It can be hard to to make any kind of lifestyle change, let alone changes to exercise and eating habits. Most people feel overwhelmed in the beginning because it's typically something brand new. They feel discouraged that they'll fail and they tend to think ahead to how hard it's going to be every step of the way. As long as you keep up with it whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you will start to see results and feel great.
The Benefits of Working Out
Working out at least a few times a week has direct benefits on your overall health. You'll have more energy, feel happier, and lose weight. Working out doesn't have to be anything strenuous, especially if you're just getting back into shape. You can start small by taking a walk every day or lifting some weights at home. By setting workout goals, you'll feel powerful when you accomplish them. Working out also leads to a higher self-esteem. Working out and exercising greatly improves the overall mental health of individuals. It's commonly used in rehabilitation centers for people who are undergoing inpatient treatment. It's able to help individuals have clearer minds and it's been found that people who exercise regularly tend to have higher self-control than those who don't.
Don't Forget to Eat Healthy
Many people think they can eat whatever they want and workout to offset the damages. That's not true, however. Eating healthy is crucial to a person's overall health and well-being. You'll want to make sure you are eliminating your sugar intake, upping your water intake, and cutting out things like bad carbs. You'll eventually find a balance in meals. When crafting each meal, try to include a protein such as lean ground beef or chicken. Make sure you have a big portion of vegetables. Leafy green vegetables are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants. Finally, to stay full longer you'll want to include a healthy fat such as olive oil or avocado. Try to limit your snack in between meals. If you have to eat something, consider a small serving of fruit, nuts, or raw veggies.
When You’re Feeling Down...Smile
A fake-it-til-you-make-it strategy has some merits after all. When you’re not feeling all that great, and you’re lacking motivation to stick to your exercise and diet routine, smiling can help to lift up your spirits. The simple act of smiling releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin into your brain, which relaxes your heart, lowers your blood pressure, reduces pain, and lifts your mood. Sounds like a great reason to keep up on your oral hygiene, so you can proudly flash your pearly whites. Speaking of which, oral hygiene is also very important for your overall health, too. Cleaning out plaque from your mouth is an important step for keeping plaque out of your arteries, which protects you from Heart Disease. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, try meditating; take a moment to breathe, and to focus on the good things.
Conclusion: Keeping a Positive Attitude Throughout it All
If you think of diet and exercise as torture then it will probably feel like torture. Instead, focus on all of the good. Think of how great you're going to look and feel in no time. Focus on the fact that you're making these positive changes because you love your body and you want to show it how thankful you are. If you feel miserable during a workout, try smiling with gratitude. It will make your body feel more inclined to finish the workout because instead of focusing on how much it sucks, you're focusing on how much good will come in the future from the good choices that you are making now.
Resources:
https://www.self.com/story/11-amazing-reasons-to-work-out-that-have-nothing-to-do-with-weight-loss
http://www.eatingwell.com/article/15920/3-easy-ways-to-balance-your-diet/
http://www.tfdmuskegon.com/
https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/recovery-blog/5-ways-beat-heat-stay-mentally-healthy-exercise-mens-health-month/