Posts tagged weight
5 Natural Weight Loss Tips For Moms

As a mom, losing weight is not always a straightforward process. After all, taking care of your little ones can be comparable to a full-time job. But that’s no excuse to engage in unhealthy restriction diets or to rely on dangerous weight-loss drugs.

When it comes to weight loss, it's crucial to approach the journey with self-compassion and understanding. Motherhood brings its unique set of challenges and responsibilities, making it essential to find sustainable and realistic ways to prioritize health and well-being. In doing so, you build positive habits that provide the foundation for a healthy lifestyle.

Instead of aiming for quick fixes or drastic measures, focusing on nourishing the body with whole, nutrient-dense foods and incorporating regular movement that feels good is key. Additionally, practicing self-care and seeking support from loved ones or professionals can make a significant difference in maintaining motivation and staying on track.

In this article, we provide more insight and discuss a holistic approach for mothers to consider in their weight-loss journeys.

No. 1

Get Active

When you’re a busy mom, staying active may be the last thing you want to consider. After all, your whole day may be filled with endless to-do lists and care-taking responsibilities—leaving you with little time for yourself at the end of the day. You might be tempted to sit on the couch for some screen time instead of going outside, for say, a walk. That said, it’s important to prioritize wholesome activities whenever possible; staying active by any means necessary will help keep you healthy and fit.

Here are a few activities for you to consider:

  • Neighborhood - A brisk walk around the neighborhood with your child in tow encourages walking while allowing you to get fresh air and enjoy the outdoor scenery.

  • Museum or Garden - With so much to see in museums and gardens, you can be assured that you will be spending most of your time walking around and exploring.

  • Beach or Pool - Making a trip to the beach or pool is a great way to get outside, and the children enjoy it so much. Enjoying the sun while getting exercise naturally boosts Vitamin D levels, which triggers the production of happy chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine.

  • Park or Trail - A local park or trail provides an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities with your children with the added element of good weather and an open environment.

  • Shopping - A simple outing to a local shop, for instance, can provide you with a break from your normal routines, allowing for movement. Even if it is just through the aisles of a store, you are getting yourself up and active, which makes all the difference.

By incorporating engaging activities that keep you on your feet, you can naturally exert your energy. Walking is not only a simple physical activity but also a powerful tool for staying fit and healthy. Incorporating walking into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your overall well-being; you strengthen your muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and boost your metabolism.

Additionally, walking helps to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance mental clarity. Whether you choose to walk in nature, around your neighborhood, or on a treadmill, the benefits of this low-impact exercise are endless.

No. 2

Have the Right Mentality

Being thin or losing weight is not always synonymous with being healthy. For that reason, it is important to think about why you are trying to lose weight in the first place. After all, it is more important that you are a healthy, functioning mother for your kids than it is to fit into a stereotypical idea of how much you are expected to weigh.

If you are trying to lose weight solely to look good, that can sometimes result in bad weight-loss habits. At all costs, you want to avoid starving yourself or depriving yourself of proper nutrition. With the wrong mentality, you might beat yourself up about dietary mistakes or times when your diet slips and you binge eat.

Instead, celebrate small victories and consistent effort. Look into educating yourself about proper nutrition and exercise. It is not about a number on a scale, but how you feel and what you are doing to achieve a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.

If you take an 80-20 approach, you will see positive effects on your health. Consider that 80% is about your nutritional habits, which is the most important aspect of your health. Consuming a diet rich in whole and plant-based foods will allow your body to naturally adapt to a healthy weight. 20% is exercise, so if you commit to a regular fitness routine, you will begin to feel and look better as a whole.

No. 3

Optimize Your Sleep

If you are struggling to lose weight, a lack of sleep may be a contributing factor. With poor sleep levels, it is easier to skip out on exercise and order fast food for dinner since you are naturally too tired to cook. Making poor decisions for yourself in general is an outcome of other contributing factors, so try to identify them so you can avoid putting yourself in these situations again.

