The Importance of Driver’s Seat Posture for Truckers: Boosting Health Through Better Ergonomics

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How to Improve Your Driver’s Seat Posture

Improving your posture doesn’t require an overhaul—minor adjustments can make a big difference. And one, considering that you are stuck in the driver’s seat all day, I want to help you put your best foot forward over the open road. Sitting is the new smoking, and you don’t have to let the fact that you are glued to the driver’s seat be the reason your body hurts the way it does. So today I want to talk about how to improve your drivers seat posture so you can endure the long haul feeling your best, one small simple change at a time. The Importance of Driver’s Seat Posture

Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Adjust Your Seat Correctly

Start by ensuring your seat is properly positioned to support your body. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Seat Height: Adjust the height so your hips are slightly higher than your knees. This helps reduce strain on the lower back.
  2. Seat Depth: Make sure there’s a 2-3 finger gap between the back of your knees and the seat edge. This prevents pressure on your thighs, improving circulation.
  3. Seat Angle: Slightly tilt the seat forward to encourage a neutral pelvic position and proper spinal alignment.

2. Align Your Spine

Maintaining the natural curve of your spine is crucial. Follow these tips:

  1. Use a lumbar support cushion to support the curve in your lower back.
  2. Keep your back against the seat at all times; avoid leaning forward.
  3. Sit with your shoulders relaxed and your chest open.

3. Position the Steering Wheel

Your steering wheel should be within easy reach to avoid overextending your arms, which can lead to shoulder and neck strain. Adjust it so you can hold it with slightly bent elbows and avoid hunching forward.

4. Keep Your Feet Supported

Proper foot placement is essential for good posture. Ensure your feet can rest flat on the floor or on pedals with a comfortable angle. Avoid tensing your legs or keeping one foot off the floor for extended periods.

5. Take Frequent Breaks

Even with perfect posture, sitting for long hours isn’t ideal. Aim to take a break every 2-3 hours to:

  1. Stretch your legs and back.
  2. Walk around to boost circulation.
  3. Perform simple exercises, such as neck rolls and shoulder shrugs.

In Trucking Yoga Simple Fitness for the Long Haul, your 5-Point Posture Safety Check will walk you through exactly what you need to do to keep tabs on your driving posture day in and day out.

Book

The Health Benefits of Good Driver’s Seat Posture

Making these small adjustments can result in significant health benefits, including:

  1. Reduced Pain: Proper alignment decreases stress on your back, neck, and shoulders, alleviating chronic pain.
  2. Improved Circulation: Sitting with good posture helps maintain blood flow, reducing the risk of swelling and DVT.
  3. Enhanced Energy: Less strain on your muscles and joints means more energy to stay alert and focused on the road.
  4. Better Breathing: Sitting upright opens your chest and diaphragm, improving oxygen intake and reducing fatigue.

Tools to Help You Maintain Proper Posture

Investing in ergonomic tools can make it easier to maintain good posture while driving. Consider these options:

  1. Lumbar Support Cushions: These cushions provide critical support for your lower back. Our favorite is BackShield (Use our code MTY10 to get 10 percent of).
  2. Ergonomic Seat Covers: Designed to promote even weight distribution, these can enhance comfort during long drives.
  3. Adjustable Armrests: Properly positioned armrests reduce strain on your shoulders and arms.
  4. Posture Monitors: Wearable devices can gently remind you to sit upright when you start to slouch.

A Quick Posture Checklist for Truck Drivers

Before hitting the road, run through this checklist to ensure you’re sitting in the optimal position:

  1. Is your seat height adjusted so your hips are slightly higher than your knees?
  2. Are your shoulders relaxed, and is your back fully supported, honoring the “S” curve that is your spine?
  3. Can you reach the steering wheel without overextending your arms?
  4. Are your feet flat and comfortably positioned?
  5. Is your head aligned with your spine, avoiding a forward tilt?
  6. Are you feeling centered and not leaning to one side?

Final Thoughts

As a truck driver, taking care of your health starts with the basics—like improving your driver’s seat posture. Small changes can have a big impact, reducing pain, enhancing comfort, and supporting long-term well-being. Remember, your posture is not just about comfort; it’s an investment in your health and career.

Make it a priority to assess and adjust your posture regularly. Your body will thank you for it—mile after mile.

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The Health Benefits of Cinnamon: A Traveler’s Perfect Companion

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The Health Benefits of Cinnamon and How to Travel with It

Cinnamon isn’t just a tasty spice—it’s also packed with health benefits that make it a perfect companion for truck drivers and travelers. Whether you’re looking to boost your metabolism, stabilize blood sugar, or add flavor without extra calories, cinnamon is easy to pack and use wherever your travels take you.

This blog will explore the health benefits of cinnamon, easy ways to incorporate it into meals, and potential precautions you should keep in mind.

1. The Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. Research has revealed several key benefits that can help improve health, especially for people living an on-the-go lifestyle.

a) Regulates Blood Sugar

  1. Cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
  2. It slows the breakdown of carbs, which reduces blood sugar spikes after meals—a major benefit for truck drivers and travelers trying to manage energy levels.

b) Reduces Inflammation

  1. Chronic inflammation contributes to heart disease, arthritis, and other health problems. Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation.

c) Supports Heart Health

  1. Studies show that cinnamon can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol, improving overall heart health.

d) Boosts Immunity

  1. The antimicrobial properties in cinnamon may help your body fight off infections—useful when traveling exposes you to various germs and environments.

e) Aids Digestion

  1. Cinnamon promotes healthy digestion by reducing bloating and gas, making it ideal for those dealing with travel-related stomach discomfort.

