The Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive information on the connection between physical activity and mental health. They state that exercise can help reduce anxiety, depression, and negative mood by improving self-esteem and cognitive function and that it can also help alleviate symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal.
Source: Mayo Clinic – Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress
The above statement is something I strongly believe in. But what keeps you motivated? I’ve done some research and here are a few tips:
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your overall weight loss goal into smaller, manageable milestones. Celebrate each achievement to stay motivated.
- Create a Plan: Develop a structured plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Having a clear plan helps you stay focused and organized.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use a mobile app to track your food intake, workouts, and weight loss progress. Seeing your progress can be a great motivator.
- Find a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a weight loss group. Sharing your journey with others can provide encouragement and accountability.
- Stay Positive: Focus on the positive changes you are making rather than just the number on the scale. Celebrate non-scale victories like improved energy levels or fitting into smaller clothes.
- Reward Yourself: Set up a reward system for reaching milestones. Choose non-food rewards such as a new outfit, a spa day, or a fun activity.
- Keep it Varied: Mix up your workouts and try new healthy recipes to keep things interesting. Boredom can lead to demotivation.
- Visualize Your Success: Imagine how you will feel and look once you reach your goal. Visualization can strengthen your commitment.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Stress can lead to emotional eating, which can derail your progress.
- Stay Flexible: Understand that setbacks are a part of the journey. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you have a bad day. Get back on track and keep going.
- Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with a nutritionist, personal trainer, or therapist for personalized guidance and support
Something that is not listed here is to use photo’s as a motivational tool. Look for a photo where you felt your best and use it as a reminder on what you are working towards. If you don’t have a photo to look back on, look at someone that inspires you, and use someone that has a realistic body type and use that as a motivation.
Repeat after me “I am committed to my health and well-being, and each small step I take brings me closer to my weight loss goals.”
I hope this post has motivated you in some way, and that it brings you one step closer to your weight loss goals.
Until next time my lovely souls, remember you are loved!
xx