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.

All Things Green!

Happy St. Patrick's week!  Use the holiday to your advantage by encouraging your family to eat as many green veggies as possible between now and Thursday.  Here's my "All Things Green Salad".  

Use any or all veggies you enjoy.  Here's what I did...

Romaine lettuce 

Cucumbers 

Celery 

Snap Peas 

Avocado 

Pumpkin seeds

Broccoli (raw or steamed then cooled)

Green beans  (raw or steamed then cooled)

Asparagus (raw or roasted then cooled)

Marinated Artichoke hearts

Sauerkraut 

Fresh Parsley 

Fresh Basil 

Garlic Sea Salt 

Everyday Seasoning 

Use an avocado-based or vinaigrette dressing.  There's a ton of flavor from the herbs, marinated artichoke hearts and/or by adding sauerkraut that much dressing isn't needed.  Make it your own and see how many healthy green foods you can eat these next few days!

Congratulations Marci on a successful first week of the March BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge!

A Better YOU is Just a Click Away!

Some of the best moments of my job are times I open my phone and see a message like this... 

"Mindy,

I wanted to take a minute to say, thank you. And I really mean it from the bottom of my heart.  One of the factors that led me to participate in your group for the last seven weeks was that my wife wanted to be a part of it, and I thought it would be a great activity to do together. Not that I didn’t need it, because if anyone needed to realign their thinking and attitude about lifestyle, that person was me. It was a fun seven weeks, facing the fact that I didn’t eat nearly enough vegetables, I ate way too much junk food, I had way too many excuses as to why the lifestyle I was living was governed and controlled by forces that were out of my control. Just an excuse. Anyway this is a testament to your program.

It wasn’t extremely tasking to eat with more thought. I surely didn’t exercise as much as I could have. (I will blame my knee for part of that. Awe yes an excuse). I had no problem with the water. I thought the program was extremely well balanced, and I am really pleased that I had a few positive changes. Besides losing 16.6 lbs. & 17.25", I'm almost totally off my blood pressure medication. I don’t have a fraction of the heartburn and acid reflux I had before and I feel so much better. And as a bonus, I went from a size 36 pant to a 33.

I loved the Silver Fern products, the probiotics, protein powders and especially their dang chocolate. I thought they were all magnificent and I am positive they were a factor in any success I had. I really can’t say enough good things about their products and hope for their continuing success. I will continue to use them. I didn't take much of a chance to use the BodyGym but I'm actually looking forward to using it as I continue to try to get a little better, stronger and healthier from knee surgery. Thank you for introducing me to that piece of equipment, I find it a really cool item. Again Mindy, thank you. It was a lot of fun and a great learning experience. I hope you have great success in the future.

Jake"

Thank you Jake for allowing me to share this with others!  If you've ever doubted that you can't change for any reason, you are no different than Jake!   Never underestimate the power of basic, simple strategies.  

Grab your spouse or loved one like Jake did, and join me next Monday on the private Facebook group for my March BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge.  You can participate from anywhere in the world!  Change is possible for each and everyone of us!  

Register by clicking the "sign up" button at www.mindybuxton.com by Friday before registration closes.  Space is nearly full.  You can pre-register for May as well since there will not be an April challenge.  

Have a healthy & happy day!

BodyJoy, BodyGym & Silver Fern Brand Probiotics... A winning trifecta!

20.4 lbs. & 17.5" in just 7 weeks!

It's been an awesome 7 weeks spending time online through my private Facebook group with over 80 participants doing my BodyJoy ELEVATED Slim Down Challenge.  Basically, I use 7 strategies that people follow.  It's focused on positive things to add to your life to improve your mind, movement and meals--just like I outline in my The BodyJoy Plan book.  We have daily coaching and communication through Facebook providing recipes, video demos, positive quotes and what ever support participants as for.  

I'm telling you, accountability is the key to seeing success because my program is BASIC!  We forget that basic and simple get results.  The downfall of people not hitting goals---you actually have to DO those basic things.  Results are in our ACTIONS done on a daily basis.

This month I decided to do things differently since I've had such an impressive result with a probiotic that I found.  I was thrilled that it's helped me improve a few health conditions I've spend the past several years working on and I loved the fact that this brand happens to be a local company.  

My challenge participants were given the option to use Silver Fern Brand probiotics and protein powder.  More than half of them chose to join me in putting these products to the test and here's what happened with the top finishers...

My biggest losers dropped all over 15 inches and pounds.

