5 Tips for a healthy family

Guest Author: Jenny Dean

1. Be an example - Kids repeat what they see. If they see mommy and daddy eating a hamburger every meal, they will eat a hamburger every meal. If they see parents making healthy choices, they will learn to make healthy choices. History usually repeats itself…so make sure you are making healthy choices, especially around kids. 
2. Limit electronics - iPads and television are the new drug of the century. There have been brain studies that prove that watching iPads and TV are detrimental to our brains. Try to limit the amount of time that you, as a parent, and the kids are on electronics. 
3. BE ACTIVE - If you have the opportunity to walk to the park or drive, ALWAYS WALK! Your kids might not like it now...but they will appreciate it later.  It will all pay off.  When we are active, our brains are happy!  Exercise is the most effective anti-depressant. It clears your head, and calms your nervous system.
4. Eat healthy foods - ALWAYS ask yourself: "Does this food help me or harm me?"  Remember, you are what you eat.  Food changes your DNA.  Teach your kids that healthy food choices will help their brain grow smart and their muscles grow big and strong.  Make it apply to them in a way they will understand (or care about), such as doing well on tests and winning their football games!  Bad food choices cause more stress to the body.
5. Sleep more-Stress less - I know it is easier said than done.  Daily life can be very stressful.  We must teach our kids to honor quiet time. Life is only as hectic and stressful as we make it.  Be selfish - our kids need to learn to be selfish with their time.  Time is something you can never take back.  They will grow up with the appreciation of their time and others.

Author

Jenny Dean is a special education teacher turned stay-at-home-mom of 2, yoga instructor, Ambassador for Lululemon, and is passionate about health and fitness.  She enjoys spending time with her friends, family, doing and teaching yoga and Crossfit (level 1) in Frisco, TX.

Find her at: (links below)
Instagram- getdeanfit_
Facebook - Jennifer Griffeth Dean
YouTube- getdeanfit 
www.getdeanfit.com