One of My Favorites...

I’ve found a great, easy breakfast that ties me over and gives me the energy I need on my long morning hikes or bike rides.  They’re so convenient I grab them as I rush out the door to work on mornings as well! Two of these with a side of fruit is a filling meal.  

I make these once a week, keep them in the fridge and they freeze well too!

I took them on my family trip last weekend so they travel great and they’d be easy to toss one in lunch boxes (because that might just be in our future soon) or in you’re purse while you’re out and about.

These have real food ingredients and include healthy carbs, fats & protein.  

The great thing is you can use any milk or protein powder you have on hand.  You can swap out the fruit for anything fresh or dried as well!  If you’re like me, take liberties to adapt any recipe to YOUR liking!

Mindy’s Oatmeal Muffins

3 tbsp chia seeds (soaking in 6 tbsp water while preparing the recipe)

2 cups rolled oats

2 scoops vanilla protein powder

1 tsp baking powder

1/2-1 tsp salt

1/2 cup dried cherries (or fresh)

1 cup milk ( dairy or non-dairy of choice)

2 tsp vanilla or almond extract 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine dry ingredients & mix well.

Add wet ingredients including chia seeds. Spoon into 12 muffin tins or silicone cups. Bake 20 minutes.

Are You Using The BodyGym?

I love all the messages I’m receiving from those of you starting to use yours!

It’s not too late to pull yours out of the box or to order your own! (just click here!)

If you try one of my TikTok’s or Facebook live workouts let me know! What would you like to me to post more?

5 minute workouts? 9 Minute workouts? TikToks? Stretching?

Stepping into the Second Half of 2020

This week we step into the second half of 2020. Life is different. We didn’t plan for any of these events we’ve experienced together.  Meme’s fill social media about the gained “Corona 15”, constant baking and comfort eating, not fitting into clothes, etc. Let’s guarantee these last 6 months of 2020 are noticeably better by taking action with those things you CAN control.

YOU have control over

-getting outside in nature

-daily workouts

-filling your pantry and fridge with real food

I bet you know what to do to be at your best, right!?!?  We all do.  The problem isn’t knowledge.  The problem is lack of action and accountability.

I’m inspired daily with those in my 4-week online BodyGym Challenge.  We’ve been holding each other accountable to getting in 5 workouts a week with 3 of those specially designated to fun, BodyGym strength sessions. We’re sharing recipes, photos and hacks for real-food based meals (that are simple) and we’re tracking just a few additional habits that make or break success so we can do more than just survive these interesting times.

Now is a time to assess.  

Are you where you wanted to be when you set your intentions in January?  Are you doing the daily actions to transform yourself into the person you’d like to become?

If you’d like a little help getting out of that rut I ‘d love to have you participate in the July BodyGym Challenge.

My program guidelines meet you where you’re at.  They’re doable even with summer in full swing.  

Give me 4 weeks and you’ll see that daily coaching has been the only thing needed to kick start your success.  

Registration for the challenge is open until Friday, July 3 since we begin Monday, July 6.  Register online at www.mindybuxton.com.  

Here’s to making the second half of 2020 great together!

Mindy’s Mango Cardamom Smoothie

People don’t think to add spices or herbs to smoothies but they can add a great flavor alongside of their anti-inflammatory & health benefits!

1-2 cups water

1-2 cups greens (or 1 cup greens, 1 handful fresh basil)

1 Tsp chia seeds

½ - 1 tsp Cardamom spice

1 cup mangos (or ½ cup pineapple ½ cup mangos)

Handful Ice

1 scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder

Add water, chia seeds and greens to blender. Blend until liquefied. Add frozen mangos and ice, blend until thick. Add protein powder and cardamom, blend until desired consistency. Click to sign up for my free 8 simple recipes.

Join Us for this Special Opportunity!

This is the time of year Huntsman Cancer Institute holds their largest fundraiser for cancer research. Saturday, June 20th is the designated day. There’s usually several bike rides, runs and walks where participants gather, chalk their loved one’s names on the side walks & roads and participate in a wonderfully supported activity.

There’s a lot of tears, a lot of hugs, a lot of smiles, sweat and bonding over doing hard things in memory of or for “our person” affected by the “C” word.

This year that opportunity to be together on our bikes or walking & running in person has been taken away.

This year fundraising is so different. Sadly, the foundation has already taken a hit.

Even though it looks different, this year we still have the opportunity to support and help raise money virtually.

Here’s how you can join us!

Click here to donate to Team LifeCentre’s Page.

If you’d like to participate in this unique opportunity with us, you can donate by clicking the link above.

Our team is excited to participate, and we are asking for your help in supporting the life-saving work of researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute. This year is a Virtual Huntsman SportsFest! 

Saturday, June 20 is the official celebration day. We’re encouraged to get outside and be active, in celebration of your life, your body and those we love.

For anyone who donates to our page, LifeCentre is opening it’s doors to welcome YOU to participate in either of our 2 group fitness classes, use of the beautiful salt water pool, or workout in the facility anyway that supports you best as a thank you.

We have all been touched by cancer, and our team is making the commitment to bring hope to patients and their families by participating in this event, raising money, and doing our part to help eradicate cancer from the earth.

Please consider helping us reach our goal by donating to this page - 100% of every donation is being used to fund cancer research at Huntsman Cancer Institute. Because of you, others can continue to have hope in their fight against cancer.

I’ve missed my mom dearly these past 2 years. I miss my grandpa, Jason, Jan & all other friends and loved ones who are no longer with me. I’d do anything to keep family’s from experiencing this heartbreak! Won’t you join me?

On behalf of Team LifeCentre, I hope to see you June 20!

3 Proven Tips for Inch Loss

I read an excellent article on the importance of environment, awareness & action over knowledge. 

I’m sharing 3 important take-away’s that could lead to your own inch loss! 