On the other hand, when you have sufficient sleep, you can tackle the day with a higher level of energy and willpower. It becomes easier to make the right decisions for your health and wellness; you become more eager and able to tackle lifestyle changes when other essentials are also in alignment with your health goals.

Here are tips to improve your sleep:

  • Avoid Screens at Bedtime - Engaging in screen time before bed can significantly impact your sleep quality and overall well-being. The blue light emitted from screens suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle, leading to difficulties falling asleep.

    Additionally, the content we consume on screens, such as social media or news, can evoke strong emotions or stress, further hindering our ability to relax and unwind before sleep.

    To promote restful and rejuvenating sleep, it is essential to limit screen time before bed and instead opt for calming activities like reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or gentle stretches.

  • Stick to a Bedtime Routine - Establishing a bedtime routine isn't just about getting a good night's sleep—it's a powerful tool for unlocking your full potential. Consistency in your evening habits can set the tone for your entire day ahead, impacting your mood, productivity, and overall well-being.

    By sticking to a bedtime routine, you signal to your body and mind that it's time to wind down, allowing for proper rest and rejuvenation during the night. This can lead to improved focus, clearer thinking, and better decision-making throughout your day.

    Furthermore, a bedtime routine can be a form of self-care, allowing you to disconnect from the day's stresses and indulge in activities that promote relaxation and inner peace. Whether it's reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a calming skincare routine, these moments of self-care can nourish your soul and uplift your spirit.

    Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of a bedtime routine. By prioritizing this habit, you enhance the quality of your sleep and cultivate a sense of discipline and self-love.

  • Avoid Heavy Meals and Caffeine Before Bed - Heavy meals close to bedtime can lead to indigestion and discomfort, making it harder for your body to relax and fall asleep peacefully. Instead, opt for lighter, easier-to-digest snacks if you find yourself hungry before bedtime.

    Caffeine, a stimulant found in coffee, tea, and chocolate, can interfere with your natural sleep cycle, making it challenging to achieve restful sleep. It's best to steer clear of caffeine at least four to six hours before bedtime to ensure it doesn't disrupt your ability to fall asleep.

    Prioritizing these simple adjustments in your nighttime routine can pave the way for a more restful and rejuvenating sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to embrace the day ahead.

  • Be Physically Active During the Day - Physical activity plays a vital role in promoting better sleep and overall well-being. Engaging in regular exercise helps to regulate your sleep-wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm, leading to improved sleep quality. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga session, or a workout at the gym, incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the overall duration of your sleep.

    By being physically active during the day, you release built-up tension and stress, which can contribute to a more restful night's sleep. Additionally, exercise can help reduce symptoms of insomnia and sleep apnea, leading to a more rejuvenating and refreshing sleep experience. Remember to find activities that you enjoy and that align with your fitness level to make staying active a sustainable and enjoyable part of your routine.

    Incorporating movement into your day will allow you to experience a positive impact on your sleep patterns and overall health. Physical activity is a natural and effective way to enhance your sleep quality so you can embrace a more energized and revitalized self each day.

When your sleep is in order, your weight loss becomes more achievable. Quality sleep plays a crucial role in supporting our overall well-being, including our metabolism and weight management. Adequate rest allows our bodies to regulate hormones that control appetite and energy expenditure.

With a good night's sleep, you are more likely to make healthier food choices, have the energy for physical activity, and maintain a positive mindset conducive to reaching your weight loss goals. By prioritizing quality sleep as part of your self-care routine, you can significantly enhance your weight loss journey, contributing to your overall sense of well-being.

No. 4

Plan Your Meals

Sometimes, prepping meals ahead of time can be the easiest way to eat healthy. If you have a wholesome meal ready to go for the day, it makes it easier to resist the temptation to eat fast food. After all, if you have nothing planned to eat, fast food easily becomes a convenient option.

