5 Incredibly Easy Ways To Be Proactive About Your Health This Year

 This post was sponsored by Metamucil as part of an Influencer Activation and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Not long ago I turned 30.

It was like any other birthday. Honestly, as much of a fuss as most of my friends have made when turning the 'big 3-0' it's really quite un-extraordinary. I'm a pretty firm believer that age is but a number to chronicle the passing of time, rather than mark the loss of it. And while it's true, as we progress on this crazy journey called life, there are legal and physical landmarks often associated with various milestones, one is only as young (or old) as they are in spirit and in heart.

This all being said our bodies are the vessel in which we progress through life, and more than any number on a birthday card, it's how we choose to take care of it through proactive health which ultimately weighs the largest on how much living we'll get out of it.

So, back to me and my birthday, there I was feeling no less or more extraordinary than the day before, having recently turned 30. I'd visited my personal physician for an annual checkup and he'd shared a few criticisms of his own. Side note: Am I the only one who feels as though they've let their doctor down when they get less than ideal feedback???? But I digress- I could go into the nitty gritty but it really comes down to this:

One's health is and always well be a complex and constantly changing picture painted by a number of factors. Some we can impact, while others we can only anticipate, and others we simply can't avoid. There is no magical formula, no paint by number, to perfect health.

When I asked my personal doctor what his best advice was for me, knowing I had some personal health hurdles to begin trying to overcome, his response was simple,

"The same thing I tell every patient. Make time."

Time, of course, for one's health. Whether it's researching new recipes that are lower in sodium/sugars/fats, researching one's family tree for hereditary dispositions, logging the amount of water drank in a day, or scheduling an annual checkup. So many people, myself included, express that their crazy lifestyles don't allow much time to really stop an care for themselves. But there are a few simple things one can do to help maintain balance within their hectic life.

1. Change the view.

Before you start yelling at me telling me how it's negative 50 degrees and you can't even see past the snow drifts at your window, hear me out. I know we can't all live in Southern California where 50F is a frigid Winter's day.

Studies have proven that natural light is how our bodies most signal the beginning of a new day, and help get our systems primed to tackle the tasks of the day ahead. An excellent start to the day means all of your body's systems are jump started and primed in peak condition. So, whether you quite literally dine on your front porch for breakfast, or merely open up the blinds by the kitchen nook- take a moment to let a little natural sunlight re-invigorate you.

This time of the year the sun rises quite early, as well as the rest of the Earth's natural creatures.

While you may not have sunny skies up above changes are there are other signs of a new day- including audible ones such as birds and wildlife outside your window. Take a moment to take a deep breath and stop and listen for these natural cues of a fresh day's beginning.

2. Go With Your Gut.

If you've ever heard the age old adage "You are what you eat"- it's not 'age old' advice for nothing. You most certainly are a reflection of not just what you put into your body physically, but inhale, spray on, and so much more.

Sometimes we can't, or don't, always make the best of choices when it comes to the 'into' part and the most frequent excuse is that we don't have the time. Being proactive about your health with some simple daily supplements and choices really curbs time spent on recovery or correction down the line, and can take just a few minutes a day with some supportive products from Walmart.

That's precisely why I always have an orange tub of Metamucil Premium Blend powder on my kitchen counter, right next to my coffee brewer. Having it out, and at the ready reminds me to keep up with my regular maintenance and helps avoid any excuses.

Made with 100% natural psyllium fiber, and available in sugar free varieties (with no artificial sweeteners or colors), Metamucil helps trap and remove the 'sludge' in my digestive track so I can not only enjoy a fuller feeling between meals, but also a lighter feeling day in and out. When you digest more efficiently your entire body benefits by the absorption of all the GOOD things you put in it and quicker processing of the things which aren't so good.

I typically drink a glass of Metamucil every other day- but find their Cinnamon Thins extra convenient to take my proactive gut maintenance on the go when traveling- they're pretty delicious too!

 3. Nurture your Skin.

And speaking of that which you put ON your body- Skincare is a huge concern year-round, but especially tough during the winter. Staying hydrated is one of the most important things one can do during the winter months- not only will great hydration help the body naturally purify, it will improve the appearance and health of your skin. Having a regular, and seasonal, skincare regimen will not only foster beautiful, hydrated, skin, but also reminds us to be on the lookout for any changes or skin-related symptoms that may be developing as an impact of age, stress and environmental factors. Try this recipe for our 3 Ingredient Nourishing Lotion to help pamper and nourish winter skin:

3 Ingredient Nourishing Lotion

3 TBS Heavy Cream

1/2 Ripe Avocado

2 TBS Honey

Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree into a smooth cream. Apply directly to dry or rough spots and leave on for at least an hour. Rinse with warm water.

