OIKOS Giveaway

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Morning!  Thanks for all your kind and thoughtful advice regarding anxiety.  The blog world is so wonderful — and strange.  I feel like I connect with and understand the other bloggers and readers who comment frequently.  I hope we all meet in real life one day!

 

I was reading Oprah’s "Big Book of Happiness," which is a collection of articles from O Magazine, and I stumbled upon a passage from an article entitled, "Why Is It So Darn Hard to Change?"

 

The author has just met with a behavioral scientist, who told her that after 50 repetitions of a task, the frontal lobe of the brain (which regulates self-control, decision making, and behavior change) "lights up" less and less until the brian exerts minimum effort, which means the new tasks has become a habit.

 

I ask if this means I only have to force myself to exercise 50 times and then it will become a habit. "I wish I could say yes," Michael Schlund, PhD says. "But we really have no idea.  What I can tell you is that there are many variables."  The biggest one is stress.  It turns out that the hormones released by the body in response to stress are our worst enemy when it comes to changing:  Stress actually inhibits the frontal lobe, which makes the brain revert to behaviors that don’t require conscious decisions (like eating comfort food, drinking, and smoking).  Not only do stress hormones impair the areas of the brian that need to be active to change, they also stimulate our emotional centers, and send out signals telling us to decrease the stress.  And what decreases stress?  Food (because it triggers the release of natural opiates), alcohol, and cigarettes.

 

So, successful change depends in part on stress management….. and finding the right rewards [which should be immediate] for your change.

 

Intereeeesting, huh?

 

In an effort to wisely manage my stress, I dutifully did the 30 Day Shred this morning.  Click the widget on the right-hand side of the blog read today’s summary!

 

Breakfast was AWESOME!

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Two pieces of WW French toast, a sliced banana, and chopped pecans.   With maple syrup on the side for dipping!

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Oikos Giveaway

 

The kind folks at Stonyfield Farms have sent me a bunch of coupons for their yummy yogurts and milks.  Including coupons for FREE Oikos Greek Yogurt!

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You too can receive these coupons! To enter, simply leave a comment below and tell me one habit you’ve successfully changed.  Did you stop smoking? Learn to love exercise? Tell me, and I’ll pick 1 random entry tonight at 8 PM.

 

GOOD LUCK!

{ 200 comments }

 

  • Audrey March 12, 2009, 4:28 am

    I’ve gotten into the habit of waking up early and exercising before school starts!

  • Katie March 12, 2009, 4:29 am

    I stopped drinking diet coke.

  • Jessica March 12, 2009, 4:32 am

    I’ve pretty much given up artificial sweeteners, so now I eat greek yogurt instead of “light” yogurt and drink coffee/tea with a splash of soy milk instead of 2-3 packets of Splenda. It’s difficult at first when you’re used to that sickeningly sweet taste but now I don’t miss the Splenda at all!

  • inmytummy March 12, 2009, 4:36 am

    I have drastically cut down the amount of diet coke I drink. I used to drink at least 3-4 a day and now it’s maybe that many a week, if that.

  • Heather March 12, 2009, 4:38 am

    I now eat as little processed foods as possible. Fresh fruit and veggies are now a staple in my diet, and I feel so much better! Great post!

  • Mrs. LC March 12, 2009, 4:40 am

    haha if anyone wants to triple their chances for free Oikos, I’m giving away 2 sets of the same coupons!!

    http://mrslc.blogspot.com/2009/03/product-review-and-giveaway.html

    Until tomorrow, midnight! 🙂

  • Julie March 12, 2009, 4:41 am

    yeah just like audrey i learned to get up before school (4:30) to go to the gym and i lost 63 pounds in the process!

  • Kimberly March 12, 2009, 4:41 am

    I cut artificial sweeteners and high fructose corn syrup out of my life! Whoop whoop.

  • Katy March 12, 2009, 4:48 am

    Last January I broke two bad habits-boredom eating and not exercising. I’ve lost 30lbs because I stopped boredom eating and started exercising and have maintained that since September.

  • Liza March 12, 2009, 4:50 am

    I’ve gotten into the habit of bringing my lunch and snacks to work everyday. When I’m tempted to dive into the candy bowl at 3pm, I have a stash waiting for me!

    lizafavaro@yahoo.com

  • VeggieGirl March 12, 2009, 4:54 am

    Make that breakfast for me, please?? 😀

  • Rebecca March 12, 2009, 4:58 am

    My habit is not health related. I gave up reading celebrity gossip in 2007 for my New Years resolution and have not looked at perez hilton since!

  • Mica March 12, 2009, 5:00 am

    Does starting running as a habit count? (I guess I could frame it as I stopped the habit of being sedentary…)

    Interesting stuff, thanks for sharing Caitlin!

  • Siobhan March 12, 2009, 5:00 am

    I've given up eating after 8 (I've done it for Lent for the last 3 years and hope to keep it up this year!). I still need to work on the stress thing though!

    ps. I <3 your blog

  • Katie March 12, 2009, 5:04 am

    Oh!

    I successfully gave up drinking pop! I used to “need” pop to get through my day but now all I want is water!

  • colleen March 12, 2009, 5:06 am

    I’ve cut out soda completely

  • Mariel March 12, 2009, 5:06 am

    I’ve given up chewing gum and having obvious artificial sweetners (splenda)

  • meg c. March 12, 2009, 5:09 am

    I gave up drinking sodas and diet sodas with the exception of when it’s with alcohol. Gotta have a rum and diet coke when I go out! Also, I weaned myself off milk and sugar/splenda in coffee and can now drink it black!

