Fitness isn’t just about working out and eating right– the way you think and feel can have a big impact on your health as well. Studies have shown that Buddhist and Hindu monks tend to live longer and happier lives and the reason has to do more with how they think than how they eat or keep healthy. You don’t have to be a monk to enjoy these kind of benefits of putting mind over matter, however, as research is showing a powerful connection between mind and body that can be accomplished by anyone determined enough. Here are some ways that you can use your brain power to make you happier, healthier and more fulfilled every day.
Fitness
Help yourself meet your fitness goals by changing your mind set with these suggestions.
Think about exercise. Studies have shown that you may be able to get some moderate physical benefits from just thinking about working out. So if you can’t make it to the gym, try concentrating on thinking about all the exercises you would have done. While it’s no real substitute, it beats thinking about cupcakes and french fries to keep you in shape.
Get into the right frame of mind. If you go into a workout thinking it’s going to be terrible and not being able to wait until its over the experience will be miserable and you’re likely to get little benefit from it. Change your mind set before you hit the gym and focus on all the good you’re doing yourself by working out as well as the long term benefits you’ll reap.
Think of yourself as healthy. Imagining yourself as a lazy bum isn’t going to motivate you to truly be healthy. Sometimes thinking about yourself as a happy, healthy person can be all you need to make that a reality.
Make it a game. You can use your thoughts to make working out a game. Make bets with yourself as to how much you can do, challenge yourself mentally while on the treadmill and even use the people working out around you to keep you entertained.
Think of exercise as fun. If you think of exercise as a chore it very likely will be. Think of it instead as an opportunity and one that is giving you the chance to live a longer, healthier life. Try working out during your favorite TV show or listening to a great song while running to make working out more closely associated with good things in your mind.
Envision the negative effects of your bad habits. Can’t seem to stop smoking or eating poorly? Take a moment to focus your thoughts on the possible negative outcomes of these behaviors. Is it really no big deal if you can get cancer or have a heart attack? These kind of thoughts can help you get serious about changing these habits.
Celebrate small victories. Are you finally able to run a mile without having to stop? Can you now touch your toes? These little steps in fitness should be a big deal to you. Give yourself a mental party for your accomplishments and share them with whomever is willing to listen.
Think of your body differently. Many people avoid gyms because they feel they are too fat or because they have low self-esteem. Get your mind to start thinking about your body in a positive light, whether you’re just starting out or well into a fitness program. When you’re happier with the way you look you’re actually likely to make more progress and feel more confident at the end of the day.
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