1. Knowledge doesn’t always transfer into action.  We can be schooled on nutrition, health and fitness, but if we’re not taking action to do the work required to see results to improve our health and fitness, that knowledge isn’t helping our situation.  The article stated sometimes people mistake knowledge as the most important indicator of success.  Take-away:  ACTION is the more important indicator of reaching results!

2.  Environment plays a larger factor than willpower & knowledge.  You can have the most determined person in the world, but if that person is in an environment that doesn’t support your goal, that you’ll have a hard time succeeding.

Examples:  

Plate size matters.  You mean to eat less, but you want to fill your plate so it looks like you’re getting a good amount of food.  Fact: By having smaller plates, you can fill your plate and consume less calories without even thinking about it!  Establish which plate you can begin using to help you hit your goal!  If you don’t have one in your home, buy one this week!

Dish out and prep serving sizes.  Fact: When you portion out your food, you’re less likely to mindlessly consume more than you mean to eat.  

Portion out everything that you can!  Get out snack-size baggies to fill with your chips , pretzels, cookies, crackers, popcorn, etc. Even do this with your healthier foods such as carrots, celery, grape tomatoes, raw almonds, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, etc. 

3.  Awareness is more important than knowledge. You can know every nutrient in food, know how many calories are in foods, but if you’re not aware of the amounts you’re actually eating, that knowledge can’t help you reach your goal.  

How can you have awareness? 

In my BodyGym Challenge we track points for 7 simple strategies and our point total is based on how well we do them.  This gives us the AWARENESS of where we need to do better or why we’re doing so great.  

Tracking our actions and daily accountability through my online private Facebook challenge leads to weekly results! Who doesn’t want to see success on a weekly basis?!?!?

Implement these three concepts to create your own success. Better yet, let me help take some of the guess work out of it and join me THIS WEEKEND in the next BodyGym Challenge to start experiencing results!

I’m offering a $10 discount to anyone who signs up before Saturday, June 6.  Message me if you’d like that discount vs. signing up on my website!  

I’m excited to make June a month of progress & success!

You can read more details at www.mindybuxton.com.

A Week of Celebration!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

How fun is it that we get to celebrate twice in one week? Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day, does it get any better?!?!?!

I just wanted to share my favorite Mexican themed recipe that’s fresh, healthy and delicious.

Mindy’s Ceviche Recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes to prepare, let soak all day or overnight in fridge. 
 
INGREDIENTS
            1 lb. of raw shrimp chopped (you can also use mahi-mahi or halibut)
            2 fresh squeezed limes (use juice)
            1/2 red onion, finely diced
            ½ cucumber diced
            1 chopped fresh tomato
             Fresh cilantro to taste
             ½ avocado diced
             5 Tbsp. fresh salsa
             Tortillas or tortilla chips or romaine lettuce leaves
 
METHOD
In a glass casserole dish, either Pyrex or ceramic, place the fish, onion, tomatoes, salsa, cucumber and cilantro. Squeeze in lime juice. Stir well, making sure the fish gets exposed to the acidic lime juice. Let sit for several hours in the fridge, giving time for the flavors to blend.  (My daughter adds a splash of Tabasco sauce!) ALSO, if you leave the avocado pit in, the mix it won’t turn brown.
 
Serving Options
Serve with chopped cilantro and slices of avocado with heated tortillas
Serve in romaine lettuce leaves or over a bed of green for salad style
Serve in hard shells for ceviche tacos
Serve on a tostada shell
Serve nacho style with tortilla chips
Use as your veggie dip or chip dip
 
Serves 8. Approx. 80 calories per serving of the fish ceviche mix.

Honoring The Ladies…

If you need an idea for that fabulous lady in your life, my next 28 Day BodyGym challenge begins on Monday!

I’m giving a $10 discount to all females between now and Friday, May 8.

I’m honored to have both mother & daughter and sister groups starting next week. I love how the BodyGym and these strategies create a supportive atmosphere fostering positive change. This group of women truly band together as they improve their health and fitness in addition to the health and fitness of those around them.

Message me to register at the discounted rate or for a gift certificate to give this Sunday!

Here’s to a week of celebration and expressing gratitude for the many women who give, love and support us!

Not One Year Older...One Year BETTER!

Today’s my birthday.  

Do we really get wiser with age or is it just the fact we pay more attention to those things that are truly important?

Birthday’s are hard for me.  But today I choose to celebrate the 5 biggest lessons I’ve learned from being 45.

1. Overcoming doesn’t mean your challenges go away.  It means you have the tools and strategies to make hard or dark situations manageable.  I’m knocked down (hard) regularly, but I continue to get back up!  Joy can still be experienced in the middle of overcoming.  Joy and overcoming is a process, not a destination.

2. The past 10 years navigating health conditions has literally been a part time job.  Because I’ve been persistent and open to ALL options of treatments, I’m in the least amount of pain I’ve been in my entire life!  The body is capable of being realigned through consistent effort.  It’s changeable at any age.  I’m grateful for the tribe of professionals that work on me and keep me functioning.

3. More isn’t better, better is better when it comes to a fitness program.  Adapting my workout program around challenges, I’m actually faster and stronger today but I’m working out less.  Age is just a number, what you do daily impacts your fitness level more than age ever will!

4. Movement is therapy when done appropriately.  Exercise by doing things I truly love energizes and heals.  I’m grateful for hiking, cycling and BodyGym.  I use movement to feel my best.  Sadly, in the past I’ve used exercise as a punishment or to numb, but I’m grateful I use it appropriately now.  My healthiest doesn’t look like my leanest at this moment, but I’m grateful I truly put health above aesthetics.  It’s hard prioritizing this way at times, especially being in the fitness industry, but I wish I would’ve learned this in my 30s.

