You know that feeling you get when you’re tired, hungry, bummed out, or all three? Think about the impulse decisions you’re emotionally twisted. I can’t say that I choose the best options when in this state.
In my personal and professional opinion, decisions we make when we are ‘feeling down’ are the difference between being in great shape and loving yourself and being moderately active and feeling bad about yourself. Of course there are outliers (especially those handicapped by mental illness), but for the most part this is completely true for those with stable mental health (meaning you’re not on multiple medications, sleeping pills, ect.)
It’s tough to choose to exercise and healthy food when it is the end of the day and you’re tired. Waking up at 6am is not easy. When you feel like death, are mentally exhausted and riddled with emotions what decisions do you make?
I can’t even begin to count how many times I have finished a long day and settle down with chips and salsa, a beer, and watched The Office. I know that’s my tendency and that’s why I know I need an accountability buddy or I must work out earlier in the day. I know that I must go grocery shopping before the week begins. I know I am at my absolute weakest at the end of the day. I know that I must prepare for success, otherwise my emotions will control me.
If this is you, a form of accountability for exercise is 100% necessary. Exercising every day is not essential to live a long healthy life, but you must get out and do some form of physical activity on more days than you don’t.
If you want to feel your best, if you want to feel light and fit and truly happy you must prioritize yourself. Even if it’s exercising for 10 minutes. Crank out 10 push-ups. Go for a 10 minute walk. If you have 30 minutes workout for 30 minutes. The point is you need to do something. Our bodies are meant to move. If we are not active we will feel worse. Every minute you push your body harder than it used you get better. You do become healthier. You do become a better you!