Many of us think that getting fit is about pumping iron, performing calisthenics, and spending hours on the treadmill. While these physical activities are of crucial importance in overall fitness, these are only one-half of a whole – the other half is mental fitness.
We cannot overemphasize the importance of mental fitness since the brain, the seat of the human mind and its consciousness, controls every physical movement. The better your mental health, the better your physical health will likely be! So, don’t fall into these pitfalls of the mind when you’re on a physical fitness program.
Engaging in Negative Self-talk
There are already too many people who provide negative feedback about your diet, exercises, and lifestyle choice, as well as your body – there’s no need to add to their number! Plus, keep in mind that whatever your body can conceive, your body can achieve and it applies to your negative self-talk, too. Whenever you say negative things about yourself, these can become real things in your mind and we know the power of the mind!
Instead of putting yourself down, you should refer to yourself in a caring and confident way. Be your own cheerleader and be the best cheerleader you can be. By doing so, you will find the most effective motivational tool, a must whenever you’re feeling down about your exercise performance and results.
Counting Calories Obsessively
While keeping track of your daily calorie intake has its merits, it can also become detrimental to your physical and mental health. Studies have also shown an increased risk of eating disorders with the overuse of calorie tracking tools including apps. In real life, you will start seeing food in terms of calories and numbers, not as a source of sustenance and strength, not as a source of the best pleasures in life.
The best thing you can do is eat intuitively. Put down the calorie tracking app and dismiss the calorie counts you automatically make in your mind.
You should take it back to the basics of making healthy food choices. Start by planning a meal based on completing the major food groups – carbs, proteins and fats – and getting them from healthy sources. Be sure to add fruits and vegetables to your meals and snacks. Eat with a mindful mindset instead of hurrying through your food.
And always enjoy the food you eat! Food shouldn’t be a burden to your system but a source of satisfaction, of energy production, and of life happiness. Food shouldn’t be the subject of overthinking and you are well on your way to enjoying it without overindulging in it.
Lastly, always remember that you are a unique individual. You have unique looks, a unique body, and a unique life, one that you choose for yourself. So, stop comparing yourself to the so-called fitness stars, social media stars, and celebrities – just focus on achieving your fitness goals and hitting the LA Fitness gym.