5. Learning, growth and improvement can be experienced at any age!  I love knowing that our ability is based on our efforts.  Our only limitations are the ones we put on ourselves.  Aging well is an ongoing process that’s worth every effort!  

Today I’m blessed to say I’m stronger, healthier and happier at 46.  It’s my wish that more people experience the gift of health.  I’m grateful for a career that helps me be my best while witnessing thousands of others improve.  

Celebrate with me today by moving!  Regardless of the weather or your schedule, get in 30 minutes of any exercise.  

Pay attention to the blessings of movement—-how you push yourself when you want to stop, how your strength is improving, how great you feel after you finish, and how energizing movement can truly be! 

Celebrate your beautiful body and the fabulous experiences it allows you to enjoy!  When you do, you’ll light the world with hopeful energy and joy!  

I’d love you to join me tomorrow morning at 8:30am MST for a LIVE Facebook BodyGym workout!  Just go to my Facebook Page by clicking here.

During these interesting times let’s become stronger together!  

Enjoy this little BodyGym tutorial filmed back in March with my new friend Danielle. If you need your own BodyGym, just click here!

Give A Way Time & Live Workouts!

March was a bit of a blur, but I celebrated 24 years of being in the fitness industry.  My first few years as a trainer I thought the rewards of this job came from seeing people drop sizes and lose weight on the scale.  With over several hundreds of clients, online and in person, I have to say the best and biggest rewards are watching people completely create a new life experience from what they learn while improving their body. 

It’s awesome to watch someone get off prescription medications for health conditions they no longer have due to positive change.  It’s great to watch someone gain confidence in his or her own ability and know they can do hard things. They’ve proved it to themselves by creating new habits they are proud of.  It’s inspiring to watch someone who struggled with life, depression and being unhappy convince others to begin to workout and eat real food because of the change it has made in their life. 

I love watching other’s share the positive rewards of taking care of themselves on every level.  It’s about how we are as people, not just what we look like because we’re better able to take care of those around us when we’re healthy and happy. 

Health and wellness is so much more than the scale or how much weight you can lift.  It’s about creating the best body and life experience possible.

This month I’m excited to launch another 28 Day Challenge, based on my most successful program that people use to change their body and life experience.  More people, regardless of where they are in the world can apply my DOABLE strategies to see results that my client’s experience.  The blessings of technology have made creating a healthier body even easier for all of us! This challenge begins Monday, April 13!

To thank you for your business, support and examples in my 24 years of Fitness & Food Coaching I’m doing a few give-a-ways over the next 3 days.   I’m going to give away some of my favorite things that have helped my clients the MOST!  I’ll be giving copies of my book, The BodyJoy Plan, some BodyGym Systems, and 2 spots in my next challenge.

Follow me on FaceBook and Instagram and watch for the GIVE AWAY picture to win these prizes!  All you have to do is 

• like the page or post once I display the give-a-way picture and  

• tag at least 2 people who could use a positive change!

• Have them like the post and start following me then both of you will be eligible for winning a prize! 

• I’ll announce them randomly starting Wednesday this week!  You’ll receive your gift in just a few days! You can get a jump start on it by forwarding this message so they can join my community today!

Help me share the message of positive change and let’s continue to help ourselves and others experience true BodyJoy! 

I'm looking forward to another 24 years of helping you and those you love! 

LIVE FaceBook workouts on Thursday & Friday 8am MST! See you on my page at 8am!

Friday's LIVE Workout & Healthy Quarantine Food Ideas

Happy Friday Fitness Friends!

Are you ready to join me at 10am MST for a LIVE FaceBook workout?!?! Get out your BodyGym because you’re in for a great workout! I’m missing in-person group workouts and had so much fun with Monday’s LIVE class.

Incase you missed it, I recorded a short video of the foods I bought this week in hopes to keep my family healthy and our immune systems strong. It’s saved in my InstagramTV’s. I hope it gives you some new ideas for the next time you run to the grocery store.

If you’re struggling with food ideas or if you’re getting bored your typical meals, I’d love to send you 8 of my favorite recipes. The smoothies are little more creative, and the meals are defiantly husband and kid approved! Click here, scroll down to the bottom of where it says Mindy’s Simple FREE recipes my website, fill in your information and they’ll arrive in your email box shortly!

Please let me know how I can help you stay healthy, active and manage this unusual experience. We’re becoming stronger together!

Keep moving, keep eating those vegetables and continue staying hydrated. Success starts with the basics!

In good health,

Mindy

2018 BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge

I hope your holidays were full of fun, family, friends and great memories.  It's 2018 and that means it's time for YOU to make your health a priority.  

Last year I did a little segment with KSL featuring my online BodyJoy Slim Down Program. Sarah's  featured journey is so inspiring.  Back then she had dropped 85 lbs. and over this past year she's made even more progress.  I'm excited for her to hit her overall goal size, and at the rate she's going I think she'll do it before the 7-week New Years challenge is over.  

https://www.ksl.com/?sid=42714430&nid=148&title=find-a-doable-fitness-program-to-meet-your-health-resolutions

The only difference between you and Sarah is that she applies my simple strategies and adapts them to fit her life on a daily basis. YOU too can see results by deciding that NOW is YOUR time and begin,  just like Sarah did!

There's only 3 more days to register for my 2018 New Year BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge since we start Monday, January 8.  You can participate from any location since it's Facebook-based!  Use the next 7 weeks following my simple, doable strategies to make your 2018 the healthiest year yet!  All ages, genders and fitness levels participate.  

The program has two options this year.

1.  Participating in the challenge program.

OR

2. Participating in challenge AND including my exclusive Silver Fern Brand probiotic bundle (over $160 savings vs. buying the products elsewhere).   Participants who used these last year dropped an additional 2" above the  those who didn't use the probiotic.  

