Do you dread the new year or do you love a fresh, clean slate to get the year started? I am not one to make resolutions, but I do typically choose a theme or a mantra for the year. I love doing that as a way to help guide my thoughts and actions throughout the year. It is not as much pressure as setting these lofty goals that you may or may not be able to keep.

This past summer I turned 40 years old and in order to get ready for my 40th, I went on a pretty regimented eating and exercise plan. I looked and felt the best I ever have. Unfortunately though, life got in the way and I have not been exercising or eating well consistently since then. Luckily Marshalls came to the rescue to help me get on track. And this year, I’m expanding this commitment to being healthier with my family too.

In our house, healthy eating starts with meal planning and meal prep. Luckily, Marshalls has EVERYTHING I need for meal prep and planning. Healthy choices start first thing in the morning, and I was so impressed with the things Marshalls had on the shelves that would be perfect for your morning yogurt or smoothie – a favorite in our family. I picked up everything from bee pollen to organic honey and chia seeds. The thing I was most excited about was that all of these supplements and ingredients ranged from only $2.99-$5.99. If I went to my local health food store or supermarket they would cost two to three times that amount!

Meal planning, meal prep and meal journaling are three things I do to help stay on track when it comes to healthy eating. Our family is busy and on the go quite a bit, so I am always looking for good storage containers for packed lunches. I don’t like using plastic containers, so I am always on the lookout for glass containers to store my food in. Marshalls has an amazing selection at awesome prices. I picked up several different sizes and they were all under $6.

I also picked up this pocket-sized calendar. I don’t use this as a calendar, but rather as a food journal. It helps me to see what I am eating each day. I find that it holds me accountable to what is going in my body and helps keep me on track if I actually write it all down. This one was only $5.99 and my local Marshalls had a huge selection of them. If you are trying to lose weight or eat healthier in the new year, then this is probably one of my biggest tips for you.

Exercise is a very important part of my life and that is something that I also let slide the past few months. For me, it is as much about the mental benefits and how it makes me feel as it is the physical results I see. It truly is a sanity saver and a stress reliever for me. Let’s just say my entire family can tell when I am not exercising regularly. While I was cruising the aisles of my local store I found this awesome hoodie jacket and running belt. I am going to let you in on a little secret. I am a closet fan of fanny packs and this running belt is helping that obsession. It really is perfect because it fits snuggly to the body and is big enough to fit your keys and your phone. The best part is that I was able to get both of them for less than $25. I am starting to run again, since it has been over 5 years since my last half marathon, and this belt will come in handy. I was really excited about the great selection of workout gear and accessories that my Marshalls had. Everything from weights to yoga mats and tons of workout clothes to choose from. I can’t wait to try this gear while we’re working out and running together as a family.

Let’s work together and make 2018 our healthiest, happiest year yet!

Xx
Landyn

Thank you to Marshalls for sponsoring this post.  As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.  Thank you to all of you for supporting the brands that help make Living with Landyn possible.