As I was working out at the gym one morning, the words “you look like hell” filled my mind. I instantly became discouraged and felt like ditching my workout for the day. I wondered why my mind went straight to describing my body with such negative words. It didn’t deserve that! As I evaluated this situation throughout the day, I realized that this scenario was happening quite often, and I needed to make a change.
How do you see yourself? How do you speak to yourself? If you can relate to this situation, consider shifting your mindset by implementing these four simple actions.
Recommit to Movement
When this situation occurred, I had been deep into “work mode” for a few weeks and had cut back on my daily workouts. My body wasn’t receiving the movement it needed to truly feel good. I caught myself sitting for extended hours at a time, skipping my morning run, and rarely stretching. My mind couldn’t think clearly, and my body was restless.
I decided to recommit to movement! I became intentional about completing workouts that excited me and made me feel good from the inside out. I suggest evaluating how often you move in a week and making adjustments for your schedule. Going for a 30-minute walk each day is a simple and effective way to begin!
Take Supplements
When my life gets busy, I often forget to fuel my body with everything it needs. Whether you’ve taken supplements in the past or this would be your first time, consider making them a part of your daily routine. In addition to a healthy diet (rather than in place of), supplements can help assure that you get enough of the vital substances the body needs to function.
I personally feel more energized, alert, and healthier when I take daily supplements. Chondroitin, Echinacea, Fish Oil, Ginkgo, Green Tea, Glucosamine, and Garlic are a few of the more common supplements you’ll see on the grocery store shelf, and each has a different purpose and benefits.
Create a Saying
I knew I needed to make a major change when the words “you look like hell” effortlessly filled my head. How could I be so hard on myself? I knew I didn’t deserve to hear such harsh words. I sat down for a few minutes and created a saying that I could repeat over and over again to lift my spirits and speak truth into my life. I chose the words — “This is what a sexy, vibrant woman looks like”!
What are you telling yourself? If it’s similar to my new works, keep it up! If it sounds like “you look like hell,” make a change! However short or long your positive saying is, make sure it’s easy to remember and quickly accessible in your mind.
Thank Your Body
How often do you go about your day and forget to thank your body for how hard it worked? I used to do this all the time! I would go for a run and then complain about my feet hurting rather than thanking them for getting me from point A to point B. Once I began practicing a daily meditation of intentionally thanking my body, I became aware of how hard it worked and how much I truly appreciated it.
Consider thanking your body daily through meditation or become more aware of how well it serves you. Fill it with appreciation, good foods, and exercise!
Don’t let the negativity in your mind keep you from living life and improving your health. Implement these four simple actions to transform your thoughts and shift your perspective. For more tips on how to improve your mindset, tune in to Episode 3 of the Fit Is Freedom podcast.