  • Jill March 12, 2009, 5:10 am

    I learned to break the habit while running of babying myself and walking when my body didn’t need a walk break! It is so true that running has such a large mental component. The next habit to break, regular coffee consumption.

  • Colleen March 12, 2009, 5:12 am

    I gave up my ADHD meds in exchange for a more natural treatment (better foods and exercise).

  • Amanda M March 12, 2009, 5:14 am

    Hi! I’ve been reading your blog for a while. My habit is getting regular exercise. Gym, Yoga, etc is a non-negotiable for me, and I fit it in somewhere in my day. I even fit it into my work schedule!

  • Holly March 12, 2009, 5:18 am

    I got engaged and made the decision to change my poor eating habits (anorexia) and see a therapist so I can have children with my handsome man 🙂

  • Danielle March 12, 2009, 5:20 am

    I’ve learned to indulge (occasionally) and not feel guilty. Still working on it 🙂

  • ashley (sweetandnatural) March 12, 2009, 5:23 am

    So interesting! I don’t eat anything with artificial sweeteners anymore. 🙂

  • Laura March 12, 2009, 5:24 am

    I’ve really altered my eating habits and avoid processed foods at all costs; I try to eat fresh, wholesome fruits, veggies, and grains whenever possible 🙂

  • Kailey (SnackFace) March 12, 2009, 5:25 am

    I love your breakfast! Pecans are the dessert of nuts- and I adore them. They make anything delicious!

    I have stopped buying (too much) crap food, like the incredible Chex Mix and frozen dinners like Lean Cuisines. They are delicious, but kill my stomach and aren’t as pure as I’d like them to be. Also, I want to replace meals with Chex Mix when I have it, so it’s best that it’s not around. 🙁

  • Dana March 12, 2009, 5:25 am

    Aww…I hope you are feeling better today!

    I stopped “comfort eating” and now eat because I am hungry and want to be healthy!

  • A March 12, 2009, 5:25 am

    Switching from full fat cream to 2% in morning coffee!

  • Erin March 12, 2009, 5:26 am

    Lovely article and breakfast. Your breakfasts are always so delicious looking!
    I have successfully stopped “social smoking.” I never did it a ton, but I hated that I’d always succumb after a few drinks. I have done NONE of that for almost a year!!

  • chuck March 12, 2009, 5:28 am

    i eat breakfast every morning and started making a GREEN SMOOTHIE!! DEEELISH!

  • Andrea March 12, 2009, 5:32 am

    I started eating breakfast everyday and also gave up diet soda!

  • *One Step at a Time* March 12, 2009, 5:33 am

    Yay! I love this post about stress management. I have such high anxiety sometimes and need to learn how to cope with it. It really is horrible!

    One habit that I have successfully changed is making a change toward a healthier lifestyle by including exercise into my daily routine as often as possible. I also eat healthier. I ended up losing 50 pounds in a year and have kept it off for almost another year so far! YAY! 🙂

  • Kristi March 12, 2009, 5:34 am

    Well, I actually stopped smoking a few years ago and I started eating healthier 2 years ago too! I guess they just went hand in hand!

  • livelovelaugheatlearn March 12, 2009, 5:38 am

    I think I have successfully kicked artificial sweeteners (it’s only been 12 days though) and I make sure I floss my teeth every night. It’s a hait now and I just do it. My teeh look fantastic too!

  • Kristin March 12, 2009, 5:41 am

    I quit smoking in October! 🙂

  • Marissa March 12, 2009, 5:42 am

    I cut artificial sweeteners out of my diet. Like others have said, it was difficult at first (especially in tea) but now I actually prefer unsweetened things to sweetened!

  • Balance, Joy and Delicias! March 12, 2009, 5:46 am

    interesting article! 😉
    we’re nature of habit. someone told me once that if you do something over and over again, one day if you don’t do it, your body memory makes you to crave it!

  • Lisa D. March 12, 2009, 5:46 am

    mmmm…french toast and oikos! I love that stuff. I changed from coffee in the morning to green tea. Not that I’m really anti-coffee, I just didn’t want to become dependent.

  • Barbecued Peaches March 12, 2009, 5:48 am

    MMMM Oikos!

    I’ve stopped eating Fast Food(aside from my beloved Chik-Fil-A)—and at most chain restaurants. I gained 30+ lbs in college because of those habits! Now I truly enjoy eating out at unique restaurants.

  • Tina March 12, 2009, 5:49 am

    I’ve stopped eating any meals in front of the t.v. Sounds weird but I did it way too much!

  • Lindsay March 12, 2009, 5:51 am

    I stopped eating out. Though it is fine to occasionally eat in a real restaurant, and I still do maybe once a month, I had to work very hard to say no to Taco Bell! So gross but so good!

  • Justine March 12, 2009, 5:53 am

    A few years ago I started working out in the morning and it’s continued on. Now if I don’t get my workout done in the morning, my day just seems a little off. I love this habit!

  • MoFish March 12, 2009, 5:54 am

    I haven’t had a Diet Coke since before Christmas. It’s not like I relied on them too heavily – I maybe had 3 or 4 a week. Now that I am exercising like crazy and eating healthfully, I don’t even crave a DC in the afternoon like I used to!

  • Whitney March 12, 2009, 5:55 am

    I have successfully started to workout 3-4 times a week and I feel antsy if I go more than 2 days without doing something active. First time in my life that I have been able to do it for 3 months (and counting) without letting life get in the way and become an excuse.