My winners lost around 20 lbs. AND 20 inches, and as a group  (100 people), the overall average drop was 7 inches and 7 pounds!  If you're interested in more  details or would like to see the Silver Fern Brand bundle they're found at www.mindybuxton.com under the "learn more" button.

You can register at www.mindybuxton.com as well!   The deadline is this Friday, January 5 so you can get all the program information before our start date.  Space is limited, so I'm happy to add you to the spring challenge once this one fills.

The Facebook LIVE Kick Off Meeting will be Saturday, January 6 in the private group feed.   I look forward to helping you achieve results and experiencing BodyJoy in 2018.  Give me 7 weeks, and I'll give you RESULTS!

Here's to a year of progress, success and joy!

Accountability Determines Your Success!

Thank you to all who attended my BodyJoy Wellness Retreat at La Costa Resort a few weeks ago.  It was a fabulous weekend of celebrating the 3 main BodyJoy principles: Mind, Movement & Meals.  These principles are the foundation of my book and have turned into the successfully proven strategies I use in my Online BodyJoy Slim Down Challenges.  

Now that we’re heading into the heart of the holidays be sure to create a solid game plan and way to hold yourself accountable so you avoid the typical 7lb. gain between Halloween and New Years.  

Do you have a Halloween game plan?  Will you limit your celebration to just 1 day?  What's your plan for keeping your environment full of foods that give you results?  Where will you store all that Halloween candy come Nov. 1 so it doesn't find it's way into your mouth every time you look at it?

If you do great at making your game plan, but then after one week give up on it because you haven’t stuck to it the way you hoped---you're a perfect candidate for my Holiday BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge.  Take the stress off yourself and let me coach you to a successful, healthy body while you celebrate this holiday season!

Starting Monday, Nov. 6 my group will spend 6 weeks checking in daily to the private Facebook feed which has a meal strategy that keeps you full and off sugar because you’ll be eating foods that not only kill those cravings but satisfy you mentality.  

Why will you be so satisfied?   Because it’s not DIETY, no-calorie foods!  You get real food, real flavor, really simple!  I have recipes, a Thanksgiving menu, workouts and best of all, you get to customize the strategies to YOU and what YOU love and what YOU know gives YOU results! 

The daily check-in is THE greatest factor to keeping you on track.  My community of participants shares tips, tricks, meal pictures, food suggestions and support for when you need it most.   Participants are from all over the states, not just from Utah where I live!  

It’s not your ability that determines success; it’s your accountability that determines success!  This is why most of my online participants are going on several years of either maintaining their lost inches and fat or continually dropping inches and fat.  They are accountable to me and this awesome support group on a DAILY basis.  It's simple but so important to achieving results!

All of us need assistance on our fitness path.  Even trainers use trainers to keep us accountable and on track to improving.  There’s no shame in needing accountability or someone to help keep you moving in the right direction.  We’re in this together and I’d love to personally work with you!

Join me to end 2017 on a success!  You’ll be so empowered knowing that if you can drop inches and fat during the holidays, you can do it any time of year!  Registration closes November 2.  The group goes live that weekend and we begin tracking Monday, Nov. 6.   If you have any questions about the Challenge, you can watch an informative video and register at www.mindybuxton.com.  

Here's to a fit and fabulous holiday season!

My Travel Trifecta

Happy October!  I hope your transition into fall has been fabulous.  This is actually my favorite time of year.  I feel more of a sense of  renewal, recommitment and desire to improve vs. any other time--even more than at the New Year.

I’ve been asked about staying healthy and true to my lifestyle while traveling so I thought I’d share a few items I take with me regardless if I’m out of town overnight or for an extended period of time.  

These 3 items save me from losing ground on the health and fitness results I work so hard towards.

Let’s Talk TREATS!

Keeping it real, we have to have treats as part of our healthy lifestyle right?!?!?  These keep us IN our healthy lifestyle.  We don’t feel deprived when we have options that are satisfying AND help us see keep our results. 

I take these single serving Cenavi 70% Dark Chocolate Flats with me in my gym bag or purse.  Rather than munching on sugary cookies, pretzels or whatever else is offered on a plane or at the gas stations, I enjoy a chocolate square.  I love how these are low sugar but taste like the real deal!  They’re rich and indulgent so one is really all I need (most of the time!).  

I use these at restaurants too.  Don’t you hate it when the dessert looks so much better than it actually tastes?  Sadly, most of the time this is the case so rather than eating what’s served, I pull out my chocolate treat and enjoy every single bite of it while other’s are eating that “less than amazing” dessert just because it's on the table. 

Probiotics to the Rescue

It’s no secret our bodies get out of their routine when we travel.  At those moments, we all could use a little help to feel and function our best while on the road.

Amazing benefits of the Silver Fern Brand Ultimate Probiotic include:

·       Improved digestion and food tolerance

·       Reduced gas, bloating and digestive discomfort

·       Aided recovery of the flora after antibiotic use

·       Supported nutrient absorption

·       Reduced inflammation

·       Improved favorable immune response and reduction of allergies and asthma

·       Improved regularity of bowel movements

·       Supported growth of good bacteria

The best thing about these probiotics is they actually are what the label states!  PLUS, they're shelf stable which means you don’t have to worry about refrigerating them so they can be tossed right in your carry on with you!  Without geeking out on the research, I love them because these are…

·       100% guaranteed survivability

·       Independent, 3rd party lab proven survivability results

·       3rd party DNA verification of the strains

·       3 university tested bacillus species

·       Contain a prebiotic to help activate the probiotic bacteria in the intestines

I’ve done my research and these are the one thing my family and I take on a daily basis—ESPECIALLY while traveling!

Silver Fern Protein Shakes vs. Getting Hangry

Having a baggie of protein powder comes in handy when you need an actual meal but you don’t love the choices being offered .  Whether you’re on a plane, in a business meeting or you just don’t have access to food YOU’D like, this is easy and low maintenance when you’re in a bind.  All you need is a cup or water bottle!

