How to Improve your Relationship with Exercise and Nutrition
Published 2023-11-24 by Louise Moorey
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In a world saturated with quick fixes and extreme dieting, it’s no wonder that a lot of us struggle with our relationship with food and exercise.
Here are a few simple things that you can start right now to begin improving your relationship with nutrition and exercise:
DON’T - Ban All the Foods You Enjoy: When we cut out all the foods we love, we set ourselves up for a cycle of deprivation and craving. Instead, practice moderation. Allow yourself to enjoy your favourite treats in sensible portions. This will help contribute to a sustainable and balanced approach to nutrition.
DON’T - Label Foods as Either “Good” or “Bad: Remember that food has no moral value, it’s just food! Labelling foods as “good” or “bad” can foster an unhealthy relationship with eating. Embrace the concept of balance, where all foods have a place in your diet. Focus on nourishing your body with a variety of nutrients, understanding that no single food defines your worth or well-being.
DON’T - Follow the Latest Fad Diet: Fad diets often promise quick results but rarely deliver sustainable, long-term health. Instead of chasing trends, focus on balanced, whole foods. Prioritise nutrient-dense meals that provide sustained energy and support overall well-being. This approach might take a little longer but your body deserves nourishment, not deprivation.
DON’T - See Exercise as a Way to Burn Calories: Exercise is not just a tool for burning calories; it has so many health benefits that will help you live a longer more independent life. Celebrate what your body can do! Discover activities you genuinely enjoy. By finding joy in movement, you make fitness a positive and sustainable aspect of your life.
DON’T - Over-Exercise as a Punishment: As I mentioned exercise is a powerful investment in your overall well-being, it shouldn’t be used as a punishment for what you eat. Shift your perspective from “burning off” calories to embracing the physical and mental benefits of movement.
DO - Set Non-Scale-Related Goals: Shift your focus from only the scale to other wellness goals. Strive for increased energy, improved mood, enhanced flexibility, or achieving a fitness milestone. These goals not only provide a more comprehensive view of your progress but also contribute to a positive and motivated mindset.
DO - Embrace Body Changes: Our bodies naturally evolve over time. Embrace these changes with self-love and acceptance. Focus on feeling strong, healthy, and confident. Celebrate the journey, and let your evolving body be a source of pride, not pressure.
DO - Eat Mindfully: Slow down and savour the experience of eating. Eat without distractions, allowing yourself to truly enjoy your food. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Mindful eating fosters a deeper connection with your body and promotes a healthier relationship with food.
DO - Find Exercise You Enjoy: The key to consistent exercise is finding activities that bring you joy. If you don’t like it you’re less likely to make it a part of your life. Whether it’s a dance class, a nature hike, or a calming yoga session, make movement a pleasure, not a chore. When you enjoy what you do, it becomes a sustainable and lifelong commitment.
DO - Get Support From a Coach: A coach can help guide you on your wellness journey. They can provide personalised strategies, motivation, and a supportive framework for your goals that are suited to your lifestyle. With a coach in your corner, you’re not alone; you have a partner in building a balanced and sustainable approach to nutrition and fitness.
Doing these simple things can really help to improve our relationship with food and exercise, making reaching and maintaining our goals much easier and more enjoyable.