Day 10 of New Year New You

Here we go Day 10 of 31!  I can't believe 10 days has gone by so fast.

My Day 9: Started my day off with some exercise before leaving the house. Had leftovers for lunch and enjoyed them.  Didn't get a chance to call my friend BUT its on the to do list for today!  I really do want to call and make her day.

Now is time of Day 10:

Fitness:
Lets make today a BLT day.  No I don't mean Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato.  Its Butt, Legs and Thighs!

Here's a quick routine to give your legs a pick me up - No equipment needed!

• Standing with feet hip distance apart, step the right leg forward to perform a lunge and then return to start. Do this 15 times on one side and then switch - Repeat 3 times 
• Standing with feet hip distance apart perform calf raises for 45 seconds, Rest 15 seconds - Repeat 3 times
• Standing with feet slightly wider then shoulder distance apart, toes turned out. Perform 30 Plie squats, focus on squeezing the glutes at the top. Rest 30 seconds - Repeat 3 times
• Standing with feet hip distance apart lifting right leg and pressing leg backwards. Perform Hip Extension 30 times on one side.  Switch - Repeat 3 times

These quick exercises target the major muscles of the legs and can be performed anywhere.  Don't hesitate to take a break while at work and rock it out. 

Food:

Need something to help with your sweet tooth?  Why not try this recipe for Breakfast, Lunch or a mid day snack! Its packed with protein and flavor. 

Peanut Butter Protein Frosty

1/2 cup chocolate soy milk or low fat milk, chilled

1- 4 oz container of whipped chocolate yogurt

1/3 cup chocolate whey protein powder

2 tbsp Smucker's Natural Creamy Peanut Butter, stirred*

Ice Cubes

Cinnamon - optional

Combine soy milk, yogurt, protein powder, peanut butter and enough ice cubes to make 2 cups in a blender.  Process for 45 seconds or until smooth and frosty.  

Makes 2 servings, so pour into 2 glasses Share and Enjoy! Garnish with Cinnamon if desired. 

*Almond Butter can be used in place of peanut butter.  If there is too much chocolate for you with the milk, yogurt and protein powder, feel free to replace any one with Vanilla flavor.  Adding a half banana is also an option. 

Self Growth: 

Take time out today to notice positive changes - yes there are some already at day 10.   Starting with the fact you have been returning to the New Year New You 2012 Challenge everyday! 

Recognizing the immediate benefits of exercise reminds us why we started in the first place.  There are all kinds of long term benefits to changing our routine.  However instant gratification comes in the form of improved energy, reduced stress, better sleep, a healthier and happier outlook, increase confidence and more.  

Taking time today to acknowledge these immediate positive changes will also keep you coming back until Jan 31st. Remember, starting with small habits lead to creating bigger, long lasting habits. 

Enjoy the day!

Until tomorrow, 

Taj

photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/elanaspantry/6009765671/sizes/s/in/photostream/