When you believe in something internally, it manifests itself externally. The mind-body connection is undeniable, and to succeed at weight loss, you not only have to become physically fit, but mentally fit as well.
What is mental fitness?
Mental fitness is the ability to manage strong emotions. It includes self-acceptance, self-esteem, resilience, and radical self-care. These components, in action, help you to translate negative thoughts into positive thoughts, and allow yourself the ability to break negative patterns and replace them with positive ones.
For instance, simply believing that you will lose weight is the hardest step of the journey. According to Dr. Kim, Psy. D., Red Mountain Weight Loss’ Behavioral Weight Loss Specialist, 9 out of 10 individuals who believe they can lose weight, lose weight – evidence of how powerful your belief system affects your success.
The 5 components of mental fitness
Visualizing
Visualize yourself achieving your weight loss goal. Imagine taking the steps you need to (like eating healthy and sticking to your RM3® diet), to get you where you need to go. Visualization stimulates brain activity involved with motivation and goals.
Mindfulness
Live in the present, and apply this to eating. Mindful eating, or eating with intention, is different than mindless eating, which can include gorging yourself without thinking. While you eat, simply enjoy your meal and the nutrients it provides. Learn more about Mindless Eating VS Mindful Eating.
Optimism
Instead of ignoring the negatives, strike a balance. By acknowledging both the negatives and positives of your weight loss journey, you force yourself to see new gains while also seeing the sacrifice you are putting into it. Realize your long-term goals and life-changing commitment.
Relaxation
Sleep hygiene is important, as is avoiding stress. Stress is a common factor in weight gain, so making sure you are practicing anti-stress activities like listening to music or spending time in nature, is key to combating weight gain.
Physical Fitness
Exercise provides endorphins that help elevate your moods and reduce stress. On RM3®, we recommend light exercise, and up to 120 minutes per week of walking, yoga, or stretching. Check out a few yoga poses here!
