Midweek Motivation 8.21.24

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Happy Wednesday! Here is some midweek motivation for you to explore!

Let’s Get Luxurious

Alpine Escapes

• St. Moritz, Switzerland: Renowned for its elegance and exclusivity, St. Moritz offers world-class skiing, luxurious hotels, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

  

  St. Moritz, Switzerland

• Courchevel, France: This glamorous ski resort boasts stunning chalets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a vibrant après-ski scene.

  

  Courchevel, France

• Aspen, Colorado: A quintessential American ski town with upscale boutiques, fine dining, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

  

  Aspen, Colorado

Sun-Kissed Retreats

• Maldives: Experience ultimate luxury in overwater bungalows, indulge in spa treatments, and explore the vibrant underwater world.

  

  Maldives

• Mauritius: This Indian Ocean paradise offers pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and a blend of cultures.

  

  Mauritius

• Turks and Caicos: Relax on secluded beaches, enjoy water sports, and savor fresh seafood at luxurious resorts.

  

  Turks and Caicos

Cultural Immersion

• Kyoto, Japan: Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture, visit historic temples, and indulge in exquisite cuisine during the winter months.

  

  Kyoto, Japan

• Dubai: Experience opulence and modernity in this desert oasis, with world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment.

  

  Dubai

• Cape Town, South Africa: Discover stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and wildlife encounters in this cosmopolitan city.

  

  Cape Town, South Africa

Additional Considerations

• Winter Wonderland Adventures: Consider destinations like Iceland for Northern Lights, Finland for husky sledding, or Norway for fjords.

• Wellness Retreats: Unwind and rejuvenate at luxurious spa resorts in Bali, Thailand, or Costa Rica.

• Cruise Vacations: Enjoy the comfort and elegance of a luxury cruise through the Caribbean or Mediterranean.

The TRUTH about natural and artificial sweeteners!

The world of sweeteners and flavorings can be confusing, with claims of natural superiority often overshadowing scientific evidence. Let's break down the facts:
Sweeteners: Natural vs. Artificial
* Natural Sweeteners: These include sugar, honey, maple syrup, agave, and stevia leaf. While they may seem healthier due to their NATURAL origin, they still contain calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. Some can even contribute to inflammation in the body when consumed often.
* Artificial Sweeteners: These are LABORATORY-CREATED substitutes like aspartame, sucralose, and stevia “extract”. They are “calorie-free” which some might think can be helpful for weight management. While some studies have raised concerns about their potential health effects, regulatory agencies like the FDA generally deem them “safe” for consumption. However, regular exposure to laboratory-created substances can accumulate in the body and potentially create a toxic overload on your cells and body’s processes.

Key Points:
* Both natural and artificial sweeteners can be part of a balanced diet.
* Moderation is key for all sweeteners!
* Individual tolerance to sweeteners varies.

What about natural and artificial FLAVORINGS???

Flavorings: Natural vs. Artificial
* Natural Flavorings: Derived from plants or animals, these are often “perceived” as healthier. However, the processing involved can vary WIDELY, and not all natural flavorings are created equal. Some processes involve using “natural” ingredients that are not considered healthy for the body.
* Artificial Flavorings: LABORATORY-CREATED, these are chemically synthesized to mimic natural flavors. While they raise concerns for some, they are generally considered safe by regulatory agencies. But once again, regular exposure to laboratory-created substances can accumulate in the body and potentially create a toxic overload on your cells and body’s processes.

Key Points:
* The term "natural" doesn't guarantee health benefits and may not be “healthy”.
* Both natural and artificial flavorings should be used in moderation.
* The overall nutritional value of a product depends on its entire ingredient list, not just the flavoring.

Beyond the Labels
* Read labels CAREFULLY: Look for ADDED SUGARS, HIDDEN SWEETENERS, and other unhealthy ingredients.
* Prioritize whole foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and a variety of protein sources is the foundation of good health.

Participate in running research with RunDot and get two free months of run training

What is The RunDot Project?

It is an annual research initiative that uses optimized run training to help runners reach their true potential.

Why should you join?

RunDot athletes improve their running abilities, on average, 3.2x more than non-users, and experience performance improvements in 30% less training time.

Qualified participants also receive 2 free months of run training.

Do you qualify?

• You are a good fit if you check these boxes:

• You train with a GPS-enabled device

• You have not used RunDot or TriDot in the last 12 months

• You are not a professional runner

• You are enthusiastic and motivated to accomplish your running goals

Do you meet these criteria?

Join the 2024 RunDot Project. Learn more and apply here.

Wednesday No Excuses Workout!

In case you missed last week’s workout, click HERE.

Have a great rest of your week and go that extra mile!

Jamie and Ashley