4. Honey Infused Garlic.-

My next proactive support secret is for the immune system, and one that many busy individuals have been relying on for centuries. For those with an aversion to garlic, marinating these 4 calorie cloves in organic honey can prove a delicious alternative that packs a powerful punch. Both honey and raw garlic provide sulfuric compounds and antioxidants. I keep a small mason jar of crushed or diced garlic cloves in clover honey for a variety of recipes, and even straight consumption.

5. Oven-Roasted Orange Chicken With Fennel.-  

You've probably already figured out how we were going to round this out. Honey Garlic makes for the most delicious, and sunny, Vitamin-C packed Oven-Roasted Chicken with Fennel. Not only does this meal smell delicious through preparation and cooking, it looks gorgeously ready to plate straight from the oven. Why not have a few friends over to unwind and bask in the genius of your chef skills (anyone can make this recipe, I promise)- having a strong social support system is, you guessed it, also good for the mind and body! Catch the complete recipe at the bottom of this post.

It stands to reason the biggest bang for your proactive health will be the integrating of all of these tips, and more, into your lifestyle. Busy lives often mean little time to focus on ourselves but it's important that we make the time not just when our body is telling us it needs attention! Naturally the best steps you can take to support yourself any time of the year are the ones that fit easiest into your lifestyle, to ensure you will continue to do them! I shop at Walmart for my on-hand proactive health support aids, such as Metamucil, and of course I get all my fresh oranges, honey, garlic, and more there too!

I've shared some of my favorite tips to keep up with a busy lifestyle, how do you support immune health?

Oven Roasted Orange Chicken And Fennel

***Click here for printable Orange Chicken and Fennel recipe.

Ingredients:

4 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil

3 Diced Cloves Honey Garlic

4 TBS Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

3 Oranges, Sliced Horizontally (1/4" Slices)

3 TBS Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice

2 Tablespoons Grain Mustard (Such as German or Stone Ground)

3 TBS Brown Sugar

1 TSP Salt

1 1/2 TSP Freshly Ground Black Pepper

3lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut to 1/2lb Sections)

2 Medium Fennel Bulbs, Rinsed And Cut Into 6ths

1 TBS Fresh Chopped Thyme Leaves

Directions:

1. Combine Olive Oil, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, Mustard, Brown Sugar, Salt and Pepper in a medium bowl.

2. Rinse and pat dry chicken and place in a large gallon sized bag. Add fennel wedges, orange slices, thyme, and fennel. Pour marinade over and seal bag tightly, gently massaging to combine and coat all ingredients. Refrigerate 3-4 hours or overnight.

3. Preheat oven to 475F.

4. Place the chicken in the center of a 9 x 13" casserole dish. Distribute fennel wedges and orange slices evenly around chicken. You may add some halved baby red potatoes for bulk- but I prefer to serve this with my Green Tea Rice. Pour the marinade juices over the chicken and fennel/slices.

5. Place in the oven, uncovered and roast 40-45 minutes.

6. Remove from oven and transfer chicken, fennel, and orange slices to a serving dish. Cover with foil to keep warm.

7. Pour cooking juices into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat until reduced to 1/2 cup. Pour over the chicken and serve over a bed of potatoes or green tea rice.

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I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Clearasil. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Momma Told Me: Stop touching your face, you're going to break out!


At 9 I got my first training bra, at 11 I got my first period, by 13 I was an awkwardly smelling ball of oil and body odor wondering why on Earth anyone would ever look forward to becoming a teen. While I was an early bloomer, as Momma so delicately put it, this only seemed to mean that I endured the toughest of teenage trials at an early and amplified rate. Because Momma had endured torturous chiding and bullying over her complexion and advanced acne in high school, she was proactive about the first signs of trouble on my face. I recall thinking it was one of the least of my problems when a blackhead appeared- but I was much more on the nerdy side of the playground schematics than the image absorbed.

Regardless, I was promptly put on a strong dosage of Tetracycline, an antibiotic that was, more often then, prescribed by dermatologists and general physicians for moderate to severe acne control. Despite sounding similar to fish food, this antibiotic is quite powerful- in fact, it was so powerful my oral surgeon could deduce I had taken it in moderation some 15 years prior, during a recent tooth extraction. I'll spare you the details but we'll say my jaw was not looking its whitest as a result.