2. Why Cinnamon is Perfect for Travelers

One of the best things about cinnamon is how portable and versatile it is. You don’t need special storage or equipment to bring it along. Here’s why cinnamon works well for truckers and travelers:

  1. Lightweight & Compact: A small spice jar or travel-friendly packets of ground cinnamon can easily fit in your backpack, truck cab, or luggage.
  2. No Refrigeration Required: Cinnamon stays fresh for months at room temperature, making it ideal for long trips.
  3. Flavor without Calories: Add flavor to food and drinks without added sugar or unhealthy fats.

3. Simple Ways to Use Cinnamon on the Road

Cinnamon can enhance both savory and sweet foods. Here are some easy, travel-friendly ideas for incorporating cinnamon into your meals:

a) Add to Coffee or Tea

Sprinkle cinnamon into your coffee or tea for a flavorful twist. It’s a great alternative to sugary creamers.

b) Sprinkle on Oatmeal or Yogurt

Cinnamon pairs perfectly with oatmeal, yogurt, or fruit. Keep some instant oatmeal packets on hand for a quick breakfast.

c) Top Off Smoothies or Protein Shakes

Blend cinnamon into a smoothie or protein shake for added warmth and flavor.

d) Mix with Nuts and Trail Mix

Coat almonds or walnuts with a touch of cinnamon for a nutritious snack that’s easy to carry.

e) Use on Toast or Pancakes

If you’re eating toast, pancakes, or waffles, sprinkle cinnamon on top for a touch of sweetness without added sugar.

Tip: Keep a small shaker of cinnamon in your truck or travel bag for easy access to this healthy flavor booster.

4. Are There Any Cautions with Cinnamon?

While cinnamon has many health benefits, there are a few things to be mindful of:

a) Ceylon vs. Cassia Cinnamon

  1. Cassia cinnamon, the most common type found in grocery stores, contains higher levels of coumarin, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
  2. Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true cinnamon,” has lower levels of coumarin and is a better option for regular consumption.

b) Moderation is Key

  1. For most people, 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon a day is safe. However, consuming large amounts of Cassia cinnamon regularly may affect liver health.

c) Medication Interactions

  1. Cinnamon can interact with blood-thinning medications and certain diabetes medications. If you are on medication, consult with your doctor before adding large amounts of cinnamon to your diet.

5. Quick Tips for Buying and Storing Cinnamon

  1. Choose Ceylon Cinnamon: Look for labels that specify “Ceylon” to ensure you’re getting the healthiest option.
  2. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep cinnamon in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
  3. Avoid Pre-Sweetened Products: Some cinnamon products contain added sugars—stick with pure ground cinnamon for the most health benefits.

Final Thoughts: Spice Up Your Health with Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a powerful, easy-to-use spice that fits perfectly into the lifestyle of truck drivers and travelers. From regulating blood sugar to boosting immunity, its health benefits are extensive. Plus, it’s lightweight, portable, and requires no special storage—making it a convenient companion for life on the road.

Whether you’re sprinkling it on oatmeal, stirring it into your coffee, or adding it to snacks, cinnamon is a simple way to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. Just be mindful of which type you use and how much you consume to enjoy its benefits safely.

So next time you’re packing for a long haul or trip, throw a small container of cinnamon into your bag—you’ll be glad you did!

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Healthy Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Sometimes you just need a sweet treat. And when you are over the road there are a lot of sweet treats you can choose from the moment you step inside the truck stop. Healthy Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

The problem with the food selections at truckstops is that it is heavily processed, has a ton of sugar, and can be loaded with additives your body just doesn’t need.

To your surprise, I am not against a sweat-treat. And with a little preparation and gathering of healthy ingredients you can find yourself with some yummy treats to travel with (just don’t eat them all at once).

Healthy Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Look no further than this very blog for the best healthy and yummy Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe perfect for truck driver health-conscious people like yourself.

I get asked a lot about what type of sweets I like to eat. And I am a sucker for a good Chocolate Chip Cookie. I am not a baker, but I am willing to mix and match recipes to find one I like. And this one is a winner!

Now don’t be scared, baking with non-traditional ingredients is super easy and creates super yummy treats. It is important to follow the directions exactly to ensure your cookies turn out just right!

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup melted coconut oil, plus extra to grease a cookie sheet
  • 3 cups oats (gluten-free if you need them like me)
  • 1 tsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp sea salt
  • 2 large ripe bananas
  • 2 to 3 Tbsp maple syrup
  • ¼ cup vegan mini chocolate chips (if you prefer dairy then not yourself out)

Chocolate Chip Cookies MTY

Directions for Chocolate Chip Cookies:

  1. Preheat oven to 350. Grease cookie sheet with little coconut oil or use parchment paper.
  2. Combine flour, oats (if whole oats you will need to grind oats into the coarse texture), baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt into a bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, mash bananas with a fork. Add melted coconut oil and maple syrup. Mix. Add banana mixture until combine. Fold in chocolate chips.
  4. Place by spoonful’s onto a baking sheet, 1 inch apart. Bake for 8 minutes, or until golden brown.
  5. Let cool for 5 minutes on a baking sheet.
  6. Store in fright or freeze.

