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If you could go back in time and change one thing about your decision to get healthy, what would it be? Would you change how well you followed-through with your goals or would you rewrite your goals all together? Most of us can admit that we could have made an improvement somewhere.
While the majority of our health goals read something like: “I plan to lose 20 pounds before my high school reunion,” what we actually desire goes a little deeper than a diet plan. What we want, is to be more confident in ourselves. We want to feel happier, become more fit to feel healthier, and really begin to enjoy our lives. The goals for going to the gym or dieting are simply the vehicles that help us get to the heart of what we want most.
So if it’s a lifestyle change you are looking for, let’s stop calling them “goals,” and commit to more long-term solutions. Start with one or two little changes, and slowly add the the rest over time. Be patient with your progress and be proud of your decision to be a healthier person not just now, but for a lifetime.
- Hire a personal trainer. Instead of allowing yourself to become overwhelmed at the uncertainty of where to start, hire a professional who can create a workout routine tailored to your body type.
- Set up an appointment with a health coach. Some nutritionists or clinics offer specialized appointments to discuss your current eating habits and what kinds of foods would be the best fit for your diet.
- Reduce the amount of caffeine you drink each day. Caffeine can lead to addiction and physical issues such as ulcers or stomach spasms. Replace your second cup of tea or coffee with water for healthier hydration.
- Limit the amount of carbs and desserts in your diet. Take out extra calories that don’t provide your body with the nutrients it needs. Replace these items with snacks like frozen fruit or almonds.
- Incorporate your family or friends into your new lifestyle. No one is motivated by feeling alone in their challenging journey to a healthier life. Ask your family to help encourage you, or participate with you. Take walks as a family, or invite a friend to join you at the gym.
- Take time to stretch in the morning. Studies show that stretching can give you more energy, increase the blood flow throughout your body, and help your posture.
- Cut back on your alcohol intake or remove it from your diet altogether. Consuming too much alcohol can lead to addiction or can cause other negative mental and physical consequences to your health.
- Lead your kids into a healthier future, by your example. Cook healthy meals together and talk about the importance of fruits, vegetables, and healthy snacks to replace candy and sweets.
Your physical health and your mental health are directly related. Engaging in physical activity can help alleviate the effects of depression or stress. It can also serve as a replacement activity if you are on the road to addiction recovery. Conversely, by using your mind, will, and emotions, you can power through a new exercise routine that will lead you down the fast track to physical wellness.
The best part about any of these tips for healthier living, is that you can choose to live your life to the fullest, right now. These little changes can give you the peace of mind that you are on your way to a more self-confident, happier lifestyle
Guest Post By: Susan Treadway; Rehab Holistics