This is a conversation I have with clients, so I want to have it with you as well. How are you doing? That question takes on a whole new meaning over these last 10 months. The biggest take-away I want for you from this discussion......that however you are coping, its ok.
I'm sure you have seen the social media posts....."I've lost 50 lbs during lockdown". This can be daunting to the average person. Lets face it.....that person had alot of weight to loose, and now most likely had the "forced down time" to workout. Great for them - happy they are coming away healthier. But that is not the rule here, its the exception. If you are like me, and most people, this whole experience has been a mix of highs and lots of lows. Times where yes, you jump into more fitness, other times, you may find yourself napping more, or reaching for a end of day cocktail....at 3 pm.
I would like to say, be kind to yourself. Don't be hard on yourself for the decisions you make to get through this. Celebrate the times you are feeling "up" and take care of yourself the days your not.
But here's where I turn back into your trainer, your cheerleader and biggest fan. Lets look at the things that can help you turn around from those "blah" days. Keep this list of things you can go to when you feel you need a mental reset.
Of course.......EXERCISE. This is my go-to (ok, no suprise there) but do you know why? Exercise releases chemicals such as dopamine and endorphins in your brain that make you feel happy. Not only is your brain dumping out feel-good chemicals, but exercise also helps your brain get rid of chemicals that make you feel stressed and anxious. I would love at least 30 minutes of heart pumping workout (I have lots of options for you on Burnalong & Moxie!) Movement is a drug: it makes you happier, more creative, more patient, it clears your mind. If someone could market a pill that could do all of those things, wouldn’t you take that drug? Well, guess what? That drug exists – it’s free! It’s called exercise. …You only have 10 minutes? Then give me 30 second bursts of airsquats 30 seconds burpees 30 second plank hold- you will feel it! just find something to do that will get you moving.
Get outdoors! Such a great mental reset! Why? It increases serotonin and dopamine. Both serotonin and dopamine are natural chemicals or neurotransmitters in our brain that are responsible for sending messages between the brain and different nerve cells of the body. Walk your dog, meet a friend for a social distancing walk or run. My go to running app is Nike Run Club (follow me on there & I'll follow you!) Such a great motivator & accountablilty partner!
Clean Your Space Cleaning has been found to have positive effects on our mental health by helping us gain a sense of control over our environment, whilst being absorbed in the activity itself can also help calm your mind, It has also been found to help improve mood and provide us with a sense of satisfaction. Every morning, make your bed. When you make your bed, you start your day with order. Your bed is the place where you rest and recover, so it’s important that we take care of that space and respect the importance of sleep. If you get in this habit, you’re going to feel organized and accomplished right away – it only take 30 to 60 seconds. And have your kids make their own bed!
Say no. Its ok to say no to things. So many of us are in the habit of trying to please everyone, and do it all.....here's your permission to say no. Save your energy and focus for you and your loved ones.
I hope this starts you brainstorming about good activities, and gives you permission to be kind to yourself, I look forward to "seeing" everyone in person soon....until then, stay safe, and remember you can join me for live workouts! Lets get through this together:). Love & Lunges - Joanie
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