Category Archives: Tip of the Week

Get Moving! The Link Between Physical Activity and Self-Esteem

Posted in Self-Esteem, Tip of the Week by

Good sleep is a very important part of staying healthy, but so is exercise.  Many teens enjoy sitting around and playing video games or just “hanging out” with their friends. This is fine and actually quite natural for the age group, but movement is important too.  Get outside and go for a walk, ride your skateboard or join a sports team.  Exercise gets the heart pumping and the blood flowing, which causes chemical to release in the brain.  These chemicals are natural mood enhancers that help make you feel good. So get moving, it helps promote healthy self-esteem.

There is actually a link between exercise and self-esteem beyond the “feeling good” aspect.  Teens that are trained athletes and/or play on sports teams tend to have higher self-esteem.  There is something very powerful in pushing oneself further that you expect you can go to really make you realize what you are made of.  The concept of being part of a team and striving toward something together creates a sense of belonging and pride, kind of like a family. Also, trying a new physical challenge can be a huge confidence builder. Like rock climbing a wall for the first time and getting to the top or training for a race with a friend or sister and actually following through.  Finishing something that you started can create such a sense of accomplishment that you won’t be able to not be proud of yourself. This ultimately will boost your self-esteem and make you look at yourself a little differently.

So get your family and friends involved.  Challenge them to try something new or have them train with you. Having a good support system like a team or simply a good friend is key.

Link Between Food and Mood

Posted in General Health, Tip of the Week by

Foods to keep you happy, confident and healthy

There are a lot of things we need to consider related to food, staying healthy and feeling good about ourselves.  Here, I’m just listing 2 key areas I believe strongly in.

There is a big connection between carbohydrates and your mood. Your mood is linked to a chemical in the brain called serotonin. By eating smart carbs like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (beans) you can feel good about yourself.

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to depression.  You can take vitamin D in pill form, you can get it from certain foods, but you can also get it straight from the sun. This is the best source for vitamin D.  A good 30 to 60 minutes 2 to 3 times a week should do the trick.  So soak up a few rays (with plenty of sun screen on) and it will make a difference in how you feel about yourself.

Tips for Dealing With a Bully

Posted in General Health, Tip of the Week by

1) It’s Not You, It’s Them

Chances are if they are treating you poorly, they have done it to others as well. You are not walking around with a giant target on your back. Trust me, it’s them.

2) Avoid Them

We can all see a bully coming, so if you feel them turning their attention to you, change your space immediately.

3) Show No Fear

If confronted by a bully, be strong and stand up for yourself. Show a bully that you aren’t affected by their words or actions and they will move on.

4) Keep Your Friends Close

They can serve as a great source of support for you even if they don’t say anything. Just having them there when dealing with a bully can help.

5) Talk About It

It’s OK to tell an adult.  If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your teacher, have a friend do it for you. It shouldn’t be tolerated.