Kelly W. dropped 20.4 lbs. & 17.5"
Jake J. dropped 16.6 lbs. & 17.25"
Lonnie E. dropped 16.5 lbs. & 15"

How awesome is it that a female hit the largest change!?!  Not to take anything away from my hard working, dedicated guys; but us girls just don't have the same muscle mass to start out with, that's why you typically see men drop more and faster than the ladies.

I had participants from 12-69 years old.  Out of the handful of teens, the Top Teenage Champion  was Abigail S. dropping 2 lbs. but 16.5".   Yes, you read that right, 16.5"!  She was waking up early before school or making the time in the evenings using her BodyGym to get 30 mins. of exercise a day.  What a great example!

Four other fabulous females include Robyn D. dropping 7lbs. & 16.6", Linda D. dropping 8.2lbs. & 15.7",  Mindy S. dropping 10.5lbs. & 12.75"and Shannon L. dropping 10.75 & 12.25. There were an additional 4 ladies who lost over 10" too!

I was beyond pleased with this group!  My results show that the Silver Fern Brand products raised the group average inch drop by almost 2".  I've definitely been impressed with the participants feedback on reduced cravings, improved immune systems and improved stomach experience from those who had a few issues before the challenge began. 

I was impressed that my own body responded with the additional 2" drop compared to my typical results of the BodyJoy strategies without Silver Fern.  I appreciated the fact that over 70% of participants actually finished the challenge which is well above the "less than half" average of typical fitness challenges.

Needless to say, I'm going to continue to offer the Silver Fern Brand products in my upcoming challenges, including the March challenge, which closes registration this Friday!  I'm excited to roll out a new BodyGym workout calendar to the group based on watching my biggest losers use it.  The combination of BodyJoy strategies, BodyGym workouts and the Silver Fern Brand probiotics & protein powder make it an effective trifecta when it comes to changing you body!   The results speak for themselves.  Thank you to all those participants who did the 7 week challenge with me and I look forward to those who will join me the next 4 weeks to make March a month of progress and success!  You can find more information on both my challenge and the Silver Fern Brand products on www.mindybuxton.com.  

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.

February Favorite Things

NOW is the perfect time to refocus on your health if January was a little rough.  Simple swaps can make your body and life just a little better without being overwhelming.  I thought I'd give you a few of my favorite's incase you needed ideas for Valentine's Day.  These would make great gifts for loved one's or a much deserved reward for yourself!

BodyGym is my absolute go-to; not just for my own body, but for all of my clients ages 12 through 85.   I've had the privilege of using BodyGym for over 14 years now.  I witnessed the very first pilot test group and have been watching impressive transformations taking place for people throughout the country ever since.  In over 20 years in the fitness industry, I've never seen anything like this.  I can't name another piece of equipment which is affordable, can be used by any age group, any place, hit every single muscle group, gives you cardio, strength training, flexibility, assisted stretching AND helps drop inches and fat.  I use this in my 4 week challenges and participants drop an average of 7 inches and 5 lbs. It's the last piece of exercise equipment you'll need because you actually use it since you can take it anywhere and use it at anytime you'd like!  In just a few minutes a day you start toning, tightening and you get that endorphin boost that makes you feel great.  You can find it on www.bodygym.com.  An added bonus, if you get yours now you'll be ready to participate in my March BodyGym Slim Down Challenge through Facebook and see your own body transform! This is a gift that keeps on giving!

Cenavi Dark Chocolate Bark & Square Flats are the best treats I've found that help me avoid over-indulging but still make me feel completely satisfied. Besides, what's Valentine's without chocolate?!?!  These were formulated by one of the most recognized and respected chocolatiers in the world. These chocolates have no added sugar, are high in fiber and probiotics and unlike most "no sugar added" chocolates on the market, have no sugar alcohols.

You’ve never tasted a chocolate as healthy and delicious as these. That's exactly why I love them!  They taste like "regular" chocolate! My daughter's thought they were the San Fransisco brand when I first gave them one.  With a healthy lifestyle, I think it's important to still have treats. It helps us be more consistent with our results because we aren't deprived.  I love that people would ever guess these are no-sugar-added or contain healthy probiotics by how delicious they taste!  Look for the Silver Fern graphic on my website and enter the coupon code Mindy10 to get an even greater discount.  Just a bit of advice, if you're buying these as a gift, you definitely want to get a package for yourself!