  • Red Head, Yellow Dog March 12, 2009, 5:58 am

    I’ve gotten into the habit of running 🙂 yea…habit sounds better then addiction…running is just a habit. that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

  • Sarah March 12, 2009, 6:01 am

    I’ve given up caffeine and artificial sweeteners. I was totally addicted to both. It wasn’t as hard as I had imagined!

  • Megan March 12, 2009, 6:02 am

    I’ve learned to love running, and have made it a habit!

  • Melissa (Nibbles and Wiggles) March 12, 2009, 6:04 am

    The hardest thing I ever have done in my life is quitting smoking. I went cold turkey after 12 years of smoking (1/2 my life at that point). I have been smoke-free for 7 years now.

    Most recently I have kicked my diet soda habit (90+ days without soda now)

    As you can see, I like to celebrate how long I’ve been doing something, or not doing it, as the case may be.

  • Jess March 12, 2009, 6:05 am

    I learned to love running (again). After running myself out in high school, I took a year and a half off without so much as lacing up my sneakers. Now, four years since then, I can barely go a day without a run, short or long, it makes me feel better and is a pleasure.

  • Ally March 12, 2009, 6:06 am

    A few months ago I stopped drinking soda, which was huge for me. My motivation was a good though, I save about $20 every time I go to the grocery store! Thanks for the giveaway!

  • AshleyT March 12, 2009, 6:07 am

    I’ve started to wake up earlier to get a workout in before the day starts. I think it really wakes me up and gets me ready for the day.

  • lizzie March 12, 2009, 6:07 am

    I have given up bitting my nails when I get nervous…although I still have a break down once in a while!

  • Melissa O'Loughlin March 12, 2009, 6:13 am

    My best habit that I grew into was actually eating breakfast. I never was (and still am not) hungry when I wake up in the morning. After making breakfast an important part of my healthy lifestyle, I have grown to really appreciate setting aside time for myself in the morning to eat something small but healthy and collecting myself before I start my day.

    Typically my breakfast consists of a nonfat Greek yogurt and fresh fruit ;]

  • Betsy March 12, 2009, 6:15 am

    I remember when I finally quit chewing my nails around preteen age. It was a HUGE accomplishment.

  • Dori March 12, 2009, 6:15 am

    I learned to LOVE spinning, which I used to hate! Yay!

    Your french toast looks SO good, I plan on making some on Sunday!

  • Amanda March 12, 2009, 6:17 am

    My best habit that I adopted was allowing myself healthy snacks without guilt. It is so unrealistic to expect to go from meal to meal without hunger, and snacks have helped me to cut down on oversized unhealthy meals!

  • Brandi March 12, 2009, 6:20 am

    very interesting!

    I gave up artificial sweeteners a few months ago – as much as possible, I avoid them and it wasn’t that bad after the first few weeks or so 🙂

    now I don’t miss it at all!

  • Danielle March 12, 2009, 6:20 am

    I’ve completely cut out soda, it was actually really easy.

    Oh and that breakfast looks amazing!

  • Lost March 12, 2009, 6:21 am

    I have given up smoking for 3 years now, i also have given up foods with Hfcs. I don’t eat foods with artificial sweeteners because they make me sick. Also, i eat breakfast every day now. I’ve made a lot of health related changes over the past 3 years.

  • jenn March 12, 2009, 6:31 am

    i stopped smoking in early fall and havent had one since. now i can even smell it if the person in the car in front of me smokes. i pass them if i can b/c the smell makes me sick.

  • Melissa March 12, 2009, 6:32 am

    What an awesome giveaway!!
    Despite being a college student where its normal to go to bed late and wake up late, I’ve broken that habit and now love to get up early and exercise =)

  • Rose March 12, 2009, 6:37 am

    I no longer overeat! I used to do that regularly…

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 6:44 am

    I have given up my overly restrictive eating habits so that I can be “healthy and happy”!
    Emily

  • Michelle C. March 12, 2009, 6:47 am

    i’ve started going to the gym and really enjoying it! definatly a great habit to get in to 🙂

  • Allison March 12, 2009, 6:48 am

    I stopped drinking diet soda, as well! That seems to be a common one today 🙂 Drinking more water instead, and getting better sleep instead of being hyped up on caffiene has really made me feel better!!!

  • Meg March 12, 2009, 6:50 am

    I successfully gave up Sweet n Low!

    Interesting info about the frontal lobe.

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 6:51 am

    Honestly, its gotta be exercising. I know they say you cant program it, but I am so used to working out, that if I have hit dinner without at least a half hour under my belt, I feel really off. Im not complaining!!

    -Rae

  • Betsy March 12, 2009, 6:59 am

    I did quit smoking and it has been 12 years now!

    I also learned to love working out consistently and I have been doing that for 11 years now.

  • Allie March 12, 2009, 7:03 am

    One habit I now have is eating veggies every day for lunch and a piece of fruit every morning (that I feel I need it) as a mid morning snack.

    Also, my habit of running has turned into loooovve! I finally became a “runner” in my eyes! Not just a seasonal one, an all year round runner!

  • Nancy March 12, 2009, 7:03 am

    I cut out splenda in my coffee- I CAN’T believe it. I thought I would never enjoy coffee without it but now I drink it with a little cream and I can’t imagine how I used to drink it with all the uneccessary sweetness.

