffins!

Chelsea

March 6, 2015 9:05 am March 6, 2015

1 min read

2 Comments

1 min read

Waking up for school can be a struggle, but making yourself a decently healthy breakfast before school is an even bigger struggle! It’s easy to just grab a granola bar,…

Waking up for school can be a struggle, but making yourself a decently healthy breakfast before school is an even bigger struggle! It’s easy to just grab a granola bar, pour yourself a sugary bowl of cereal, or worse, skip breakfast all together. I’ve got the perfect (and healthy) muffin recipe you can whip up on the weekend and eat throughout the week!

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 very ripe bananas
¼ cup of maple syrup
1 cup of creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup of cocoa powder

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor or large mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Once mixed, the batter will be VERY sticky. Make sure to grease the pan before pouring the mixture into the molds. Try using a wet spoon to get the batter out. Place the muffins in the oven for 15 minutes and wait until they are completely cool before chowing down! They should last up to a week if you place them in the fridge! Hope you enjoy!

Love,

Chelsea

2 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

The One Thing You Need For a Killer Workout

Chelsea

February 7, 2015 8:00 pm February 7, 2015

1 min read

4 Comments

1 min read

Getting a good workout doesn’t always require a trip to the gym or a track and bleachers. So what’s the one thing you need for a killer workout?! Believe it…

Getting a good workout doesn’t always require a trip to the gym or a track and bleachers. So what’s the one thing you need for a killer workout?! Believe it or not, your body contains its own secret weapon. Body weight! Your body can’t tell the difference between actual weights and body weight, so take advantage of what your body has to offer!

When it comes to using body weight, some of the most basic moves are the most beneficial. Want toned arms? Try pushups! Want a solid core? Try side and front plants! Want Carrie Underwood legs? Get down with squats! It’s amazing how your body can sculpt itself! Throwing in cardio moves like mountain climbers and burpees will burn more calories and fat! It’s crazy to think that your body contains a total workout within itself.

Next time you feel like you need to work out, but don’t have time to run to the gym or hit the bench press, use your own weight! Doing a few solid reps a day will whip your body into shape in no time!

XOXO,

Chelsea

4 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

February Abs Challenge

Chels

January 30, 2015 1:13 pm January 30, 2015

1 min read

2 Comments

1 min read

I don’t know about you, but I stick to working out so much better when I have a plan or schedule to stick to. I’ve been looking for a good…

I don’t know about you, but I stick to working out so much better when I have a plan or schedule to stick to. I’ve been looking for a good ab schedule to stick to that tells me the exact exercises to do and how many of each to do. I have a hard time thinking of what exercises I should do when I am working out so it is super helpful to have something that tells you exactly what to do. I found the perfect ab plan! It is designed exactly for you to do it in February, which is coming right up, so it is totally perfect! Here it is:

So, do you think this kind of plan is manageable? Is it easier for YOU to stick with working out when you have a plan like this? Comment below if you like this kind of plan so I can post more!

XOXO, Chels

2 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

30 Day Plank Challenge!

Chels

January 29, 2015 5:00 pm January 29, 2015

1 min read

6 Comments

1 min read

Planks look relatively simple, right? So, they should be pretty easy to do, right? WRONG. Planks are tough! The plank is one of the greatest exercises for core conditioning but it also…

Planks look relatively simple, right? So, they should be pretty easy to do, right? WRONG. Planks are tough! The plank is one of the greatest exercises for core conditioning but it also works your glutes and hamstrings, supports proper posture, and improves balance. Right now I am doing a 30 day plank challenge, and I thought you might want to join me! We can blast our core strength through the roof TOGETHER! Each day you hold the plank for however many seconds the chart says. Here is the 30 day plan:

Day 1: 20 seconds

Day 2: 20 seconds

Day 3: 30 seconds

Day 4: 30 seconds

Day 5: 40 seconds

Day 6: REST

Day 7: 45 seconds

Day 8: 45 seconds

Day 9: 60 seconds

Day 10: 60 seconds

Day 11: 60 seconds

Day 12: 90 seconds

Day 13: REST

Day 14: 90 seconds

Day 15: 90 seconds

Day 16: 120 seconds

Day 17: 120 seconds

Day 18: 150 seconds

Day 19: REST

Day 20: 150 seconds

Day 21: 150 seconds

Day 22: 180 seconds

Day 23: 180 seconds

Day 24: 210 seconds

Day 25: 210 seconds

Day 26: REST

Day 27: 240 seconds

Day 28: 240 seconds

Day 29: 270 seconds

Day 30: AS LONG AS POSSIBLE!!!

Are you ready to have super spectacular abs? Do this plank challenge with me!

