“The act of getting strong doesn’t start in the gym, it starts in your head.”
Being healthy is all about mind, body, and soul. You cannot be physically fit without being mentally fit. Ask yourself, what do I want to look like and how do I want to feel in a year from now? Consider this…if you shower and brush your teeth everyday, why not exercise every day?
I used to say that I will start tomorrow. Then it would become next week, or even next year. For about a year, I worked out by myself in my home. My goal in each workout would be to do 3 sets of 20 repetitions, but I would only do about half because I was unmotivated and I had no one to push me. As time passed, I soon began to realize that because I was only putting in half of the effort, I only got half of the results. After each workout, I did not physically see any changes in my body but more importantly I did not mentally feel as though I was making any progress. As I entered college, I realized that I needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle to avoid the “freshman fifteen”, and I took action to pursue my goals. I began working out consistently and it became a part of my daily routine. Working out routinely can reduce your stress level and boost your mental wellness.
Although exercise helps you lose weight and can help you become confident and comfortable with your physical appearance, there are many other important parts of being physically and mentally healthy.
Get a good night’s sleep
Lack of sleep can affect your mood and your overall health.
Pay attention to the food you are putting into your body
A nutritious diet is a significant factor of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Drink lots of water.
Not only does drinking water keep you hydrated, but it can help maintain a controlled appetite, keep your skin clear, and keeps you strong and energized.
Being physically active does not necessarily mean going to the gym and burning 500 calories. It can be as simple as taking the stairs rather than the elevator, or parking in a spot farther away from where you need to walk to. My advice is to take every opportunity to having a healthy lifestyle. It can only change your life for the better.