Tips for Better Healthy Behaviors

When looking at healthy behaviors, I feel that each person has a different style that they like to follow. Before I got into exercising regularly and eating clean, I barely cared about what foods I put in my body. An article I came across on Mind Body Green gave me good insight on some healthy behaviors that may not necessarily be the healthiest for you or your stress levels. Of course everyone has their own way of going about their daily routines, but today I wanted to share some habits that could change your view on how you view the word “healthy.”

1. Counting Calories – It was instilled in my head to always watch my caloric intake, but sometimes you have to listen to your body and find the right amount for you. I personally like to add healthy fats, such as coconut oil, into my diet a few times a week. Yes, this would tack on extra calories – but that’s okay! Having a small cheat meal, such as these cacao truffles, may help satisfy your sugar cravings and keep you focused for the rest of the week.
2. Exercise to Release Stress – Going to the gym should never stress you out; you have to do it for yourself. Try finding what you like best, whether it’s a class, yoga, weight lifting with a partner, or even just cardio. Try out this Epsom salt bath after a long workout to help soothe your muscles and nerves at the same time.
3. Don’t Watch the Scale – I can’t stress this enough! I use to be obsessed with stepping on the scale each morning and would actually end up getting down about myself if the weight didn’t drop. To me, that wasn’t motivation. As women, our hormones fluctuate on a daily basis, as well as stress levels which can raise cortisol levels. All are factors which can keep the scale at a standstill. Check out these foods that may help you achieve your weight loss goals.
4. Diets – I had to go through a lot of experimenting in order to find out which diet was right for me. Through trial and error, I have found one that I’m extremely happy with. Our list of the most popular diets of 2014 is listed here; maybe one will be your perfect fit!
5. Eat Wholesome Foods – When looking at protein bars and the labels of sugar free items these days, I can barely pronounce or let alone know what half of the ingredients are. I know most of us, including me, are guilty of reaching for something that is quick or doesn’t contain natural sugar. Try making your own energy bars, overnight oatmeal, or spinach muffins – all with coconut oil for an added boost of healthy fats. These tips on cutting out processed foods may also be a helpful tool.

Try taking some of these into consideration and see if your body and mind feel better overall. Always remember, it’s good to do your research about topics and habits that you’re the most interested in. For the full list of “healthy” behaviors that may actually be dragging you down, check out the linked article.

-Kayla