Sabrina, who recently turned 12, has been a fairly early developer herself. Not only does she already tower over her classmates, but she terrifies her father with her constantly developing bust-line. For a while we were all thankful she was also rapidly becoming classic tween 'smelly and awkward.' With a strong Hispanic background on her paternal side, Sabrina was also blessed with super thick hair that yields a greasy scalp and flares outbreaks of pimples across her complexion. For a while we were fine listening to her whine about the blackheads and zits- we'd simply tell her to touch her face less and keep her hair off her face. Now, having entered Middle School, as vain as she is, we can no longer ignore her cries for relief.

Whether her father likes it or not, part of growing up is also learning proper skincare- and fighting acne flair ups is just another responsibility it was time for her to master. Not only is Sabrina much more conscious of her complexion since starting Middle School, but she had also begun turning down photo opps, and even expressed stress over seeing relatives during the upcoming holidays, which is quite rare for a child who loves to be the center of attention. In fact, just over Turkey Day week Sabrina began using Clearasil Hydro-Blast Oil-Free Face Wash and Ultra Rapid Action Daily Gel Wash. Because the new Ultra Rapid Clearasil Gel Wash formula promises visible results in as little as 12 hours, she was eager to try it first. This easy to lather gel works to open up pores so tough acne causing dirt can be drawn out and scrubbed away.

As soon as we began seeing a positive skin tone change, I knew we wouldn't have to fight to get Sabrina to wash her face regularly and with attention anymore. Our general plan of attack is to use the Ultra-Rapid Gel on important weeks (such as those with family and formal school events) or during especially tough breakouts, and to use the Hydra-Blast Oil-Free Face wash regularly (every day) for complete skincare and maintenance. We found the Oil Free Face Wash is easiest to apply and rinse, and leaves skin feeling a tad more nourished than the Ultra Rapid Gel (though having a pump on the dispenser is a big plus with the gel.)

It's hard to deny the visible results in just one week of consistent use with these two Clearasil products. Not only do Sabrina's pores seem much more even, but the discoloration of existing blemishes subsided and nearly disappeared within days. Best of all, we've seen no new pimples develop- so our camera hog is back, smiling, in the spotlight again! Check out the full range of Clearasil acne and skincare treatment products and stay up to date with new releases and skincare tips through the brands Facebook and Twitter pages. Clearasil products are sold nationwide at retailers such as CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, and more!

What Daughter Says: Sometimes, even great skincare routines, need a little extra help.

Make Suncare A Part Of Your Summer Routine, Know The Facts

Momma Told Me: Your skin will thank you in 20 years.

This past, holiday, weekend I spent some time at the local beach park with family and friends. I'll admit I'm the palest of the group, and I seem to burn just thinking about going outside for an hour; so I'm always sure to protect myself with various forms of skincare. You see, when you have fair skin, and are prone to burning, you don't think twice about protecting from the sun's rays. However, I was shocked to hear child after child tell me they 'don't need' sunscreen because they have 'darker skin' and don't burn. This alarming statement, which I can only deduce was inherited from the adults in their lives is quite possibly part of the skin cancer epidemic the current generation faces. Proper sun care is not about keeping an even tan, or avoiding nasty peeling, it's about safeguarding our skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, which we most of the time cannot detect at all.

I'm sure you've all heard the age old point that people can get burned, but most importantly, absorb UV rays, with an entirely cloudy sky. That's because the rays themselves are transparent, and even reflected off of surfaces in cloudy conditions. These powerful rays even make their way through clothing material, and with 1 in 5 Americans developing skin cancer during their lifetime, it's clear we're not doing enough to defend ourselves.

One of the biggest reasons American consumers do not 'lather up' with sunscreen is because they perceive it as inconvenient. Well, we've come a long way with skincare, baby! Coppertone's new Clearly Sheer range of sunscreen products are specially formatted to be light, yet effective, for moisturizing all day wear that can even be layered beneath cosmetics. They're even approved for sensitive skin and acne prone complexions, so you never have a reason not to protect that gorgeous face. And, if you're one of the millions of sunscreen consumers who skip protecting because you don't want to smell like a pool or beach, the Clearly Sheer line is specially formatted with a citrus inspired fragrance that is easy to wear and almost undetectable.

