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[lazy] Healthy Lunch – Simple Soup

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Special Edit – Since this post has been so popular, I’m going to be creating a [lazy] lunch series — the next installment will be coming your way on Monday, April 13th!

Hello, Sweathearts!

Happy Monday! I don’t know about you, but I personally over-indulged on Easter sweets over the weekend. I crashed hard from my sugar high last night, and it was hard to get out of bed this morning. When I finally made my way to the kitchen to get ready for my workday, I realized that I hadn’t done any sort of meal prep over the weekend. Cue horror-movie music.

You see, if I don’t have a lunch prepared that I can grab and run out the door with, I’m likely to leave my house with nothing and rely on picking up lunch at the office. My local options? McDonalds, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and Subway. Not ideal. While it is possible to pick out relatively healthy choices at each of those restaurants, I tend to allow myself to run wild. I end up back in my office with a meatball sub, medium fries, a chocolate caramel muffin, and a large sugary coffee. Okay, I’m exaggerating…but you get the point.

I’ve taken to keeping some backup items on hand so that on days when I haven’t prepped a full meal, I can still put together a balanced plate in a short amount of time. Here’s my favorite “lazy” lunch:

Soup

First up, a can of Amy’s Lentil Vegetable Soup. It’s delicious, filling (hello, plant-based proteins!), and has a pull-top. I throw this into my bag with a bowl for heating.

Green Giant

Next, I pull a Green Giant Steamers veggie box from the freezer. They have so many veggies to choose from, but this Healthy Weight version is my favorite. The veggies are balanced in a light butter sauce, but there are also plain veggies and even veggies with rice available.

APPLE

Apples are my favorite fruit, so I always have at least one sitting on my kitchen table. I’ll throw one in with my lunch, but usually I’ll have it as a snack in the morning.

CHOCOLATE

Finally, I’ll throw in a chocolate square to round things out. Life is all about moderation, right?

So there you have it–an easy to pack in less than a minute “lazy” lunch! It just so happens to be vegetarian friendly, as well. What are your favorite lunch choices for days when you are in a hurry? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!

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Move. Nourish. Believe.

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Hello, Sweathearts! Long time, no read — and for that, I sincerely apologize. Life is so incredibly busy, and it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and lose sight of taking care of yourself. Thankfully, I’ve found a wonderful blog to follow that gives me an excellent mantra to live by: Move Nourish Believe by Lorna Jane.

Lorna Jane is a fantastic woman’s active wear brand that originated in Australia. Lorna Jane Clarkson is the driving force behind the brand, and has taken her business from a small, one-woman show to a thriving international company. Moving your body at least once per day, nourishing your body with healthy foods, and believing that you can do anything are the tenants of her brand.

Lorna Jane has been hosting a Spring Clean competition among her US fans, with followers creating a new Pinterest board each week for three weeks: a move board, a nourish board, and a believe board. I had SUCH a wonderful time creating each board and trying out some of the new ideas I found. I’m linking each board here–I hope you find them just as inspiring as I do!

MOVE

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Outdoor yoga — so fun (even when it is cold)!

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At a dog walk with my pup, Duke!

NOURISH

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Healthy meal prep for a week of nourishing lunches!

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Fresh juices and delicious smoothie supplies!

BELIEVE

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My favorite new inspirational tank!

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Reading Lorna Jane’s books and writing in my 2014 Move Nourish Believe Planner is a great creative outlet and way to make action plans for accomplishing my goals.

What is your favorite way to move? Nourish? Believe? I’d love to hear!

Sweat Worthy – Link Love #2

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Hello, Sweathearts!

Happy Friday! Today has been one of those weeks–cold weather, late nights, and a full schedule.  I also haven’t been as committed to my health and fitness this week as I like to be. It shows–I’m tired, not feeling my best, and my skin has broken out. It is time for a weekend refresh and detox!

Are you taking the weekend to relax and unwind as well? Here are a few great links to check out in your free time.

OFFICE YOGI – I’m lucky enough to have my own office at work. Generally, I keep my door open–it makes me feel more in tune with the rest of the people on my floor. But I’ll often close the door to listen to music or do some office yoga. It revitalizes me when I hit a wall working on a certain project, gives me a burst of energy to beat the afternoon blues, and just generally makes me feel better! Move Nourish Believe shared a great post on 6 poses you can do at your desk this week, and there are many more guides available on Pinterest!

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NOW CIRCLE TWERK IT – Okay, I’m sorry to share skating-related links twice in a row. I know that not everyone is obsessed with figure skating as I am. But this Buzzfeed post had me cracking up.

CALL A TRUCE – I’m currently reading ‘Make Peace with Your Plate‘ by the fabulous Jessica Ainscough. During pageant season, I am able to stay dedicated to carefully crafted meal plans (shout-out to http://completephysiqueusa.com/ for those!), but I often stray from clean eating when I’m not in competition mode. This book is inspiring me to stay on track all of the time–the health benefits will certainly make it worth it!

