Dec 15, 20192 min read

FITMAS Day 3: Movement for endorphins and a healthy heart

I want to share 5 fitness revelations that changed my life with you.

When starting my fitness journey, I used to only be obsessed with how I looked, only to realize that's just a bonus, what's more important is being healthy on the inside. So if you are new to the wellness world, listen up, I have some gems to share with you!

1. Healthy looks different on EVERYONE.

As I mentioned above, being lean was my main goal when starting out. I thought that was healthy. Then I lost my period for two years and that turned unhealthy real quick. My advice is to set realistic and sustainable goals for yourself, whether that’s to make nutrition a priority or to commit to getting in some activity 2-4 times per week. Make sure you're getting enough calories for optimal function, to sustain those workouts. Workouts produce endorphins and those are the happy feelings that help relieve stress! Don't deprive yourself of nutrients and don't kill yourself in the gym. Find your balance. Health and fitness should elevate your life, not make you feel like a prisoner.

2. You don't have to be extreme.

Set goals that are sustainable! Make small changes that you can achieve and build upon. Be realistic about your goals, not drastic, AKA don’t starve yourself and don’t spend hours at the gym. That’s not necessary. Small, attainable goals will add up to BIG long lasting results.

3. Seek progress not perfection.

Celebrate those small wins and always be a work in progress. Stop obsessing over being exactly like someone else or trapping yourself in the comparison game. It's not worth it. What is worth it is being the best you can be and making positive choices for your body & your goals.

4. Do what makes you happy.

If you chase something that's not align with your interests, it will feel like a chore. Eat your kind of healthy meals! You don't just have to eat chicken, broccoli and rice. Do your kind of workouts! You don't have to body build. Find a system that is doable and enjoyable for you. If you like walking, walk. If you like running, run. If you like group classes, sign yourself up. This is your journey. Choose a workout style that excites you and motivates you to keep going!

5. Don't miss out on life.

Just because you're eating right/working out for a specific reason, doesn't mean you have to miss out on those parties, vacations, random wine/chocolate nights. I can’t stress this enough, health and fitness should elevate your life, not bring you down and hold you back from celebrating, creating memories and enjoying those indulgences in moderation.

I WISH I would've been more aware of these points when I was younger but you live & you learn. With age, experience and wisdom, you start to reflect on what truly matters in life. Hope these help you along your journey.