FitSpirit explores the mind-body connection and the intangible benefits we gain from our efforts to stay physically fit.

Don't strive for perfect. It' a virtual guarantee for failure -- none of us is perfect, you may well know. Doing good, plain old good, is really all we need to feel spunky and nourished. Here are three tips for getting started on your path toward mere goodness.

Don't cut out, just cut back. Slash just 200 calories per day and you'll lose nearly two pounds a month. That's about 20 pounds a year. You can still eat cake -- just limit it, and other treats as well.

Limit sugar and salt. Don't ditch them entirely. Just enjoy a little less. Ketchup, spaghetti sauce, peanut butter, juices, and cereals are all loaded with hidden sugar. And canned chicken noodle soup: 1,780 milligrams of salt per cup. Go with low-sodium minestrone or vegetable and all you'll consume is 290.

Add water. Add water to your beverage line-up and say goodbye to a few regular indulgences, like cans of soda, frothy Frappuccinos, and yes, sinful Margaritas and their accompanying 740 calories. Still OK on occasion, these drinks can severely sideline a healthy lifestyle.

For more where this came from, check out this Oprah magazine article.