Meal planning is a crucial tool for your weight-loss journey, offering structure and organization amidst your busy schedule. By prepping meals in advance, you can ensure healthier eating choices for yourself and your family, setting a positive example for balanced nutrition.

Planning meals allows time and intention for your thoughtful consideration of portion sizes and nutrient-rich ingredients, leading to better control over your caloric intake. It will also save you time and money and reduce the temptation of opting for fast food or unhealthy snacks when hunger strikes.

No. 5

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise plays a crucial role in supporting your weight loss journey—offering a myriad of benefits beyond physical appearance. For mothers juggling multiple responsibilities, setting aside time for exercise may seem challenging, but the long-term advantages are invaluable.

Engaging in consistent physical activity not only aids in shedding excess weight but also boosts energy levels, improves mood, and promotes overall well-being. Additionally, regular exercise can help reduce stress, increase strength, and enhance mental clarity—essential factors for moms navigating the demands of daily life.

Prioritizing regular exercise sets a positive example for children, instilling healthy habits that can last a lifetime. By making self-care a priority through exercise, you can experience physical transformation and a profound sense of empowerment and vitality.

Here are fitness practices to consider to get regular exercise:

  1. Yoga - A holistic practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Whether you prefer a gentle flow or a vigorous vinyasa, yoga offers a versatile approach to exercise that nurtures both the body and mind.

  2. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) - A cardio-focused workout that alternates between intense bursts of activity and short recovery periods. HIIT is known for its efficiency in burning calories and improving cardiovascular health in a relatively short amount of time, making it a popular choice for those with busy schedules.

  3. Pilates - A low-impact exercise method that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness. Pilates emphasizes precise movements and controlled breathing to improve posture, muscle tone, and balance. It is suitable for all fitness levels and can be adapted to meet individual needs.

  4. Outdoor Running - An invigorating form of cardiovascular exercise that can be done almost anywhere. Running outdoors allows you to connect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and experience the mental health benefits of being in natural surroundings. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned runner, hitting the pavement can be a great way to boost your fitness levels.

  5. Dance Fitness Classes - A fun and dynamic way to stay active while expressing yourself through movement. Dance fitness classes combine choreographed routines with upbeat music to create an engaging workout experience. With numerous styles to choose from, you can find one that is based on your interests and fitness goals.

No. 6

Be Mindful

Pay attention to your eating habits. When it comes to nourishing our bodies, being mindful of our eating habits is a crucial practice in cultivating overall well-being. Sometimes, when we reach for junk food, it is not necessarily because we are hungry. We may just want something to ease our boredom or reduce stress.

Mindful eating involves being fully present in the moment—paying attention to the flavors, textures, and nourishment that our meals provide. By practicing mindful eating, we can develop a deeper connection with our food, making healthier choices that truly serve our bodies and minds.

Taking the time to savor each bite, chew slowly, and appreciate the effort that went into preparing our meals can transform the simple act of eating into a mindful, meditative practice. Approaching our meals with gratitude and awareness allows us to honor our bodies— fostering a harmonious relationship with the food we consume so that it becomes more of an intentional act rather than an afterthought.

Incorporating such practices as meditation or yoga can also help you tune in with your mind and recognize what the intent is behind each decision you make. The more mindful you are, the more wholesome decisions you can make to improve your quality of life overall.

Takeaways

As you embark on your weight-loss journey as a mom, make sure you don’t put too much pressure on yourself. It can be tempting to want to shift your whole life at once to see substantial weight-loss results immediately, but that is not always realistic. Sometimes, consistent, slow improvement will yield greater results and less stress in the long run. The goal is not to get there fast but to build the foundation for a healthy lifestyle that you fully enjoy.

At first, it may seem like the odds are stacked against you, but once you develop a system that is personally yours, you will find so much gratitude in the process. It is about becoming the best version of yourself every day not because someone wants it for you but because you are the most important person in your life. And when you are healthy and fulfilled, you can feel more confident and in alignment with yourself and those you love.

