Stronger Than Excuses.
Dear Aspen reader,
Being stronger than our excuses is easier said than done. I find that I often give an excuse because I fear the unknown, I’m not truly interested in the activity at-hand or that sometimes I don't want to take the steps needed to make a change. When faced with a new opportunity do you attack it head on or make an excuse?
When it comes to your wellness routine, making excuses isn’t a great habit to have hanging around.
Let’s break down and bring to light a few excuses that I’ve heard (and have spoken) over the years of journeying towards wellness:
Eating healthy is too costly.
My schedule is too busy for exercise.
Nutrition is confusing and I’m not sure what’s best for my family.
I have no idea where I’d even start with creating a reasonable fitness routine.
I have no one else to hold me accountable for my wellness practices.
Wondering how to turn these excuses around?
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be costly if you know what to look for. Yes, it’s true, some fruits, vegetables and whole foods cost more (typically the organic kinds) but you don’t ALWAYS need to buy organic. If you’d like more information on which vegetables you should and should not buy organically grown read the Aspen article, “Organic vs. Conventional Produce”. Plus, eating seasonally and locally is generally less expensive as the produce doesn’t need to be gathered from afar. For non-perishables, check out a local farmer’s market or websites like Vitacost or iHerb carry great selections at lower prices.
First of all, let me say - when it comes to the vitality of your body eating good food and adding small doses of exercise should ALWAYS be a priority. If you don’t have your health, you’ll have a hard time keeping up with anything else! Try incorporating exercise into your everyday routine. If you work a desk job - stand up every so many hours and take a brisk walk down the hall and back. Working from home? Incorporate exercise into your daily routine as you would laundry and grocery shopping. And if you still find it hard to work in regular exercise, then make it a point to park further out in the parking lot than you normally would and walk the extra steps into the store and back.
Yes, nutrition IS CONFUSING. Even for a wellness professional like myself, I’m often wondering what’s best. But that’s why Aspen Wellness exists! Make it a point to read through Aspen Articles, browse our recommended books or check out our Pinterest boards. It’s our goal to provide healthy solutions for living well and these are all tools that will give you our recommendations on what’s best.
Creating a fitness routine can be a complex task but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re fortunate to have a gym membership, join a class or ask for help from your trainers. If you like a more at-home approach (like I do) then our recommended apps might give you a few ideas for fitness. Also, be sure to check out “Outdoor Movement 5 Ways” for a few unique ideas.
Accountability can be difficult to find and sometimes we need to hold ourselves accountable rather than looking for an outside source. If accountability is something with which you struggle be sure to join our current Challenge where you’ll find accountability sheets and tips for maintaining a wellness routine that works.
Make it a point to be stronger than your fears and excuses this week.
You can do it.
In health,
Alecia