Small Victories
We often set health and fitness goals yet rarely celebrate the small victories throughout our journey. We are so focused on the results that we miss opportunities to congratulate ourselves for the sacrifices and hard work. Not anymore! Check out these small victories that you may not be celebrating.
Mood/Skin
Have you noticed yourself in a better mood since you have started your health and fitness journey? Research has shown that exercising regularly helps increase circulation, and your body releases endorphins. These endorphins are meant to keep you in a feel-good happy mood afterward. Is your skin glowing, and do you have lesser blemishes? Celebrate it. This means you have been eating healthier, staying hydrated, and working hard.
Tasks Require Less Energy
When we become more active, things begin to get a little easier for us. The point of taking care of our bodies is so we can live a more enjoyable lifestyle. Some tasks you may notice getting easier could be walking up the stairs and not feeling tired, carrying the groceries in one trip, or not feeling exhausted from playing with your children.
You may also notice your energy coming back or shorter recovery time from exercise. When we eat unhealthy foods, they tend to make us feel sluggish and lethargic. When you choose healthier foods that fuel your body, your body reacts differently. You can run/walk a little farther or lift a little heavier during your exercises.
Clothes
Sometimes on our health and fitness journey, it seems like it takes forever to see change. One way to notice a change for the good is in the way our clothes fit. This can be noticeable within weeks of changing our lifestyles. Me personally, whenever I am eating better and drinking more water, I notice within 2-4 weeks that my pants feel a little different around my waist. Celebrate when your clothes are fitting better.
Sleep
I am not sure if you know this, but sleep plays a huge role in our health and fitness. Just as oxygen fuels the body, so does sleep. Getting at least eight hours of sleep every night can make a huge impact on our health. Are you noticing you feel more energized and well-rested in the mornings? It’s probably an indicator you got a good night’s sleep. Some tips for keeping this going are getting to bed at the same time every night, not staring at electronics before bed, and adding nightly routines like hot sleepy time tea or lavender oil.
No matter how fast or slow you go on your health and fitness journey, celebrate the small victories along the way.
