It has been said that health is the greatest wealth, and for good reason!
More and more studies are proving that overall well-being has a lot to do with how we relate to our body.
A personalized fitness routine based on diet and exercise is an effective tool for maintaining optimal health.
Creating an effective plan takes time, patience, and a lot of self-love.
So how does our health philosophy stack up?
In this article, we'll review a few reasons why it might be time to rearrange our routine that could help us getting back in shape.
1. We Don’t Have Any Exercise Routine
Maybe you’ve already tried a few diet and exercise routines, and they just didn’t work out for you.You’re not alone!
Many people struggle to attain a balance with their lifestyle and schedule. It can be difficult, especially if you try to change everything at once.
Before you lift one dumbbell or count one calorie, however, it is important to document your reasons for seeking change.
Are you struggling with extra weight?
Remember that everyone is different and weight is a buzzword that is constantly misused.
That being said, the excess weight comes with a number of challenges, both physically and mentally.
It is thought that consuming too many calories regularly may be tied to a subconscious need to protect yourself.
If that resonates with you, then the first step in your new exercise routine should be to come to terms with your feelings, and especially your past.
This is not an easy, one-and-done process. If you’ve been struggling to shed pounds for years, going within will help you to find the answers that only you can give yourself.
With time, love and patience, you can create the space you need to heal and ultimately, to overcome.
Believe in you!
2. You Are Trying to Be Someone Else
Everybody has different ways of staying motivated, and none ways is correct.
But, be careful of the images and language you use to stoke your fitness fire.
Maybe you are naturally a size 12 and you plaster your mirror with pictures of people who are size zero.
Or, maybe you beat yourself up because you had a bite of ‘forbidden food’, and so-and-so would have more self-control.
Even though you may get results, you could also be setting yourself up for failure.
What’s worse, you may be increasing or creating a negative body image.
There is no one right way for a person to look. Variety is the spice of life!
Just because most fitness images present a well-oiled, muscle-laden subject doesn't mean that you can’t have a little tummy fluff.
Or no muscle tone whatsoever.
People come in every shape and size: tall, short, fat, thin, somewhere in-between. Collectively, we are a rainbow of shapes, shades, and sizes, and that is what makes us superb.
Transformation happens when you can be motivated without having to put yourself or others down for things that are totally out of your control.
3. You Rely Too Much On Weight Loss Programs
Don’t get me wrong, you have to start somewhere.
Programs like The Atkins Diet and Weight Watchers can be a great way to introduce new habits, especially if you don't have a lot of extra time to make meals.
But there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all meal strategy.They may be quick and convenient, but that’s not always a fair trade where your health is concerned.
Additionally, many fad diets are guilty of cutting out essentials such as healthy fats for the sake of a low-calorie index.
Monounsaturated fats and omegas are absolutely crucial for energy and mental focus. They help you to feel fuller longer because your body is getting the nutrition it desperately needs.
They may also help you lower your cholesterol.
Target whole foods.
Start with one meal a day made from scratch. It doesn’t have to take forever; if you’re in a rush, smoothies are a great option.
Forget about margarine and low-fat dairy. Real butter and whole milk are the way to go.
If you find that most of your meals come pre-packaged and pre-portioned, it might be time to give yourself a food challenge.
4. Your Workout Is Doing More Harm than Good
Don't buy the hype:
Running isn’t for everyone. In fact, some experts believe that a long, brisk walk is just as effective, and probably even more beneficial for long-term.
Lifting weights should also be approached with caution.While you may burn calories and increase your heart rate, you must also be aware that your joints and circulation may be taking a hit.
New and old (very old!) exercise techniques are coming into vogue and making it easier than ever to get the maximum benefit from your workout without compromising your body.
For instance, martial arts are a great way to build your strength from the inside-out.
There is an undeniable spiritual element, and the focus is most often on health for your whole body and mind as well.
In addition, getting linked up with your local dojo is a great way to connect with a loving and supportive community.
While stretching is a wonderful way to keep the muscles strong and toned, be aware that too much yoga can also cause inflammation, especially if not done correctly.
Acroyoga is an amazingly dynamic way to challenge yourself, build your strength, and stretch at the same time – without the undue burden on your body.
The occasional jog or steel pumping session is unlikely to cause any harm, as long as you don't overdo it.
Mix it up if you wish- just put your body first.
5. You Are Relying Too Much On Diet Pills
In today's culture, we have been conditioned to believe that almost everything can be solved with a pill, and weight loss is no exception.
The Internet is riddled with ads promoting massive weight loss in weeks, or even days. That’s amazing!
But don't be fooled;
Remember magic is an illusion. And an illusion is far away from the reality.
It is a temporary answer to a long-term problem.
While some pills are relatively harmless, others can be very dangerous.
To start with, once you stop taking them it is almost guaranteed that your weight will come back.
You may also be putting the rest of your health in jeopardy for the sake of a smaller waistline.
Heart problems, mood and energy imbalances, and circulation issues can all result from popping a diet pill, along with a whole list of other life-threatening factors.
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Diet Pills have been largely re-branded as herbal supplements.There is a huge difference, however.
The right food-based supplement really can go a long way to improving your health and may even lead to weight loss, but remember that there is no substitute for proper diet and exercise.
6. You Want Results Yesterday
Once you find the motivation you need to improve your health, you may struggle with the actual timeline.
Keep in mind that habits and patterns don’t manifest overnight.
For most of us, the issues that ultimately result in a health crisis have been in the works for years, sometimes even decades.
As you begin to work your personalized plan, it is absolutely crucial that you adjust your environment a little bit at a time.
Give yourself a full year or more. Target small, attainable goals and knock them out one by one.
Self-control is a challenge we all share, but it is a habit that you can put into practice right now.
And, instead of control, it may be better to think of governing yourself.
Imagine that all of your thoughts are a member of your inner “Parliament” and decide which course of action is best for the present moment.
Remember that most virtues are learned through trial and error, and LOTS of practice.
Look into smart supplementation, like magnesium, to complement your diet.
Magnesium deficiency, which can lead to sugar cravings, poor cognition and mood imbalance, is present in up to 80% of people in America.
Folic acid is another great one, especially for women. These supplements are not only highly affordable, they will really go far to support your body as you transition.
Are you ready to change it up?
It may not be easy,straightforward or simple. But I guarantee that you are worth it.
I hope you will give yourself the opportunity to increase more of what makes life grand: self-love, balance, emotional stability and a supportive, nurturing environment.
As discussed earlier, creating a routine that is literally all about you takes a lot of time and patience, but if you put in the work be prepared to reap the rewards!
You can absolutely do this!
Cheers to your health!
Article Updated On: 07.07.2017
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