LOOKING FOR WELLNESS RESOURCES?

Are you looking to enhance your wellness routine? Explore our wellness partners who offer a wide range of resources to support your journey toward holistic living and well-being. From mindful living practices to self-care techniques, our partners are here to help you elevate your wellness routine to support you on your journey of health and vitality.

 





6 Tips For A Successful Weight Loss Journey

Statistics gathered from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey indicate that 1 in 5 children and as many as 2 in 5 adults are obese in the United States, so it stands to reason that many people are searching for effective ways to start a successful journey to weight loss.

If you are also considering this, we have compiled a list of six tips to push you closer to your weight loss success. 

No. 1

Start When You’re Ready

To achieve long-term goals with weight loss, you will need to allocate substantial time to commit to making the necessary changes as it is a lifestyle that you will be creating. Therefore, ensure that you only start when you are 100% committed and ready so that you are serious about taking the necessary steps. Ask yourself the following questions to gauge your readiness:

  • Do you have any distractions?

  • Are you motivated to lose weight?

  • Is food currently a coping mechanism for stress?

  • Are you willing to make positive changes?

  • Are you committed to making time for these changes?

If you are struggling to answer these questions, you can also seek the help of a nutritionist who will help you overcome food-related triggers and set reasonable goals. 


No. 2

Set Achievable Goals

Your weight loss journey is bound to fail if you start with unattainable goals. We recommend setting SMART goals, which are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Essentially, it needs to be directly related to your personal journey, easy to track, realistically achievable, and set within a specific time frame. 

No. 3

Find a Personal Source of Motivation

There are thousands of articles online telling you how to get motivated to exercise, but the truth is that motivation comes from within because different tactics work for different people. Perhaps you need to see your weight change progress on a calendar, so you can hang one up on the fridge and update it daily. Maybe you work harder when you know there is a reward coming your way, in which case you can book a weekend getaway after meeting each milestone. 

No. 4

Consider Effective Supplements

You will find countless weight loss pills on the market promising to help you “lose weight fast”, but these are outright scams for the most part. However, that does not mean there aren’t effective natural dietary supplements available that can help you reach goals faster. For example, Great Green Wall compares PhenQ and Leanbean, which are two powerful natural supplements. 

No. 5

Enjoy a Healthy Diet

There is a saying that goes, “you are what you eat”, and it could not be truer. If all you eat is junk food and unhealthy meals saturated with fat, then you are most likely going to be overweight. On the contrary, if you explore and begin to enjoy healthy meals and snacks full of essential vitamins and minerals, you will begin to notice a difference in your waistline.  

No. 6

Start Exercising and Keep it Up

Many people believe it is possible to lose weight without putting time aside for workouts; however, regularly incorporating physical activity is one of the most effective weight-loss strategies. When you start to exercise, your body has a greater opportunity to burn away calories in conjunction with your new diet. 

The number of calories burnt will depend on how often you exercise, how intense your workouts are, and how long each session lasts. It is recommended that a minimum of 30 minutes of movement a day, like a brisk walk, can make all the difference. If you are doing intense workouts, you should aim to have a rest day in between to allow your body to recover and rebuild. 

Takeaways

A successful weight loss journey involves realistic goals, sufficient time, a willingness to change, a commitment to exercise, and a healthier relationship with food. If you need help reaching your goals, also consider seeking support from a nutritionist or personal trainer who can guide you further and keep you accountable on your weight loss journey. By being disciplined with yourself, you will achieve what you set out to do and discover that there is a whole new world on the other side that is so much more rewarding and beneficial to your health and overall wellness.




Common Baby Concerns All New Parents Have

As a new parent, you are naturally going to be worried about what is happening with your baby at all times. There are some very common issues that will arise for many parents and their babies, and it is worth being aware of these in order to help you get through these situations with a better understanding.

To aid with that, we will take a look here at some of the more common baby concerns that most, if not all parents tend to have. As long as you are aware of these, you should find that you will be much more prepared to face whatever comes as a parent.


