mindfirerunner

I literally just posted a blog and was informed by my ever-updating blog source that I had just posted my 65th blog! You poor souls. You had no idea you’d be reading mindless material 65 posts later, did you? Ha! Well, hopefully I can provide some beneficial information…and maybe a few laughs along the way. Most importantly, I just want you to know you’re not alone in your daily challenges to find time to exercise and ways to live a healthier lifestyle.

Life is meant to be enjoyed, but you can’t enjoy life to the fullest if you’re always sick, feel run down, lack energy or motivation, or are consumed by stress. Right? So let’s face it. As much as you wish it would just come naturally to make smart decisions about food, and to exercise and get enough rest (I’m guilty), it is never quite as easy as it seems. We struggle for several reasons. Maybe it’s because you don’t have a clue how to exercise or what kind of exercise you should even start doing. The important thing is to just get moving.

Start with walking. Join a gym, or try some classes. You might like some things and completely hate others. If you don’t try though, you’ll never know. Here’s another important message…ask questions! You are not the first kid on the block. Take advantage of people you know who have “been there done that”. Learn from others and take everything with a grain of salt. Fill your mental library with knowledge from multiple resources, then pull the information that is most relevant to your lifestyle, fitness level, health, and overall goals. Lastly, find your cheerleader. This could be a spouse or significant other, a child, parent, friend, or even a co-worker. Find that person who will support your goals and lifestyle, and who will cheer you on through the toughest days, but who will also tell you when to suck it up.

Most importantly, take it one day at a time. Focus on the positive changes, and set out to be an example for others.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths.”

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Literally, a kid in a candy store. My kid.

Hi. My name is Luciana, and I’m a sugar addict. I’m okay admitting it. I love sugar. I love chocolate. I love cookies and cakes and buttercream frosting…I’m killing you, aren’t I?

Hi. My name is Luciana, and I’m a runner. I’m okay admitting it. I love getting up before the sun and hearing my own heartbeat, feeling my muscles warm up, and pushing myself further each day. I love doing what others are afraid to do. I love going out thinking “Man, I could use another hour of sleep”, and coming back an hour later with one of my best runs. I love buying new running shoes and trying out the newest workouts and gadgets. I love registering for races. I love the after-race huddle with friends and family. I love getting lost on long runs, and at the same time finding new paths.

Turns out, I love running more than sugar. Huh…who knew?

The Dark Side

(a good substitute for your sweet tooth moment)

1/2 C Honey

1 C  Cacao Powder

1 T Vanilla

1/2 C Melted Coconut Oil

1/2 C Raw Coconut Flakes

1/4 C Coconut Flour

You can add ANYTHING to this your little heart desires. How about some toasted hazelnuts or pecans? Oats? Puffed Rice Cereal? Add more or less honey depending on your preference.  Roll into little balls or cut into squares.

The more organic and natural you can make it, the better it will treat your body.

On a side note, these are awesome frozen little treats too.

Happy Running – Happy Eating!

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