The BodyJoy Plan is the book of strategies I wrote to help others change their lifestyle without yo-yo dieting or feeling like they're dieting.  It's the inspiration that created my online group training which continues to help people all over the world hit their goal.  It's been rated Book of the Month several times on Amazon and you can read more about under the shop tab on www.mindybuxton.com.  Even if you just follow 2 or 3 of the several strategies, your health and body will improve.  It's a sound go-to since all the weight loss books out there always take something to an extreme.  You won't lose 20 pounds in a week, but you'll never have to release the weight you drop because you do it the right way.  What better gift is there than the gift of health?  

This month as we focus on love and celebrating those we care about, know I'm extremely grateful for my fitness friends.  You're amazing and you continue to inspire me!  Thanks for allowing me in your life.  Here's to a month filled with health, happiness and BodyJoy!  For more tips, recipes, & exercises  follow me on Instagram, Facebook or sign up for my newsletter at www.mindybuxton.com.

The BodyGym Game Day Challenge

How Will You Score?!?!

Last year I had a great response to our first ever BodyGym Football Challenge so it's back!  The BIG Game can be a day of BIG eating for us football fans!  Rather than sitting and eating the entire Super Bowl, I challenge you to get a few minutes of some Fun-day Sunday BodyGym moves while you watch the BIG game! 

Be sure to take a fun picture of you to post on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtags
#RaisingTheBarInFitness and #BodyJoySlimDownChallenge.  

I'm going to pick my favorite 3 posts and send you a FREE little gift!  Be sure you add @mindybux and @TheRealMarieOsmond and the hashtags to your post to be eligible!  I'm excited to watch you enjoy a healthier Super Bowl Sunday with #TheBodyGym!    Share this on your page encouraging healthier choices for your family and friends.  

Try these moves whenever you see this happen…

For more BodyGym fun & ideas join my March Slim Down Challenge at www.mindybuxton.com.  You can sign up on my home page!

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!

7 weeks to ELEVATED Results with my BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge!

I hope your holidays were full of fun, family, friends and great memories.  It's 2017 and that means it's time for YOU to make your health a priority.  

Incase you missed it, here's the KSL link that aired last weekend about my online BodyJoy Slim Down Program. Sarah, who you see above, dropped 85 lbs. and will continue to participate n BodyJoy as she plans to hit her overall goal in 2017.  The only difference between you and Sarah is that she knows my simple strategies and how to adapt them to her life. You can see your own results, all you have to do is decide that NOW is your time and begin, just like Sarah did!

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

There's only one more day to register for my BodyJoy ELEVATED Slim Down Challenge.  You can participate from any location since it's Facebook based!  Use the next 7 weeks following my simple and doable strategies to make your 2017 the healthiest year yet!  All ages, genders and fitness levels participate.  

The program is only $129 for the 7-week program which includes 1 protein powder and probiotic from Silver Fern Brand (a $70 savings over buying the products elsewhere).   You can participate in the private online group for $79 without the supplements.

Register at www.mindybuxton.com by Wednesday, January 4.  Space limited to 70 participants.  

Please specify which option you'd like to participate in and which flavor of protein powder flavor you'd like:
Chocolate
Vanilla
Banana
Cookie & Cream

More challenge details are found at www.mindybuxton.com under the "learn more" button..  Weigh In Kick Off Meeting Date: Saturday January 6 at 9:30am at LifeCentre Athletic Club (for Utah participants).   For those of you outside of Utah, you can get on FaceBook and see the meeting!  I look forward to helping you ELEVATE your results to find BodyJoy in 2017.  Give me 7 weeks, and I'll give you RESULTS!

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

Happy, Healthy New Years!

BodyJoy Slim Down + Silver Fern Brand's Protein & Probiotics = A Fit, Healthy Body for the New Year!   Take the 7-week BodyJoy Slim Down ELEVATED Challenge, beginning January 9, and watch your body transform.
 
$129 for the 7-week program + 1 protein powder and probiotic from Silver Fern Brand (a $70 savings over buying the products elsewhere).   You can participate in the private online group for $79 without the supplements.

Register by EMAILING ME at www.mindybuxton.com by Wednesday, January 4.  Space limited to 70 participants.  

Please specify which option you'd like to participate in and which flavor of protein powder flavor you'd like:
Chocolate
Vanilla
Banana
Cookie & Cream

Weigh In Kick Off Meeting Date: Saturday January 6 at 9:30am at LifeCentre Athletic Club (for Utah participants).   For those of you outside of Utah, you can get on FaceBook and see the meeting!  I look forward to helping you ELEVATE your results to find BodyJoy in 2017.  Give me 7 weeks, and I'll give you RESULTS!