101 calories / 3 G protein / 4 g fat / 14 g carbs (3 g sugar / 2 g fiber) / 91 mg sodium

The next time you are looking to fix a sweet craving before you head out on the road. Consider baking up a batch of these cookies. If you have a freezer on your truck, consider freezing some of them to help them last longer. Or share it with a friend!

Want more recipes from Mother Trucker Yoga?

The Best Granola Recipe for a Travel Breakfast 

Healthy Trucker Lunch

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Mobile Meals Made Healthy: Shrimp and Grits

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Welcome to Mobile Meals Made Healthy!

Healthy trucker food doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or a figment of your imagination. Many drivers feel married to the truckstop food options, leaving them little to no wiggle room when it comes to variety and healthy eating. There are eight foods here at Mother Trucker Yoga that we think every driver should be carrying with them, and you can read about what they are inside Truckers Gear Guide.

But today is all about healthy trucker food you can make on the go. Cheryl Vickers is our featured foodie. She is a team driver with her husband and started working with Mother Trucker Yoga a year ago to help continue her health journey as a truck driver, and after looking for guidance on how to make that happen found Mother Trucker Yoga through the Driven to Be Healthy Challenge (You can join our second annual that starts August 30, 2021, HERE).

Cheryl has grown to love cooking on the truck, and after figuring out a little prep work and preparing before she leaves for the week making healthy meals from the truck has only gotten easier and more fun. And when she’s done cooking and enjoying delicious food, she is getting her Mother Trucker Yoga-approved moves in each day, she and her husband are down nearly 100 pounds combine and feeling better than they have in a long time.

Healthy Trucker Food: Shrimp and Grits

How to Make Trucker Approved Rice Grits

  • 1 cup of Rice Grits
  • 2 cups of Water
  • Pinch of Sea Salt
  • Garlic Powder

Healthy Trucker Food Shrimp and Grits Mother Trucker Yoga Blog

Directions for Shrimp and Grits

STEP 1: Rince the rice is possible

STEP 2: Combine the above ingredients

STEP 3: Let cook for 30 minutes or let simmer during your driving for a couple of hours

Healthy Trucker Food Shrimp and Grits Mother Trucker Yoga Blog 3

There are several different ways you can get your meal prepped while driving. One is to prep in the morning and lets your food simmer all day. The second is to make your meal for tomorrow the night before, let it simmer or cook in your crockpot or RoadPro Lunch Box, and then all you have to do is heat it for dinner the next day. And third is to prepare the morning of and let it simmer for a couple of hours while driving.

How to Make The Healthy Trucker Shrimp

STEP 1: Thaw shrimp

STEP 2: Peel and deveined (another option is to buy peeled, deveined, and precooked shrimp (I love ALDI’s).

STEP 3: Cut up onion, tomatoes, and bell peppers

STEP 4: Spray shrimp with either avocado or olive oil

STEP 5: Mix a pinch of sea salt, black pepper, garlic salt (or just garlic powder), paprika, and Italian seasoning

STEP 6: Mix shrimp, onion, tomatoes, bell peppers, and seasoning mixture together

STEP 7: Cook in the oven at 375 degrees for 15 minutes (or use RoadPro LunchBox or other means for cooking)

STEP 8: After rice grits are cooked, add cheddar cheese and stir until cheese is melted

Healthy Trucker Food Shrimp and Grits Mother Trucker Yoga blog 2

How to Make Healthy Trucker Salad

STEP 1: Use your favorite greens

STEP 2: Shredded carrots, chop cucumbers, and grape tomatoes

STEP 3: Toss with raspberry vinaigrette dressing

 

Now eat Shrimp and Grits and Salad and ENJOY!

Healthy Trucker Food Shrimp and Grits Mother Trucker Yoga Blog 4

 

Healthy Trucker Food Cost

The total investment for this delicious dinner for 2:

Shrimp 1/2 pound $6.62

Rice grits $1.00

Cheese $ .50

Salad $5.00

Veggies $1.00

Total Cost $14.12 ÷ 2 = $7.06 each prep-time 10 minutes, cook time 30 minutes, clean-up 10 minutes. total 50 minutes

You can eat healthy as a truck driver. This recipe may seem a bit intimidating, but try this: make one component of this meal at a time, to get more comfortable and then make them as a meal. The biggest reason we think we can’t do things in life is not because of resources. It is because we have already told ourselves we can’t. I believe you can be healthy as a truck driver. You are just one meal away from realizing you can do this! To join Cheryl and others for more great recipes and healthy trucker food ideas, join our FREE community- Accelerate Your Health with Mother Trucker Yoga.

 

Check out other Mobile Meals Made Healthy:

Mobile Meals Made Healthy: Easy Truckers Roasted Veggies & Country-Style Ribs

 

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Mobile Meals Made Healthy: Easy Truckers Roasted Veggies & Country-Style Ribs

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Cooking on your truck can seem complicated. But here at Mother Trucker Yoga, we believe that when you are armed with the right knowledge and support and are willing to take just a few minutes. And when mobiles meals are made healthy, you can’t go wrong because you can make a great meal right from your truck. No one said you need to be a gourmet chef, spend thousands of dollars on food, or have hard-to-find ingredients on hand. But, like anything, a little preparation and mapping out where you might need to stop can set you up for a delicious meal on the go. Mobile Meals Made Healthy

Meet Cheryl.