Besides the fact this is the best tasting, highest nutrient powder I’ve found, it mixes great in just a bottle of water.   I've even used the chocolate flavored protein in hot water and it tastes like a hot chocolate!  Who else totally freezes on airplanes?!?!?

There you have it: my Travel Trifecta! These are my non-negotiables that go with me on every trip.  I keep them in my carry on and in my purse at all times.  

Have you had any experience with these items yet?  What do YOU do to stay close to your healthy lifestyle while you travel?  

As I'm getting ready to pack for my upcoming BodyJoy Retreat I’ll be sharing a few more "grab & go" ideas soon!  Until then, I hope these items help you on your next travel adventure, work trip or weekend get away!  

Holiday BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge

Would you like to actually drop inches, size and weight this holiday season?  Sign up for the last BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge of 2017!  The Holiday Challenge runs Nov. 6-Dec. 17.  Learn how to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season while taking care of your health and improving your fitness.  Participants drop and average of 5 lbs. & 7" because of the private online Facebook Group, double workouts, delicious food ideas & effectively simple strategies.  Register by going to my website www.mindybuxton.com.   

Real Life Heros!

I grew up wearing Wonder Woman Underoo’s and watching Linda Carter on T.V..  I still think she’s pretty awesome, but it’s funny how as an adult none of my hero’s wear capes anymore.  Between the new Wonder Woman movie and training for the Huntsman 140 bike ride I’ve had some time to reflect on the many hero’s in my life. 

Watching someone be told, “you have cancer”; watching them try to live life after being injected full of Chemo; or watching a woman sit stoically in a chair while her head is being shaved automatically turns them into your hero.  Cancer has taught me more about courage, sacrifice and the unlimited potential of the human body than anything else I've witnessed in life.

Cancer began rocking my world as a senior in high school when I lost my grandpa to leukemia.  Both of my parents are cancer survivors and I lost one of my best friends to melanoma at the age of 25.    I've lost clients, friends, and loved one's in addition to watching so many around me be affected through their own cancer experiences. Cancer changes your life—regardless if you’re one with cancer or if you’re the one feelingly so helpless sitting along side your loved one in this modern day battle.

This picture above was taken from the Ride from Reno team.  At Sacramento Pass, names of loved ones who we honor in remembrance or who we support right now are written in chalk to inspire riders that we all can do hard things. This is a pretty powerful WHY incase you need a reason to take care of your body and health!

This picture represents MY people.  They're who I’m honoring and riding for this weekend.  Some are family members, friends and two are are even strangers.  It doesn’t matter our relationship; they’ve inspired me by the way they hero through life. My REAL LIFE HEROS don’t wear capes.

This weekend take time to tell your loved one’s how much they mean to you.  Regardless of the battles you might be facing in life, remember that YOU can do hard things too.  I look forward to the day when there’s a cure for cancer.  I’m grateful for a healthy body that is able to participate in such an important cause.  Thank you Vicki Linton for inspiring me to join Warriors on Wheels and for the tireless work you and your family dedicate to cancer awareness and support.  I’m honored to be able to ride with you this Saturday!  

I'd love if you shared this post on your personal pages and encourage others to donate the last 2 days of fundraising.  I'm looking forward to showing you a sneak peak of the Primary Children's Cancer Center before it opens to the public!  Watch for my upcoming Facebook live.  

7 Days CAN Make a Difference!

This weekend I join an amazing team of people riding to raise money for Cancer Treatment.  You can support us by donating here before Friday!

This month I did a complete overhaul on my BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge.  I've learned so much the past few months being part of a private study based on scientific research with clinical nutritionists, registered dietitians, scientists, and functional & traditional medical professionals.  Now that I know better, I had to incorporate it to help others KNOW and DO better too!

Here's a comment from one of my new participants who dropped 5.6lbs. in 7 days...

“I'm actually really proud of myself for week one and super motivated by the results. I found ways to eat things I do enjoy by putting it in my log and making decisions around that. Planning ahead of time has really been key….I thought that I would have a harder time staying within 3-4 meals a day, but I end up being so full. In fact, it made me not crave treats because I was so full. I also found on busier times how to pack the right food that I need. Tonight we have a BBQ so I'm taking my own sides and logged the chicken before hand. This week my goal was to make dinner meals that my family and I can eat together but maybe I have less sides etc. It's hard with a house of all boys...most trying to put on weight. Thanks so much Mindy. This really has been an eyeopening experience.” Marni R.  

Because Marni is eating real food and adequate amounts of calories I know she didn't starve herself the past 7 days.  Inflammation from food is a REAL problem that most people don't realize.  Removing those possible foods decreases bloating and water retention, an can even decrease pain as well as help burn body fat.  Results aren't just about calories, they're about nutrients and other important factors too!

If you don't think 7 days can make a difference, try making just one change and do it consistently for 1 week!  I promise you'll have a positive result that can fuel your motivation to continue the process.  The hardest part is actually starting!  So today, commit to your one change.  Use your BodyGym daily, replace your soda with 64 oz. of water (infused with sea salt and fresh squeezed lemon or lime), watch your portion sizes are just a few ideas!

Tell me what you'll do different and next week by commenting below then check in to share your progress!  I'll keep you updated on my June participants because they're going to be right there with you making the next 7 days successful too!  

3 Tips to a Healthier Summer

I love the fact that school's out, but summer can be challenging in keeping needed structure when it comes to our health.  Here's 3 tips to help you stay healthy and happy as you enjoy the sunshine, freedom from carpools and being outdoors.  