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+ POSITIVE ENERGY – I’ve been noticing Alex and Ani bracelets a lot lately! I’ve never been a bangles kinda gal, because I have really small wrists. However, when I saw that Alex and Ani makes their bracelets adjustable to fit most every wrist size, I placed an order and fell in love. I’ve already amassed a collection of 6 bracelets. My favorite: the Path of Life charm. It reminds me that life can bring about all sorts of twists and turns, but I am strong enough to keep moving forward.

What links have you been checking out lately? Let me know in the comments, as I’d love to check out your favorites. I’m always looking for new inspiration, a good laugh, and fun fashion to check out!

Sweat Worthy: Charity Miles

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I’m sure that many of you, like me, were absolutely floored by the tornadoes that tore through Oklahoma and other parts of the midwest this week. The power of nature is absolutely incredible, but in this case, absolutely devastating.

As a college student preparing for graduation, I don’t have extra money in my budget at the moment to donate to charity. Between bills and paying for gas to fuel my car, there just isn’t any wiggle room. Still, I wanted to give something to the families in Oklahoma that now have to completely rebuild their lives. Charity Miles offers an easy way to do so.

I recently discovered Charity Miles, an app that allows you to track the miles you complete during an outdoor run, walk, or bicycle ride. It then donates a set amount of money per mile to the charity of your choice. They have a pretty substantial list of charities to choose from, one of which is Feeding America. Feeding America is one of the organizations that will be providing truckloads of food, water, and supplies to those in need in Oklahoma (and across the rest of our nation as well.

If you’re interested in getting your sweat on and giving back to those in need at the same time, be sure to download the Charity Miles app! I’ll be dedicating my next few weeks of miles to Feeding America. On just a short run today, I was able to donate 2.5 meals. It may not sound like much, but when facing such a large challenge like those in Oklahoma are currently experiencing, it is important to remember that every little bit counts.

For more information on Charity Miles, click HERE.

Sweat in Style…For Less!

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Hello Sweathearts,

I’ll admit it. I’m a sucker for cute workout gear. Lululemon, Nike, Under Armour, you name it! I’m pretty laid back when it comes to the rest of my workout look–hair in a messy ponytail, and no makeup allowed–but I love picking out workout gear that is cute and functional. By functional, I mean that I don’t have to worry about anything hanging out or showing through. Being able to deflect sweat well is an added bonus–I don’t like to half-ass my workouts, so I’m always drenched by the time I’m through.

The problem with some of my favorite brands? They’re expensive. SUPER expensive. Not-realistic-for-a-college-student-who-works-as-a-babysitter-expensive. But I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that have helped me add Lulu, Nike, and UA to my wardrobe without breaking the bank.

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I didn’t pay full price for ANY of these items!

  • Sporting goods stores aren’t your only source of workout gear! I’ve picked up some great Nike pieces from Kohl’s and Nordstrom. Neither store offers a full range of product, but their small selection is often eligible for markdown and couponing (Kohl’s) or hits the clearance racks at a great price (Nordstrom).
  • But sporting goods stores DO offer great rewards programs and deals. Dick’s Sporting Goods is my go-to store based on their reward program. I get coupons regularly from them that range from $10 off a purchase to 25% off of an item. My local Dick’s also offers GREAT clearance racks at the end of each season that feature already marked-down items at an additional 50% off. I’ve gotten Nike shorts for under $10, and a Hard Tail Tank for under $20.
  • Outlets are the real deal (pun intended). I live about 40 minutes away from Woodbury Commons, a popular outlet center for locals and tourists alike. While I generally don’t find deals on everyday clothing there, the deals at the Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon outlets can be incredible! Because it’s a long drive, I try to hit the outlets only once per season. I scored a Lululemon Vinyasa scarf for $29 in outlet that I had seen listed on eBay for close $80!
  • Give flash sales a chance. The Zumba capris pictured above? I found them listed on Zulily, a flash sale website geared more towards moms & children. My mother, a teacher, spotted the sale and alerted me to the deal. Since then, they’ve featured other fitness brands, such as Lucy. ACTIVE GearUp is a flash sale website that exclusively features fitness gear, but even the traditional websites such as HauteLook occasionally upload workout brands.
  • Patience isn’t just a virtue, it’s a bargain hunter’s way of life. If I fall in love with a newly released item from any store, I try to wait it out. It’s really tough for me–my instinct is to buy right away so that I can make it my own. But I’ve found that being patient often results in markdowns and worthwhile extra savings. I wouldn’t recommend doing this for something you absolutely can’t live without, but if you see something, bookmark it and check in every few days. Chances are, you’ll be able to score a deal.

What are some of your favorite ways to workout in style without paying a high price? I’m always looking for more ways to save money while leading an active and fashionable life!

 

Sweat Worthy: Road ID Review

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One of my current fitness goals is to get outside and take up running as a hobby this year. I love to run because I always feel so refreshed when I finish a few miles, but I personally find treadmill running to be a bit boring. Still, I run inside because its easy. Well, that’s about to change–with the arrival of spring today, I’ll be hitting some local paths and training for a few 5Ks.

