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?

With BodyGym, Exercise CAN Fit Into Your Life!

Why is BODYGYM my go-to workout? Because it fits seamlessly into my life.

If I have a few minutes in the morning I love to do a little stretching with the bar.  Standing stretches help me loosen up as I start my day.

If I find myself having five minutes between changing laundry, watering flowers, errand, emails or picking a few weeds I can squeeze in five sticker exercises from the bar for one minute each.  

In the evening I love laying on the floor stretching with the BodyGym band as we’re watching something or talking together in our tv room.

Today I found myself in the kitchen talking with my daughters on a FaceTime call so I went through the exercises on the front side of the bar.  9 minutes is all it took while I was in regular clothes—fitting it into my day.

Exercise doesn’t need to look like a 30 or 60 minute workout done to a DVD or in an exercise class. (Although, I love participating in movement this way when that fits my schedule.)

I love doing BodyGym with others and I’m grateful for those opportunities when I get to teach—especially groups of women and teenage girls.

How are YOU doing on YOUR movement?  Where can you squeeze in 5-10 minutes throughout the day? 

Where do you keep your BodyGym?  Is it in a room where you rarely see it?

Is it still in the box? Don’t feel guilty—sometimes we do that!

If the only thing you did today was put that BODYGYM in a place where you see it, I promise you’ll use it more.  

You can find cute baskets or leather boxes that blend into your living space so you see your BodyGym, but it doesn’t look messy or out of place.

As a trainer, I encourage people to schedule workout time and stick to it the way they would any important appointment. If this isn’t happening in your busy life right now, challenge yourself to do just 5 to 10 minutes of BodyGym wherever you can in your day.  There’s no need to even change into workout clothes if you don’t have time.

Every minute of exercise contributes to your well-being, health and progress. Make it fit into your life, especially during these busy summer days.  Every and any minute counts!!!

Tag me on Instagram if you accept this challenge because I plan to share a little BodyGym joy for those posts showing us just how DOABLE BodyGym can be!  Just use #thebodygym so I can find you as I’ll be announcing the winners throughout the week.

Here’s to health and happiness as you simply incorporate more movement this week!  

Still Need a Body

Gym?

You can find yours here!

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!

Ideas for a “Stay Safe” Mother’s Day!

This year has been unprecedented with how we celebrated Easter and spring birthdays.  Mother’s Day is about a week away (you’re welcome for the reminder!) and just because we’re following the “stay safe” initiative doesn’t mean you can’t honor the women in your life!

Here’s a few ideas…

Every Woman Deserves a BodyGym!

Muscle is a girl’s best friend, so it’s only obvious that the ladies in your life need a BodyGym. It’s affordable, portable, light weight and it’s an entire gym in the palm of her hand!  BodyGym has been helping women reshape their bodies for over 15 years! People all over the country are using it since the pandemic ensued and I’ve loved hearing their progress and results the past 7 weeks as stories have been shared on social media.  

There’s two promotions going on right now.  Use the code MOTHERSDAY to get 10% off and you get 25% off any orders of 2 or more. Give the gift of health (and even gift one to yourself) so mom can benefit and think of you everyday she exercises.  Click here for the BodyGym website, you have time to order and receive it before May 11!  You can watch the latest BodyGym Good Things Utah clip here.

Bring the Spa to Her.

Start her day off with cozy robes, a bubble bath, maybe a facial, cucumbers for an eye mask, a manicure or pedicure, and a plateful of mixed berries or her favorite fruit!  

Ladies, here’s a 5 minute tutorial for the perfect DIY manicure in the comfort of your home from my cute friend Danielle!

Make Her a Healthy Meal.  

Your lady deserves to be nourished! What’s her favorite meal?  Have the family prepare, cook, serve the meal, and don’t forget the clean up party after so mom doesn’t need to lift a finger.  

Delicious food can be simple with a beautiful salad, a grilled or baked protein, 2 of her favorite vegetable sides and some dipped strawberries for dessert. You don’t need to spend all day cooking!