I keep a convenient 1oz Coppertone Clearly Sheer for Sunny Days in my glove compartment at all times. I never know when I will find myself outside for more than 15 minutes, or among company equally in need of UV protection. While I'm a 'spray' screen kinda gal, studies have shown that people are less accurate in fully covering their skin with such applications, so I reach for the light layering lotion with it's refreshing citrus infuse scent. And don't forget to protect those eyes too; be sure the entire family is outfitted with sunglasses this Summer!

What Daughter Says: Proper skincare starts with accurate knowledge, how much do you know about staying protected?

2014 Summer Beauty Essentials And Skincare Tips

This is a Fashionista Events Opportunity. I received a BIC Soleil Glow Sample in hopes I might share my honest thoughts.

Momma Told Me: Skincare has no season.

Living in Southern California you might assume that it's all palm trees and sunbathing, year-round, and you'd be correct. I'd be lying if I said that we truly experience seasons, or if I attempted to downplay the number of bikini-clad patrons lining our local beaches on any given month of the year. While that may sound like paradise to some, it's certainly not the ideal situation for my skin. Much like Winter presents the promise of it's own skincare challenges (dry cracked elbows and heels, the complete and utter lack of motivation to shave at all,) Summer can be just as threatening. Let's face it, I'm pale even when I'm tan, and that sort of fair skin needs extra TLC to get it through any season.

If Summer's not quite ready to show it's skimpy skirt wearing legs, where you are- great; that just means you have a little extra time to get Summer ready with my 2014 Summer Beauty Essentials. At the top of my list is a good suncare product (or multiples if you prefer SPF foundation like me.) Finding a mess free suntan lotion that can easily be applied from head to toe is a must once those rays start peeking through the clouds. Exfoliating with a good scrub or skincare mask will also help prep those skinny stems for beach weather offering a smooth shave when paired with an effortless razor such as BIC Soleil Glow, and a pampering after-shave treatment such as Bath & Body Works Hawaii Passionfruit Body Butter. If you're not quite ready to bare too much skin, then play with Summer colors and treat yourself to a simple flash mani/pedi, ombre style with alternating hues of the same color. And, for those inevitably sticky afternoons, stash a package of cooling wipes in your purse or glove compartment to cool off between Summer socializing.

For me, Summer skincare starts with my legs; the area of my body that seems most often exposed to UV rays and harsh elements. Because I shave year-round, I need a razor that is reliably smooth and relatively simple to navigate the curves of my stems with as few 'incidents' as possible. After all, nobody wants to show off those Summer legs covered in nicks and Band-Aids, right? For years I've been a Soleil junkie. Made by BIC, the Soleil range of women's disposable razors are colorful, which happens to be the perfect match for my personality, and intuitive. The line is constantly growing, with the newest addition, the Soleil Glow, boasting a new comfort shield for shaving safety, and 3 individually flexible blades for comfort. As a lifelong Soleil user, I was most enchanted, however, by the addition of a new pivoting head, which really brings a new experience to disposable skincare.

Of course not all Summer Beauty Essentials are found in the skincare aisle. One major player on your personal skin radiance team should be water, and lots of it. You should consume 64oz of filtered water daily, and more during dry and warmer months when dehydration is more prevalent. Not only will this help keep you more active and your skin (your body's largest organ) functioning at it's healthiest, but it will help your body bounce back from any unfortunate skincare mishaps like missed sunscreen application. Remember, Summer beauty and skincare starts before Summer and continues throughout!

What are some of your best Summer Beauty and Skincare tips?

What Daughter Says: Start preparing for warmer weather today with hydration and simple skincare.

Blog POP!: June Jacobs For Spring Fresh Skin Giveaway ~ 4/6

Momma Told Me: Your skin is lucky.

Just last month I was sitting down at an Outback Steakhouse to enjoy an overdue meal with Momma's sister (my Aunt) and my grandfather. The service was lacking, and we found ourselves with ample time to occupy our mouths with conversation. That was when one of the single most surprising remarks, concerning me, was uttered. My gorgeous Aunt, 9 years the Senior of her husband, and measurements to match a Barbie, waved a hand and matter-of-factly asked, "So, what DO you do to keep your skin looking like that?" I was a bit taken off guard, and humbly choked, "What do you mean?" through a string of fried onion. Certainly my diet at this moment wasn't helping my skin any. She pressed forward, determined, "How do you keep your complexion so even?" For a moment I had to laugh, only to quickly cover with a forced cough. In truth, I am awful about my skin. I've been drinking my 8 glasses of water a day, lately, but I haven't always been so kind to my skin. In fact, if I had to admit, I'd divulge I wash (makeup off) my face, maybe, 2 out of 7 days of the week.