  • kara March 12, 2009, 7:03 am

    I’ve cut out caffeine. I’ve definitely gone on and off the wagon a few times, but currently I’m caff-free and it feels really good!

  • Anna March 12, 2009, 7:06 am

    I have gotten into the habit of eating at least 2 servings of fruits and/or veggies at every meal. And “requiring” Oikos every morning for breakfast, an expensive habit!

  • Casey March 12, 2009, 7:06 am

    I seem to have cut out the same thing as everyone else – I rarely eat/drink products with HFCS anymore (if I can help it) and instead of a million servings of diet sodas and snapples a day, I opt for water or tea.

    I’ve also succeeded in getting the boyfriend to stop smoking =)

  • Angie (Losing It and Loving It) March 12, 2009, 7:06 am

    I would say the habit I have most successfully changed is that I stopped drinking soda (that was in May 2005). I still can’t believe it LOL

    The habit I am working on breaking now is having dessert every night. I have set a goal to only have real dessert (ice cream, cereal, etc.) 3x a week. The other days it’s fruit/yogurt, tea or nothing at all.

    Probably more than you wanted to know ha ha

    Thanks,
    Angie

    macawcrazy2002(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

  • Kelly March 12, 2009, 7:08 am

    I have stopped hitting SNOOZE! I either get right up or listen to my body and go back to sleep, but I no longer lay in bed and get interuppted sleep…by hitting the snooze button every 10 minutes.

  • Holly March 12, 2009, 7:08 am

    I totally agree. You can even get into the habit, and then stress can knock you off. I have a confession to make – I’ve had a TERRIBLE week. My grandpa died, I have a few HUGE projects due and no time to do them in, and my marriage is seriously struggling (I’ve been crying every day). And I haven’t done 30 Day Shred all week. 🙁 I do plan on jumping back on the horse today after work (I have to leave in 20 minutes, I just couldn’t wake up early enough. I’m EXHAUSTED.) I’m trying not to beat myself up over it, but I’m pretty disappointed in myself. 🙁

  • chandra March 12, 2009, 7:10 am

    I stopped smoking and started exrecising!! Best.Decisions.Ever. 🙂

  • Keiko March 12, 2009, 7:12 am

    I’ve cut out anything that has “High Fructose Corn Syrup” in the label.

  • Amisha March 12, 2009, 7:13 am

    One bad habit I had was going all out when I went out to eat. In the last year I’ve been able to change that mentality and look for the healthiest thing on the menu, rather than just expecting my eating to be terrible that day to begin with.

  • Taylor Leigh March 12, 2009, 7:13 am

    I was a social smoker all throughout college and since I started training for and running marathons, I have kicked the “casual habit” in the butt! Just one of the ways running has changed my life for the good 🙂

  • Amanda (Two Boos Who Eat) March 12, 2009, 7:13 am

    I’ve stopped my fat talk and started caring for my body more. Which can be hard for me, I’ve been way too hard on myself in the past!

  • April March 12, 2009, 7:14 am

    I gave up diet soda, and for the most part artificial sweeteners (manufacturers are so sneaky….I have learned to read the WHOLE ingredients listings)!!!

  • Michaela March 12, 2009, 7:14 am

    I’ve become much much less dependent on a gym to exercse. Even if it’s super cold outside, I have a jump rope and DVD’s to get my heart pumping!

  • BOBBI McCORMICK March 12, 2009, 7:15 am

    so many giveaways so fun!

  • Quinn March 12, 2009, 7:16 am

    I quit smoking – social smoking in college was probably one of the worst things I’ve EVER done to my body.

  • Serena March 12, 2009, 7:25 am

    I gave up artificial sweetners for Lent last year and haven’t had them since – in over a year! I feel so much better too!

  • Julia March 12, 2009, 7:27 am

    I’ve learned to make daily exercise a priority rather than “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “I’ll do it later” – no, you’ll do it now! 🙂 I also gave up milk chocolate for dark!

  • Julie March 12, 2009, 7:28 am

    I have become a “meal planner” – weekly “menus” for our dinners and packed lunches/snacks for work. It saves us lots of money, we rarely waste food, and our eating has become much more healthful. Plus, there’s much less stress at the end of the day when we’re both tired/cranky about “Arg! WHAT are we going to do for dinner??”

  • Lacey Nicole March 12, 2009, 7:31 am

    i gave up enviga (it’s a green tea drink). i was drinking 1-2 EVERY DAY for months and months. it made me feel better i def used it to cope with anxiety plus i loved the taste and liked that it claimed to be good for me. but then i sort of realized it had aspartame in it and other artificial ingredients and that went against my basic philosophy so… i just gave it up. cold turkey. it was literally just making the choice not to drink it. i substituted Yogi superantioxidant green tea (hot tea). and have since been hooked on that. but i save a ton of money not drinking enviga. that coupled with the relief of not having to always go to target to buy it and worry about having it on hand– this was the most clear cut habit i have ever changed.

  • Arika March 12, 2009, 7:39 am

    I have been able to change my all or nothing habit! I used to only do things I thought I could do “all the way” or “perfect.” Now that I kicked that habit, I have way less stress!

  • Annie March 12, 2009, 7:41 am

    I’ve gotten out of the habit of mindless eating and into the habit of listening to my body.

    I’m glad you’re feeling better 🙂

  • OhSheGlows March 12, 2009, 7:41 am

    I gave up artificial sweeteners over a year ago and haven’t had any since. Not even chewing gum!

  • Lala March 12, 2009, 7:43 am

    I started running again! It feels wonderful.

