The holiday parties are in full swing and burning calories is at the top of everyone's wish list this year, so as to not gain the typical holiday 5 pounds. Witht eh snowfall Colorado just received in the last few days, our minds went directly to ways to burn calories with winter activities.
Did you know that skiing (both downhill & cross-country) can burn anywhere from 400-550 calories per hour for a person weighing 155 pounds. Plus you'll be outside getting some fresh air and on a perfect ski day - some sun rays!
Here are some tips to help you burn those holiday treatsoff for those of you who ski (or want to ski):
1. Be on the look out for the latest ski deals, so you don't have to pay out of the nose to get in some great outdoor exercise.
2. Check into ski or snowboarding lessons at a nearby ski resort - weekly classes are offered and provide a routine exercise program through the winter.
3. Be prepared for the weather - put together a "winter activities" box so you can always locate your gear, which can include, ski passes, sunglasses/goggles, sunscreen, lip balm, hand & foot warmers, ski socks, hats and gloves, ski helmet, and long underwear.
4. When you are not on the slopes, do some exercises to strengthen your core and to help improve your balance.
Have fun hitting the slopes and burning those holiday calories!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
Dear Just Be: In the spirit of the holidays, how can I give back?
Though volunteering can be a year-round activity, this time of year presents unique opportunities in which we can give back to our communities and to others. Below are a few organized volunteer events around the Denver metro area, but don't be afraid to think outside of the box or do something on your own. Offer to shovel the walkway for an elderly neighbor (or lay down salt on ice), visit a nursing home and spend time with the residents, offer to host a simple party at your house - you never know who might be alone or facing difficulties in their life-right in your own neighborhood. If you prefer to join in on an organized event, check out these options:
- Volunteer at Trail of Lights-Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
- Noon Year's Eve 2009 at Children's Museum
- Reception for Our Family Orphan Communities
- Project Angel Heart Meal Prep
If you want to think about volunteering throughout the year, here are a few resources for you to look into further:
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Dear Just Be: Do you have any quick & easy cookie recipes? I have a cookie exchange next week and need to bring dozens of cookies!
These seasonal pumpkin cookies are sure to be a hit at your gathering and they are simple to make:
2 cups flour
1 cup oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Cream butter and sugars, then add egg and vanilla. Alternate adding pumpkin and dry ingredients. Mix well then add chocolate chips. Drop by 1/4 cup on cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Share and enjoy this holiday season!
2 cups flour
1 cup oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Cream butter and sugars, then add egg and vanilla. Alternate adding pumpkin and dry ingredients. Mix well then add chocolate chips. Drop by 1/4 cup on cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Share and enjoy this holiday season!
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