what does it mean to be healthy physically? Well for every person the definition varies; it could mean something totally different for a student, (like myself) compared to a working professional. Regardless of who you are just know that this one word does not define you and shouldn’t be taken as a set of rules you have to live by.
Over the recent years I think that the word ‘health’ has become associated with a particular stereotype. Ask yourself, when you think of healthy, what words or images come to mind? Perhaps a green salad? Maybe the latest fitness clothes, trends, or even a simple green smoothie. I’m here to remind you that you don’t need to have certain clothes or eat salads everyday to deem yourselves as ‘healthy’. Especially if salads are just not your thing.
In my opinion
For me personally healthy means feeling fit, strong, confident in my skin, and being balanced. It means setting realistic goals, knowing that even if I don’t achieve my goals by the date that I aimed for, that’s okay; this is not a race it’s a lifestyle. Additionally, this word means doing what works for you, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and enjoying occasional treats. Health for me truly embodies living a balanced lifestyle that only you, yourself can create because it’s your journey.
Being healthy doesn’t have to be expensive either, (checkout my past blog post Baller on a budget). If you usually don’t shop at stores like Whole Foods (nothing’s wrong with Whole Foods) don’t start now since you want to live a healthier lifestyle. For me as a student, stores like that are out of my budget (for now haha). It’s a treat to go to Whole Foods. 🙂
But don’t fret, because you will still be able to buy wholesome foods at your local grocery stores. There are so many delicious meals you can make with fruits, vegetables, and proteins that won’t break the bank and are packed with essential nutrients. The key is to educate yourself on what to buy and buying items that you WILL enjoy!
Common Misconceptions
Healthy also does not mean I need spend a certain amount of money each month on new gym clothes, my old ones will do just fine. I mean I love an occasional shopping treat but realistically most of my workout clothes are from college and items that I have received as gifts. If you guys can’t afford a gym membership and/or don’t have certain equipment, think outside of the box! I often workout completely from home or outside. In the beginning of my fitness journey I used laundry detergent, school books, and other household items as weights.
If you do have some extra cash places like TJ Maxx and Marshalls are very AFFORDABLE stores to acquire basic weights and other workout items you may be interested in. But remember these things are NOT needed, just use your imagination. I want you guys to focus on how you feel on the inside, we have got to stop getting so caught up in our outer appearances and love ourselves. Social media can make this hard, but remember not to compare yourself to others because we all have our own journeys. The things we struggle with are often NOT portrayed on the internet.
The key to living a healthy, happy, and balanced life is to never deprive yourself or feel like your missing out on things that you enjoy. Eating one burger, or a couple slices of pizza is not going to hurt your progress or deem you as ‘unhealthy’ it just means your human! Having treats and things you love in moderation does not define who you are or what you can achieve.
What to believe?
Have you guys noticed that there are SO many articles on health and fitness topics that it can be overwhelming? Even confusing? When your just trying to educate yourself. Well I’m here to say that I’ve been there. Be wary of what you read on the Internet and if something sounds too good to be true then it probably is.
Get your head in the game
Try to focus on having a positive mind-set. My mother always told me:
“They can take away what you have physically, but they can never take away the knowledge that you have inside your head”
So if you don’t think highly of yourself and build your-self up what makes you think others will? I’m sure we all have at least ONE person we can count on when we are feeling down and out. But truly living a healthier lifestyle is making sure that first person is YOU.
In summary
With that being said I’ll leave ya’ll with this, remember ‘health’ isn’t defined as a set of rules, e.g low fat, no carbs, or only cardio. Living a healthy lifestyle is largely up to you and should be based on how you feel! Remember to exercise regularly, do what makes you happy and challenges you. And don’t forget to consume a wholesome diet with minimally processed foods. I hope that each of you can find balance in your life, whatever road or milestone your at; just know that it IS achievable.
Would, ya’ll like to see a post about macro and micronutrients? Leave a note in the comments if so!
xoxo,
The Active Medic