Starting on a health or fitness journey can feel super overwhelming. Where do you even begin? How do you even start? If you look online people tell you a million different things you need to do, and that just doesn’t feel possible with the time… and let’s face it, money…
I want to share a few things that I tried and actually helped me get started on my own journey. (Also, want to add BABY STEPS are KEY…. You are not going to magically change your entire lifestyle in a week. One step at a time, and CELEBRATE those WINS!!!!)
1. Try to move every day
Movement is soooo beneficial! This doesn’t have to be heavy weightlifting in the gym or running marathons. This could be just taking a walk after work, or doing some yoga and stretching when you wake up. Even 5 minutes is better than nothing! Start by setting a tiny goal, and as you prove to yourself you got this, challenge yourself to a bit more each week.
Walking is one of the most underrated exercises. It improves fitness, cardiac health, alleviates depression and fatigue, improves mood, creates less stress on joints and reduces pain, can prevent weight gain, reduce risk for cancer and chronic disease, improve endurance, circulation, and posture, and the list goes on… And, if you miss a day, or a week, or even more, don’t spend time beating yourself up about it. Tomorrow is a new day, and you should be proud of the choice you can make to keep going!
2. Cook at home
If you aren’t used to cooking at home, start small by aiming to cook one meal a day or a couple meals a week and eating some left overs. Not only will you be able to eat healthier more effortlessly, but you will save lots of money from not eating out all the time. I Pinterest quick and easy recipe ideas all the time. Crockpot meals are my favorite because you can just throw everything in before work, and when you get home it’s done and ready to serve. Plus, it usually lasts a couple of days!
3. Read books
Reading helps ground you. It get’s you out of the mindless scrolling on your phone habit or endless hours of Netflix. Even if it is one page a day… set a small goal and as you crush them, try to challenge yourself to do a little more! Self development books can be motivating and you can learn a lot, but they can also be overwhelming. So even if you read your favorite novel or true crime book, just get in a habit of turning off your screens. My favorite time to read is before bed. It helps me wind down to get a good night’s sleep! If you don’t want to purchase books, check out your local library!
4. Go outside
Spending time outside is such an underrated health benefit!!! It literally helps your brain function. Spending more time outdoors is also linked to higher levels of concentration, creativity, and improved mental clarity. Also, approximately 70% of people are Vitamin D deficient, including myself, so getting outside can help increases your Vitamin D intake. There are literally so many other benefits too, just trust me… go outside.
5. Practice GRATITUDE
Gratitude can change your entire mood and outlook on life. Try writing down 2-3 things daily that you are grateful for, no matter how big or small. If you aren’t a huge journal person, try doing it in your notes app on your phone… If that doesn’t work set a daily alarm to at least remind you to think of be grateful. Keeping gratitude at the top of mind is super life changing! Gratitude improves sleep quality, helps with emotional regulation, reduces stress, improves physical and psychological health, enhances empathy, improves self-esteem, and so much more.
If you’re interested in more health and fitness tips, join my new Smash with Ash 💪 Private Facebook Group!
This group is for people striving to be the best version of themselves! We will help hold each other accountable, show support, and celebrate the wins as we take steps towards our goals, whatever they may be. There is no judgement or negativity. This is a safe place to spread positivity and encouragement. 💖
If you have tried any of these tips, or if you start implementing them in your life, I want to here about it! Share in the FB group, DM me, or drop a comment here! I’d love to hear more of your thoughts 😊