My not so secret struggle

I have shared on my social media very openly that I struggle with depression and anxiety.  I was ashamed of it for so long because I felt like something was wrong with me and people would think badly of me.  I felt like it was me making an excuse to not be able to deal with life and I was so hard on myself for feeling like this.  

I also have shared that I recovered from eating disorders.  When my bulimia was completely out of control I had to go to therapy as a last step before inpatient treatment.  I also hated the thought of therapy but my doctor pretty much made it non-negotiable.  After months of therapy it was determined that my eating disorder was how I DEALT with my depression.  I felt like I had zero control over my life, I was completely lost and miserable but food and purging was something I had control over. 

It was a long road but I can proudly say I am pretty much fully recovered from my ED.  I still struggle with the scale and body image but my eating is so much healthier, I haven't purged in over 2 years and I am the healthiest I have ever been.  With the recovery though my depression actually got worse.  Suddenly I didn't have my "coping mechanism" anymore and I had to find new ways to deal.  It is a work in progress!  Some days are great, some days I don't want to get out of bed. But everyday is a step in the right direction.   

Instead of eating, I turned to workouts, friends, reading and shopping to deal with my depression.  (The wallet doesn't love the shopping part, but you really can't have too many workout clothes). Personal development also did wonders on healing my mind, which used to be my worst enemy.  I love listening to podcasts, audio books, youtube videos and reading books.  

If you suffer from a mental illness, it's ok to ask for help!  It isn't anything to be ashamed of or hide.  You aren't alone in the struggle. 

What is this NEW All Access Beachbody On Demand Membership and Challenge Pack?

If you follow me on either Facebook or Instagram, you might have seen my video yesterday on the new launch coming from Team Beachbody.  

The largest transportation service doesn't own cars.... Uber
The largest hotel chain doesn't have buildings.... AirBNB
The largest retailer doesn't have stores.... Amazon
The largest fitness company doesn't have gyms.... Team Beachbody

I heard this quote in a video the other day and loved it.  The world is going digital and convenience is everything now.   Beachbody is aware of this and is constantly looking for ways to innovate and reach people on their own personal level.  

Rewind 18 months ago and I was just starting my journey with the 21 Day Fix.  I didn't have high expectations because everything I had ever tried for losing weight....I failed at.  I had no idea what I was doing, what to eat, how to eat.  All I knew was if I didn't eat, I would lose weight.  I knew it wasn't healthy but I was so desperate I didn't care. I figured I had a 30 day money back guarantee so what did I have to lose?  After my first round of the 21 Day Fix I was in love and hooked.  I could follow the workouts at home and see exactly how to do each move, I had a nutrition program to follow that taught me what to eat and WHY it was important.  The biggest piece though was the support groups.  I had daily accountability, constant motivation and a whole group of people all cheering me on and lifting me up.  I finally found what worked for ME. 

Our CEO, Carl Daikeler, just announced yesterday the newest option for customers and coaches and it is going to completely change the way you think about working out.  On December 27 we will be offering an All-Access Beachbody On Demand Membership & Challenge Pack.  This will give you the fitness + nutrition + support for a YEAR.  

So why is this such a huge deal?→  You are getting unlimited access to EVERY SINGLE program Beachbody has from P90X, Insanity and Turbo Fire to the new programs like Core De Force, Country Heat and 21 Day Fix.  This will ensure that I am able to help YOU find the right program for your needs and goals and allow you to keep going after the initial 21, 30, 60 days.  It will also give you instant access to any BRAND NEW releases that Beachbody offers in 2017 for no additional cost.  

What is included in the Annual All-Access Beachbody On Demand + Shakeology Challenge Pack?
1)	1-Year Membership to Beachbody On Demand (BOD) with all content included, plus future releases
2)	Shakeology (choice of 30-day supply on Home Direct) at a discounted price
3)	Portion Fix (includes 7-piece portion control container set, eating guide, large blue container & shaker cup)
4)	Business Starter Kit waived (included with new Coach enrollment) You will get ALL of this for $199 for 12 months.

