As we gear up to celebrate our favorite Irish holiday, let’s remember that there are many ways to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day without having to put on the extra pounds and forgetting where you parked your car. But truly, we have to recognize the most common reason we love this fun-filled holiday so much -- everything is GREEN! Here are some ways to eat green, and sweat green (in a good way) while you rejoice in St. Patrick’s Day activities and enjoy St. Patrick’s Day treats.

Eat Green:

Green foods are great because they’re packed with nutrients and aid in revitalizing health benefits. Some popular greens that pack a mean punch are spinach, kale, bok choy, jalapeno, broccoli and good ‘ole cabbage! Add some of these green superfoods to your meal, or blend them all up in a shake and you’ll be feeling as jolly as a leprechaun!

For some healthy traditional dish options, try red potato and cabbage colcannon, or a trio of peas. You can also go for the lean cuts of brisket to incorporate in your corned beef and cabbage dish.

Sweat Green:

Make some time in your St. Patrick’s Day activities to get a good workout in! Aim to do this in the morning time, so you can feel fresh and ready to take on the festivities that lay ahead of you. Kick it up a notch, and sport your favorite green workout wear to show your spirit! And of course, we included a St. Patrick’s Day workout to get things going:

Warm up:
Irish Jig for 1 minute
 
Workout:
20 “Leaping Leprechaun” Lunge Hops
30 “Pot ‘O’ Gold” Plies
30 second “Shamrock” Side Planks (each side)
30 “Lucky” Lying Leg Raises
Repeat entire circuit 2-3 times.

Cool down:
Pour yourself a nice glass of nutrient packed green drink!

However way you choose to celebrate, keep it green and enjoy! “May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks. May your heart be as light as a song. May each day bring you bright, happy hours that stay with you all the year long!” -- Irish proverb

How are you getting green for this holiday?