Here’s a simple recipe from my Clean, Simple Eating Recipe E-Book. It’s a strawberry focused salad—don’t forget to dip the left over strawberries in chocolate!!! You might want them as an appetizer instead of dessert. In honor of the amazing women I love and admire, my ebook is half price through the month of May, just click the title above!

Mindy’s Sweet and Tangy Strawberry Salad

Makes 4 servings, approximately 180 calories per serving

This recipe makes enough of the tart 'n' tasty dressing to enjoy on a few more salads or as a marinade for the week.

Salad Ingredients:

8 cups or a container of fresh spinach or a romaine mix

3 cups sliced strawberries

4 tsp. minced sweet onion

4 tsp. minced green onion

4 oz. pumpkin or sunflower seeds

Dressing Ingredients: (makes 1 cup; use extra within 1 week for other salads):

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

2 Tbsp. dry mustard

2 Tbsp. poppy seeds

1/2 green onion, minced

Put all dressing ingredients in blender and blend until creamy. Place all salad ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Add dressing to salad as needed and toss until thoroughly mixed.

Write a Heart-Felt Card.

Don’t get me wrong, we definitely appreciate flowers! But of all the gifts we receive, moms save and cherish cards most! My saved Mother’s Day cards are beautiful reminders of moments in time as my girls have grown from toddlers to young adults.  I still re-read the last Mother’s Day card my mom wrote me before she passed away.  These are timeless!  What woman doesn’t reserve a card May 11 regardless if she’s a mother or not?!?!

Get out that card stock, markers and let your creative juices flow as you express your gratitude and appreciation for the special women in your life.

Move Together…Even If It’s Just 10 Minutes.

Plan a family-friendly hike, walk or bike ride.  If mom isn’t into hiking, go on a simple walk around the neighborhood.  Get outside together & enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature. Time in nature is bonding, healing, invigorating, peaceful and much needed, especially these days!

Making Mother’s Day memorable is possible in 2020!  I’d love to hear what you have planned.

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.   

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!

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!"

Try Green Spanish Eggs... Simple, Creative & Healthy!

One of my BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge participants, Alba went to Spain last year.  She's been making the most incredible Spanish Eggs and sharing them with me ever since. Today I decided to use the chopped veggies from my St. Patrick's Day "All Things Green Salad" (recipe posted just a few days ago on my blog www.mindybuxton.com) and toss them in a skillet with two 🍳 eggs and six egg whites. 

This was a simple, fast meal thanks to having pre-cut veggies on hand!  It's a delicious option worth trying anytime you have less than 30 minutes.  It saves great in the fridge for a few days and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or dinner.  I'm a huge fan of cooking once but eating several times!  This makes 4-6 servings: plus, kids & husband approved!  (Even with sneaking in a few veggies they normally don't eat, everyone cleaned their plates and my oldest daughter ate it twice today!)

💚 Preheat oven to 350 while sautéeing chopped veggies (use any you have on hand) on med-high heat in olive oil or spray for about 5-7 minutes 

💚 Wisk eggs & egg whites with salt, pepper & basil seasoning into a bowl, pour into skillet over the veggies & cook for about 5 mins

💚 Finish in over at 350 for 10-15 minutes! 

“WAHOOO!!! I am so excited about my results this week! I am down 8.8lbs!!! (Yay for getting rid of bloat from soda etc). I also got 271 points this week, this includes the points for my weight dropped.”

— Kirin K., March BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge Week 1 Results

If you want to see what my BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge is all about, go to www.mindybuxton.com.  Details for the challenge and the awesome probiotics & protein powder are found here.  I love how the Silver Fern Brand probiotics are helping people get even better results by reducing sugar cravings and rebalancing gut issues.  Use the discount code Mindy10 for the best pricing on any Silver Fern Brand items and ELEVATE your results by clicking the picture on my website.

I'm adding participants for the May challenge waiting list.  You can register directly on my website by clicking the "sign up" button.

Mug Cake for Breakfast? Yes Please!!!

