In my quest to achieve my new years resolutions and live a healthier life, I tried out a Zumba class at my local community centre. 
If you're looking for a fun way to keep fit and dance out your stress, I highly recommend it! Check out my review here.

Also, if you're looking for an online site with lots of tips and advice, check out Healthy Living Online - an online community for healthy living and eating. 

I've decided to tackle my new years resolution head on!

My resolution was to live a healthier life and to lose weight, trimming my body back down to where it was a couple of years ago. I've been looking online, wanting to take advantage of technology in my health quest (might as well be modern). I came across Forever Body Transformation - an online weight loss program that helps me track my progress and gives me tips and advice on how to live a healthy life. It has a free 30 day trial that I've signed up for. I'll report back and let everyone know :) wish me luck!!!

It’s winter here in the northern hemisphere and with it comes shorter days, no sun and bitterly cold weather. A lot of Canadians take off for points south to wait out Mother Nature. If you, like me, are unable to hop on a plane, don’t despair! Try incorporating some of these everyday foods to help you beat the winter blues.

Magnesium

Often overlooked, magnesium is another important mineral in your arsenal. It’s been shown to reduce stress and depression at the same time as bolstering your immunity against illness. This powerhouse mineral can be found in nuts, leafy greens and fish.

Omega 3

Many studies have shown omega 3s have the ability to reduce depression and inflammation. Found in great healthy foods such as nuts and seeds, leafy green vegetables and fish.

B Vitamins

B Vitamins are found in oats, eggs, Brazil nuts and avocadoes, as well as meat and dairy among others. They help promote white blood cell production (immunity) and mood-boosting selenium.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is the sun’s gift to us. Unfortunately during winter we don’t get nearly enough of it. Studies have shown that vitamin D is linked to increased immunity as well as decreased depression.  Found rarely outside of sunshine (egg yolks and fatty fish are the only food sources), most people take a Vitamin D supplement.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the super immunity booster – everyone knows to hit the orange juice as soon as you feel a cold coming on. But did you know it’s also high in antioxidants and will increase your energy levels at the same time as lowering your anxiety? In addition to the citrus fruits that everyone associates with Vitamin C, leafy greens (including parsley, cauliflower and broccoli) are other delicious sources.

Working these 5 vitamins and minerals into your wintertime diet will help you shake off any seasonal depression that might come your way. Add in some great hot yoga and you’ll be styling come springtime!