HOA: Lissa Ogden Shares How to Make Living A Healthy Lifestyle A Habit

While people aspire to make a habit of eating healthy and exercising on a regular schedule, they can easily get overwhelmed and not even know where to begin. In an interview with senior Lissa Ogden, better known for her healthy habits, she shares some of her perspective and expertise on dedicating yourself to a healthy lifestyle.

S: What is your green drink and why are you never seen apart from it?

L: “Chlorophyll water. Every morning I add a few liquid chlorophyll drops to my water bottle and bring it to school to drink throughout the day. The drops make my water a dark green color which looks really intimidating but it isn’t. Despite the crazy color, the drops add little to no flavor but still come with a lot of health benefits. Chlorophyll encourages healing, promotes cleansing, is high in antioxidants and iron, and has even shown potential for cancer therapy, it’s really incredible.”

S: How long would you say you have been truly dedicated to a healthy lifestyle?

L: “I’ve had an interest in healthy living since I was 12 or so, but I went through phases. I’d say that I finally got into the swing of things and fully committed myself to healthy habits around the end of sophomore year.”

S: What inspired you to really dedicate yourself to being healthy?

L: “I really wanted to take care of my body so that it can function to the best of its ability for as long as possible.”

S: What do you find to be the most rewarding benefits of living a healthy lifestyle?

L: “The way it makes me feel. I am more awake, more active, and more productive.”

S: How long did it take for you to make this lifestyle a habit? What were some struggles you face(d) along the way and how did you overcome them?

L: “I’m still in the process of improving my habits, but I’d say it took me about a year and a half or so to make really significant and lasting changes in my diet.”

S: Is it easy to maintain your healthy lifestyle, or do you go through phases where you crave unhealthy things?

L: “I don’t crave processed or unhealthy foods as frequently as I used to but I definitely still have days that I’ll want something I wouldn’t usually eat.”

S: What do you consider the “secret weapons” of your diet?

L: “Coconut oil, bananas, or water. These are all very versatile things that I try to incorporate into my diet everyday.”

S: What are your thoughts on “cheat days”?

L: “I definitely think it’s okay to treat yourself and listen to your body, but I wouldn’t use the word “cheat”. I feel like “cheat” implies you aren’t being fair to yourself or your commitment, but there isn’t anything wrong with indulging in moderation every so often. “

S: What are some healthy supplements for when you are craving unhealthy options?

L: “Whenever I’m craving sweets, I spring for fruit or dark chocolate instead.”

S: Aside from eating healthy, what is also very important to achieve a truly balanced and healthy lifestyle?

L: “Making sure you get enough sleep, stay active, respect your body and mind, and have balance.”

S: What is your favorite form of exercise?

L: “I love yoga. It’s a great way to work your body and mind in a relaxing though still challenging way. I go two or three times a week and I’d definitely say it’s changed the way I live my life.”

S: What advice would you give to people aspiring to dedicate themselves to a healthy lifestyle?

L: “One thing I always remind myself is that changing an aspect of my life is a process that will have ups and downs, will take time and courage, and is ultimately something that will help me grow. It’s important to have a positive mindset and make sure that you are doing things for the right reasons. The human spirit is strong and anything is possible.”