  • Haleigh March 12, 2009, 7:47 am

    I have dramatically cut down the amount of coffee that I consume. I used to drink coffee, seriously every few hours until I went to bed. Now, I have 1 cup of coffee mid morning and 1 cup right after lunch. Also, I totally cut out the use of splenda in my diet. I put splenda on everything a few years ago, even cereal! Yuck!!

  • Carrie H March 12, 2009, 7:49 am

    I stopped drinking soda! It was so long ago that I kinda forget I ever drank it, but it counts, right?!
    I also learned to love running. That’s my big one …

    Carrie H

  • Anna Lisa March 12, 2009, 7:52 am

    I stopped eating cereal out of the box. It was dangerous.

  • Melissa March 12, 2009, 7:57 am

    My biggest healthy change has been exercising in the morning. Before when I worked out after work, half the time I would find excuses (too tired, no time, etc) to not work out. Now my alarm goes off, I get out of bed, and workout….no questions asked!

  • Jennifer March 12, 2009, 7:58 am

    I’ve learned to stop my negative self talk and I feel so much better about myself now!

  • Wondering K March 12, 2009, 8:00 am

    I quit smoking a few years ago and it was the best decision I ever made.

  • Julia March 12, 2009, 8:01 am

    one habit I finally was able to acquire is drinking more water and cutting out soda! Yay for me!

  • Christina March 12, 2009, 8:02 am

    I gave up the habit of drinking caffein in the afternoon, I sleep sooo much better now and have much more energy!

  • Hollister March 12, 2009, 8:04 am

    I’ve started running! Four months ago I couldn’t even walk a mile and now I’m training for a half marathon!! And I looooove Oikos!

  • niecy March 12, 2009, 8:05 am

    I’ve become more outgoing. Kind of, haha. I think I will always be the quiet girl because I’m more of an observer/listener, but I’ve definitely improved since my younger days 🙂

  • tfh March 12, 2009, 8:07 am

    Wow, comments in the hundreds! I LOVE Oikos and I guess others do too. 🙂

    Habit, changed: I very, very, very, very rarely drink any alcohol any more, and then only in tiny quantities. No fun, right? We have alcoholism & depression in my family, and I just don't want to go that route. I envy people who can drink happily, though!

  • Ellen March 12, 2009, 8:10 am

    most recently, i’ve given up my past attitude toward exercise. i used to be very all-or-nothing, as in if i don’t work out really hard often, i might as well not do it all. this stresses me out like none other, and when i’m busy and tired sometimes high intensity exercise is not a good idea. i’ve taken up speed walking/jogging and regular yoga with occasional high intensity work outs. to my surprise, i haven’t gained a pound! funny how we get this stuff in our heads.

  • Julie March 12, 2009, 8:12 am

    One habit I’ve changed is that I drink alcohol ALOT less. I used to drink all the time in college but then after getting healthy I realized you can still have a great time and drink less 🙂 And I dont have to deal with nasty hangovers haha

  • Annie March 12, 2009, 8:12 am

    Ive gotten into the habit of making bfast my biggest, healthiest, most delicious meal of the day after skipping it for 2 years! Thanks to all my fav blogs 🙂

  • peanutbutterpassion March 12, 2009, 8:13 am

    I’ve grown into the habit of exercising 3-4 times a week and incorporating lots of fruits/veggies in my diet!

  • eatingRD March 12, 2009, 8:15 am

    Mmmm . . . yogurt is my fav (after peanut butter of course!) I’ve taken on the healthy habit of blogging and discovering all the wonderful people in this world. Everyone needs a little blogging in their lives, and now since my computer’s been in the shop, I’m going into withdrawals haha.

    -kristen

  • Missy March 12, 2009, 8:19 am

    I started bringing my lunch to work instead of eating out every day! It is healthier and cheaper!!

  • Brooke March 12, 2009, 8:22 am

    I’ve stopped drinking diet coke and using artificial sweeteners, like a few others have. I understand your anxiety troubles! I have it pretty bad myself and I read your post yesterday and really know what you are going through!

  • seesaraheat March 12, 2009, 8:22 am

    Yay for Oikos, I love it!

    One habit that I have been able to change recently is negative self talk. I used to beat myself up for making mistakes, in healthy living or otherwise. Now I am able to say “Oh well” and move on.

    Great topic!

  • Amy March 12, 2009, 8:25 am

    One of my biggest changes was adjusting to healthy portion sizes, which helped me lost 10 pounds! I also stopped drinking caffeine.

  • Audrey March 12, 2009, 8:27 am

    oh yum love these yogurts! i’ve been good about taking my multi-v every day and recently stopped cussing so much which is definitely an unattractive habit i think.

  • apluseating March 12, 2009, 8:27 am

    i stopped biting my nails!

  • kristi March 12, 2009, 8:29 am

    I’ve learned to make “healthy” food choices instead of eating “diet” foods that are usually filled with crap. 😀

  • Sarah March 12, 2009, 8:30 am

    I love Oikos! Greek yogurt has become such a staple of my diet but its oh so pricey.
    In terms of habits…I’ve cut out artifical sweeteners/diet soda and am working on the chewing gum, which has been the hardest by far!

  • Alli W. March 12, 2009, 8:32 am

    I successfully stopped eating ‘one more snack’ before bed! I wasn’t hungry and it wasn’t necessary 🙂

  • Sara March 12, 2009, 8:34 am

    I consistently exercise 4x's a week now!

    <3 your blog!