Cheryl is a team driver with her husband and has changed her health and her husband for good by learning how to move more with Mother Trucker Yoga, and the other piece is eating better from the truck. Cheryl will be our feature truck driving chef for our newest column, Mobile Meals Made Healthy, where Cheryl will be sharing what she makes while the wheels are turning. Warning. These meals are simple. Delicious for you. Cheryl, alongside Mother Trucker Yoga, believes you shouldn’t have to live in a bubble to lose weight and that eating healthy should not be based on restriction. But rather learning moderation and how to eat real food. If Cheryl and her husband can do this, you can do this too!

Ingredients for roasted veggies:

  • 1 eggplant peeled and quartered
  • 2 white and green zucchini sliced and quartered
  • 2 crookneck squash sliced
  • Red onion sliced
  • Yukon potato sliced and quartered
  • OPTIONAL: carrots, butternut squash
  • Sweet baby bells seeded and sliced
  • 1 tbsp of EVOO
  • 1/2 tsp of sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp of onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp of turmeric
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper.

roasted vegetables and country style ribs mother trucker yoga blog

Directions:

  1. Mix..microwave for 8 minutes.
  2. Next, put country-style ribs in an air fryer seasoned with garlic and onion powder.
  3. Place on bake 375 degrees for 15 minutes
  4. Then flip ribs and continue to bake for 15 minutes
  5. Next, make a fresh salad (optional) check out our post on Mother Trucker Yoga Blog about leafy greens!
  6. And if you like a little BBQ on your ribs, go right ahead!
  7. Ready to serve.

Mobile Meals Made Healthy: Easy Truckers Roasted Veggies & Country-Style Ribs Mother Trucker yoga blog ribs

Ingredients for Ranch Dressing:

  • 2 tbsp of light sour cream
  • 1/4 cup half-n-half, milk, or almond milk
  • 2 tbsp of ranch powder (Hope here, I personally love Flavor God seasonings!)
  • Mix and enjoy.

YUM! Try this over a burger without a bun, on a salad, even on hard-boiled eggs. You can always make extras and store the extra dressing in your truck frig or cooler for the next day.

 

What To Do With Leftovers:

Put all your leftover veggies in a baggie that seals shut and save for leftovers for the next day. Then, consider adding hardboiled eggs, a water-packed tuna package, or wrap those veggies in a bowl and munch away. Food shouldn’t be complicated, and with a little preparation, it should be an easy, fast, and yummy next-day meal.

 

Where To Purchase Your Ingredients?

Veggies can be bought at most grocery stores, vegetable markets, summertime food stands. Oftentimes mom and pop truck stops often have local vegetables for sale from local farmers and growers. So keep your eyes open.

The country-style ribs pictured in this post on Mother Trucker Yoga’s blog were purchased at the Dollar General Market in Hugo, Tx for 1/2 price on Wednesday for $3.84, which made 2 meals for 2 people.

The vegetables cost approximately $10.00. This was a complete meal plus leftovers for another meal, $13.84 ($6.92 per meal)..plus extra for herbs and seasonings startup.

What Ingredients To Watch For In Seasonings:

Herbs and seasonings can spice up any food or recipe and can be purchased just about anywhere. However, when purchasing seasonings, make sure you read the ingredients; oftentimes, there will be extra ingredients hiding inside seasonings that you don’t want to be consuming.

Ingredients like caramel coloring, Monosodium Glutamate, or MSG are considered one of the 23 worst food ingredients to consume in America, soybean oil, and watch out for sodium levels in spices. More important than the nutritional panel is the ingredients that create that food, or in this case, spice.

 

Driver Review

I know what you are thinking. How will I ever be able to make that? And the beauty is this recipe was made up! And you can do the same. Look at the ingredients and then take note of what you have on hand, or can you get nearby or on your route? Don’t overthink this. If you are already thinking, “I can’t do this. It’s too hard,”. Then you already know your answer for how this will turn out for you.

You can eat healthily and be a trucker! We know you can!

Leave a comment in the comment section below and tell us what you think, and share your first mobile meal creation with us!

For more great recipes from Cherly and other drivers join our community on Facebook – Accelerate Your Health with Mother Trucker Yoga

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Drivers Fight COVID-19 with Homemade Hand Sanitizer

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Drivers fight COVID-19 with homemade hand sanitizer. You are out there, on the go, transporting toilet paper to the masses (insert humor). And we appreciate you. But we do want you to be healthy and use safe practices when it comes to keeping healthy and not spreading unnecessary germs to those whose immune system cannot handle them.

How can Mother Trucker Yoga help? Well, we thought we’d share some of our favorite hand sanitizer recipes with you all.
We’ve got a quick and easy recipe for all your germ-killing needs. We will let you decide to use an alcohol-based recipe or one without. But when in doubt wash, wash, wash your hands.

Maybe you haven’t yet considered making your own “on the go” hand sanitizer. And like toilet paper, store-bought hand sanitizer is hard to come by. Here’s the thing, you shouldn’t consider self-care and protecting your immunity only in times of a viral outbreak. But considering our current state of this county, it may be time to DYI a batch of hand sanitizer.

Every state coast to coast is currently being bought out of products like hand sanitizer, wipes, disinfectant, and even things like kleenex and toilet paper (because you need to wipe your bottom more when there is a viral outbreak?).

