The Big 3 (+1)

As we approach the halfway mark of January, some people may have slipped up a few times on their resolutions/goals and others may still be flourishing in their achievements. I am here to tell you that wherever you are in your journey, is exactly where you are supposed to be. Comparison is the thief of joy, so don’t compare your success to others and celebrate your wins rightfully so.

One of the biggest issues I had the many times I attempted a weight loss journey, was lack of knowledge. It is so easy to fall into a trap of seeing the body you want and following everything that person says or does. While it is good to have an idol, we as humans have to understand we are all built different. What works for the person who may have what you desire, may not work for you. When I truly began to understand that and stuck to the basics I began seeing results that will eventually lead me to achieving the body I want, internally and externally. I believe the following keys, are your entry to the door of health and wellness.

WATER

At some point we all learned that about 60% of our bodies is actually water. However, we secrete a lot water daily. Therefore we need to replenish daily. The amount of water you should drink depends on a few things such as weight, physical activity, health conditions, etc. I encourage you to ensure you are drinking enough water for your bodily needs as drinking enough water can help, prevent and treat headaches, significantly affect energy levels and brain function and help maximize physical performance.

NUTRITION

The importance of nutrition is pretty much self explanatory, much like water. What we eat is literally how we receive the nutrients we need and when we lack these nutrients, and water, our bodily functions decrease and diseases flourish in our body. We have been conditioned to think that food is for satisfaction rather than survival. Once you begin to change how you view food and change your relationship with it, healthier choices will happen more consistently. Some of the amazing benefits of proper nutrition include, higher energy levels, improve your ability to fight off illness and improve your overall well-being.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

I like to say work on physical activity rather than exercise. When people hear exercise they instantly think that means they have to go pump some iron. However, that isn’t always necessary unless your specific goal requires that. When someone hears they need to be physically active, there mind is more broad to what that consists of. Being physically active can improve joint and pain stiffness, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and improve your quality of sleep.

SLEEP

The hidden gem that is sleep. I remember growing up, it was the cool thing to stay up until 2 or 3 am and then fall asleep all day during school. And even now as an adult, there are still some people that believe staying up all night is the thing to do. I promise you, getting a full nights rest is way cooler. Our bodies are designed to be awake while the sun is up and sleep while the sun is down. Just like physical activity improving your quality of sleep, a full nights rest can improve your physical activity performance. Also, sleep can boost your immune system and increase productivity throughout the day.

There are many more benefits to all of these mentioned above, I encourage you to do your own research and begin changing the things you need to change to be your best self. We are still experiencing a global pandemic at this moment, rather than looking for a quick fix focus on making your line of defense stronger.

Remember, don’t let peoples opinions alter your mind. If you choose to use the New Year as your fresh start, then do it. Any day that you choose to be better, is a great day!