  • Dori March 12, 2009, 8:35 am

    The vice-chairman of orthopedics at a hospital said, about my ankle cracking during every single butt kick and sometimes in jumping jacks and jump rope in the Shred:

    “if it cracks on occasion, doesn’t hurt or cause functional compromise I would ignore it”

    So…. I guess I will continue as is.

  • Kelly March 12, 2009, 8:36 am

    I’ve gotten OUT of the habit of eating out so much. It was the major contributer to my weight.

    I’ve also gotten in the habit of reading labels and wearing my bodybugg and exercising more.

  • Amanda March 12, 2009, 8:42 am

    I broke the habit of ordering flavored syrup in my coffee…i save so mandy calories every morning!

  • Natalie March 12, 2009, 8:42 am

    great giveaway!

    I’ve gotten out of the habit of feeling like i HAVE to do cardio 6 days a week to maintain my weight. i was recently having knee trouble (i can SO empathize with you!) and couldn’t run for a few weeks. surprise surprise, i survived just fine, even though i was doing minimal cardio! my weight didn’t change much, if at all. now that i’m back running again, i’m trying to keep that mindset in place and take more cross-training/rest days.

  • Run Saraaah March 12, 2009, 8:43 am

    I’ve made exercise a necessary part of my day, not just something to do if I have time!

  • Mo March 12, 2009, 8:44 am

    Have decreased caffeine to just 1 cup of coffee in the morning. Before I was doing 2-3 cups plus a Diet Red Bull.

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 8:46 am

    I stopped sitting on the bench with my class at recess and started playing kickball with them and walking laps around the playground while chatting with them and learning more about their little personalities.

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 8:47 am

    P.S. I don’t have a blog, but my name is Emily just in case I get picked! 🙂

  • lilveggiepatch March 12, 2009, 8:49 am

    I smoked the occasional cigarette in high school… and that habit is out the window!

  • Anne March 12, 2009, 8:49 am

    I was a total diet soda addict. It was BAD. I managed to give it up pretty much completely. I’ll still have one now and then (maybe once every few weeks, or a month), but I was slamming like 6+ cans a day and completely depended on it. I feel so much better now!

  • brooklyn March 12, 2009, 8:58 am

    i stopped using artifical sweetners and white crap (as i like to call it)…mmmm okios…………

  • Julie March 12, 2009, 9:05 am

    That’s really interesting about changing habbits. I’ve been trying to change my mindless/emotional eating habbit for a few weeks now and I’ve been off and on with it…whenever I’m stressed I reach for the food, I can’t stop myself. Now I know it’s not because of lack of “will power”, but my brain can’t just compute! I guess I have to work a bit harder at this!

    One habbit I have given up is artificial sweeteners. I don’t use splenda in my coffee anymore, I eat greek yogurt and stopped eating tons of sugar free candy and gum!

  • Jess March 12, 2009, 9:06 am

    I roll out of bed and go to the gym EVERY DAY before work! It’s 100% natural to do it now.

  • Amanda March 12, 2009, 9:08 am

    I work out every single day, even if it’s a long walk with my dog. I used to work out randomly, but now I do it every day and I love it.

  • Jen March 12, 2009, 9:15 am

    Wow, that little section from that article is so eye-opening! Amazing how when we try to start a new, good habit, our stress can get in the way…must find even better ways to manage stress…

    I love to exercise – I don’t even think of it as a good habit I’ve developed because I’ve been doing it consistently since mid college,so about nine years now (wow!), but prior to that time in my life I DID NOT think of myself as athletic and rarely exercised! I just realized in college I like to do sports that don’t require any one else relying on me – no team sports! I’ve now run a half marathon, taken all sorts of classes like spinning, kick boxing, and yoga, have hiked mountains from Vermont to Montana to New Zealand to Hawaii, and love to move! Go me! (Caitlin, writing this post has helped me deal with stress, thanks for the question)

  • annie March 12, 2009, 9:24 am

    I gave up drinking and learned to exercise more often and to go to class everyday

  • kirsten March 12, 2009, 9:25 am

    The habit that I changed was drinking more water, after a few months it came more naturally.

  • J March 12, 2009, 9:29 am

    I’ve gotten in the habit of waking up at 6 a.m. to run or workout before work! (Even in the winter when it’s dark and 10 degrees!)

    Good giveaway! I’ve been eating Stonyfield for years and it is the best!

  • Blythe March 12, 2009, 9:30 am

    Caitlin, this is the perfect chance for me to explore the world of greek yogurt! I have been continuously over the past 3 years weeding out the processed, chemical ingredient-ed, junk and unnatural foods out of my life. Nothing catapulted the change other than I began reading and researching healthy living, healthy eating, and the benefits of cutting everything “junky” out of my diet. I have never felt better and I’m only 25 years old. I would love to finally jump into the world of greek yogurt! Pick me so I can use those coupons wisely!

  • NC March 12, 2009, 9:35 am

    I recently bought a brita and stopped buying plastic waterbottles…good for the budget and the environment!

  • JE March 12, 2009, 9:40 am

    I’ve given up artificial sweeteners, including my daily diet soda fix! It wasn’t really all that difficult. I tasted some diet soda the other day and it was so gross to me!

  • Renee March 12, 2009, 9:40 am

    Hi Caitlin! love the giveaway! one habit i have successfuly rid myself of is biting my nails! yay!

