Three simple steps

For most people, January is a time to make resolutions ... and then break them. Instead of trying to change everything at once, why not opt for some small but significant changes? You may find these small steps easier to carry out than sweeping resolutions.

While there are lists upon lists of things you could choose to focus on first, may I suggest three simple steps?

1. Drink more water! I have yet to meet a person who drinks too much water over the course of the day. I know that some people say they don't like the taste of plain water. Think up some options! You can add just a splash of juice (try orange, cranberry, or grape) and have flavored water. You could also make herbal or black tea (just don't go spoiling it by adding artificial sweeteners!) If you want to sweeten your tea, try a small amount of honey or stevia. Or, you could drink your water warm. Hear me out on this one, filtered warm water, with a splash of lemon juice ... drink it warm (like tea). If you use this one for breakfast, you'll probably find out you become more regular in your digestion.

2. Eat more vegetables! It really is that simple. Eat them raw, steamed, or baked... but not fried. Adding vegetables to your diet adds fiber, nutrients, taste, and (gasp) more water. Just look at what you typically eat and then decide to add at minimum 2 more servings of vegetables a day. I'm not advocating giving up meat, as long as it is cleanly raised, but I am encouraging you to eat more vegetables. Even in Indiana in the winter, there are still lots of choices, so experiment until you find some you like. The internet is a great tool to look for recipes, but remember, raw, steamed, or baked are usually your best bets.

3. Stop going to the grocery store when you're hungry! We have all been guilty of this in the past. So stop doing it. When you have something filling to eat BEFORE you go tot he grocery, you are much more likely to stick to the list, and much less likely to put junk food in your cart. If you know you'll be stopping at the grocery before dinner, keep a package of peanut butter crackers, or an apple in your work/ lunch bag to eat about 15 minutes before you arrive.

Now you have 3 simple steps towards feeling better in 2014. You do want to feel better don't you? 

Now, if it would just warm up some outside...