Yes I'm a trainer, but sometimes I just want dessert for breakfast.  Am I the only one?  My Silver Fern Protein Mug Cake is the best way to enjoy something truly decadent while getting in my protein.  The greatest part, there's no added sugar but this is perfectly sweet.  I've been known to enjoy this for lunch, dinner or a snack as well!  

Thanks to Cenavi Chocolate Flats, I only need 1/2 a square to get warm, gooey, melted chocolate that allows me to have this daily if I want.  Bonus: you never feel deprived because this fits into a healthy lifestyle AND you'll still fit into your favorite jeans!  

 Here's the recipe...

Mindy's Silver Fern Mug Cake

• 1 Scoop Silver Fern Brand Chocolate Protein Shake (I've also used their Chocolate Mint flavor which is fabulous!)
• 1 tbsp, Coconut Flour
• .50 tsp, Baking Powder
• 1 tbsp(s), Cocoa, dry powder, unsweetened
• .25 Cup, Vanilla Coconut Milk (or milk of your choice)
• 1 tsp,  Kakato Natural Sweetener  (or sweetener of your choice)
• 1 large, Egg (or egg substitute)
• 1 tbsp. Almond Extract (or vanilla)

Add all the dry ingredients in a microwaveable mug or bowl, mix well.  Add the milk, egg & extract into your dry ingredients and stir until well mixed.  Microwave for 1:30 seconds.  

Break up 1/2 a Cenavi Chocolate Flat to sprinkle on top (only 35 cals.).  Optional:  I add a dollop of SoDelicious Coconut Whipped Cream (only 30 cals.).  

Nutrition Facts: 247 cals., 11g fat, 20 g. carb., 21g protein.  You can adapt the calories by using egg whites only or making any other substitutions to your liking.  

Rest assured this is husband and kid approved.  Both the whey and plant-based protein powders work great, plus you can change the flavor to your preference.  Silver Fern's vanilla and cookies & cream protein flavors are a big hit with my girls as well as the chocolate and chocolate mint (my personal fav)!  

By using the coupon code Mindy10 you can go to www.mindybuxton.com where you'll see the Silver Fern box at the bottom of my home page.  This code will get you the best prices for any of these 3 items mentioned or your favorite Silver Fern Brand foods.  

4 weeks of the BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge...

Sign up for my March BodyJoy Slim Down challenge at www.mindybuxton.com.  Registration closes February 26.  See how many inches you can drop in only 4 weeks!  Share this Blog Post on your page for a chance to win a free spot!  Winner will be announced by March 1.

A Winning Idea for the Upcoming Big Game!

Greetings Fitness Friends,

As a pouting Denver Bronco fan, I  just realized that the BIG GAME is this upcoming weekend.  I thought I’d pass on my simple, option-loaded, Ceviche recipe that can be enjoyed several different ways.  

Regardless if you prepare this dish or your own recipe, I challenge you to prepare one thing healthier at this year's football party!  Remember to have a few health food options along side those  treats we all enjoy!  There's room for both, right?!?!

Mindy’s Ceviche Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes to prepare, let soak overnight in fridge.

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. of raw shrimp chopped (you can also use mahi-mahi, red snapper 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

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 her favorite hot sauce!) ALSO, if you leave the avocado pit in the mix it won’t turn brown.

Creative 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 over cut cucumbers as cucumber nachos

Serve in hard shells for ceviche tacos

Serve on a tostada shell

Serve nacho style with tortilla chips

Use ceviche as your veggie dip or chip dip

Serves 8. Approx. 80 calories per serving of the fish ceviche mix.

By popular demand, I'll be sending my BodyGym Football Challenge out at the end of the week to give you a fun option for enjoying the BIG game! I hope you have a happy and healthy week! 

For a few more free recipes go to www.mindybuxton.com to sign up for my Most Made's Recipes!

Keep it Simple!

So...January's a little more than half way over and this is the time when people tend to get burnt out on their "resolutions."  Why are they so hard to stick with?  When you do a complete overhaul on your life with new food, new workout routines, and eliminating tons of things you used to do, it gets overwhelming.  