Keep a regular sleep routine as much as possible.  If sleep is out of wack, expect your body and life to be out of wack!  Do what you can to get your rest by having a summer bedtime schedule.  Our kids need this too!  Perhaps the weekdays can be set at a reasonable bedtime rather than treating every day as if there's no curfew.  Aim for a minimum of 7 hours of sleep so your hormones can balance, your body can repair and burn fat to help you feel and look your best.  A great day begins with a great night's sleep!  In The BodyJoy Plan I list 5 major things that can negatively affect sleep.

• Caffeine after 2pm
• Sugar
• Alcohol
• Brain stimulation from electronics or any stress
• Eating too much food in the evening

Workout at least 4 days a week.  Get outside and be active with you friends and family.  Use your BodyGym when you travel.  I take mine everywhere I go!  It's the best for having a strength training option.  I've mentioned before how I think strength training is THE most important form of exercise!  You NEED it to shrink inches and fat.  To order your own BodyGym or to see some exercise ideas go to their website www.bodygym.com .  Be sure to follow them on Instagram @thebodygym too.

Make meals simple and easy.  A few tips I shared earlier this year can be found in this post http://www.mindybuxton.com/blog-collection/2017/1/17/keep-it-simple!  Eating healthy doesn't need to be time consuming and high maintenance.  Eggs, vegetables and fruits can be simple and filling.  They're even portable to take to the pool, work or in the car running errands.  

Focusing on a few manageable actions will improve your health, decrease your inches and give you greater BodyJoy!

Giveaway Time...

For a chance to win a FREE BodyGym and FREE The BodyJoy Plan book, share this post on your Facebook  or Instagram today!  Tag your friends to sign up for my FREE recipes on www.mindybuxton.com and I'll announce the winner this weekend!  More tags give you more entries!  I did restock more copies of The BodyJoy Plan for those of you wanting a helpful but light summer read!  They're in the Proshop at the LifeCentre Athletic Club.

La Costa Resort Update...

Rooms are already being booked and flights are being reserved so I wanted you to know a few more details...

You reserve your room directly with the hotel.  

LaCoasta's PHONE # is: (760) 438-9111. Just say you're with the BodyJoy Wellness Retreat and they'll book the discounted room rate for you.  Email me at www.mindybuxton.com once you've booked your room and let me know,  I'll add you to the retreat communications so you get the latest updates and information.

When it gets closer to the retreat I'll invoice you for the retreat fee since I don't have to pay for meals and spaces until then. The schedule is outlined and is available if you'd like to see it! My last BLOG post http://www.mindybuxton.com/blog-collection/2017/5/16/did-you-hear-the-big-news has all the retreat details incase you missed it!

We'll be starting around 6pm Thursday evening and having activities through Saturday night.  Check-out is around 11am Sunday but feel free to extend your check out or stay as long as you'd like using the amenities until your flight!

I'm so looking forward to this get away and would love if you get to come too!  People are coming as couples, mom & daughter groups and neighbors. Participants have mentioned they're finding great deals on SouthWest and Alaska Air into San Diego for this particular weekend!  

Did you hear the BIG news?

I'm happy to announce my BodyJoy Wellness Retreat is now hosted at La Costa Resort & Spa in beautiful Carlsbad, California!  

I'd love for you to join me October 12-15, 2017! 

Grab your girlfriends, mom, sisters or favorite female and come enjoy a well-deserved spa sabbatical at the #1 rated Wellness Resort in the world! 

The BodyJoy Wellness Retreat Includes

• 3 nights at La Costa Resort & Spa
• Breakfast & dinners in the top rated resort restaurants
• Daily activities such as outdoor BodyGym workouts, hiking Torrey Pines, yoga and other workouts (appropriate for all fitness levels)
• Daily Chopra Center Meditations
• An off location lunch & learn workshop at a local restaurant
• 1 entry to my EXCLUSIVE Retreat Giveaway for a Free 1-night stay at LaCosta
• Spa services discount & relaxation time just for you!

The retreat fee is only $245  which includes everything listed above plus a BodyJoy Retreat swag bag.

Double Occupancy Room* rates are $215 per night (regularly $389) or $107 per person per night.    

I'd love you to Join me for a weekend of rest, fun, self-care and restorative movement in beautiful California.

Groups of girlfriends, mom & daughter groups, and individuals are all signing up to participate in this amazing experience, so forward this to anyone you'd like to attend with! 

For questions, retreat schedule or to register contact me at mindy@mindybuxton.com.

*Single occupancy rooms available as well! 

Space is limited at this event rate so register today!

Thank you Silver Fern Brand, BodyGym, Chatbooks, LifeCentre, Whole Foods, XR Nutrition and the other sponsors supporting the BodyJoy Wellness Retreat!

Here's a little sneak peak from some of my past visits at La Costa...

Save the date...The 2017 BodyJoy Retreat at La Costa Resort is coming this fall!

Hey Ladies…

Grab your girlfriends, mom, sisters or favorite female and come enjoy a well-deserved spa sabbatical at the #1 rated Wellness Resort in the world! 

My BodyJoy Wellness Retreat is now at La Costa Resort & Spa in beautiful Carlsbad, CA!

October 12-15, 2017

The BodyJoy Retreat Includes

• 3 nights at the beautiful Omni La Costa Resort
• Breakfasts & dinners at the top rated resort restaurants
• Daily activities such as outdoor BodyGym workouts, hiking Torrey Pines, yoga and other workouts (appropriate for all fitness levels)
• Daily Chopra Center Meditations
• An off location lunch & learn workshop at a local restaurant
• 1 entry to my EXCLUSIVE Retreat Giveaway for a Free 1-night stay at LaCosta
• Spa services discount & relaxation time just for you!

The retreat fee is only $245  which includes everything listed above plus a BodyJoy Retreat swag bag.

Double Occupancy Room* $215 per night (regularly $389) or $107 per person per night.    

I'd love you to Join me for a weekend of rest, fun, self-care and restorative movement in beautiful California!  Groups of girlfriends, mom's & daughter groups, individuals are all signing up to participate in this amazing experience.