As truck drivers, it is vital that you consider your immunity a top priority, with or without an outbreak present. Traveling continuously, interacting with people all around the country on a regular basis, make sure you are considering how you can be sharing germs others can’t fight against as well as how your body can fight them to keep you healthy. Just like our simple easy exercises you can do from the cab of your truck. Here are a few simple easy recipes you can do from the cab of your truck.

washing hands mother trucker yoga

Please understand that simply rubbing your hands with hand sanitizer is NOT a substitute for good ol’ hand-washing. Alcohol-based disinfectants used in the right amount (99%) and rubbed long enough (to sing the ABCs) are fine when you are on the go. But soap, water, and a full hand washing experience (palms, tops, and fingernails) is the best way to protect yourself against everything that is floating around out there, global pandemic or not.

There are several recipes for DIY hand sanitizer so find one that you like and get to it! A little goes a long way. And I’m going to share with you a few versions I love. And some hacks that make this recipe easy to make on the go (or in your truck).

Hand sanitizer should NOT replace hand washing

This probably sounds like common sense but hand sanitizers should ONLY be used when there’s no water and soap available.

 

DIY Liquid Alcohol-Based Hand-Sanitizer

Ingredients
1 cup of 99% isopropyl alcohol
1 tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide
1 teaspoon of 98% glycerin
¼ cup, 1 tablespoon, and 1 teaspoon of sterile distilled or boiled cold water

 

DIY Gel Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer

2/3 cup of 99% isopropyl alcohol
1/3 cup aloe vera gel or spray(read the label that it’s pure aloe)
8-20 drops essential oil (NOTE: the Dollar Store does not sell REAL essential oils) try oils like Lavender, Peppermint, Citrus, Cinnamon, Tea Tree or Myrtle.

 

Just be mindful when using alcohol-based hand sanitizers as ingesting these ingredients can be harmful to you and your loved ones. And alcohol used as a sanitizer regularly has been known to kill the bad bacteria AND the GOOD bacteria as well (which we don’t want to have happened). There is no hand sanitizer in the world that can ever replace using soap and water!

 

DIY Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer

1 Tablespoon aloe vera spray or gel

1 Tablespoon alcohol-free wich hazel (you can find this at the dollar store, Walmart, CVS)

1/4 teaspoon Vitamin E Oil (if you can’t find it, don’t stress, you can go without)

10-20 drops essential oil blends like Young Living Thieves or Doterra On Guard, or DIY your own blend using: cinnamon, myrtle, tea tree, lavender, rosemary. Use what you can find.

 

It’s important to choose essential oils that are anti-bacterial like the ones listed above. The use of alcohol continuously on your skin can really dry out your skin. By combining aloe vera gel or spray into your mixtures you can nourish your skin as well.  I prefer the spray as it’s not so clumpy and easier to mix.

No matter what recipe you use, you’ll want to mix all your ingredients together and eventually need something to put it into. As a driver accessing a fancy squirt bottle can be difficult. So I want to suggest a water bottle hack that you may find convenient and helpful.

Water Bottle Hand Sanitizer Hack

  1. Drink water from a bottle (consider using a thicker plastic water bottle).
  2. Rinse water bottle with soap and water. Clean rim and cap with soap and water.
  3. Pour all ingredients into a water bottle
  4. Using a knife, nail, screw (something sharp) poke a small hole in the cap of the water bottle.
  5. Screw the cap back onto a water bottle and squirt hand sanitizer onto hands as needed.

Caps for DIY hand sanitizer mother trucker yoga

Finally, just make sure you clearly label your containers. You don’t want anyone drinking your potion! And in the heat of the moment, you don’t want to be drinking it either.

Water bottles for DIY hand sanitizer MTY

 

Here at Mother Trucker Yoga we urge all drivers to use common sense. If you are sick, stay home, or get to a doctor ASAP. Wash your hands whenever you can. And remember, when you promote good health and hygiene habits you are protecting yourself and also the lives of others. We may never know what someone else is up against or the status of their health. They may not know either. And no one wants to contribute to another’s health complications.

Now wash your hands and be safe out there.

 

Read more of what Mother Trucker Yoga has to say on health and well-being on our other blogs:

Constipation: 3 Ways to Get Relief on the Go Blog 

Put Back Pain In Your Rearview Mirror Blog 

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Choosing Healthy Food On The Road

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Choosing healthy fuel for your body is hard for anyone. It is even harder for truck drivers who are constantly on the road for days or even weeks at a time.

Eating healthy starts with you saying to yourself, “I can do this.” It’s mind over matter.

Sure, it’s easy to stop at a diner, truck stop, or fast food restaurant to grab a bite to eat.  These places are quick and convenient AND they are EVERYWHERE! However, the majority of food at these places is high in calories, fat, and sodium–none of the things that are going to help you improve your health. Not only is this food pretty unhealthy, but it can also be expensive, too!

The good news is that YOU have the ability to choose what you put into your body. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated–it’s just a matter of choosing the RIGHT FOODS and a little planning. 

These FIVE snack ideas require a minimal amount or no preparation time at all. They are perfect for the busy trucker who is constantly on the road. 

 

1. Fruit

 

The possibilities are endless:

  • Apples
  • bananas
  • oranges
  • grapes
  • berries

Some fruit may require extra storage or preparation, however, it’s a super simple option that is readily available at most rest stops. And when you are worried about sugar, remember “berries are best”.

 

2. Vegetables

 

Vegetables are super easy options that require little to no prep time.

