It’s summer, and it’s already nearly two-thirds of the way through the year! WHAT?! Surely this should be when all the resolutions and lifestyle changes should be made and implemented, right? When it’s warm outside, and you’re feeling happier about longer days and more sunshine, it’s the best time to make the most of the season you’re in. With potential vacations, endless summer BBQs and parties, and the desire to drink cold cocktails; it’d be no surprise if your health and fitness have been last on your list of priorities. However, it’s crucial to a long and happy life that you make healthy choices. You’ve only got one after all.
With summer in full swing, there’s no better time to take on some fresh changes that will give you a much-needed boost and kick-start into the months ahead. Fortunately, there are plenty of small changes that you can make and things you can enjoy that will ensure you’re leading a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Nobody’s here to tell you off for eating ice cream when you have a craving, or tie you to the treadmill for hours a day; it’s about enriching and enhancing your life with great things. You’ll love the way you feel when you’re fit and healthy, and you’ll reach a point where you can’t imagine not having those healthy choices in your life, which will see you through the colder months again at the end of the year (sorry for mentioning them). The following are some ideas, inspiration, and advice for those who want to make some positive changes to their lifestyle so that they’re as happy, fit, and healthy as they can be.
Get To Know H2O
Okay, so it sounds so simple, but so many women are forgetting to stay hydrated throughout their day. Drinking the odd coffee at work and enjoying a glass of wine on a Friday does not count towards flushing your toxins away. Nor does it ensure that all of your organs (including your brain) are able to function efficiently.
Caffeine and alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which is why they can cause headaches, migraines, and even UTIs. Your liver and kidneys need plenty of water to flush out those nasty toxins and drinking plenty of water every day will help to prevent diseases of your organs at bay.
There’s no need to give up your coffee and you can find a healthy way to drink alcohol; however, make sure that you’re getting into the habit of drinking a glass of water afterward and throughout the rest of your day. Eight 500ml glasses, evenly spaced through your day will not only keep your insides in tip-top condition; you’ll have fresh, youthful skin to look forward to as you’re glowing from the inside out.
Exercise And Fitness Can Be Fun
For you to stick to your exercise and fitness plan, you’ll need to find something that you enjoy and look forward to. If you hate running and have bad knees; it’s no use telling yourself that you’re going for a run every day, as you’ll go out once and do a U-turn, before giving it up completely. Therefore, it’s worth looking at the latest fitness trends and signing up for some classes to have a great time.
Look at it as another way to socialize, and get your health and fitness levels up in the meantime; it’s a win-win. Other people and classmates will always encourage you to keep going back, even when the weather sucks, so keeping your fitness light, fun, and social is the best way to start your new way of life. And, who knows what exercise it could lead to next!
Fuel Your Body And Enjoy Your Food
It’s time to pack your plate full of colorful and nourishing ingredients and forget about sad salad leaves and a soggy tomato (nobody wants to eat that regularly, or ever). When it comes to your vegetables; the more color, the better. Finding fresh and seasonal produce to add to salads, stews, and soups will ensure that you’re able to satiate a large appetite and will know that your nourishing your body with plenty of vitamins and fiber.
Doing a bit of research now will ensure that you can kick your bad food habits and fill up on tasty alternatives for the rest of the year, so check out some simple and delicious recipes online and get inspired. It’s not about starving yourself or going hungry, as this will only make you reach for the sweet stuff; it’s just time to enjoy more of the good stuff (that will definitely fill you up).
Make Healthy Choices. Have a Happy Life.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed with all the “healthy choices” that you’re bombarded with. It’s important to know that simplicity is key. Don’t make things hard. Find those healthy choices that you can stick to. This will lead to a more sustainable lifestyle.
If you are ready to make healthy choices and need some guidance and accountability, I would love to chat with you about your goals! My mission is to help as many women who want more for themselves through nutrition, fitness, and self-care. Fill out this quick form or email me at laura@nauandforever.com and let’s talk!