For questions, retreat schedule or to register contact me at mindy@mindybuxton.com.

*Single occupancy rooms available as well! 

 Thank you Silver Fern Brand, BodyGym, Chatbooks, LifeCentre, Whole Foods, and the other sponsors supporting the BodyJoy Wellness Retreat!  

Space is limited at this event rate so register today!

Bodyjoy

Slim Down Challenge participants Brenda & Nate Bennett are featured in People Magazine!  See my Instagram for how YOU can win a FREE spot starting June 5th or register at www.mindybuxton.com!

Tip #3 of Top 3

The past few weeks I've shared my top 3 tips in fitness since I turned 43 in April.  

1.  You're never stuck where you're at; your body can always improve!

2. If you only have one choice for exercise, choose strength training! 

And #3 is...

Focus on progress, not perfection!  This is the most important tip I constantly remind my clients and my challenge participants.  Perfection is so deceptive.  It's an unattainable state yet we're constantly expecting it of ourselves; especially when it comes to a fitness or food program.  

We all know this, but I think we forget so let me remind you...nobody is perfect, there is no perfect eating or workout plan and YOU don't have to be perfect to get results.  Perfectionism leads to self defeating thoughts, actions and literally prevents people from hitting their goal.  Focusing on perfect eating, exercise or any other area of life is a sure way to experience discouragement, frustration and unsupportive behaviors.

Try this...let go of perfectionism and replace it with progress instead.   Progress gives you so many opportunities to succeed because it isn't about only one option like perfectionism.  Progress can be made daily, at any moment and can keep your willpower and motivation strong since you have limitless opportunities to experience progress.

I love watching people change from a perfectionist mindset to being progress focused.  They're able to continue moving forward with their goals because they know one unhealthy decision isn't the end of the world or doesn't mean they're "off" their program now.  

There's hope in progress and that hope leads to more positive choices so you can actually experience joy while you're on the journey to hitting your goal vs. waiting to be happy once you achieve it.  It's possible to have the best of both worlds if progress is your driving force.

This is a simple but important concept to implement!  If you've experienced self-defeating moments of giving up on yourself because perfection has been your measuring stick, I have a challenge for you!  Give it one week---pay attention to all the little moments you experience progress (drinking water, walking more, getting in a workout, eating 1 vegetable, etc.) and see how that changes your actions.  

When you change your mindset, your body will follow.  I look forward to hearing about your progress as you continue on your personal fitness journey!  

Please share this on your Facebook page if you think it can help others with their fitness goals!  There's room for all of us to succeed!

June BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge

My June BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge begins Monday, June 5.  Space is almost full so register at www.mindybuxton.com by clicking the sign up button.  I have a wait list for the next 2 challenges, if you'd like to be added email me at mindy@mindybuxton.com.  I have an online only and live workouts option!  

An example of one participant's progress...congratulations Marie!

Mindy's Simple & Healthier Nut Butter Cups

It's no secret how much sugar affects our health and body goals.  The hardest part of staying consistent with a healthy lifestyle is giving up "treats".  What if you didn't have to give up treats?  What if you swapped out just a few ingredients so your treats support your goals rather than sabotage AND they still taste great?

By swapping out sugar for ingredients with flavor and nutrients, you'll have an easier time making and keeping results that you've worked so hard for.

This Silver Fern Brand Kakato Sweetener is the only sugar replacement that my body loves.  I hate the way sugar alcohol's, agave, and many of the other replacements taste, affect my recipes or make me feel.  Research now shows most of those are unhealthy!  Even though they don't contain sugar, their highly processed ingredients affect gut inflammation due to aggravating chemicals.  

Kakato Sweetener is a mix of pre and probiotics, stevia and monk fruit extract.  I love it because it doesn't change the way my recipe is meant to taste and it doesn't affect my stomach the way those other replacements always have!  

Mindy's Simple & Healthier Nut Butter Cups

Makes 24 mini muffin tin sized cups

Calories 60, Carbs. 2.6, Fat 7.5g, Protein 1.8g *

Ingredients:

2 scoops Silver Fern Brand KAI Meal Shake Chocolate Flavor

8 Tbsp. Coconut Oil

1 Tsp. Silver Fern Brand Kakato Sweetener

8 Tsp. Any Nut butter (I used my cashew/almond butter )

Directions:

Spray mini muffin tins with non-stick spray

Microwave in a glass bowl 1 scoop of protein powder, 4 Tbsp. coconut oil, 1/2 tsp. Kakato sweetener until just melted.  Stir and spoon out a little melted chocolate into the muffin tins--this amount fills all 24 tins.

Freeze for 1-2 hours.

Remove from tins from freezer and using your Tsp., scoop out and add 1 tsp. of nut butter into each tin.  Microwave the remaining 1 scoop of protein powder, 4 Tbsp. coconut oil, 1/2 tsp. Kakato sweetener until just melted.  Stir and top off a little melted chocolate onto the  nut butter.  

Freeze another 1-2 hours, remove from freeze and pop out the nut butter cups by turning tins upside down on counter.  Store in a baggie in the freezer.  (They're a bit softer and separate a little when stored in the fridge.)

*Calories based on an almond nut butter

If you need just a little treat that can help you stay on your healthy lifestyle plan give these a try!  

Silver Fern offer's my clients a discount by using the code Mindy10 or BODYJOY10.  I've linked the ingredients so you can easily find them on the bottom of my home page www.mindybuxton.com. Thank you Silver Fern for giving us the best pricing compared to amazon or their direct website!

They're a Utah based company who uses quality ingredients and cares about helping other's improve their health.  That's why I use Silver Fern Brand items to create healthier swaps for my family!  

Tip #2 of Top 3 for 43!

