Living the Healthy Life

I debated whether or not to blog about this because I usually find it annoying when people constantly talk about this subject, but I thought since it's the beginning of a new year and everyone has set their resolutions, I would share some of my own personal advice on weight loss and fitness.

Now, I don't claim to be a trainer or an expert on the subject, but I am a regular person that was able to lose about 20 lbs. after college. Yes, what is on the inside is so much more important than what's on the outside, but physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional health are all connected. When one is out of balance, it throws the others off as well. So for those of you looking to start the new year off with a healthier lifestyle and aren't sure where to start, here's 10 simple guidelines from someone who has been exactly where you're standing now.

1. Always see yourself through the eyes of God: beautiful inside and out. Thinking negative thoughts about yourself like, "I'm fat," or "I can't do this" won't get you anywhere. At least not in the direction you want to go, anyway.

2. Take baby steps. For example, if you're used to drinking two cokes a day and think you can just quit them cold turkey, you're in for a surprise. Most likely what will happen is you will make it a day and then give in. Let go of certain things that are bad for you over time and add more things that are good for you. 

3. Use the common sense God gave you. Don't follow fad diets. Eating healthy really is not rocket science. Avoid processed and fast foods, eat more fruits and veggies, and drink more water. The end. Remember that being healthy is 70% diet, 30% exercise. If you eat like crap, it will show, even if you exercise frequently.

4. Moderation is key. I realize some people don't quite agree with this concept because they may think it's unrealistic for some, but generally, it works. Most people hate "dieting" because they have to give up foods they love and eat foods they hate. In "dieting," you do. In living a healthy lifestyle, you don't. So what if you have a piece of chocolate cake at your friend's birthday party? Who freaking cares? Maybe you'll cut 38 seconds off your life by doing that, but at least you were living and enjoying it. Also, allowing yourself a treat every once in a while will keep you from getting frustrated and binge eating later.

5. Be aware of your weaknesses and act upon them. Don't keep junk food in the house. Avoid roads with fast food joints on your way home. Surround yourself with people that will help and support you, not bring you down. You know yourself better than anyone else, and you know what it's going to take to turn your resolution into reality.

6. Stop making excuses and find the motivation to move. No, you should not feel bad if you can't work out every single day. Most normal people honestly don't have time. But if you're not exercising at all because you don't have time, you're lying to yourself. I used to work at a gym and saw women with six kids and full time jobs there. If they can find the time, you can.

7. If you hate "working out," don't see it that way. Find a physical activity that you enjoy doing, then do it. Do you like to dance, ski, play tennis? If it seems fun to you, then it won't seem like such a chore.

8. Join a gym if at all possible. I realize gyms are not for everyone, but I'm speaking from my own experience, here. Going to a gym and having people there to encourage and challenge me caused me to push myself harder and actually enjoy going. Another key for me was going to a gym that cost just a little bit more than I was comfortable with. If I didn't go, I felt bad for wasting the money. Exercising with others is just proven to happen more with others than by yourself, simple as that.

9. Challenge yourself to try something new or even something you think you might not like. Is there a sport or class that you've always wanted to try, but never had the chance? Find the opportunity to do it. Growing up I hated, no, LOATHED, running. I was always the slowest one to finish the mile in P.E. when I was in school. When I started going to the gym, I tried it. I hated it again. But I kept going. I wanted to like running and continued to challenge myself. Now, I couldn't imagine my life without running. As a side note but also very similar to this subject, you should be doing some sort of strength training. If you don't have access to dumbbells or weight machines, there are plenty of body weight exercises you can try. Thinking you can run your butt off (literally) isn't logical. Muscle burns more fat. It's scientific fact. You won't bulk up, ladies, I promise :)

10. Don't give up. Being healthy is a constant battle. The reason most diets and fitness trends don't work for people is because people give up on themselves too quickly. They have a bad day and they think all is lost. Starting a healthy lifestyle isn't the challenge, the challenge is to keep going even when you make mistakes. We live in a society of instant gratification, so it's discouraging when we don't see immediate results. You need to mentally prepare and remind yourself that it will not be easy, but that you can do it.

Again, this is from personal experience and what has worked for me. I realize some people may disagree with some of these, but I just felt like sharing and encouraging those that are committed to changing their lifestyles. Best of luck in your endeavors!