April 1st marked the official change in my health and wellness regimen. Now that Winter has made its departure, and the belly fat seemed fruitless in keeping me warm during the colder months, it’s time to begin a true, concerted effort towards working on my summer body goals. So for those who’d like to join your girl on the train to optimum health, here’s a quick run through. I’ll also cover how fitness and natural hair are the perfect combo. No need to worry about those curls!
First, let’s address any notion of inadequacy. Embrace your own beauty inside and out. We are beautiful despite any weight, and certainly despite any standard of beauty society repeatedly tries to instill in us.
I’ve decided to change my ways to improve my health and gain back all the muscle I’ve lost since my extremely fit, soccer-playing days. In order to do this, I plan to be more mindful of what I put into my body; stay active, and make time for mental health and wellness.
Now, time to set some first month’s goals!
GOALS:
• Cut out processed sugars, totally. Definitely stay away from those deadly soft drinks and artificially flavored, processed foods. It pains me to say this, but all the candies and chocolates have got to go, too. Just keep envisioning that summer body!
• Incorporate more metabolism boosting foods, such as greens, legumes, fruits, whole grains, etc.
• Add weight training to your workout. By doing so, you will increase the amount and rate of fat burn.
• Add Yoga to your weekly routine. This will improve your physical, emotional, and mental balance, while increasing flexibility.
SOME DON’TS:
• DO NOT starve yourself in the hopes of losing weight faster. This will actually achieve the opposite effect. Your body will go into starvation mode and cling to every possible ounce of fat.
• DO NOT do exercises your body is not ready for. You have to build up to any advanced exercise. Just don’t force it.
Finally, you’ll want to maintain your luscious curls through all this sweat you’re about to experience. Protective styles are the perfect “go-to”!
From Senegalese twists to the indestructible up do, you can go hard in your workout and encourage hair growth if that’s your goal. But if you’re not a huge fan of protective styling, any style that keeps the hair off your neck should suffice. Just be sure to cleanse the scalp and hair at least once a week and moisturize daily!
Now that we’ve outlined a few goals, remember to uplift each other. We’re all in this together! Be sure to check out our website for some weekly updates and words of inspiration and a chance to share your own experiences.
Photo Credit: Nike Women
