Published on: 03 May 2018
Last Updated on: 25 July 2024
When it comes to fitness, you might be your own worst enemy. If it feels like you’re doing everything right, but still not getting the results you want, why are you still sticking to the same routine? There are many ways you might be getting in your own way and getting to the bottom of it starts with honesty. Are you really being honest with yourself when it comes to diet and exercise? Are you diligently tracking these figures—or are you over-obsessing? Too much in either direction can be dangerous.
Here are five ways you might be inhibiting your own fitness and what to do about it:
Not counting every bite if you’re looking to reduce fat. It’s not as simple as calories in, calories out, but sometimes it is. If you’re sticking to a certain caloric intake every day, make sure you count every single bite—and beverage. Alcohol is packed with calories and lowers our inhibitions, which is all part of alcohol’s lethality when it comes to diet goals. Count those calories, but keep in mind that there is an emerging eating disorder in which people “save” calories for alcoholic beverages. It’s been dubbed “drunkorexia”, and can lead to even more dangerous eating disorders.
Getting too obsessed with the scale. Unfortunately, the scale can lie. Like a watched pot, it’s not going to give you what you want if you’re checking it daily—or multiple times per day. Doing so is a slippery slope and can lead to dangerous habits. The scale can only tell you weight, which doesn’t account for muscle or water retention. If you really want some numbers to help guide you on your fitness journey, use a tape measure. Measure the biggest part of your upper arms, the largest part of your chest, the smallest part of your waist, widest part of your hips, and largest part of your thighs and calves. All of these areas, especially the belly, can also fluctuate throughout the day. However, it’s a much safer (and saner) number system than the scale.
You don’t push yourself at your workouts. Many people aren’t honest with themselves when it comes to their workouts. Could you be doing a harder level on the cross ramp? When the spin instructor tells you to empty the engine on a power interval, are you? If you’re working on muscle mass, do you really tap out between eight and twelve reps or could you do more (and increase the weight)? Working with a personal trainer can help you avoid cheats, as can working out in a group setting. It can be too easy to compromise when you always workout solo. Plus, group settings or a personal trainer can bring out your competitive spirit.
Not getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep has been linked to weight gain. Since most Americans are chronically fatigued (and overweight) there’s a clear correlation here. One of the best things you can do is get enough rest. This will depend on you and your body, but ideally, you’ll be able to wake up without an alarm. If that isn’t doable, see about squeezing in a power nap mid-day. It’s seemingly one of the easiest ways to keep your weight in check. It also helps you get the most out of your workouts. You can’t give your all when you’re exhausted.
Be realistic with rest days and cheat days. These days don’t mean you can go all-out on a binge. Some people find a cheat meal is safer. Others re-learn how to gauge their fullness. Cheat days can be helpful because they give your body what it’s craving, but it still needs to be in moderation. A rest day doesn’t need to be a complete rest, either. You can go on a walk or take a gentle yoga class. Again, honesty with yourself is key.
If you’re getting in your own way, you’re also the one who can stop it. Pinpoint your biggest struggles and see what you can do to put yourself first.
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Visiting a chiropractor offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance physical and emotional health.
However, a common misconception is that people only seek chiropractic care when they're already in pain or can no longer bear discomfort.
Many need to realize that a neck specialist singapore can play a crucial role in preventing these issues from arising in the first place.
While most individuals associate chiropractic care with addressing back pain, it's essential to be aware of other indicators that may prompt a visit to a chiropractor at your nearest local wellness center.
Signs You Should See A Chiropractor
Chiropractic care is often associated with back pain relief, but its benefits go far beyond that. Chiropractors are trained to address various musculoskeletal issues and can help improve your overall well-being.
While back pain is a common reason to visit a chiropractor, numerous other signs and symptoms can indicate you should seek their care.
Let’s explore ten signs that you should consider making an appointment with a chiropractor.
