They say it's your birthday...

...and it is!

Today is my birthday, and it's the second one I've celebrated since starting this blog!

However, instead of making cookies, cake, or b-day tartlets, I've decided to do something a little bit different.

As I inch even closer to the ripe old age of 30 (yikes!), I thought it might be useful to share a few of the things that I've been doing to stay healthy with each passing year.

First: I try to eat breakfast every day (although it's a constant battle). I used to be really good about grabbing a cup of tea, some fruit, and a granola bar whenever I was headed out in the morning, but now that I'm job hunting, it's a little more difficult. Since I often get completely engrossed in whatever I'm doing, I easily lose track of time (and my hunger), and forget about breakfast altogether. Thus, I've been making it a priority to eat within the first hour of waking up.

whole-wheat toast with peanut butter, sliced bananas, and agave nectar

Second: I read. A lot. One of my favorite things to do when I was little was to climb a tree, sit on one of the branches, and read a book. I loved "Nate the Great" stories, Judy Blume books ("I must, I must, I must increase my bust!") and even Steven King novels. However, after graduating from law school/taking the Bar several months ago, I suddenly felt like there was something missing in my life. It turns out that I actually missed reading 100s of cases every week! So, to fill that intellectual void, I've continued reading as many books as possible. And I feel so much better when I do...

Two of my most recent acquisitions: "The Juicing Bible," and "The China Study."

Third: My beverage of choice is water. I haven't had soda in years, and the only things that I drink besides water are coffee, tea, and 100% fruit/veggie juices (although I do enjoy the occasional glass of wine/pint of beer, too.) In fact, it's rare for me to have more than two "non-water" drinks (as I like to call them) per day, and tea is always one of them. When I do want something else, I'll go out for a flavored soy latte, or stay in and have a smoothie or a home-made glass of juice.

That's Wall-e, waving hello from his giant box of tea.

Fourth: I let passion be my guide. There are few things that I enjoy more than going to concerts and attending political speeches. That kind of stuff fills my soul in a way that almost nothing else can! I've been to almost 100 concerts, and have even been lucky enough to meet several of my favorite musicians. And, as far as politics is concerned, I nearly died from excitement during this past election season! Like most of you, I spent it voraciously reading tons of papers, watching hours of debates/interviews, and having lively discussions with friends and family. I also attended a couple of Obama rallies (at which I got to shake Barack's hand - *swoon!*), and even volunteered with the campaign.

a hodgepodge of concerts and rallies

Fifth: I focus on "alternative" health. Instead of just popping pills when I don't feel well, I try to use preventative methods to keep myself from feeling crappy in the first place. I've found that meditation is great for alleviating stress, and yoga is something that I've practiced on and off over the years for relaxation purposes. (My b-day gift to myself is to stick with it this year.) I also try to eat organic, local, and seasonal foods as much as possible. In addition, I use a Netti Pot to help prevent colds, headaches, and sinus infections - it works really well!

Here's to many more happy and healthy birthdays - for me, and for you!