A few years ago, I decided to do things that scare me, to say ‘yes’ to things that I would have previously said ‘no’ to. At the time, I felt stagnant, uninspired and like I needed something more in life. Saying ‘yes’ gave me that in spades.
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Since then, I’ve said ‘yes’ to so many new things — hiking, coaching soccer, leading a Girl Scout troop — and have learned so much about myself and other people in the process. In my writing, I feel inspired with stories to tell and new life experience to draw from.
All of this didn’t just give me more experiences and more to write about though, I am a happier person for being an active participant in my life and my kids’ lives. Being a person who is involved in their community — school, town, work, etc — comes with so much reward. And I’m so glad my kids see me as an involved person. I hope it inspires them to be the same when they’re adults.
As parents, we model behaviors, habits and more for our kids. When they see us, they notice what we do, how we do it and how we approach life. If we sit on the couch all day, watching TV, they notice that. If we run races, volunteer and eat well, they notice that too. When my kids look at me, I want them to see someone who does things, who gets involved and who lives a healthy life.
So, what healthy habits do I model for my kids?
Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated is important to your energy level, how your body performs and your overall health, so I drink plenty of water every day. But it can be hard. When you are busy and on the go, you can forget to keep on sipping. So every morning before work, I fill a covered cup with ice to take to work. Throughout the day, I visit our water cooler and refill my cup. And that cup also comes with me when I head to meetings, on the road, etc. Not only do my kids see the importance I place on drinking during the day, but I also encourage them to sip and refill throughout their days too. They have big water bottles that they fill in the morning and take to school. And when their bottles run out, they refill them at the water fountain.
Walk, Walk, Walk
Headed to Portland for the day? We park somewhere and walk all over. Have some time to fill? We take a stroll through our neighborhood — or around one of the many college campuses in our area. Want an ice cream in the summertime? We buy it and take a walk. Whether it’s parking a little farther away from store entrances or setting out for a nature walk, my kids and I walk often and as much as possible. Moreover, we talk about it and why it’s so good for us to get out and do.
Eat Lots of Veggies
Food writer Michael Pollan said: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” And that quote in his book “In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto,” has really stuck with me. It’s the same advice my kids doctor gave them — and me — about their diets, and the same thing I try to mirror at home. Nearly every weekend in the warm months, we head to the farmers market for veggies and fruits. That makes up the bulk of what we eat. And in the winter, we linger in the produce department of the grocery store — and try to make it to the winter farmers market as much as possible too. But that doesn’t tell the story of our plates.
At home, meals start with fruits and veggies. We roast, saute, chop and slow cook, enjoying several vegetable dishes with each meal. A little protein and a small serving of carbs rounds out the meals.
Shower Often
Any person in my family will tell you: I love showers. I love how my favorite shampoo, body wash and warm water work together to make me feel so refreshed and clean. Being clean — whether it’s washing your face at the end of the day, brushing teeth or showering — is important to a healthy body. My kids understand how much this means to me, and I reinforce for them — both through my actions and in words — why it’s important for them too.
Take Vitamins
We eat well. We exercise. And we also take our multivitamins. When it comes to vitamins, why should kids have all the fun? While gummy vitamins are typically associated with kid-geared vitamins, adults can enjoy them too — particularly with ones like Sundown Naturals® Vitamins, which are made for adults.
Sundown Naturals® Adult Multivitamin Gummies support immune and bone health and are free from gluten, dairy and artificial flavors◊. But they’re also gummy, which makes this healthy habit a little more fun. I am also really excited about the Sundown Naturals® Vitamin D3 gummies. D3 is a vitamin I take during the very short days of winter here in Maine. Not only does D3 support a healthy immune system, but it also works with Calcium to promote strong teeth and bones.
What about you? What healthy habits do you model for your kids?
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. ◊Applies to all products manufactured after 5/1/15. Please check back of label as manufacture dates may vary.
Karen Wojtowicz
Saturday 22nd of October 2016
Such a beautiful family!
Kate
Wednesday 19th of October 2016
I try to model good behaviors, like being active and being kind. But I need to be better about others, like vitamins.