Fact Vs Fiction
In today's episode of Living Elan, we dive into the power of "scooches"—those small, incremental changes that can lead to significant improvements in our health and well-being.
Shifting from All-or-Nothing Thinking
Many of us fall into the trap of thinking we need to be perfect with our diets or fitness routines. Instead, Tracey Vlahos, President of Wellness Education & Community Affairs at Elan Pure, encourages embracing small steps, which she calls “scootches.” For example, if you have a cookie, it's okay! The key is not to let one cookie turn into a whole bag because of an all-or-nothing mindset. Enjoy the cookie, taste the cookie, do NOT beat yourself up. You had a “treat” NOT a “cheat.”
Decoding Marketing Trickery
Tracey and Paige discuss the importance of being savvy consumers by looking beyond the marketing buzzwords like "gluten-free," "sugar-free," and "vegan." These labels can be misleading, so flipping products over and reading the ingredients is crucial. Pay special attention to avoiding inflammatory seed oils like canola, safflower, and sunflower oil, which can disrupt hormones and contribute to chronic inflammation.
Start with Simple Changes
Tracey suggests focusing on avoiding seed oils as a starting point. Even small changes, like eliminating these oils, can profoundly affect your energy levels and overall health. Remember, it's about progress, NOT perfection.
Skincare and Wellness Scooches
In addition to diet, Paige Hope, Founder, Elan Pure, shares her recent switch to using castor oil as an eye cream—a natural and cost-effective alternative to conventional products loaded with potentially harmful chemicals. This simple change underscores the importance of what we put on our skin as well as what we put into our bodies.
Consistency is Key
Tracey shares an inspiring story of a basketball coach who lost 52 pounds in a year (basically, 1 lb a week) by making small weekly changes. Most people wouldn’t think a pound in a week is a success for themselves. However, when you make small lifestyle changes, it adds up to overall consistent results. This approach is applicable to everyone, reinforcing that consistent, small steps can lead to significant results over time.
Empowering Self-Education
Ultimately, the goal is to empower you to become educated consumers who can make informed decisions about their health and wellness. By understanding the impact of ingredients and making mindful choices, we can all take control of our well-being, one scooch at a time. It is NOT all or nothing!! EVERY scooch makes a difference.
Takeaway for This Week
Focus on reducing seed oils in your diet and consider natural alternatives in your skincare routine (maybe start with Elan Pure's non-toxic self tan?). These small changes can set you on the path to better health and more radiant skin.
Stay tuned for more tips and strategies to help you make meaningful scooches towards a healthier, more vibrant life!