BodyJoy Slim Down ELEVATED

I hope you've been enjoying this festive time of year!  I'm loving the winter wonderland that's outside my front door.  I'm balancing the celebrations (which obviously include chocolate) with still finding time to squeeze in short but effective workouts.  

At parties I've focused on getting in my veggies and protein before I indulge in my treats.  I love not feeling deprived but also not feeling overstuffed and sick because this year I just haven't wanted/needed to over indulge.  Thursday I'm going to share WHY.  But I can tell you right now,  this is a good place to be mentally & physically!

Know if you've gone a little overboard on the treats, you can get back to eating healthy your very next meal.  Go for a walk or get in a few push ups and lunges.  Nothing needs to be extreme and every little bit of movement adds up.  

Don't wait for January 1 to start making yourself better, join me Thursday at 11am MST for a Facebook Live with Charity Lighten.  Charity is chief nutritionist for Silver Fern Brand. I'm going to let her explain the science behind some of the mentioned benefits I'm experiencing.  I'm so excited to share with you how BodyJoy is getting ELEVATED starting January 2017! Until then, enjoy Charity's popular KSL article "Hit a diet plateau? 6 steps to jumpstart your weight loss!"

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=1010&sid=41737551

Be sure to go to the SilverFern Brand Facebook page to join our live discussion Thursday!  We'd love to answer any of your questions or to say Hi.  You don’t want to miss out!

 

Happy Holidays!

I just wanted to take a minute and tell you thank you for being part of my tribe!  Regardless if you're one of my BodyGym or BodyJoy fitness friends, I hope you have a healthy & happy holiday season!  May you enjoy time with your family & friends.  

Here's to celebrating the season while taking care of your body, mind & spirit. May you find balance between enjoying the celebrations, eating nourishing foods and exercising daily.   

May you reflect on this year as the happiest, healthiest one yet!  Enjoy your Christmas and I'll be checking in with you before the New Year.  Know you're loved and appreciated!

Your Fitness & Food Coach,

Mindy

Fun Winter Activities to Keep You Moving

There's so many ways to take advantage of being outdoors this time of year.  Here's some ways you can have an active and fit winter regardless or your age or fitness ability.

Snow Sports

You may not be a downhill skier, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy outdoor sports.  Cross country skiing and snow shoeing can be done by all fitness levels and regardless if you're a beginner or an athlete.   You WILL get a great workout while having fun.  Equipment can be rented if you don't own it--no excuses here.  

Check out local areas that you can go to with friends or family members to make some great outdoor memories together! One of my favorite dates with my husband and daughters have been up at Solider Hollow learning to cross country ski!  You can go to a field, your favorite hiking spot or an actual track to participate in either activity.

Iceskating indoors or outdoors can be enjoyed by everyone.  Most places have "ice walkers" for those who aren't as steady on their skates so kids and adults can channel their inner skating Olympian.  

Local Outdoor Activities

Check out the activities in your area that have some type of walking or active component.  Within a 20 mile radius, I can go tubing in Park City, walk light-covered grounds such as "Luminaria" at Thanksgiving Point, Utah's Hoggle Zoo Lights, or explore beautiful Temple Square.  

I can visit decorated shopping areas to see the Macy's windows at City Creek or drive up to Heber Valley to wander the ice castles.    

How about visiting your local covered pool?!?!  I'm inviting my family to a "Polar Bear Plunge" where we can play pool games in the warm bubble covered pool at LifeCentre Athletic Club.  We've never had a winter pool party or swim day with the cousins before, so I'll have to report how that activity turns out!  

I challenge you to make some new memories this winter in the spirit of getting together and being active.  You only have one body and if you don't use it, you lose the ability to move it.  Don't let winter slow you down.  Tag me at @Mindybux with ideas and activities you enjoy with your friends & family this winter!

Baby It's Cold Outside...But Are YOU Still Moving?

Movement is not just about exercise or time working out.  Movement can be incorporated into errands and activities while you're busy preparing for holiday festivities.  Here are a few examples to increase YOUR movement as the business of the holidays approach.