XOXO, Chels

6 Comments

1 min read

Uncategorized

Kick Booty Burpee Challenge

Chels

January 28, 2015 1:13 pm January 28, 2015

1 min read

No Comments

1 min read

Burpees are probably one of my least favorite exercises on the planet, but they are such a good workout! They work your abs, your arms, your legs, your glutes, just…

Burpees are probably one of my least favorite exercises on the planet, but they are such a good workout! They work your abs, your arms, your legs, your glutes, just about everything! Usually when I am making up a workout routine I incorporate burpees into it because not only do they work a lot of muscle groups, but they also give you a great cardio workout! Here is a burpee challenge that is sure to have your muscles burnin and your heart pumpin! You are definitely going to feel this in your muscles the next day 😉

1 Burpee, 9 Squats

2 Burpees, 8 Squats

3 Burpees, 7 Squats

4 Burpees, 6 Squats

5 Burpees, 5 Squats

6 Burpees, 4 Squats

7 Burpees, 3 Squats

8 Burpees, 2 Squats

9 Burpees, 1 Squat

Now rest one minute and then do the whole thing over again, but this time from the bottom up! So this means start with 9 Burpees and 1 squat and then go from there. I believe in you, ladies! Go kick some burpee booty!

XOXO, Chels

No Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

Honey and its Amazing Benefits

Chels

January 25, 2015 5:51 pm January 25, 2015

1 min read

2 Comments

1 min read

Honey is natures kryptonite. It can be used in food, on your skin, in your hair, it can do almost anything! Here are a few fun facts about that sticky…

Honey is natures kryptonite. It can be used in food, on your skin, in your hair, it can do almost anything! Here are a few fun facts about that sticky sweet golden stuff and why you should start using it on a daily basis!

Because your skin wants you to use it: Honey is a great anit-aging agent and also an awesome moisturizer. It is full of natural antioxidants that help protect your skin from UV rays and also absorb and retain moisture to help keep your skin hydrated and fresh.
Because your skin REALLY wants you to use it: If you have acne, then listen up! Acne is caused by build-up of oil and dirt on the skin and honey absorbs those impurities from your pores! Honey is also a natural antiseptic and heals your skin.
Because your hair wants you to use it: Honey in your hair?? It almost sounds like a sticky nightmare! Actually, honey cures dry, damaged hair. It helps retain moisture and cures dry, flaky scalps.
Because your body wants you to use it: Honey can be used to detox your body and get all of the impurities out. It can also be used to replace sugars and artificial sweeteners to promote a more healthy diet and weight loss. It can also be used to cure a cough and soothe a sore throat!

Honey can benefit your body in every aspect, from your health to your hair to your acne! Amazing! I just like the taste of it. 😉

XOXO, Chels

2 Comments

1 min read

Beauty

Why Laughter is the Best Medicine

Chels

January 25, 2015 2:28 pm January 25, 2015

1 min read

3 Comments

1 min read

I am sure you have all heard the age old phrase “Laughter is the best medicine.” I love to laugh. My friends are always cracking me up, and my brother…

I am sure you have all heard the age old phrase “Laughter is the best medicine.” I love to laugh. My friends are always cracking me up, and my brother is always doing something goofy that gives me a chuckle. Not only is laughing a great feeling, but it is also proven to be good for your health! Here is how:

Boosts your ability to problem solve and your creativity
Makes you more open minded
Improves the quality of your sleep
Improves memory
Reduces anxiety and depression
Boosts immune system
Puts you in a positive mood because it stimulates the release of endorphins
Releases muscle tension
Raises your pain tolerance
Increases your sense of trust in others which helps strengthen your relationship with them

Life is so much better when it is filled with laughter. I am so blessed to be surrounded by people who are constantly making me laugh and smile. Learn to laugh things off and not to take life too seriously. After all, you only live once!

XOXO, Chels

3 Comments

1 min read

Lifestyle

Rainy Day Runner’s Workout

Chels

January 17, 2015 11:40 am January 17, 2015

1 min read

3 Comments

1 min read

I am a runner, so I know the “rainy day” struggle. You want to get out and run, but the weather says “sorry Charlie.” Fortunately there are workouts for us…

I am a runner, so I know the “rainy day” struggle. You want to get out and run, but the weather says “sorry Charlie.” Fortunately there are workouts for us runners that we can do out of the soggy wet mess! Here is a rainy day workout that works as a great running substitute.

This workout you will repeat 3 times, resting 20 seconds in between each round. This ends up being a 25 minute workout in all!

1 minute walking lunges
1 minute side plank (30 seconds on right side, 30 seconds on left)
1 minute side lunges
1 minute plank
1 minute reverse lunges
1 minute elbow plank
1 minute squats
1 minute plank

Remember, repeat this workout 3 times, resting 20 seconds in between each round! Get some fun tunes going to keep you motivated and to make the workout more fun!

Have a blast, and get a few friends to join in with you!

XOXO, Chels

3 Comments