When you keep things simple, your goals become manageable and results will show up through consistency.  

Simplify Workouts.  Just move anyway you like for at least 30 minutes a day.  Go on a walk, jump on a tramp, stretch, go to a class, do push ups and squats---any movement counts and some exercise is better than no movement at all!  BodyGym is my favorite go-to since I can do it when and where I want.  Women underestimate how important strength training is to their health, not to mention inch loss.  Experts are now saying it's as crucial as getting yearly exams.  Strength training is necessary for our health--and in my case, my happiness and mental sanity!

Make it easy on yourself by scheduling it a week at a time.  Get out your calendar or phone and write in appointments that work for you.  Treat it like any other important appointment you schedule.  Write in exactly what you'll do for your workout--a walk, body weight exercises, swim, etc..  This takes the guess work out once the time comes around.  

Keep Food Simple. Have a protein or two on hand at all times.  If you've got eggs and chicken in your fridge all you need to do it grab a few vegetables and you've got yourself a simple meal.  How easy is it to make an omelet or throw together a salad, taco or soup with just a few food items?  Cook in large batches so you only have to do it sparingly, but you can eat off that meal a few times.

Do What Works for You.  Keep yourself focused on your needs and your goals.  Eat only foods you love, move in ways that your body loves and trust that if you have joy in the process you'll continue to do it.  Consistency, not deprivation is what leads to success.  I hope you can simplify your eating and exercise so you'll continue to keep some of these New Years habits going all year long.  If for whatever reason you didn't start improving your health January 1st, it's never to late to start.  It's an awesome thing that simple leads to results!

Sign up for more tips & free recipes below or by going to  at www.mindybuxton.com. 

Elevating Your Treats

My online BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge includes 7 simple strategies. I don't believe in extreme rules or restrictions, just smart concepts that've been proven to help you hit your goal.  One strategy I focus on is eliminating processed sugar & artificial sweeteners.  I encourage participants to aim for 6 or less grams of sugar so they can eat it more mindfully.  We avoid sugar alcohols and look for stevia, monk fruit extract or other fruit as a smart alternative.

Use these tips taken from my  Recipe E-Book.  

Make your own homemade ice cream by doing ½ the sugar amount the recipe calls for. Use coconut sugar rather than white sugar. You'll love the flavor it adds not to mention the nutrients!

Try using in-season fresh fruit chopped or sliced as a simple, fast, delicious dessert.  Think fruit bowl once in a while!

I enjoy slicing fresh apples or pears in a bowl.  I sprinkle them with cinnamon and a little Silver Fern Brand vanilla protein powder, adda bit of vanilla or almond extract and microwave for 2 minutes.  Sometimes I add just a pinch of sea salt.  You can drizzle melted peanut butter, sprinkle with chocolate protein powder or melt a little chocolate over yours as well.  That leads me to my favorite option...chocolate!

Sometimes we just need a taste of something intense to get satisfaction.  Think quality of flavor vs. quantity!  I love great quality chocolate such as Cenavi Chocolate Bark or the Theo Organic Mint Chocolate bar.  Just a piece or two can satisfy my craving for something sweet.  

You have to try the Cranberry, Blueberry & Ginger Cenavi bark!  It's my absolute favorite.  I love how I don't even need a full serving, just a small piece to get the sweet fix I need so I can keep my cravings under control. I love that these barks have probiotics and fiber in them but taste like "regular" chocolate.  They offer 3 delicious flavors!  Treats should be savored with each taste and enjoyed without guilt, right?!?!

When you ELEVATE your idea of treats, you find you can enjoy them without sacrificing your goals.  Remember it's not about perfection, deprivation, or being extreme. There's room for treats in moderation.  

Through the month of January, use the coupon code SIlverFern10 for a discount on any protein powder or chocolate bark items found by clicking the chocolate above. I bet these chocolate barks will become your new favorite!  I've added a link to my website on the bottom right  just to make it  easier for you to find.  Watch for my upcoming FaceBook LIVE for more ELEVATED treat ideas!