Recently, I was pondering the changes in my life.

“Change” reminds me of a small, red plastic change purse with the printed motto, “Change is good,” which I’ve had for many years. The change purse is a remnant of a former position where I was in charge of doodads and promotional items. The irony and pun implied always made me laugh.

Now, real change is part of my life. I’ll be starting my talks about health and wellness for my Hiking for the Couch Potato™ brand soon, speaking to new groups who don’t know me. My mission has become clear: I am trying to influence two or more generations of people to adopt healthier habits.

This has all been a revelation for me!

What began as my husband’s teasing me into starting a hiking habit has become a whole new way of life. It has also changed me in every way. Since I’m a good cook and admit to liking food -- way too much -- I must keep my inclination to eat toned down. My metabolism simply won’t burn up the amount of calories I’d love to consume.

This need to burn calories has required that I become more active. As I write this, I’m in workout attire, getting ready to head to the gym. Me, lift weights! It hardly seemed likely even a couple of years ago.

Healthy concerns in general have become another habit for me. And, I find that I have become concerned about everyone’s health – kind of an Earth Mother syndrome. So many people I know have health issues. I want good health for everyone!

Other steps I’ve taken to being healthier:

• I use smaller plates a lot for my meals. The abundance on the small plate makes me feel like I’m eating more. A simple trick, but effective.
• My doctor keeps encouraging me to drink more water, sleep more, and cut down the cheeses. I’m doing well in trying, and mostly succeeding, in these efforts.
• Every day I do something active – a yoga routine, a walk, gym workout, pilates. Even running up and down the stairs at a mall – and avoiding those tempting, yeasty pretzels qualifies.