  • Carrots
  • celery
  • cucumbers
  • cherry tomatoes
  • peppers

Adding hummus to the mix also gives you an extra boost of protein which will help keep you feeling full for a longer period of time.

 

3. Hard-Boiled Eggs

 

Before you’re about to head out on the road, boil some eggs, peel them once they cool, and then wrap them in plastic wrap before putting them into a container. Right before it’s time to leave, load the container up with ice and throw it into a cooler. It’s that easy! BONUS: Don’t want to make them yourself? No worries. Most truck stops sell pre-cooked eggs in their refrigerated section.

 

4. Mixed Nuts

 

Nuts are nutritional powerhouses are packed with heart-healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The best part: most places sell nuts that are pre-packaged and ready to go! No prep necessary! And when possible look for raw, and watch the salt content in some mixes.

 

5. Protein/Energy Bars

 

Choose a brand that has whole grains, is high in protein and fiber, has a low amount of sugar and is in the moderate calorie range. Protein/Energy bars are available almost anywhere you stop so they are another great grab and go option! Stay away from brands like Cliff or Luna as they are made with soy. We love Enduro Bites made in Colorado, and SoLo Glycemic Nutrition Bar, and my favorite the GFB – Gluten Free Bar. 

 

Choosing healthy food on the road takes practice, but the benefits are definitely worth it! 

 

Here are some other great recipes for you to try!

Healthy and Simple Recipes for Truckers

The Best Healthy Trucker Travel Lunch Recipe

The Best Granola Recipe: Truckers Travel Breakfast

Egg in a Basket (Egg in an Avocado)

Easy Mongolian Beef Made on the Truck

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Egg in a Basket (Egg in an Avocado)

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Egg in a hole, egg in a basket, toad in a hole, hen in a nest, one-eyed Jack. Until recently I had never even heard of some of these crazy names for food. But no matter what, it doesn’t change the deliciousness of our dish we are sharing with you all today. 

Egg in a hole Mother Trucker Yoga

Call it what you want. Egg in a hole is about to go to a hole new level. Skip the bread slices today because we are changing up the recipe today and giving your taste buds a makeover. 

 

No need to bake this dish in the oven, you can throw it together and use RoadPro Family of Brands frying pan. And let it cook while you get your coffee and get ready for the road. This dish may just stop traffic!

 

It can be tough while living over the road to eat healthy. But most certainly not impossible! First things first, stop telling yourself you can’t eat healthy over the road. Second, stop telling yourself you can’t cook healthy over the road. 

 

This dish was featured at GATS 2019 in my presentation Fueling Your Rig, Fueling You- Eating Healthy Over The Road. And my new trucker friend Travis whipped (literally) this dish up in eight minutes. 

 

Why eight minutes? Because, that is the amount of time on stage I gave him. And heck, if he could really make a dish in 8 minutes. I want to share about it!

 

And alongside our other featured dishes: Mongolian Beef, Asian Salad, and Spring Rolls this was a huge hit!

 

Egg in a Basket (Egg in an Avocado Basket)

 

I didn’t know what that was (full disclosure). But I did know what Egg in a Hole was. And the parameters I gave Travis was no bread and must be healthy. 

 

Wow! His tweaks were out of this world HOME RUN! And I want to share that with you today!

 

This isn’t just a simple breakfast, this could be lunch or dinner. Anytime, anywhere, and yes, over the road, made in your truck! 

 

EGGS IN A BASKET

Like this recipe?

Please share this recipe out with all your over the road friends! 

 

For many breakfast is their favorite meal. But one reason I love this dish is because it could be lunch or dinner. And if you are intermittent fasting, or focusing on getting healthy fats and protein, this dish is for you!

 

Busy? At home? Or on the road, you can make this dish.

This is a really healthy and filling breakfast, and take it from Travis, it only takes 8 minutes, and less than that to eat!

 

Ingredients for Eggs in a Basket 

3 ? Avocados 

3 crushed tomatoes or 1 jar of chunky marinara sauce 

1 bag of spinach 

1 onion chopped (don’t have onion tried dried onion flakes)

1 green pepper chopped 

1 tbsp minced garlic (no garlic, try dehydrated garlic)

1/2 cup of Parmesan 

1/2 cup of feta cheese 

Basil to taste/ garnish with diced tomatoes

1 carton of eggs 

Mother Trucker Yoga Egg in a Hole Blog

HOW TO MAKE EGGS IN A BASKET AVOCADO

 

  1. Make sure the griddle is hot in order to get the bread nice and crispy.
  2. Start with a ripe avocado, you can check how ripe it is by noticing if it is firm yet you can squeeze it a bit. And also notice if the belly button (where the stem used to be) is poking out. If it is, the avocado is ripe. 
  3. Slice lengthwise and pull the pit out. 
  4. Scoop out the fruit. And then cut the avocado into slices so there is a hole to put the egg into once in the pan. 
  5. You can choose your thickness depending on how many you want to make. 
  6. Pour the marinara in frying pan and add spices.
  7. Place avocado slices in the marinara.
  8. Crack eggs carefully and place eggs into the holes of the avocados.
  9. Use fresh eggs, preferably Organic eggs. Kwik Trip and Kwik Star Stores sell fresh eggs which is fantastic for this recipe. 
  10. Salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

HOW TO SERVE EGGS IN A BASKET?

Freshly cracked black pepper is enough, but you can also drizzle some sriracha on top while serving.