With this you will have access to over $6,000 worth of fitness and nutrition programs.  This will allow us to work together to help you reach your goals.  For example, you could start with the 21 Day Fix and then once you finish that we can have another conversation and see which program would be a good fit to start next, no ordering another program, no picking what's on sale just because it's on sale.  Or say you get hurt a week into The Master's Hammer & Chisel and lifting weights is out for a while.  Instead of giving up and losing all your momentum we can switch gears and you can do Yoga, Country Heat or PiYo until you are able to jump back into weight lifting.  No progress lost! 

You will also get full access to all the meal guides, workouts calendars and deluxe workouts that go with each program.  This is going to allow you to progress along your journey, as well as all the flexibility you need for life's curveballs that happen.  There is no quick fix to long term weight loss, you have put the work in and make healthy changes.

I was always that person that gyms loved because I paid for a membership every month and never went.  The gym wasn't for me, I was conscious, I didn't want to go before work and have to shower there, I didn't want to go after work because I was tired, I definitely wasn't going on a weekend or holiday.  I paid for a personal trainer and then GAINED weight because I was eating like crap and overeating because "I worked out today so I earned this cheat meal" I realize that some people love gyms and challenge groups/home workouts aren't for everyone but this is absolutely my jam and my key to getting results. 

What is the cost of the All-Access Beachbody On Demand Challenge Pack & Membership?

• The Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand Challenge Pack is $199

• The Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand Membership is $99.95 and that does not include Shakeology, the portion containers or shaker cup. 

• If you are an existing Beachbody On Demand Customer you will HAVE to cancel your current membership by calling customer service at 1-800-470-7870 and canceling and then you will be price adjusted accordingly.  Then, you can complete this form to upgrade to the all access subscription.  www.BODMembershipChange.com   You cannot do this until the 27th of December when it is launched.

• If you live in Canada your All Access Beachbody On Demand Membership is $99.

• If you live in Canada your All Access Beachbody On Demand + Shakeology Challenge Pack is $239.

• You can also choose the Beachbody on Demand Kick Start Challenge Pack which includes the 3 day refresh, which is truly the BEST option to start fresh, cleanse and get on the path to success in the new year and that is $239 US and $277 Canadian.

• If you already have Beachbody on Demand you can upgrade to the annual all access membership for $99.

• If you bought a challenge pack between 12/1 and 12/26 you can upgrade to this challenge pack offer for $69 again by using this link, www.BODMembershipChange.com on December 27th.

• It is for EVERYONE which is awesome! If you are a current customer, coach or new customer you have access to it. 

• The New All Access Beachbody On Demand Challenge Pack is available for sale on the 27th of December - February 28. 

This will be a great way to start January's No Resolutions...Just Results Health Bet group with me on January 2nd.  If you don't currently have a coach make sure you create a FREE ACCOUNT with me as your coach so I can help you get started. 

If you are interested in joining us, fill out this form to apply for a spot 😀.  I am so excited for this, it's going to such a great way for us to work together to get you the results you have been wanting!

• Name *FirstLast
• Phone Number *###-###-####
• Email *
• Do you currently have a Beachbody coach that you are working with?
  
  If yes, what is their name? *
• What are your current health & fitness goals? *
• What does a normal day look like for you as far as eating and exercise? *
• Do you struggle with emotional eating, late night snacking, or other food related issues? *
• Why do you want to be part of this challenge group? *
• Do you currently own a Beachbody Fitness Program?
  
  If yes, which one (s) *
• What is the best way to contact you? *

How I Stay On Track During The Holidays

Last year was the first year since I was about 18 that I didn't gain 10 pounds over Christmas.  The reason...I finally figured out how to have a healthy balance and found a routine that worked for me.  I completely understand how crazy life can get before Christmas and how easy it is for your good intentions to go right out the window.  

Here are some tips that have worked for me and help me stay sane and on track during the holidays.  

