5 ways toward a happy and healthy lifestyle

Summer is right around the corner which leaves the majority of us thinking about long nights, bonfires,tanning, laying on the beach, and of course, achieving that perfect summer body! Summer calls for happiness and spending time with family and friends. Here are five ways to maintain healthy and happy while achieving that perfect body! 

1. Drink plenty of water

I know this is over said, but I cannot stress this enough! Eighty percent of the human body is made up of water, it's what keeps your blood flowing and your organs healthy. Water keeps you hydrated and leaves your skin glowing! Drink a glass of water before every meal, for it will keep you full, preventing you from over eating. Water is CRUCIAL!

2. BE HAPPY 

Happiness is a choice and plays a big role in the way your day-or even life- unfolds. Surround yourself with positive people! Wake up every morning and tell yourself that it's going to be a good day, then, use your energy to achieve something great! Spread happiness as well! There is no better remedy than happiness and laughter. 

3. AVOID SUGAR and junk food

Sugar is addicting!!! It's like a drug. The more you stuff your body with sugars and salts, the more you crave it. Junk food is bad for your body and is what's known as "empty calories," meaning you're gaining extra calories from foods with very little to no nutritious benefits. Every time you eat, ask yourself "how is this going to benefit my body?" Eating healthy will increase your happiness and make you feel better overall, with some cheat days here and there.

4. Meal prep 

Many people complain that eating healthy is a hassle and very time consuming. Sure, it is, but it's beneficial and worth it! If you just don't have the time, MEAL PREP! Take one day of the week to do so. For example, use sunday's to meal prep. Bake chicken, fish, and steam some veggies! Next, store them in the refrigerator for the week! This way, you'll have no excuses. If you can't meal prep, there are always alternative choices such as a quick turkey sandwhich or a salad. 

5. Exercise!

Eighty percent of abs are made in the kitchen, and the other ten is based on exercise. Exercise is crucial to your overall health, and help major organs such as your heart! Exercising up to three days a week will do the trick and keep you healthy for life! 

Good luck and have an amazing, healthy journey! 

Pimple pain!

We all suffer from acne at one point in our lives, whether it be before a big wedding or just another day at work! Many individuals suffer from acne during the time of their adolescence and believe, or at least hope that the pink little monsters disappear by the time they're adults. Unfortunately, most adults suffer from acne as well! I'm pretty sure we've all had those days where our skin looks amazing and then when it's time to attend a party or big event,one of the pink little suckers appear out of no where, what a wonderful surprise. I have personally suffered a whole lot from acne but have found ways to prevent it! I will share my daily routine that really cleared my skin up in hopes that it'll work for you as well!

1. Cetaphil oil control foam cleanser 

My pimples often left me feeling insecure and sometimes even worthless. I had days where i'd be embarrassed to face people and cry because I thought it looked so horrible, silly me. When it comes to facial cleanser, i've literally tried it all: neutrogena, clean and clear, St.Ives, Proactive, Clinique, even some of the pricey cleansers that cost almost one hundred dollars! These products did nothing but leave my skin dry and the acne still visible. I had almost given up but decided to take a trip to my dermatologist and bam, he recommended the cetaphil foam cleanser. My skin has never looked or felt healthier before! This product will leave your skin nice and soft while eliminating acne! 

2. Coconut oil

One time, I came across this woman who looked like she was in her twenties, boy, was I wrong! It turned out she was in her fifties. I asked her what her secret was and she said she's been slapping coconut oil on her face every night before she went to sleep, who would've known! I use coconut oil on my face every night and have seen a BIG difference in a variety of ways! Mix some of this oil with a few drops of lime and you'll notice any scar fade and very few pimples afterward! It's like magic and your skin will feel much softer as well! I've learned my lesson to stick to natural remedies. Make sure the coconut oil is 100% and extra virgin and look for it in any health store! 

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is one of leading solutions when it comes to controlling acne! I purchased a little container with 15% tea tree oil from the body shop and was instructed to use it as a spot treatment. I used it the first night and literally noticed my scars appear lighter within a day! I put some on every night over the coconut oil with a q-tip. 

4. Don't stress, stay hydrated and sleep well. 

Water not only cleanses your insides but your skin as well! I make sure to drink at least eight glasses a day and have seen a significant difference, the same goes when it comes to getting at least eight hours of sleep every night. Eight is truly a lucky number,I guess! Sleep helps recharge and repair our batteries aka our skin. Also, don't stress and enjoy life! Good luck!