There are many jokes about people trying to lose weight, but the truth is, weight-loss is no laughing matter. Losing weight and keeping it off for good requires dedication, determination and hard work, but it doesn’t mean your journey has to be all doom and gloom. Incorporating a little laughter into your weight-loss plan can work wonders and give you the extra oomph you need to reach your goals.
Set Realistic and Achievable Goals
As with any weight-loss plan, it is important to set realistic and achievable goals. Before choosing to toss out the donuts and lead a healthier lifestyle, make sure you establish attainable goals for yourself. This could include anything from incorporating weekly walks into your regime to trading fast food for homemade lunches. Once you have a solid foundation to work off, it will be easier to incorporate additional healthy behaviors into your daily routine.
Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself
Dieting can often become a trap of self-criticism and unhealthy behaviors. Rather than giving into diet-dos and diet-don’ts, remember that healthy weight-loss and lifestyle choices can take time. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge any progress. For instance, if you’re working on your daily steps, pat yourself on the back each time you walk an extra block or hit your goal for the day. Congratulations!
Find New Ways to Laugh
Beyond self-criticism, people become so focused on dieting and nutrition that they forget to embrace joy. Laughing can help reduce stress and lead to better wellbeing. Make it your goal to seek new ways to enjoy yourself. If you’re trying to lose weight but also like comedy, find an online stand-up comedy special and take a few moments to have a laugh. Or if your friends have a great sense of humor, schedule a virtual hangout and let the good times roll. Having a good laugh or two can help reduce stress and motivate you to continue with physical activity.
Incorporate Physical Activity
When thinking about losing weight, the first thing that may come to mind is working out, but physical activity doesn’t need to be a chore. Improving your physical health can be as simple as going on a leisurely stroll with your family. There is no need to fear or feel anxious at the thought of exercising; use it as an avenue to explore the world around you and appreciate nature. Working out can give you an adrenaline rush and can take your mind off everyday stressors.
Incorporate Yoga
Think about incorporating yoga into your physical activity routine. Yoga can help you shed pounds without the need for expensive equipment. Additionally, it can help you relax and unwind, which can further help reduce your stress. Consider setting up a yoga session in a comfortable and quiet space to reap the full benefits of this ancient exercise.
Make Sleep a Priority
Rest is just as important as physical activity when it comes to weight loss. Not getting enough sleep or having a poor sleep routine can make it harder to shed pounds and can lead to an increased risk of obesity. Alternatively, getting enough restful sleep can help you in your weight-loss journey and improve your mood. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night.
Make Meal Planning Fun
If meal planning becomes a mundane task, try to freshen it up by incorporating a dose of lightheartedness. Consider meal prepping with your friends or plan fun foods you can look forward to eating. If you are a foodie, preparing meals can make the process more enjoyable.
Friends Are The New Fitness Buddies
Take advantage of technology and turn your friends into your newest fitness partners. Look for a friend who has the same interests and similar weight-loss goals. From there, dedicate time a few times a week to walk or run together virtually. Friends can be a really great motivator and support system for each other on the journey, plus it will be a great way to to stay connected when you can’t hang out in person.
Check In with Yourself
Often times we get so caught up in the desire to lose weight that we forget the meaningful journey ahead. Each week or two, check in with yourself. Ask yourself how you are doing. Reflect on your progress and recall the positive steps you have taken thus far and celebrate them. Be proud of the effort and hard work you are putting in.
Expect Setbacks
With any lifestyle change, bumps in the road are inevitable. When you inevitably hit one, don’t allow it to be a set-back. Instead use it as a lesson to ensure greater success in the long-term. Above all else, don’t forget to be kind to yourself.
Summary
Weight loss and good health don’t have to be a bummer or a downer. You can focus on your goals while still enjoying a good laugh. Invest in realistic and achievable goals and make sleep a priority. Have fun with meal planning, and use physical activity as an avenue to explore and appreciate the world around you. Incorporate yoga into your routine and turn your friends into your new fitness partners. Most importantly, don’t forget to be kind to yourself and revel in the little victories. By incorporating just a little bit of laughter into your weight-loss plan, you can find inspiration and support to reach and maintain your health and fitness goals.