Does this scenario sound familiar?  You see a friend and she says, "Hey, you look great! Did you lose weight?" 

Chances are you woke up that morning feeling good - emotionally and physically.  Maybe you dressed in bright colors, or wore different clothes than you usually do, maybe you styled your hair differently, or maybe you just have a smile on your face.  Sounds so simple, doesn't it?

What does it take to make you feel good each day?

How you feel has to do with your physical environment, the foods you eat, the activities you participate in, the amount of exercise you get and the people you choose to interact with. Learn to be aware of how you feel physically and emotionally each day when you wake up, mid-day and when you're winding down for the night.  Take a moment to pause or write it down for later reflection.

What can you do to ensure you wake up each (or most!) day feeling great?  How will you take care of yourself?

I invite you get more active by participating in activities that YOU enjoy.  Listen to what YOU need on a given day so you can start each day with people saying, "Wow, you look great!"  Wouldn't that be nice?

Remember, there are other ways to stay active, fit and healthy besides the gym. If you enjoy the gym, great! Keep going. If you're having trouble thinking of some activities, check out the list below for a few ideas.  Some of these are winter activities, and most can be enjoyed year round.  Maybe you'll like one, or maybe you'll think of your own. 

• Ice Skating - Find your inner child and go skating. Not sure where to go? Visit http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/skating.htm for locations. These rinks also offer skate rentals and of course, rinks are kid friendly.

• Cross Country Skiing/ Snow Shoeing - No snow? No problem! The Weston Ski Track is open with plenty of snow making and plenty of skiing. They offer rentals, lessons, and open skiing. http://www.skiboston.com/skitrack/skitrack.php

• Rock Climbing - Talk about a strength workout! There are a number of rock gyms in Massachusetts and many offer kids programs. The best part: practice indoors for the winter and then take your skills outside in the spring, summer and fall. Visit http://www.indoorclimbing.com/massachusetts.html to find a rock gym near you.

• Dance - Whether you hit the clubs or take a lesson, dancing is great cardiovascular exercise. It's fun, and it's a wonderful way to re-connect with your partner or friends. There is a dance style and school out there for you. On the South Shore I recommend The Vakas (http://www.thevakas.com). 

• Martial Arts - After you kick and punch the bag a few times tell me how you feel. It's not only a great outlet for relieving stress; it's also a great way to improve strength and cardiovascular fitness. There are a variety of styles for a variety of personalities. Check out a few schools to find the best one for you.

Many, if not all, of these activities are great for families. If you can't find a baby-sitter, bring the kids with you. You'll get some exercise, have fun, and enjoy quality family time. Everyone will feel great!

By Stacey Shipman

Stacey Shipman  is a healthy living advocate, speaker, writer, yoga teacher, publisher of HealthySouthShore.com and founder of the South Shore Wellness Professionals. She loves all things healthy living and when not working can be found hiking, biking, practicing yoga, cooking, at the beach, working on a jigsaw puzzle or relaxing in her backyard with her husband Michael. Contact her at www.staceyshipman.com, www.healthysouthshore.com or on Twitter @healthyss.