1.  Create a plan.  Every week I make a meal plan and schedule in my workouts.  When it's all written out in front of me it's so much easier for me to stay accountable.  Here is my actual meal plan for this week.  Christmas morning we always have brunch with cinnamon rolls so I just plan for that day.  I will make sure I have my Shakeology for lunch instead of breakfast and I will eat really clean the rest of the day.  

I also don't skip my workouts, I am in between programs right now so I am checking out the new workouts for the 21 Day Fix and Country Heat that are on Beachbody on Demand and adding things in to keep my workouts going.  

I don't make the workouts something I HAVE to do and then dread them. I noticed I make better choices when I have already gotten my workout in and a good sweat session just makes me feel better, my mind clearer and stronger. 

2.  Limit alcohol for parties or special occasions.  I love a glass of wine or a margarita but they are empty calories.  An occasions glass is fine but one or two every night is a sure fire way to pack on a few unwanted pounds pretty quickly.  Also, make sure to alternate alcohol and water so you stay hydrated as well. 

3.  Choose smaller plates.  Those huge dinner plates can allow you to go way over on portions and not even realize it.  Often times its all visual too, we can put a lot less food on a 9" dinner plate instead of a 12" plate and still feel satisfied because our brains see a full plate.   But don't choose too small of a plate and you could feel deprived and go back for seconds when you aren't really hungry.   For example: last night we went to a Christmas party and I used the salad plate for my meat, potatoes, veggies and pasta and used the later dinner plate to make a big salad.   I still was full, but I loaded up on salad instead of alfredo and cheesy potatoes. 

4. Get enough sleep.  Sleep is so important and a lot of people don't get enough.  Sleep deprivation can make you feel hungrier.  It also will keep you from mindlessly snacking late at night. 

5.  If you are going to a party, bring a healthier option.  Offer to bring something you enjoy and won't feel guilty about enjoying.  Most times, you aren't the only one watching what you are eating and people will be grateful for a healthier option to try.   Another tip is to eat before you go.  That way you don't show up starving and reach for anything and everything.  My go-to is my Shakeology before a party.  It curbs my sweet cravings and fills me up enough to not want to gorge myself.  

6.  Remember this is a lifestyle and not a quick diet.  It's ok to splurge and enjoy yourself in balance and moderation.  Small steps everyday will add up to larger results and get you to your goal.  By not going overboard over the holidays just think of how much further you will be ahead in the New Year.  Don't try to lose weight over the holidays, your aim to maintain and make good choices. 

7. If you feel like you way overdid it, a detox may be the perfect way for your to jump start your January health goals.  My favorite is the 3 Day Refresh - it's a 3 day vegan cleanse that leaves you feeling refreshed, re-energized and less bloated and blah. 

 If you are ready to make a change in the New Year and would like some accountability after the holidays make sure to join my for my No Resolutions...Just Results group starting January 2nd.  

No Resolutions...Just Results - January Health Bet

If you would like to be considered for my accountability group please fill out the information in this form.

I will be in contact with you within the next 24 hours with all of the details and more.

I can't wait!!!

• Name *FirstLast
• Phone Number *###-###-####
• Email *
• Do you currently have a Beachbody coach that you are working with?
  
  If yes, what is their name? *
• What are your current health & fitness goals? *
• What does a normal day look like for you as far as eating and exercise? *
• Do you struggle with emotional eating, late night snacking, or other food related issues? *
• Why do you want to be part of this challenge group? *
• Do you currently own a Beachbody Fitness Program?
  
  If yes, which one (s) *
• What is the best way to contact you? *

Wufoo

The Beachbody Health Bet Is BACK!!

Guess what!!! The cat is out of the bag!  The Beachbody Health Bet returns in January!!  AND they are guaranteeing a minimum of $2 million in the pot.  

Let's be honest...

--> Did you overdo it over the holidays?  
--> Are you ready to get back on track and get back on the wagon?
--> Do you want to get paid to do so?

Let's do it together! Join me in the No Resolutions, Just Results Support & Accountability Group that runs from January 2nd - February 5th.  With the first week being all about prepping and getting ready to crush it!