Every woman knows there are many factors to beautiful skin, some of them entirely out of our control, others more related to environment and diet. For those with hereditary oily skin, or even the opposite end of the spectrum, dry skin, it can seem like a non-stop battle. In Junior High Momma prepped me for, what she was sure would be, 6 teenage years of acne prone skin. As it turned out, I had the occasional breakout, but nothing as severe as Momma had experienced herself. It's really something I've noticed I take for granted from time to time. Every now and then I get on a kick to wash my pillowcases more often, and even my face, but it usually falls by the wayside with another un-tackled goal. In any case, my skin is far from Snow White, as my Aunt made it out to be, and I, too, notice changes in these challenges as the year progresses. Not only do I notice more signs of subtle aging, but the transition from Winter to Spring can be especially harsh (even here in So. Cal).

Changes in humidity can turn skin dry and damaged from the Winter into oily, broken out, patches. As our body's largest organ, and the most visible one, it's essential to safe guard against the impending extremes. Just because that mid-week drizzle did little more than put frizz in your hair and make you late for work, doesn't mean it's not impacting your skin on a much more dramatic level. And, as we've discussed before, there's no one magic potion to cure one's skin needs. In fact, what you put on your skin to heal it can be just as detrimental as the symptoms you're trying to treat. That's why I trust my skin to June Jacobs, spa inspired skincare. These products aren't just high end gimmicks designed for sale in spas; but a thriving brand of Paraben and Preservative Free skincare products that has been around for year. One of the things I especially like about June Jacobs is the commitment to quality through an independently owned manufacturing plant. It's rare you find a beauty brand so involved with the production process!

It's no secret I have an addiction to masques, and it will come as no surprise that I jumped at the opportunity to sample one of their most popular products; the Mandarin Moisture Masque. Just one of 7 Masque offerings by June Jacobs, this non-mud based compound is virtually clear and applies like a salve. Presented in a gorgeous, weighted, 3.8oz pot, the Mandarin Masque gel features powerful antioxidants and ingredients such as grape seed, goji berry, and algae extract. Unlike clay based masques, this product goes on very light and cool, evaporating into the skin, rather than drying along it's surface. There is a light residue after dried application, which is simple to wash, and should be followed by any toner or serum skin treatments. Because this is not a mud, it is especially great for those fancy bath towels, and will not stain fabrics.

If I'm obsessed with Masques, than I'm equally obsessed with my feet. It may sound odd, but having size 12 feet I have usually resorted to wearing sandals and flip flops (which are the easiest to fit). Living in Southern California, this is actually quite normal, but having my feet in the limelight, so to say, 24/7, means a strict care regimen. I don't shell out money at salons, but I do have a powerful arsenal of at home treatments and luxurious lotions. Like the masque, June Jacobs' Peppermint Hand and Foot Polish is entirely Paraben and Preservative free. Harnessing the nourishing power of Jojoba Oil and Pomegranate Seed Oil, this near translucent scrub is much more gentle than I'd anticipated. The scrubbing beads are varied in size, and very efficient at treating dead skin, while still remaining gentle enough to relax and calm. I just love how the fresh Peppermint scent lingers on my skin, and how soft my heels are afterwards!

Having used up nearly all of my reserve of both of the above products, I can honestly say that June Jacobs is one of my new favorite skincare brands. Not only is their professional quality spa range reasonably priced, but the product tends to last with noticeable results for days after application. I am curious to experience some of their Haircare or Fragrance line, knowing the aromatherapy benefits will be quite amazing. Most of all, I like the complete lack of preservatives and additives (like color), which keep my linens and skin happy. The June Jacobs provides an educated shopping experience, with easy to understand reasoning for each active ingredient in their products, and easy to navigate complimentary product suggestions. Best of all, I can earn rewards for my loyal purchases through the JJ Select program, which makes me feel valued as a customer, and keeps me coming back for more.

What Daughter Says: While luck plays into it, I know smart skin care decisions do too!

One Momma Told Me reader will win June Jacobs Mandarin Masque and Peppermint HAnd and Foot Polish (a $92 value)! Visit our Blog POP! giveaway LINKY to hop on over to all of the other amazing event giveaways!