It seems we make the same resolution to get healthier each new year. But then, we drive past a Shipley’s, Whataburger or our favorite Houston Tex-Mex restaurant and that resolution goes out the window until January of next year. However, for those dedicated to keeping resolutions, Houston has more than enough options to get healthy.
Healthy Eating Out
Eating healthy no longer means eating boring. Houston has an expansive list of healthy dining options that are just as appetizing as their high-calorie competitors. Houstonians looking to keep their waists thin have entrusted popular hot spots like Local Foods and Bellagreen for their health-conscious menus and affordable prices. Local Foods’ Garden Sammie with brussel sprouts, avocado spread and hummus, and Bellagreen’s Oh Kale Yeah salad are healthy options without losing any flavor.
The Montrose staple Baby Barnaby’s is a great place for fresh, mountain-sized salads and sandwiches that display why this restaurant has had staying power. Other spots like True Food Kitchen and Harvest Live Grille offer uniquely delicious dishes that will help you on your quest to live and eat well in the new year.
While most of these places offer vegan options, Green Seed Vegan serves vegan burgers and paninis, as well as fresh pressed raw juices, smoothies and raw vegan meals. A local favorite is the Dirty Burque, a buckwheat patty topped with green chilies, arugula, avocado, tomato, onion mayo and mustard served on a wheat bun.
Juicing
When you are in a rush, sometimes just grabbing a quick juice or smoothie is a healthy alternative to greasy fast food options. Houston spots like Buda Juice and Revolucion Coffee & Juice offer convenient, raw and organic bottled juices for those on the go. Building on the success of her former juice truck, Gretchen Todd-Hawkins opened Juice Girl, a one-stop shop for cold-pressed drinks, as well as half-dozen vegan ice cream flavors that can be made into classic sundaes. And for those feeling extra adventurous, most locations offer juice cleanse packages designed to rid your body of all those unwanted toxins.
Shop Local at Farmer’s Markets
In recent years, farmer’s markets have become increasingly popular and show no signs of slowing down. Visiting these produce havens on the weekends not only gets you up and going, but also allows you to support and discover local businesses. Those fruits and veggies always taste a little bit better when you get them straight from the source.
Check out Houston’s ever-expanding list of farmer’s markets to find the one closest to you.
Workout for Free
Getting in shape doesn’t always mean breaking the bank with an expensive gym membership. Free yoga classes can be found at stores like Lululemon and Athleta while Discovery Green offers a wide array of free classes like Zumba, yoga, meditation, parkour and even “circus arts” classes for looking for something a little different. If you’re not specifically looking for yoga, F3 Cross Training offers a free workout class twice a month. And for those looking to explore the Houston bayous and take in all their beauty, the Bayou Bikers meet up once a month in Market Square for a 25- 40-mile bike ride around the city.
Run Around Houston
Houston may be the fourth largest city in the country but it is no concrete jungle. It is home to about 53,000 acres of park space that provides unlimited options for runners. Popular running spots include Buffalo Bayou, Memorial Park, Hermann Park and the Rice University Loop. From running in view of the Houston skyline or in a serene wooded area, each park offers a different experience.
Keep Your Mind Healthy
Keeping your body healthy is all great and good but you can’t forget about your mind and soul. Taking time to de-stress and keep your mind clear will help keep you focused on your health and fitness goals in the new year. The calming, non-denominational Rothko Chapel is a popular location to have all your week’s stress melt away.
Following these tips will help you keep your resolution for 2018!