No. 1

Breastfeeding Problems

Many new mothers worry about breastfeeding, and there is no doubt that it can be something of a challenge to get right. The truth is that breastfeeding can be difficult in the beginning. It can take time for you to learn how to do it properly along with your baby adapting to what is going on in this process.

It is perfectly normal and natural for this process to take a while, so if this is happening to you, try not to be too despondent about it and simply persist. You will find that you will reach a point where you and your baby are comfortable, and breastfeeding becomes enjoyable.

There are definitely some common hurdles in breastfeeding that you can look into and learn about so that you can apply techniques that have worked for other mothers. Remember that it really is a skill that you and your new baby are learning at the same time. If you can remember this, it might help in taking the pressure off of both of you.


No. 2

Poor Sleep

Again, a very common worry for all new parents is that their baby is not getting enough sleep. This is likely to happen, with most babies initially going through periods of not having much sleep or poor quality sleep in general.

This is very much a part of parenting a young baby. However, if you are concerned about this, then you might want to bear in mind a number of tips that might help you get through this much more effectively.

Likewise, you may also be worried about your own lack of sleep, and particularly how this might affect your health, your mood, your ability to drive a car, and so much else. The truth is that you will soon adapt to it, and you will find yourself simply being able to get by on much less sleep.

Keep in mind that thankfully, this stage will not last forever and eventually, you will have your sleep back again. In the meantime, just try to make the most of those nights when your baby does sleep through the night.


No. 3

Crying

Your baby will cry, of course, but what you might be worried about is when they cry inconsolably and do not seem to stop. When this happens, it can be a real worry, and you might find yourself wondering what you can do to get through it.

The truth is that this is rarely an indication of something seriously wrong. It is more likely just an indication of their temperament or basic needs needing attention, which also means that it will not last forever. So, although it can be worrying and frustrating, you just need to have the patience to address what is bothering them, and it will soon pass.

No. 4

Weight Changes

Your baby is likely to go through all sorts of changes in weight, probably quite often. If you want to ensure that you are not worrying too much about this, you can be aware that this is a quite common occurrence and something that naturally happens. It is actually a result of your baby’s growth, so it is something that you can simply observe.

Initially, you may be concerned about the changes in your baby’s weight, perhaps because it has happened either too little, too fast, or because you are worried about how much they have changed. In this case, you may want to keep a feeding log to keep track of how much they are eating and create a defined feeding schedule to ensure you are on point.

Beyond that, if you are still worried, you can of course always take them to the doctor for a checkup, which is generally a good rule to follow if you are truly concerned about any kind of health issue.


No. 5

Acne

Believe it or not, babies can get many of the same skin problems that adults can get, including acne. This is an issue that can arise suddenly or gradually, but in either case, you will most likely be on guard to ensure that you are doing all you can to fix it as soon as possible. If there is an issue of scratching, your baby might actually be in pain if the acne is quite severe. So, keeping a watchful eye on them is the best thing you can do.

The good news is that for baby face acne, there are some powerful solutions to apply, and it is possible to treat it quite easily and effectively. You should therefore try not to be too worried, and instead should simply make sure that you are doing all you can to help your baby be as comfortable as possible in the meantime.

Additionally, remember that there might be all sorts of other skin conditions which they experience too, which might be confused for acne. Make sure to narrow down the causes, because some of them are altogether more serious or long-lasting.


No. 6

Vaccines

There are a few cases in which you might be worried about vaccines, and it all depends on your viewpoint. The truth of the matter is that no medical intervention or treatment of any kind is completely and one hundred percent safe. That being said, being prepared for any treatment you do give your baby, including vaccines requires diligent research and clear awareness.

If you are unsure or worried about a particular vaccine treatment, it is always best to be prepared and seek the answers first through reputable sources so that you know you are confident in your decisions. That is the best way to gain peace of mind over something like this.