  • mrstim March 12, 2009, 9:47 am

    only one habit? Eek – I’ve had a total life change in the last two months – eating, exercising, etc. I’ve gone from eating no veggies and ton of processed foods to TONS of veggies, greek yogurt, lean meats and I’ve cut out all white flour – only whole wheat now. I also went from barely being able to walk 5 minutes without being out of breath to now I can do 2 miles at a jog/walk intervals in 28 minutes. 🙂 So yeah – I’ve changed a big habit – my LIFE. 🙂

  • Hillary March 12, 2009, 9:48 am

    the bad habit i’ve broken is my candy stash in the car… i used to keep something little like lemon heads/candy corn/atomic fireballs – basically anything pure sugar in my glove compartment and don’t do that anymore. all those little calories add up.

  • Hallie March 12, 2009, 9:49 am

    Hmm I don’t know if I can think of a vice I’m totally away from! I’ve cut down a ton on my diet soda/splenda intake. Now I’d say I have splenda-sweetened foods/drinks a few times a week instead of…oh all day long! So that’s a biggie for me even though I haven’t totally kicked it.

  • Angela March 12, 2009, 9:50 am

    I bring my own coffee cup or travel mug wherever I go!

  • Marlow March 12, 2009, 9:55 am

    I stopped eating butter and brown sugar in my morning oats and actually switched it out for Oikos!!! I LOVE Oikos!!

  • mel h March 12, 2009, 9:57 am

    I have stopped using splenda and creamer in my coffee every am and stick to a little skim! I love it now and think splenda is just TOO sweet in coffee!
    Mel H

  • Kristen March 12, 2009, 9:57 am

    I am finally getting back to making exercise a habit and not something to “squeeze” into my schedule.

  • Aimee March 12, 2009, 10:00 am

    What about a habit I am trying to change? I really am trying to stop negative thinking!

  • Michelle March 12, 2009, 10:04 am

    I have developed the habit of making working out a priority in my schedule!

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 10:08 am

    I have given up drinking all soda and replaced it with plain, unsweetened iced tea. No calories and so refreshing!

    ~Steph

  • And the beat goes on and on. March 12, 2009, 10:16 am

    I learned to love excercise and healthy eating due to reading blogs like yours. I now get excited over watching the biggest losers excercise wishing I could be in the gym with them. And those fitness center commercials? DOn’t even get me started on those.. 🙂

  • megan March 12, 2009, 10:18 am

    I started doing push-ups and sit-ups before bed

  • Runeatrepeat March 12, 2009, 10:20 am

    I, like a lot of ladies here, have really cut down on drinking diet coke. But, I have to admit I still want to order it everytime I go out to eat!

  • dawn March 12, 2009, 10:29 am

    I have stopped drinking my calories (with the exception of the occasional beer or glass of wine). Right after I got married in July, I started drinking a TON of Mountain Dew… just like my husband. I put on weight, but I was able to target the Mt. Dew as the culprit. I still drink some Diet Mt. Dew, but try to stick to water.

  • Casie March 12, 2009, 10:39 am

    i have stopped eating mindlessly!

  • Heather March 12, 2009, 10:42 am

    I have given up diet coke & all caffeinated drinks! I love Stonyfield Farm's yogurts!

  • Tiffany P March 12, 2009, 10:46 am

    Exercizing has become a new habit that I have been pleased with being able to take on so easily.

  • Martin Family March 12, 2009, 10:46 am

    i’ve gotten in the habit of not being able to start my day without exercise, preferably a run!

  • Beth March 12, 2009, 10:48 am

    As a new years goal I started doing yoga. At first I thought I wouldn’t stick to it, but now I can’t go a day without it. I love how it makes my body feel when I’m done. 🙂

  • Alex March 12, 2009, 11:04 am

    Well, I learned to love exercise years ago – but more recently, I stopped chewing gum! I used to be a serial chewer and would go through a pack a day, but in January I decided to stop and I did!

  • katie March 12, 2009, 11:11 am

    I successfully was able to stop biting my nails! I started putting clear polish on them every other day and sure enough a year later they’re much longer and healthier!

  • healthy ashley March 12, 2009, 11:20 am

    I gave up artificial sweeteners 🙂

  • alessa March 12, 2009, 11:22 am

    I broke my addiction to both coffee and diet coke. I still drink both occasionally but can completely survive without them. Most days I don’t have anything but water to drink and I feel great!

  • samsam26 March 12, 2009, 11:29 am

    After suffering through an over-use workout injury and not being able to run. I now embrace my weekly non-workout recovery days!

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 11:49 am

    I’ve started running, now up to 35-40 miles a week consistently. I love it!

    Sara S
    200606065@panthers.greenville.edu

  • Ashley March 12, 2009, 11:54 am

    I have ensured that I workout 6 days a week even if it means just going for a long walk! 🙂

  • Sarah March 12, 2009, 11:58 am

    I dont add anything to my coffee or tea. I also have given up artificial sweeteners for good…including gum

  • Holly B March 12, 2009, 12:04 pm

    I am now in the habbit of working on on my lunch greak- no excuses! I don’t even think about it, I just DO IT.

  • angelcubbie March 12, 2009, 12:16 pm

    I cut out splenda, I can’t even believe how much I used to use it in everything!

  • Anna March 12, 2009, 12:33 pm

    I gave up Dr. Pepper (the only soda I ever drank) in 2003 and haven’t had it since. Luckily, it was surprisingly easy!

  • Anna March 12, 2009, 12:34 pm

    I gave up Dr. Pepper (the only soda I ever drank) in 2003 and haven’t had it since. Luckily, it was surprisingly easy!