I tend to do a lot of research before taking on a new task. Naturally, I did the same when creating a running plan. I investigated the local paths and asked friends and family for recommendations. I stopped by the Greenwich Running Company (great service, by the way!) to learn about staying hydrated on the road. I purchased a toque for cooler weather, a breathable pullover, and a pair of running shoes. Then, I came across a blog post (thanks, Shin Splints and Sushi!) that introduced me to Road ID.

I will admit that one of my concerns about outdoor running revolves around safety. What if something happens to me on the trail and I’m unable to call for help? What if someone finds me injured, but I’m unable to communicate with them? Road ID helps to alleviate some of these concerns. Edward and Mike Wimmer, a father/son team, have created wristbands, dog tags, and shoe tags that are engraved with your name, emergency contacts, and important medical information.

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I decided on the Wrist ID Sport bracelet in pink. I have tiny wrists (6 inches) and ordered a size small. It fits perfectly without being too snug (it adjusts with velcro). When ordering your Road ID, you have the choice to go with a ‘Original’ version or an ‘Interactive’ version. The Original version is simply engraved with the information of your choice. The Interactive version allows you to customize two lines of text, then provides information that directs first responders to a full emergency profile that you create online. They can access this profile via phone or online.

I chose to go with the Interactive version for a few reasons. You are able to include so much more information in your online profile than you can fit on a small engraved wristband. I am able to list multiple emergency contacts, my doctor’s information, a photo of myself for identification, and more. I think that the interactive band can also help to clarify situations for first responders. I don’t have any pressing medical conditions that a first responder would need to know immediately. I do, however, take a medication that is used for multiple ailments. Rather than just posting my dosage on my wristband, I’m able to put the dosage and an explanation of why I take the medication in my online profile. Much more useful information!

A Road ID is surprisingly affordable — you can pick up most styles for under $20. To maintain your online profile should you choose an Interactive Road ID, there is a fee of $9.99 per year. However, this fee is waived for your first year of service with your new Road ID purchase. I’m more than happy to pay $20 now, and $10/year in the future for a little extra peace of mind for me and my family.

If you’re interested in picking up a RoadID, you can head to their website by clicking HERE. They provide all customers with ‘Tell-A-Friend’ coupons, and I’m happy to share mine with you so that you can save $1 on your purchase. Simply enter ThanksSarah25585008 at checkout. I don’t receive compensation for sharing this code–I’m simply passing it on because I think that staying safe while staying fit is extremely important!

Do you wear a Road ID (or similar product) when you exercise? Any other recommendations for staying safe while participating in outdoor sports alone? Let me know by leaving a comment below!

Gym Buddies – Week 1

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Hello, Sweatsational readers!

Fitness isn’t a journey that you can undertake completely alone. Sure, it’s easy to hit the gym solo. But having people to support you as you accomplish your fitness goals can make all the difference in your motivation level. These people don’t necessarily have to be “in-person” friends–they can be bloggers or vloggers! In my ‘Gym Buddies’ series, I will be featuring links to websites, YouTube videos, blog posts, or magazine articles that have inspired me on my fitness journey each week.

This week, I found my biggest source of inspiration via Pinterest. One of my favorite bloggers, Taralynn McNitt of Undressed Skeleton posted this gem (click here to check out her pin!).

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In one of her recent blog posts, Taralynn wrote about hiking and her nature epiphany: that many people (herself, and myself!) included, don’t take the time to “thank” nature for all that our planet provides for us. We forget to recycle, overuse natural resources, and leave an extremely large carbon footprint in the wake of our everyday activities.

One of my biggest fitness goals is to become a dedicated outdoor runner. I’m excited about spending more time in nature, and I’m sure that running while taking in fresh air while taking in the sights around me will be far more motivating than staring at a wall as I jog on the treadmill at the gym! I plan on “giving back” to the world around me by taking up a challenge that Taralynn has set up for herself: using reusable shopping bags no matter what! It sounds like a small thing, but every little change that we make in our lives can have lasting results.

Thank you, Taralynn, for being such an inspirational gym buddy this week!

Who inspires you on your fitness journey? Let me know in the comments below, and keep an eye out for next Saturday’s Gym Buddies update!

Welcome to Sweatsational!

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A premier fitness/healthy living blog is coming soon! You can look forward to…

  • Training Tips – Getting fit is a continual learning process. Here, I’ll share with you tips that I’ve picked up along my journey.
  • Product Reviews – Working out should be simple…right? Sometimes, the plethora of exercise options can be overwhelming! I’ll be reviewing everything from active wear to local fitness studios to healthy eats.
  • Recipes – I absolutely love food, and can’t wait to share some of my favorite healthy recipes with you here.
  • Beauty Blasts – Feeling good on the inside often translates to looking good on the outside! As a former beauty intern, I look forward to sharing beauty tips that apply to a fast-paced, fitness-full lifestyle.
  • Inspiration – Motivation is key. I’m a collector of inspirational quotes, and will be sharing them with you regularly.
  • My Journey – Along the way, I’ll be growing with you. I’ll also be using this blog to check-in regularly regarding my personal fitness. I’d love to have a supportive accountability network!

I hope that you are as excited about SWEATSATIONAL as I am! If you’d like to learn more about me, you can visit my personal blog at htttp://www.sarahhreyo.com

❤

Sarah