EDITOR’S LET TER
8
…HAS BEEN A LONG AND WINDING
WIN A TR IP
road – to paraphrase the Fab Four. I think that puts me squarely in the majority: Anyone who has ever had the determination to make healthy choices is familiar with the slog. Whether it’s losing weight, getting fit or aging well, the challenges that accompany the mission can feel overwhelming. We quit, repeatedly. We curse, often. You know what that makes us? Human. The magical thing is, we keep at it, trying to be better, stronger, fitter. In that spirit, I’m excited to introduce a winning formula that will help you reach your goals. We call it the Slow Change Plan (SCP): implementing small and simple modifications that BETH THOMPSON become a pleasurable part of your day. Editor-in-chief Here are a few examples. In our Best FOLLOW ME ON @MOREBETH2 Advice section (page 20), our naturopath advocates for exercises you’d never file under “workout”: a short walk, bowling, even dancing. The no-brainer idea is that by choosing something you like, you’ll stick to it. But more importantly– and less obvious– is that by engaging in enjoyable activities, you’ll keep stress in check. The corollary is sobering: Doing exercise you dislike will increase your stress levels and undo any potential benefits. In our New Nosh column, “It’s All Greek To Me” (page 76), we’re exploring a diet as old as time: the Mediterranean diet. This ancient way of eating has major health cred, protecting against diabetes, heart health and cancer, says dietitian Rosie Schwartz. That’s fabulous news, of course, but what we also love is the essence of the diet. “The Mediterranean diet is about enjoying meals together.” Food that’s good for you and a pleasure to eat? Awesome concept. In keeping with our SCP, we recommend easing your way into the diet. Use our seven-day sampler and find what works best for you. Ultimately, both articles remind us that slow change is not only more manageable but it also keeps us from feeling denied – another tenet of success. Speaking of not depriving ourselves, I’m thrilled to offer readers a chance to win a trip to Jamaica. Thanks to our partners, Air Canada Vacations, the Jamaica Tourism Board and Half Moon Bay Resort, we’re giving away a luxurious trip for two. Enter now and good luck! bh
TO JAMAICA!
MARCH | APRIL 2016 best health
WE’D LOVE TO SEND YOU AND A FRIEND ON A TRIP TO JAMAICA
SIMPLY SHARE YOUR VACAY VIBE WITH US AND YOU COULD WIN
BEFORE YOU PACK YOUR BAGS, CHECK OUT THE DETAILS PAGE 106
besthealthmag.ca
BETH’S PHOTO, GENEVIÈVE CHARBONNEAU; DRESS, MIIK; JAMAICA TRAVEL PHOTOS COURTESY OF AIR CANADA VACATIONS; FLIP-FLOPS AND PALM TREES, SHUTTERSTOCK; BEACH BAG, ISTOCK
My path to wellness