No. 7

Chickenpox

It is easy to see why chickenpox might be such a cause for concern when considering what to prepare for in the coming future; it is very common and there is a high probability that your baby will get it. Rest assured, it is not unordinary for your child to get chicken pox. Actually, it is beneficial that they build natural antibodies against the virus, developing the necessary protection against it with their immune system.

While you may try and prevent this from happening through vaccines, you would rather they have chickenpox than many other viruses and illnesses. If they do develop chickenpox, ensure that you treat their skin and wait for it to pass. They may be quite unhappy during the process, but they likely are protected in the future from ever experiencing a chickenpox outbreak again.


Takeaways

We have discussed just a few of the main concerns that you might have about your new baby, so having awareness of these and how to approach each of them will help you settle into your new role. Overall, being observant in all matters will help you learn about the patterns and rhythms of motherhood, which will give you the insight you need to settle your worries. This will come naturally to you as you are built to withstand the changes that occur.

Trust in your innate abilities to care for your baby, and the rest will follow. You will find that the answers are closer than you know. As with anything in life, change happens quickly, and sometimes we will not always feel prepared. So, make sure to simply enjoy every step of your child’s development and rest assured that you are doing everything in your power to care for them throughout every stage of this journey.




Why A Good Diet is Not Solely About Your Waistline

When we consider eating healthier, implementing a better diet, or consuming better nutrition, it is common that we start with a general goal.

 
 

Is it not true that most often, we start with wanting to restrict some of our vices? For example: a habitual tendency to eat all the ice cream or chips in sight or to simply “lose weight”.

While these may be the start to some very noble long-term goals, and you should be proud of yourself for setting them, a good diet is much more than just about addressing your waistline or reaching an ideal weight.

In fact, there are so many benefits to eating more wholesome foods, vegetables, nutrient-dense foods, and organic goods.

Western medicine has most commonly touted their use, particularly for weight loss, cutting calories, or during times of illness, which further perpetuates the idea that it can always seem to be all about maintaining this hypothetical “ideal” weight.

However, these outdated ideas simply ignore the nutritional properties and benefits that a variety of whole foods have on our bodies overall and our very need for nutrients from a variety of food sources on a daily basis. They also ignore the idea that being healthy also includes being physically active, regularly.

In this article, to bring awareness to this topic, we will discuss how switching even parts of your diet can improve your quality of life and start you on a path to renewed health.

No. 1

Better Sleep & Lowered Stress

A good diet will help you enjoy better sleep and lowered stress. For example, removing sugars will help you avoid constant energy crashes throughout the day.

Likewise, getting the right amount of nutrients will help your body gain the nourishment it needs. This will improve energy and satiety throughout the day, helping you to avoid relying on snack foods.

When blood sugar levels are regulated, melatonin can naturally be produced from eating vitamin-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits. So, sticking to these foods regularly will influence your sleep cycles in a positive way.

Additionally, by identifying and addressing your appropriate caloric needs, a good night’s sleep becomes normal because you a getting the proper intake of the right foods that promote overall health.

No. 2

Glowing Skin

It is not uncommon for those who regularly consume alcohol or sugar to notice blotchy, red skin. Nutrients and hydration can help reduce inflammation—in this case, omega-3s from fatty fish are a viable solution. Healthy fats such as this along with avocado oil can make a huge difference in the appearance of the skin.

Moreover, if you eat foods that help with gut health (such as kimchi, yogurt, and kefir), you will also notice a healthier outcome for your skin.

By incorporating just a few additions into your diet, you will notice that glowing skin is not an accident nor something that can only be achieved with creams and a healthy skincare regimen, but rather from a steadfast approach towards the foods you are consuming.

No. 3

Healthier, Thicker Hair

A good diet can also improve the health of your hair. For example, Biotin, a b-vitamin, is found in eggs, nuts, and sweet potatoes, as well as certain seeds; it has been known to improve hair growth. The same is said of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that will improve blood flow in your scalp.

