Staying healthy is not always an easy task. With so many unhealthy habits and ingredients out there, it’s easy to give in and forget what your body really needs. All it takes is a vacation with a 24/7 buffet or a Christmas holiday at mom's to make you forget about your workout diet and routine. And we all know how hard it is to get back in the gym and cut back on unhealthy foods after a small break from the fit life. So how can we get the motivation back? Here are a few quick tips on how to get back into a healthy mindset and crush your health goals.
Cut out the self-criticism
Our biggest critic is always ourselves. But next time you catch that little voice inside you saying “you let yourself go too much, is one workout going to make a difference?” or “you’re never going to get that dream body now” tell it to take a chill pill! A good trick is to replace those negative and often unrealistic thoughts and turn them into a realistic statement. Instead of telling yourself “you’ll never be fit again” change the statement to say “getting fit isn’t easy, but the effort and discipline will help me in other areas of life, and if I’m consistent I will accomplish anything” If that doesn’t work, here are other tricks to shut down your inner hater.
Make sure you’re getting enough rest
Even professional athletes struggle to motivate themselves when their bodies don’t get the recovery they need. Adults should be getting at least 7 hours of sleep according to the CDC. Not getting the right amount of sleep will eventually catch up to you. Tracking your sleep is a great way to tell if you’re getting the recommended amount to make sure you are of healthy mind and body. Try our AS81 Bluetooth Smart Activity Sensor, which not only tracks your sleep but also your fitness activity. However, if you are getting enough sleep but still feel tired you might be suffering from mental exhaustion. This is caused by stress and overthinking and takes a toll on your brain and body. If work is too stressful at the moment, set aside a few minutes to relax and focus your attention on something else. Here at the best tips to avoid mental exhaustion.
MAKE EXERCISE FUN
Going to the gym should never feel like a drag. If the gym life is just not as fun as it used to be, think about switching up your exercise routine. Join a local sports league or join a class with your friends. When other people around you are motivated, they uplift your mindset. Being in a positive environment with people who have similar goals is the best way to stay motivated.
Reward yourself
No matter how small the accomplishment is, give yourself a pat on the back and maybe even a gift! Celebrate every milestone so your brain trains itself to stay motivated and accomplish tasks to get that dopamine rush. Staying disciplined only works if your brain knows something great is coming from all that hard work, so go ahead and buy those shoes you wanted after hitting the gym every day for a week. Better yet, why not reward yourself with something that keeps you in line with your health goals? Check out our Amazon shop to see all the amazing gifts you can reward yourself with.
Whatever you do to stay motivated, just remember that progress is never linear and there will be setbacks. But, if you can get overcome the mental and physical blocks you will feel happier, healthier, and stronger!