PLUS The Healthbet is back! Which means that Beachbody has reserved a HUGE pot of cash for those who commit to a fitness program, drinking Shakeology once a day and log into the support group at least four times a week.  

How awesome is it to get rewarded for staying accountable and making healthy choices?!

Spots will fill up quick so make sure you reserve your spot ASAP. to guarantee you are in the group and get a piece of the moo-lah!

Apply here:::: http://bit.ly/dmnoresolutions and I will be in touch within 24 hours. 

Also, here is the event page on Facebook for even more info.

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

My boyfriend is obsessed with buffalo anything.  He literally puts hot sauce on EVERYTHING! I was trying to find recipes to make this week for our meal plan and I thought of buffalo chicken wraps.  I am always trying to find ways to save my yellow containers though so I thought maybe we could use lettuce wraps instead.  He is pretty tolerate of my "clean eating" ways but some things he just won't do and usually having lettuce instead of buns or wraps is on the no list.  I found this container of romaine leaves at Walmart and they are PERFECT because they are ready to go.  I used to try and buy the romaine bunches but some were too small or they were ripped, etc so they didn't work well.  These are designed to be used this way!  

This was a very easy set it and forget it meal.  It was also hubby approved and boot-camp approved so that's a HUGE win in my book.  It definitely is getting added to the regular rotation.  Plus there are so many different ways you could mix it up.   

It almost isn't even a recipe.  I just threw one pound of chicken breast into a crock-pot with about a cup of hot sauce and 1/4 cup of OPA Greek Yogurt Ranch.  Then I cooked it on low for 6-8 hours until I could shred it with a fork.  Remove the chicken and shred with 2 forks or a mixer, draining hot sauce liquid from crock-pot and then add chicken back in.  Add more hot sauce to coat and add a little "sauce"(about 1/4 cup).  Then we just filled some romaine lettuce leaves with the chicken, topped it with shredded pepper-jack cheese and a drizzle of the OPA Greek Yogurt dressing and ENJOY! 

If you are following the 21 Day Fix Meal plan for one lettuce wrap the containers are

1 green (probably is really only 1/2 green for 1 leaf)

1 red (chicken)

1/2 blue (cheese)

1/2 orange (dressing) (accounts for topping and added during cooking)

*I did use the containers to measure the cheese and the chicken.  

    

My first week of Core De Force

So I officially started Core De Force on November 7th but I let excuses happen and I ended up not being as consistent as I wanted. So nothing like a fresh start because I'm not going to half ass anything...I'm gonna use my whole ass.  

Yesterday I completed my first full week and it was alot harder than I thought but I LOVED it. The one workout has so...many...push ups...., I am excited to see my progress on that one because push ups are my weakness.  I still struggle to stay on track with my eating and let a few too many cheat meals happen but I am so proud that I pushed play every single day, even when I didn't feel like it.  Today started week two and I can already see some changes in my abs,  It really makes me want to stick to the meal plan and see just how awesome this program can transform your body in 30 days!!  There were days I wanted to cry during the workout or give up.  There were some days I had to follow the modifications to finish but I still did it!  

This week we tackle Thanksgiving!  I WILL get my workout in first thing in the morning before we head off to family dinners and I will having my Shakeology for breakfast so I at least have 1 healthy meal.  It is just one day and I refuse to let it side track all my progress.  I am just going to make healthy choices and only splurge on the things I REALLY enjoy.  

Back to the workouts, I really like that we go in 3 minute rounds so it takes a 30-40 minute workout but breaks it up so the time goes super fast.  I also appreciate the breaks throughout to catch my breath, it for sure makes me feel like a BADASS and I love that!  Plus I haven't ever done a workout like this before so I feel so empowered to be learning something new and sweating at the same time. 

I am keeping strong with Core De Force through the end of the year!  I also have another accountability group starting November 28th if you also need some help surviving the holidays.  