In addition, healthy proteins in sufficient quantities from meat, dairy, fish, or vegan alternatives such as beans and lentils can be very healthy for the hair.

Sure, general hair maintenance and avoiding toxic irritants are also recommended (such as avoiding dyeing your hair), but you will be surprised with just how much of a positive effect a healthy diet will have, most importantly.

No. 4

Healthy Bones & Joints

Following a diet for healthy bones and joints is not just helpful for children, but everyone. After all, we only have a set number of bones and joints, so making sure they are as functional and cared for just like every other part of our body is very important, particularly if you live an active lifestyle or exercise regularly.

This involves getting adequate Vitamin D through sunlight or fatty fish as well as supplementing it during the winter months.

Moreover, sufficient calcium intake through milk, kale, broccoli, spinach, and other sources is always necessary. Many doctors will also encourage calcium-rich diets if you are healing or recovering from an injury.

No. 5

Better Digestive Health

Good digestive health is easy to take for granted; it is only when we are having digestive issues that we notice how tough and bothersome it can be to be in this position.

The gut biome is massive, and studies are showing how it can be linked to mood and mental health. The implications of this are huge as the gut biome influences a lot more than we can imagine.

This is why it is important to eat high-fiber vegetables while avoiding processed foods that remain high in refined sugars, sodium, and preservatives.

It is not just what you eat but how you eat that will also impact your results. Mindful eating, such as chewing well before swallowing and taking time with your meals, can be very helpful and increase feelings of fullness because your body will naturally respond that way. If you have the habit of snacking after your main meals, this is an alternate habit that you could adopt, and you will start to notice some changes.

No. 6

Have More Fun In Your Kitchen

It is very easy to feel proud about healthy diet changes once you are on the other end, and yes, you do deserve to recognize your achievement and positive lifestyle steps. From there, however, you might decide to enjoy more fun in your kitchen and have a better time with all of the new changes.

For example, that might include learning new cuisine in your kitchen and becoming more skilled at the oven. You might even learn to scale, skin, and fillet fish for a beautiful fresh dinner—one that tastes light and may even provide the perfect opportunity for a romantic meal by candlelight with your partner.

Trying new cuisine can also be a fantastic way to get the most out of basic ingredients, or allow simple ingredients to do the talking—knowing when and how to use them is what you will learn.

Anyone who has enjoyed a Mediterranean diet knows the wonder of this, from delicious olives to abundant plant-based foods, meat, and poultry, with an amazing focus on herbs and spices.

The more you get comfortable in your kitchen and the more free and experimental with it you let yourself get, the more you realize a little love and effort now saves you a lot of cooking time.

In addition, efficient kitchen practices like meal preparation and stocking foods that are naturally preserved and have a long shelf life like grains, beans, dried fruits, and nuts are a healthier and cost-effective way to eat versus heading to your local fast food place regularly due to not having proper meal planning measures in place for when things get busy.

If you must be out of the house for most of the day, prepare a quick lunch for yourself before heading to your workplace to save you time, money, and energy and ensure that you are meeting your health goals.

This type of planning ensures that meeting your health goals is sustainable and keeps you dedicated to healthy habits while improving your mental well-being, too.

Takeaways

As we have seen, a good diet is not simply about focusing on your waistline but having the right planning and decisions in place that will see you through your health goals for the long term.

Calling yourself to new heights will require you to be disciplined, committed, consistent, and persistent because you are stepping up to a different level, and your very life depends on it.

With this advice, you will be able to see to it that you do it for yourself because you deserve to feel your best from the inside out, and whatever measures you can implement will surely help you get there.

LOOKING FOR WELLNESS RESOURCES?

Are you looking to enhance your wellness routine? Explore our wellness partners who offer a wide range of resources to support your journey toward holistic living and well-being. From mindful living practices to self-care techniques, our partners are here to help you elevate your wellness routine to support you on your journey of health and vitality.