Do What Makes Cents

With economics continually going up and down, and for most of us down, keeping close eye on the 'purse' is important. Despite the times, however, there are ways to eat healthy, stay fit and be fashionable without breaking the bank.  All you need is to do what makes 'cents'.
Begin by making a list of meals you are going to eat, week by week. To start, take inventory of the food you currently have in your refrigerator and pantry. By doing this you will only by the food you need at the store, while congruently using the food you already have. Making a list also saves you money by not purchasing things you don't need while at the store.
When making the list, makes sure to focus on the items outside the aisles: poultry, chicken, produce, dairy, etc. This way you will be saving money, but also saving time at the gym by choosing healthy options.

Image via Wikipedia

Next, instead of buying an expensive gym membership, take advantage of summer weather and take your exercise routine outdoors.
One of the favorite outdoor routines is running. However, if this doesn't fancy you, try an interval training/boot camp workout. Start by running or jogging 1/4 mile. Stop and do 3 sets of 12 push-ups. (For more of a challenge, add on to each exercise. For example, as seen below, add on a arm and leg raise to challenge core and overall body's resistance.) Repeat, changing the 'stopping' exercise each time.
                                                                 
Finally, save a few extra dollars on updating your summer wardrobe, by incorporating new items with items you currently have.  Go through your closet and put together pieces you love, making a list of pieces you need, that would complement them. For instance, take your classic pair of white shorts and pair them with one of this year's hottest summer trends, a floral blouse. (Take inspiration from the Robert Cavalli dress, below.)
                       

With these simple tips, you will not only be healthy, fit and fashionable, but financially better off, as well.
Keeping it fresh, Jenny

Make a Statement

 Making a statement does not always mean being that person that everyone is staring at. Sometimes, it means making a commitment to something important to you, and sticking to it.
Let's start with healthy eating goals.  Lately, I have found myself craving chips and salsa - one of my all-time favorite snacks.  Instead of reaching for that usual bag of chips, get some corn-flour tortillas, cut them, and bake them yourself.  Bake the whole bag. When finished baking, fill the bag with the chips and limit the amount you eat in once sitting.  For salsa, go for fresh pico de gallo. Fresh salsa is full of healthy pre-biotics like onions, tomatoes, garlic and much more.  Not only is this the healthy way to go, but it also tastes so much better when made from scratch.

Image via Wikip

      Next, focus on getting those thighs ultra-lean by doing leg lifts. I recommend front, side and rear. Watch the form and challenge yourself to hold the pose at your highest height.
                                          
Example of side leg lift (resistance band is optional).

Last, but not least, dress to impress by dazzling yourself in your favorite summer accessory.  As we all know, hats, jewelry and shoes take the cake; but don't forget about hair.  Especially in the summer, when putting on another thing seems a little too much, your hair is most definitely your best accessory. Work on a new style or challenge yourself with color to make a real statement.
                                       
Keeping it fresh, Jenny