As we step into the New Year, we should take the time to reflect over 2011 and see what changes we wish to incorporate in order to lead a healthier lifestyle.  The holidays can be quite stressful, and many of us may drop our wellness routines and indulge ourselves in less than healthy eating habits.  With all of the shopping, parties, and sweet treats galore, it’s easy to fall out of healthy habits.  Now that the holiday season is over though, it’s time to get back on track.  Make this year’s resolutions long lasting and life changing.  Armed with a good plan, you can find just that right routine and motivation to stick with it all year round! There are certain key elements that you should take into consideration in order to lay out your plan to a happier, healthier you.

It’s that time again, when the fitness centers are bustling with people, their hearts set on reaching New Year’s resolutions of getting in shape or losing weight. January is typically the busiest month at the fitness center.  Most of us have good intentions when setting our resolutions, but later find our motivation to have dwindled off a month or two later.  What can you do to stay motivated and focused on your new routine?

Define your Fitness Goals

Have clear cut goals and put them on paper.  Be sure to keep them realistic to avoid setting yourself up for failure.  When your goals are achievable, the great sense of accomplishment that comes with meeting them provides even more motivation to continue on with your fitness routine.  Also, incorporate flexibility, not rigidity, keeping your plan open enough that you can make changes at any time as needed.  Have your goals placed somewhere that you will view them daily, as a reminder of that which you are aiming. 

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For entertaining guests or as a healthy snack, you can’t go wrong with this quick and easy recipe!  The combination of rosemary, cayenne, and brown sugar add an exciting zing to this nutritious treat.  It’s a great way to add to good protein intake too.  Enjoy them alone or as a part of a meal!

Time:     15 minutes
Yield:     3 cups

How to make Roasted Rosemary Cashews