Set a goal to explore your need to make a health related change, get facts, find out what action steps are necessary, realistically assess potential obstacles in your life to making these changes. Use this information to develop your own plan. We tend to be much more successful following through on plans we make than ones others make for us.

---------------------------------- Focus on what you are going to do. ----------------------------------

Too many health related changes feel like deprivations. We are going to give up foods we like, stop smoking, and/or stop drinking. It is hard to maintain motivation for not doing things. It is more rewarding focusing on what we are going to do.

For example, for a diet goal think about what you can add to your life. If you need to reduce high fat foods, consider a goal of eating more lower fat foods. I have a goal of eating more fruit each day, so every time I want a snack I see it as an opportunity to have a fruit or some juice. I have also maintained a goal of eating an extra portion of vegetable with my dinner. This makes me feel more like I am doing something for myself rather than just taking something away.

For a goal like stopping smoking, consider doing more activity when normally you would be tempted to smoke. If you need to quit drinking consider setting a goal of spending more time with family or friends, or participation in non-drinking related activities.

------------------------------------- Make this year you get it right. -------------------------------------

Set appropritate expectations, learn what you need to be successful, focus on what you want to do, and have a great New Year!

---------------------------------------------------------------- Quotes:

“Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.” Abraham Lincoln

“If at first you don't succeed, you are running about average.” M H Alderson ----------------------------------------------------------------

Remember, having right diet and getting enough exercise will not only improve your health- IT WILL IMPROVE YOU LIFE.

Until next time, Dave Junno Psy.D.

************************************************* References:

Polivy, Janet, Herman, C. Peter."If at First You Don't Succeed." American Psychologist Sept. 2002: 677-689.

Roberts, C. K., Vaziri, N. D., Barnard, R. J. "Effect of diet and exercise intervention on blood pressure, insulin, oxidative stress, and nitric oxide availability.." Circulation Nov. 12 2002: 2530-2532. ---------------------------------------------------------------

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated.

Copyright 2002: David Junno

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Pour a big package of Epsom Salts into bathtub and add your aromatic blend. Make sure you allow at least 20 minutes to breathe in vapors, adding more hot water as needed to keep steaminess at a maximum. Wrap yourself warmly when you get out, then treat yourself to a good hot soup such as Miso Green Onion, Hot and Sour (Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai), or good ol' Chicken Soup.

Don't underestimate power of soup! In one study, participants who consumed chicken soup experienced an increase in flow of nasal secretions (when compared to just plain hot and cold water). The taste and aroma is believed to be part of therapy, as well as inhalation of vapors. In another study, researchers found that chicken soup had anti-inflammatory properties, even when extremely diluted.

Also, drink plenty of orange juice (rich in Vitamin C) and purchase echinacea-goldenseal tincture that you will take according to directions on bottle.

But foremost...rest, rest, rest!

In Good Health, Francoise Rapp http://www.AromAlchemy.com

(c) Francoise Rapp. Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist, Francoise Rapp, shares her expertise in using essential oils to heal and revitalize body and mind at http://www.aromalchemy.com. Highlights include aromatherapy classes, recipes and aromatic treatments for health and wellness, and a free weekly newsletter. Discover power of aromatherapy today!