  • Erin March 12, 2009, 12:37 pm

    I have stopped using pathetic excuses as ways to not work out!!!

  • Maggie March 12, 2009, 12:40 pm

    I gave up gum and fake sweeteners about a month ago – I did it for my macrobiotic experiment and just went cold turkey! I haven’t slipped up yet.

    Talking about change really hit home for me – I had a breakdown last night in the middle of the night (couldn’t sleep) about some things that I’m really struggling with… it’s good to know that it’s this hard for everyone.

  • sara March 12, 2009, 12:46 pm

    the biggest habit i picked up was running … but i also started flossing and taking much better care of my teeth. its pretty bad but i had a ton of cavities when i was younger … no longer.

  • Leah March 12, 2009, 12:58 pm

    I stopped drinking diet sodas!

    French toast looks amazing!
    One of my fav things!

  • Sarah107 March 12, 2009, 1:06 pm

    I gave up artificial sweeteners and caffeine… I feel so much better without them!

  • Ashley March 12, 2009, 1:23 pm

    I’ve learned to love running after dreading it throughout my high school gym class years.

  • prettygreengirl.com March 12, 2009, 1:26 pm

    I never thought I’d be a runner – just thought I wasn’t cut out for it. Last New Years, I resolved to be able to run 5 miles straight without stopping. I ended up doing 2 half marathons last year. Definitely surprised myself! If I can do it, anyone can!

  • Rina March 12, 2009, 1:33 pm

    A bad habit I gave up recently was drinking diet 7 up! I now try drink only water and more natural beverages.. the WORST habit I stopped though has to be biting my nails. lol.

  • leslie March 12, 2009, 1:34 pm

    the one brand i haven’t tried because it’s so expensive!

    i’ve made so many changes in the past couple years, both good and bad, but by far the best one has been running. i started out dragging myself out of bed and barely being able to go 1/4 mile, and now i absolutely crave it!

  • Rachel March 12, 2009, 1:48 pm

    I’ve given up the all or nothing habit- if i’m tired and can’t make it to the gym I will at least do some lunges or crunches in my room.

  • Anonymous March 12, 2009, 2:17 pm

    I stopped sleeping in my contacts. I know It sounds stupid but I slept in them for about 10 yrs and started getting eye infections which tend to be extremely painful. It took a few months to retrain myself but I did it and my eyes are so much happier!!

  • Jess M March 12, 2009, 2:24 pm

    I stopped using Splenda and artificial sweetners. Great giveaway — thanks!

  • ttfn300 March 12, 2009, 2:25 pm

    Hmm, the best habit i think i’ve gotten into is actually enjoying exercise. That is, finding what I like so that I’m more apt to do it 🙂

  • very-japanesey March 12, 2009, 2:26 pm

    i succesfully stopped biting my nails! (ew, i know!)

  • Kath March 12, 2009, 2:31 pm

    I gave up artificial sweeteners 🙂

  • glutenfreeislife March 12, 2009, 2:54 pm

    I stopped smoking, learned to love to run, stopped drinking wine (well, at least for Lent 😉 ) and stopped drinking soda/diet soda.

    🙂

  • Claire March 12, 2009, 2:55 pm

    Well, at one point I completely stopped drinking carbonated beverages. However, now I’ll occasionally have one.

  • VCK March 12, 2009, 2:58 pm

    I have started doing yoga. I have also started getting up early to hit the gym when I have plans in the evening instead of just skipping it for that day.

  • anon March 12, 2009, 3:17 pm

    My best habit is waking up to work out before work 🙂 It is a great way to start the day- and I have time for other fun events in the evening! Thanks so much for the giveaway!

  • Rachel March 12, 2009, 3:19 pm

    I cut out most artificial sweeteners. It’s great because now iced tea tastes like TEA and not sugar!

  • Kristie Lynn March 12, 2009, 3:20 pm

    Let’s see… I’ve started eating a good breakfast. I used to eat toaster strudels or poptarts, and now it’s almost always oatmeal 🙂

  • Melissa G March 12, 2009, 3:29 pm

    I have switched from using so much Splenda to more stevia and other natural sugars. Also I’m much better now at controlling my sweet tooth so I only eat one cookie as compared to 5 or more how I used to!

  • Elizabeth March 12, 2009, 4:06 pm

    I successfully gave up pop. 🙂

  • lucy March 12, 2009, 4:18 pm

    i’ve started cooking dinner each week night and totally stopped drinking diet coke 1/day.

  • Mel March 12, 2009, 4:20 pm

    I have stopped putting Creamer in my coffee. I now drink it black.

  • Adrianna March 12, 2009, 5:33 pm

    at the beginning of junior yr in college, i was so unhappy w/ my life. i decided to start the year out by quitting smoking and taking up exercising. shortly after i started to (sorta) watch what i ate, and the lbs started to come off. havent smoked a cig since, and ended up losing abt 35-40 lbs total.

    nothin was easy, and sometimes i’m still enticed when we’re out and i’m boozing…but all in all, best change i made!

  • just me March 12, 2009, 5:40 pm

    ah, i missed it by 40 minutes. bugger.

    i’ve changed from not counting calories anymore. it was a horrible habit!

  • Laura E March 12, 2009, 5:47 pm

    I stopped drinking all pop a couple years ago, and I feel so great now and don’t think I could ever have a pop again. And that’s by choice, I would never deprive myself!

    Thanks for the opportunity!

Healthy Tipping Point