Fitness and Self Care
When we do nice things for other people, we feel more virtuous. But when we do nice things for ourselves, there’s a sneaking suspicion at the back of our minds that we might just be being selfish. Balancing hard work and downtime can be a challenge. Having a strong work ethic wins you cash and prizes, but needing “me time” might just mark you out as lazy. Nowhere is this disconnect more obvious than in our attitude toward our health.
Overcommitment Equals Underperformance
Embarking on the path of self-improvement is empowering and exciting. But if the goals we set for ourselves and the level of commitment we make to them aren’t reasonable, we’re setting ourselves up for failure. Why do 67 percent of gym memberships go unused? It’s important to set attainable goals. You might not be able to make it to a spin class three times a week, but you can probably manage the three-minute workout. These brief, intense bouts of exercise have been demonstrated to improve your cardiometabolic health.
We’re already working jobs, raising families and generally trying to have a life. Make your exercise routine a functional part of it. Look over your weekly schedule and be realistic. Factor in everything you actually do, from the long drive to work in the morning to the last load of laundry you run after you put the kids to bed. Then, strategically schedule your workouts on the days and times that truly work best for you. By doing so, as Plexus notes, you “reduce the risk of over-scheduling and help yourself visualize and mentally prepare for each workout.” A feasible commitment of time is more likely to succeed than one that is pure wish fulfillment.
Play to Your Strength
It’s easier to stick with a fitness plan if you actually enjoy it. Remember how much fun it was to ride bikes and roller skate when you were a kid? That’s what a lot of our fitness routines lack in adulthood: Joy.
Pick a physical activity or sport that you enjoy doing and make the decision to spend more time doing it. Exercise means movement, and it doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Jump rope, hula-hoop, dance while you vacuum the carpets. If you get your spouse and kids involved, it counts as double since it’s family bonding.
And, you get even more out of the experience if you go outside. Studies show that exercising in fresh air and sunshine in green spaces boosts your immune function and may even help you live longer. When exercise is fun, it replenishes your energy reserves and feeds your spirit.
Get The Balance Right
Remember that your workouts are only a part of practicing good self-care, along with good nourishment and getting enough sleep. You also need to nurture your mind and your soul. Practice mindfulness and meditation. Pay attention to your own needs. It’s OK to slow down or take a day off. Write down your thoughts and dreams. Invest in yourself — you’re worth the time. This could take the form of learning a new skill, enjoying a hobby, or something as simple as indulging in an afternoon home alone with a good book.
Self-care is about prioritizing your own well-being and becoming the best version of yourself, so you can give back to the people you care about. Its practices help you to manage stress and be more productive. You will be energized and invigorated and better able to meet the challenges of your daily life.
Written By: Sheila Olson of fitsheila.com
Read more of her articles here