Stand More

Rather than sitting to wrap gifts, set your wrapping station up at your counter or in a place you can stand.  Standing burns more calories than sitting, it allows you to activate your abdominals and core muscles and you'll avoid the aches and pains that come from extended time seated.(Sitting is the new smoking you know!)  Set your phone alarm and every 45 minutes take a lap around the house then get back to your presents.  

Indoor Movement

Take advantage of this colder weather to tackle projects you've been putting off.  Clean out drawers, paint a room, rearrange closets and shelves; or declutter and donate items you no longer use.  Do some deep cleaning. Bending down to do baseboards or reaching up to clean walls can be a great way to accomplish tasks and get your heart rate up at the same time.  Turn on music while you're cooking or cleaning and dance like nobody is watching!

Play WiiFit with your spouse, kids or grandkids vs. watching movies or sitting around on electronics.  Try to balance your time lounging around with fun indoor activities.

Outdoor Preparedness

Be sure you're prepared with hats, gloves and boots as you're out and about doing errands.  I know it's tempting to find the closest parking spot to your destination now that it's freezing outside.  Bundle up, wear good boots and challenge yourself to park further away so you can get in extra steps outdoors.  You'll get an extra calorie burn as you push your cartload back to the car while you reap the benefits of being outdoors for a few extra minutes.  

Any moment you can catch a glimpse of sunshine or see a break in the weather, go for an extra lap around the parking lot, your neighborhood or take a few minutes outside on your lunch break.  Be the one to take out and bring in the trash cans.  Go to the mailbox daily.  Use the opportunity to clear snow from your driveway and walkways as bonus movement that will make others around you happy (that they didn't have to do it) while you strengthen your heart and muscles!  

Remember that staying active is much more than just getting in a workout. Movement goes back to basics and can be simple yet so effective.  I'd love to hear how you're getting in your movement while you prepare for the holidays.  Message me with your tips and tricks so we can all stay active & healthy together!

Here Comes the Holidays!

Greetings Fitness Friends,

Holiday mode is upon us---yikes!  I don’t want you feeling overwhelmed about how to balance the season with your health & fitness, so here’s a few simple tips.

Move the Halloween candy and processed foods out of site.  Stick them in a drawer or cabinet you rarely open, on top of the fridge, or out in your garage if you find yourself mindlessly nibbling!  

Get outdoors for just 5-minute increments whenever you can.  Walk to the neighbors rather than call, go outside and walk around your office or block 2-3 times a day, park at the far end of the parking lot to get a few more minutes in the fresh air.  Any opportunities you have, get outdoors for some fresh air even if it's just for a short amount of time.

Keep your focus on simple strength training.  This month I’ve implemented the “Thankful 30” with my Holiday BodyJoy Slim Down Challenge.  3 days a week pick at least 3 exercises and do 30 repetitions of each.  If you have time, repeat them 2-3 times through.  Do them either all at once or spread them out in your day.  Just make sure you get them in.  If you don’t have a BodyGym, just do bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, or lunges.  

Remember that every healthy choice you make will add up.  Keep movement and eating simple and this way you’ll be able to balance taking care of your health and managing the festivities as we kick off this fun but busy season.

Your Fitness & Food Coach,

Mindy

2016 HOLIDAY BODYJOY SLIM DOWN CHALLENGE

The holiday's are officially here and I hope you're ready to give yourself the best gift of all this season.  Greater health, smaller inches and more energy can be yours in just 6 weeks!  I know you're thinking, "But Mindy, it's the holidays!"  I'm here to tell you that change is possible with a doable program---even this time of year.

My 2016 Holiday BodyJoy Slim Down begins Monday, November 7.  It’s 6 weeks of healthy strategies doable with the holidays!  Participants from last season dropped an average of 7 inches and 6 pounds.  With this program it’s possible to lose fat even while you’re enjoying the holidays!

The Holiday Slim Down is an online program so you can participate from any location in the world.  It run’s Monday, November 7- Saturday, December 17. It's only $65 for the 6 weeks or $45 for YOU if you get a friend to join!  Registration closes THIS Friday so sign up at www.mindybuxton.com today!   Program information is being sent out this weekend so you'll be set for the Monday kick-off date.  Here's to giving yourself the body you want!

Congratulations October Slim Down Champions!

Congratulations Jana L. for winning the Amazon gift card and a FREE spot in the Holiday Slim Down Challenge for dropping 13.5 lbs. & 10.5" in 4 weeks.  Connie W. is the second runner up with a loss of 7.4 lbs. & 4.5".  Well done ladies!