“A person is not old until regrets take the place of dreams,” quote from the inside of a green tea bottle top, proving that you never know where you’ll find something thought provoking.
What woman hasn’t criticized her reflection in the mirror or groaned endlessly about having to put in her 30 minutes on the elliptical? I’m all too familiar with this kind of negative self-talk: Just yesterday I sweated my way through a tough workout while saying to myself, “These weights are too heavy,” “Are those my thighs staring back at me in the mirror?” ”Ugh, I hate running on the treadmill.” (Needless to say, I wasn’t in a very upbeat mood.) And not coincidentally, I felt tired and bored and ended up putting less than 25 percent of my energy into the workout. So I wasn’t surprised to read about a new study, page 93, that shows that people who have a positive outlook about exercising actually see the biggest gains (think sleeker arms, sculpted legs, and flatter abs) over the course of a year. Any kind of negativity can zap your motiviation, yet pessimism has become so ingrained in our way of thinking, it’s almost second nature. Not looking on the bright side can also put our health at risk: Studies have shown it could even trigger problems like cancer and heart disease.
We at Shape have always believed having the right mind-set is just as important as eating well and exercising regularly. So if you do anything this month, make a conscious effort to rethink the way you approach exercise – and life. Our Weight-Loss Diarist, Aury Wallington, did, and found that any easy attitude shift helped her regain her workout mojo – and kept her from backsliding (page 114). Vow to start on a new path today by stopping yourself when you say something unflattering and choosing to think bright, happy thoughts. Tape a reminder to your computer if you have to. You’ll have more energy – and be in an altogether better frame of mind.
First, let me apologize to Valerie, for posting verbatim her April 2009 editor’s letter and second, thanks to her for drinking green tea and exhibiting ‘bottle top’ curiosity.
It’s not how you look, where you begin or what other people say or think. It’s how you feel, think and what you do, that matters. Take the first step forward by participating, committing and starting in life.
I believe in you!
MikeZ_no matter the bumps, starting with positive mojo.
Please consult your physician before starting any exercise or weight loss program. Your physician is your very best resource.