 

YUM! I prefer crispy bacon to go along with my meal. You can also serve it with our delicious Asian Salad

 

Tools used to make Eggs in a Basket

 

Griddle: We recommend Road Pro Family of brands frying pan.

You can often find them at participating TA-Petro Truck Stops. 

 

Now this portioning will easily feed you and your trucker friends. 

So feel free to reduce the quantity in half to meet your needs. 

 

This is a delicious way to still enjoy Eggs in a Basket without all the bread and empty calories. 

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Easy Mongolian Beef Made on the Truck

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Easy MONGOLIAN BEEF Made on the truck

This Easy Monogolian Beef is easier than you think. And best yet it’s ready in 45 minutes-all made on the truck thanks to RoadPro’s Lunch Box cooker.

Easy Mongolian Beef Made on the Truck

No longer do you need to complain that it’s too difficult to get great tasting food as a long-haul trucker. Not only has Road Pro made it easier than ever to cook on the truck. But here is a mouth-watering recipe brought to you by veteran trucker Robert Greene that tastes better than P.F. Chang’s!

The magic is in the super simple sauce (yes, we said simple) and convenient yet top chef worthy lunch box cooker. We made this recipe live at GATS this past month those in the audience went crazy. The delicious thick sauce and amazing flavor, all made in minutes with little utensils (we too were traveling and did not have the convenience of a kitchen).

The flavor is unreal.  And we know you are going to go crazy for this healthy steak recipe. Don’t open your truck door or you’ll be having guest for dinner.

cooking on the truck Mongolian Beef Blog

How do you make Mongolian beef?

  • Slice the flank steak into strips (we suggest 3” long).
  • In a 1-gallon Ziplock bag (or large container) put the beef and all the ingredients except the olive oil into the bag. Toss the beef to coat evenly.
  • You may want to pre-mix the cornstarch and water together to make sure it is thoroughly mixed in another container or in the Ziplock bag first to get the clumps out.
  • Let chill for up to 2 hours (we let our chill for 45 minutes).
  • Coat RoadPro 12-Volt Portable Stove  with remaining olive oil.
  • Heat up RoadPro Lunch Box so it is very hot.
  • Carefully place stake and other ingredients into lunch box and securely close.
  • Make sure lunch box is sitting securely on a flat surface.
  • Let steak cook inside the Portable Stove (Lunch Box) for 45 minutes to 1 hour (checking as needed, but be careful when you open the Portable Stove, to open it slowly not to burn yourself with the steam that will come out).

Mongolian Beef Blog Post Mother Trucker Yoga

Ingredients list:

  • ¾ lb of Flank Steak
  • 2 tsp Garlic
  • 2 tsp Ginger
  • 4 Green Onions, sliced thin
  • 5 Dried Red Chillis
  • 3/8 cup Hoisen Sauce
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1/8 cup Cornstarch
  • ½ tsp Sesame Oil (or any oil except vegetable oil)
  • 5 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 ½ Tbsp Water
  • 1 can Sliced Water Chestnuts
  • 1 can Sliced Bamboo Shoots

Serve over rice, or Rice noodles or eat as the main dish!

Winner of RoadPro Portable Oven at GATS Blog Post

RoadPro’s Portable Oven winner at GATS 2019

What kind of beef should I use?

Most Mongolian beef recipes use flank steak. And that is what we are suggesting here. We suggest that you slice the beef about ¼ inch thick and about 3” long strips.

Tips and Tricks for making the perfect Mongolian beef:

  • When slicing your beef:  It is best to slice flank steak against the grain to create an easier cutting experience. We also advise you not cut the beef directly on any surface of the truck that may leave scratches.
  • Smaller batches:  Although the Lunch Box by RoadPro is large it is not meant to make a meal for an army. So, consider making smaller batches. This will also allow for room to stir without making a mess in the truck.
  • Adjusting the sauce:  Cornstarch is used to thicken a sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce omit the cornstarch. But if you would like a thicker sauce just add ½ to 1 tsp more of cornstarch at a time. You can also add more cornstarch (and water mixture) during the sampling process if you want to see a thicker sauce.

 

What is Mongolian Beef best served with?

  • Mongolian beef is delicious with rice or rice noodles. However, my favorite is to stir-fry other veggies like snow peas, broccoli or even mushrooms. Or try it with our Asian Slaw Salad recipe. Delicious and super easy to make on the truck!

 

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Healthy and Simple Recipes for Truckers

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On the go: healthy and simple trucker food recipes. Anytime, anywhere.

I just trucked 18 hours home from GATS in Dallas, Texas back home to Hartford, Wisconsin. We team drove our RV and made it back safely.

Many of you came to see me (hey all, Hope here) at the Landstar Health Stage to learn more about how to live a healthy life over the road. And one of Saturday’s presentations was: Fueling Your Rig, Fueling You: Eating Healthy Over The Road Made Easy. Sponsored by RoadPro Family of Brands

GATS Fueling Your Rig Fueling You Presentation

Cooking at GATS 2019

The presentation was a hit! We had just enough food, and no one left hungry!

Everyone at the event loved what we not only talked about but ate.

  • I believe that you can eat healthier on your truck.
  • I believe it’s about small simple changes, not big huge leaps that will help you change your life’s current route to health.
  • I believe you can do this!

It’s not about getting up and doing a complete 180 (although no one is saying you can’t). But what I am suggesting is to start small.

If BIG HUGE DRASTIC changes worked so well, more than 8% of New Years resolutions wouldn’t fail!!!