Number two of my 3 Best Tips series is Strength Train!  If you only have time for one type of exercise, do Strength Training!   Did you know your metabolism shifts in springtime and is managed by the hypothalamus, which is the brain region that chooses where energy should go and how much? In spring, energy supplies are sent to the more active areas of the body like the muscles, so this is a great time to devote yourself to strength exercises. 

Strength training can increase how many calories you burn at rest, it helps you shrink inches, it strengthens you inside and out and can even help you get a cardio burn if done with little rest.

It’s the best return on your time spent exercising and can be done anytime, anywhere with just body weight.  My favorites are push ups (you can do them off a wall or floor), squats, lunges, triceps dips (off floor or a chair), planks and lunges. 

I challenge you to get in these exercises at least 2 times in your day over the next few days so you can feel the positive benefits.  Do them in the middle of your day when you hit a slump, Do them when you think you’re hungry to distract you from eating out of habit.  Do them outside or in the office or kitchen.  There’s no need to even change into workout clothes—just start and do as many reps as you can at the times of day which work for you!

Know that small bouts of exercise like these few strength moves will help you look and feel your best.  That’s what BodyJoy is all about!

Registration for the May BodyJoy Slim Down Closes Friday, April 28!

"Fun Fact: I was not loving how tight my jeans were today, until I realized I had thrown on the smaller size I couldn't wear last month. That was better than finding $20 in my pocket."

Gwen S., BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge Participant

Don’t forget to register for my May BodyJoy Slim Down challenge!  Registration is closing so the information can go out to participants to get YOU ready for Monday’s start date.  www.mindybuxton.com

Top 3 Tips as I Celebrate 43!

I’m not a big birthday lover, but I sure appreciate the wisdom and knowledge I’ve learned with getting older.  Thinking back over the past year, I have 3 Top Tips that help us thrive and live true BodyJoy.  Why 3?  Because I’m now 43 which is “old” according to my teenagers but “still just a baby” according to my parents and 85 year old client.  It’s all relative, right?!?! I’ll be sending these tips out over then next few days so here’s #1…

You're never stuck where you're at; your body can always improve!  Your body can change at any given moment.  This is such a blessing!  I started my birthday last year being diagnosed with MRSA.  That bacteria and the protocol for eradicating it truly broke me more than any other health condition I’ve endured. 

I remember moments of wanting to give up and literally die during those harsh antibiotics and the daily visits to my Dr. to keep me from being hospitalized.   I never knew that side effects from antibiotics could be worse than the bacteria it was killing---but with MRSA they are.  I remember thinking I looked and felt the way my mom did when she was going through radiation or chemo—the only difference was I still had my hair. 

I had to physically start over with walking---just into another room---because I was so weak after 2 months of bed rest.  This experience gave me the opportunity to remember we should never underestimate the importance of starting small when it comes to improving your body and health.  The simple things like a walk, stretching and doing only 5 minutes of movement at a time made a huge difference in getting me back to just participating in life.  With consistency, I was able to build back up so I could return to my physically demanding job of personal training. 

MRSA might not be relatable, being frustrated with health and/or the body due to pain, sickness or conditions has affected us all at one point or another.  Regardless of your condition or how you feel now, there is always something you can do to feel better.  Starting small and easy is important vs. getting impatient and over doing movement or giving up completely because you feel like complete junk. 

I’m here to tell you that EVERY situation can be improved when it comes to your body or health. You’ll find the answers in the simple, basic things like standing, walking and stretching.  Anyone can do at least one of those things daily.  1 or 5 minutes will make a difference and common sense plays a key roll in progress. This is such a great thing because you don't need to be extreme or spend tons of time or money on looking for answers.  

Vegetables are necessary to nourish your body and can be eaten in 2 seconds because you don’t even need to cook most of them.  Water is essential for you to be your best--it's free and you have access to it anywhere you go.   Simple basics should be your first priority regardless of where you're at in health.

One year later, I can honestly say this is the healthiest I’ve been in my entire life.  My kids and T.J. roll their eyes at me because almost daily I comment that, "I’m so happy to be pain free" or "I’m so happy to be moving how I WANT to now" and that my life isn’t consumed with healing the way I’ve had to spend my time in past due to dis-ease. 

Sometimes our biggest challenges can bring bigger blessings once we put in the attention, time and honor what we need in that moment.  Consistency and mastering the basics are key to any success in life—especially when it comes to your health. 

Regardless if you’re health is thriving or if you’re in the worst situation you’ve experienced, know that by making small efforts daily you will improve.  Keep things simple and basic because it’s easy to get overwhelmed and impatient!  

Are you doing the basics?  Are you drinking at least 64oz of water each day?  Are you making sleep a priority?  Can you eat more vegetables?  Can you opt for baked or grilled vs. fried food?  You might now think these things are a big deal, but you'll realize by doing them they impact how you look and feel more than you expected.  

Know that YOU know your body better than any one.   Come up with 3 small things you can do for your body starting now.   You’ll be closer to creating a new experience and body!  Remember that only 1 minute of movement and 1 simple vegetable can make a difference! Your success is found in the basics!

Join my May BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge beginning Monday, May 1!

Register online at www.mindybuxton.com to join my 4 week May BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge.  I have less than 10 spots available and I'd love for you to be one of them before it closes this Thursday, April 27!  You'll eat real food, you won't diet & you customize my successful strategies so you keep your results long-term!

The official announcement from my last challenge with the winning results...

"Congratulations Kirin Kreb for being the March BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge Champion dropping an impressive 16" and 16.5lbs in 4 weeks!  Jennifer Tuttle Alle was in second place dropping 11" and 10 lbs. and Marie Mendenhal was third dropping 9.75" and 5 lbs.  You ladies have a free spot in the May BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge and Kirin will receive the Amazon gift card prize.    May registration is live on my website and spots are limited to 80.  The past 3 months have sold out so register soon!"