We have all heard that the best way to get back in shape is to lead a balanced life. But what is balanced life? Where do you want to go? STOP!
Look at where you are.
How do you look?
Are you happy with the body you have?
Are you lonely, out of work, any physical disability?
The first thing to do is accept yourself as you are at the present moment. Leave the past behind. Read about people who have been in similar situations like you are and who have overcome their troubles and have succeeded. If they can do it, then you can too.
Now that you have taken account of the situation you are in, let’s start.
See a Nutritionist – Proper Fuel
A good place to start is to see what kind of fuel you are providing your body. If we compare our body to an automobile we come to know that if we don’t put the proper gasoline and oil in it then we are not going to get anywhere. Write down exactly what you eat during the entire day in a diary. Do this for 7 days. If you belong to a Health insurance plan, then ask your doctor that you want to see a nutritionist. Show the nutritionist the diary of all the food you consumed for seven days and ask her/him to analyze the calories, fat grams, fiber needed for your body type. Looking at the information you provided will make it easier for the nutritionist to point out the areas which need improvement.
They may recommend a daily calorie intake according to your body type of let’s say 1800 or 2000 calories a day depending on your height, weight and activities. You may be consuming 3 slices of Pizza, with buffalo wings and garlic sticks a couple of times a week for lunch (about 2500 calories), when you were supposed to have only 400 calories. A nutritionist can also help you plan a balanced meal. Example: Half a plate of vegetables, quarter plate starch, like potatoes, brown rice or grain and quarter plate protein. Protein can be lean meat, fish or lentils or beans if you are a vegetarian.
Eating a balance meal like this can keep you satisfied and not crave for junk food. Plan healthy snacks.
Taking care of your Physical Side – Becoming Strong
Get a personal trainer if you can afford one or seek out a companion. Write down your goals of what kind of improvement you want. Let the trainer know your limitations like shoulder pain, back pain or knee pain etc. You don’t want to jump in gung ho, only to quit the second day. If you have disabilities, then a trainer can start you with the best routine according to your abilities.
Activities for a Sound Body
• Walking, Treadmill, Bicycle, Elliptical, running can be used for Cardiovascular Health
• Free Weight, Band, Exercise machines for strength training
• Yoga, Tai Chih, Qi Gong for flexibility
• Outdoor activities can be added like Hiking Kayaking, Mountain Climbing or Rowing.
Mental Health – Activities for Mental Health and Satisfaction
• Read self-help books on the subjects that interest you.
• Take a meditation class. It is known to lower blood pressure, improves digestion, and calms the mind. It removes tension and help us get a good night’s sleep.
• Walk in nature. A walk by the sea or in the woods brings you closer to nature and your inner self.
• Join a social networking group of like-minded people where you can exchange ideas and grow.
• Take up a hobby like playing the guitar or any instrument that interests you, painting, crocheting, home improvement, gardening etc.
• Take out time for connecting with friends and loved one. This is even more important in this busy and hectic life. Months can go by and suddenly you realize you haven’t talked with your loved ones who live probably only minutes away.
• Travel to exciting places. Take day trips often to different locations you have never been or a place that give you joy.
• Change jobs or careers if the one you are in is not mentally challenging or you are not happy with.
• Do some volunteer work or service where you can make a difference in your community.
Our time here is limited. Make an action plan to achieve maximum effectiveness. Write down your goals and set a reasonable time to achieve them. Be disciplined. Outline your action plan and start on it. Maintain focus. Visualize the person you want to be when you meditate and soon you will become that person.
There you have – A balanced approach to get back in shape! As you regain your health you will have more energy to achieve your dreams. You will move forward with renewed vitality and realize your goals.
MAY YOU ACHIEVE THE PERFECT HEALTH AND LIVE A LONG AND HEALTHY LIFE!