Eating healthy on the truck and over the road starts with you saying to yourself, “I can do this”.

At GATS we discussed the notion of GOOD, BETTER, BEST. And with this idea we recognize the opportunities to improve in little ways, and when you do that consistently, it add up.

Instead of a soda with every meal, how about you eliminate one soda a day. Or better yet, just one soda, one day a week. I want you to make changes you can stick to. Not changes you give up on because you did too much too soon.

Why I’m so passionate about this approach is because I struggled with an eating disorder for YEARS. Almost half my life.

Every day I would wake up and say:

  • “Today I’m not going to over eat.”
  • “Today I’m not going to binge and purge”. 
  • “Today, I’m going to magically be changed”. 

And not even one hour into the day and I was back in the cycle of no return…

Sound familiar?

It wasn’t until out-patient treatment and their encouragement of one minute at a time. One hour at a time. And one day at a time, that inspired me to break down my changes into micro-changes.

And that (along with healthy movement and yoga) got me out of that deep dark hole of self-destruction.

During our Fueling Your Rig, Fueling You presentation, I wanted to show every driver out there that eating healthy on the road CAN and IS easy. And wanted to turn everyone on to healthy options and simple recipes that actually taste good, and are easy to make!

Men and women were nodding their heads in the audience as they munched away. Loving the food that was going into their mouths.

And everything we made for them we made there! That day! In less the time it takes to take a 30 minute break.

I want to share two of the recipes we made at GATS that were top on the request list. Which also happen to be cheap, easy to make, and healthy on-the-go food for truck drivers.

Recipe #1: Spring Rolls for on the Go!

  • Spring Roll Rice Paper
  • Lettuce or Cabbage leafs (cut into small pieces)
  • Shredded carrots (you can buy them pre-shredded too)
  • Cilantro or Mint
  • Shrimp (or any other meat or tofu)
  • Lime Juice (optional)
  • Sticky rice or rice noodles
  • Plate size dish & cutting board or flat surface to roll spring rolls up
  • 8 oz of water

Demonstration of how to make spring rolls recipes

Directions for Spring Rolls:

  1. Put water in plate size dish.
  2. Take out one rice paper sheet and place in water for 30 seconds or so.
  3. Until the entire sheet is soft.
  4. Take the rice paper and lay it on a dry flat area.
  5. Take lettuce leaves and lay in a line at the end closest to you.
  6. Lay shredded carrots inside lettuce
  7. Now put rice noodles or rice on top.
  8. Squeeze lime over shrimp before adding.
  9. Add shrimp and cilantro or mint.
  10. Using the end closest to you, begin to roll the contents one time.
  11. Now take the two sides and fold them in and over the contents sticking the rice sheet sides to the folded end.
  12. Keep rolling, making sure the sides stay tucked in.
  13. Roll all the way to the end and the rice paper will stick to itself, keeping the contents inside.
  14. For dipping sauce use Thai Peanut Sauce, Sweet & Sour Plum Sauce, or Chilli Sauce and enjoy!

Option:

I bought the lime cilantro shrimp in the deli at Costco pre-seasoned and ready to be served. I cut up the shrimp and then added it to my spring rolls. You could also squeeze the lime and mix the cilantro or mint with the shrimp and marinade before use as well.

Keep chilled. Will last for a few days.

Spring Rolls are a great alternative to sandwiches, and a whole lot healthier. Be creative and play with other ingredients. These two are simple recipes you can make anytime, anywhere while on the go. Let us know what you come up with!

Hope Demonstrating How to make Simple spring rolls recipe

Recipe #2: Asian Slaw Salad

  • 1-Packet Beef Ramen Noodles
  • 1-Bag Shredded Cabbage
  • Grapeseed Oil
  • Natural Sugar
  • 4 Green Onions-chopped
  • Sun flower seeds (unsalted), pistachios, pumpkin seeds, sliced almonds, crasins

Directions for Asian Slaw Salad

  1. Mix grapeseed oil, sugar, onions, and beef seasoning packet (see below for homemade seasoning) together.
  2. Break up noodles into small pieces.
  3. Mix noodles and seeds together. You can store them together for easy travel.
  4. When ready to eat take noodle mixture, cabbage slaw and liquid and mix together in a bowl (or container with a lid for easy storage afterwards.
  5. Once mixed, enjoy with a fork!
  6. The longer you let the ingredients sit together the noodles soften and you get a whole new crunch.
  7. Stores perfectly in a 12 cup container.
  8. Keep cool in cooler or frig.

Homemade Beef Seasoning (I like Wilhelms Kitchen version):

Mix together and store in air tight jar. Use 1-2 TBSP per packet of beef seasoning. Simple Asian Slaw Salad Recipe for Truckers Mother Trucker Yoga

Beginning to eat healthy starts with one small simple change. Simple recipes you can make right on your truck. It doesn’t have to be extreme, fancy, or expensive. What if you simply make your own food once a week? Then one day a week? Then two days a week, and so on. This does not have to happen over night. But my hope is you begin to see that YOU CAN DO THIS!

I believe in you. And I believe you can stay healthier over the road one move at a time. One meal at a time.

Please try out these simple recipes and comment below telling us what you think!

Share your photos of your food creations on our Facebook Page – Mother Trucker Yoga

Join our family here at Mother Trucker Yoga!

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Mother Trucker Yoga and Backshield

 

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