Click here for more information about the group

Here's to an awesome week 2!!!!

Broccoli Mac & Cheese

So eating healthy and homemade Macaroni and Cheese don't typically go together but guess what!

THEY DO! 

This is an adaptation from the FIXATE Cookbook by Autumn Calabrese.  I have been wanting to make this for a long time so I went for it today and used what I had on hand.  (something that I am getting very good at) 

This also made a huge pot so we have leftovers for a few days and with my boyfriends kids coming over I am excited to see if it's a win with them.  

Here is the recipe I used:

4 oz.                     dry whole wheat elbow macaroni (or 3 cups cooked)
4 tsp.                    butter (or coconut oil)
2 tbsp.                  unbleached whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups            unsweetened almond milk
1 1/4 cups            mix of grated Parmesan, pepper jack and mozzarella cheeses
1 16oz bag           frozen broccoli, thawed
1 cup                   chopped baby spinach
1 tsp.                   sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
1/2 tsp.                ground black pepper

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Set aside
2. Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add flour; cook, whisking constantly for 1 minute, or until brown (don't let it burn)
4. Slowly whisk in almond milk; cook, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, or until mixture thickens and there are no lumps.
5. Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese; cook, whisking constantly. for 2 or 3 minutes, or until melted
6. Add broccoli and spinach, salt, and pepper; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute, or until heated through.
7. Add in macaroni and mix to combine.

Fix containers-
for 1 1/2 cup serving
1 1/2 green
1 yellow
1/2 blue 

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli with Spaghetti Squash

My love for spaghetti squash is very strong.  It's so easy to make and I prefer the taste to regular spaghetti now.  But since we have had squash and red sauce like once a week for the last few weeks I was long overdue for a new recipe.

I found this recipe and tweaked it to make it fit into my Core De Force meal plan.  It was still delicious and made a ton of leftovers.  It was hubby approved and because you can make the filling while the squash cooks it doesn't take much longer than the cooking time for the squash!

Ingredients

• 1 large spaghetti squash
• 1 lb chicken breast or chicken tenders (I had tenders in the freezer so that's what I used.)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, depending on how spicy you like things
• 2 cups broccoli florets or 1 bag of frozen florets, thawed
• 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 5oz. container of plain Green Yogurt (or 1/3 cup)
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Spaghetti Squash
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Rub or spray the interior with oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper.
4. Place the halves cut side down on the baking sheet and roast in the oven for approximately 45 minutes or until a knife can be inserted in the flesh easily.
5. Remove from the oven and let the squash cool until it can be handled.
6. Using a fork scoop out the flesh in long strands and put them in a bowl.
7. Place the skin/shell back on the baking sheet and set aside.
Chicken and Broccoli Filling
8. While spaghetti squash is cooking...
9. Spray a large non-stick skillet with oil and heat over medium high heat.
10. When the skillet is hot add in the chicken, season with salt and pepper and sauté until cooked through.
11. Remove the chicken from the skillet onto a plate.
12. Turn the heat down to medium and add a couple teaspoons of olive oil to the skillet.
13. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom of the skillet then add in the onion, garlic and red pepper flakes.
14. Sauté for about a minute then add in the broccoli florets.
15. Season with salt and pepper then add in a couple tablespoons of water (if you are using broccoli that was frozen and it still has some ice on it you don't need to add extra water) and cover with a lid.
16. Let the broccoli steam for about 2 minutes, then uncover and add the chicken back in.
17. Add in the chicken broth and stir everything until smooth and a sauce starts to form.
18. Add in half of the shredded cheese and stir until melted.
19. Remove from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt until combined.
20. Add in spaghetti squash and combine with mixture.
21. Taste for seasoning then put the filling back into the spaghetti squash shells and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
22. Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted then serve.

Mine made 5 servings:

Each serving I counted as

1.5 Green (squash and broccoli)

1.5  (chicken and yogurt) - the yogurt probably doesn't even count since it's such a small amount per serving but I would rather estimate higher than lower. 

1  (Cheese)