1. Persistent Back Pain
Experiencing relentless back pain indicates that consulting a chiropractor is a sensible and proactive step. Such pain can take on diverse forms, whether it's the nagging ache in your lower back, the discomfort in your upper back, or even the stiffness and unease in your neck area.
The value of seeking a chiropractor's expertise lies in their capacity to provide non-invasive, natural treatment options that not only relieve your pain but also significantly contribute to the overall improvement of your mobility and physical health.
The persistence of back pain can be incredibly disruptive to your daily life. It can hinder your ability to perform routine tasks, affect your mood, and diminish your overall quality of life.
Whether your discomfort is rooted in a specific incident, like an injury, or the result of prolonged stress and poor posture, chiropractors are adept at getting to the bottom of the issue.
Chiropractic care is centered on the principle that proper spine and musculoskeletal system alignment is crucial for maintaining good health. This alignment promotes optimal nerve function and the free flow of vital energy throughout the body.
By pinpointing and addressing misalignments or tension in your spine, a singapore chiropractor can offer you effective, non-surgical solutions to tackle the root causes of your back pain.
2. Chronic Headaches
Frequent headaches are a common complaint that can often be traced back to tension and stress within the neck and spine. This connection between the musculoskeletal system and headaches is crucial to chiropractic care.
Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques and adjustments to address these issues, ultimately leading to a reduction in both the frequency and intensity of headaches.
What's particularly appealing about chiropractic care is that it provides relief without needing medication, which can sometimes bring unwanted side effects and dependency concerns.
Headaches, whether tension headaches, migraines, or other types, can significantly disrupt your daily life. They can lead to discomfort, sensitivity to light and sound, and even nausea. This is where chiropractic adjustments come into play.
By targeting the root causes of your headaches, which might involve misaligned vertebrae or muscle tension, chiropractors work to correct these issues and promote a healthier, pain-free existence.
3. Limited Range Of Motion
If you've become aware of a decline in your ability to move your arms, legs, or neck as freely as you used to, it could indicate an underlying problem. In such cases, turning to a chiropractor can be a wise decision.
Chiropractors are skilled at pinpointing the root causes of mobility issues and are well-equipped to employ strategies to help you regain your full range of motion.
Diminished mobility can significantly affect your daily life and overall well-being. It may lead to discomfort, limitations in your physical activities, and even impact your quality of life.
Chiropractors understand the intricate relationship between the musculoskeletal system and your mobility and specialize in addressing these concerns.
When you visit a chiropractor for mobility issues, they will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the precise causes of your limitations. This often involves a physical examination, discussions about your medical history, and perhaps even diagnostic imaging like X-rays.
The chiropractor can develop a tailored treatment plan to restore your full range of motion by identifying misalignments, muscle imbalances, or other musculoskeletal issues.
4. Frequent Muscle Stiffness
Muscle stiffness often indicates that there might be issues with the alignment of your musculoskeletal system.
When your muscles feel tense and unyielding, it can indicate that something isn't quite right within your body's framework. This is where the expertise of chiropractors becomes invaluable, as they are well-equipped to address this problem and promote improved muscle flexibility.
Stiff muscles can be more than just a discomfort; they can impact your daily life and overall well-being. This sensation can limit your range of motion, hinder physical activities, and even lead to pain and discomfort.
Chiropractors deeply understand how the body's structure and function are interconnected, and they specialize in addressing these specific concerns.
When you turn to a chiropractor with muscle stiffness complaints, they critically evaluate your condition. This typically includes a detailed physical examination, discussions about your medical history, and any relevant diagnostic procedures like X-rays if necessary.
5. Poor Posture
Poor posture is a common culprit behind a myriad of health problems and physical discomfort. Your posture, the way you hold your body when sitting, standing, or moving, plays a vital role in your overall well-being.
Fortunately, chiropractors possess the expertise to assess your posture and offer guidance on adjustments that can help you stand taller and promote better health and comfort.
Chiropractors are uniquely positioned to address posture-related concerns. During a chiropractic assessment, they thoroughly examine your posture, pinpointing areas of misalignment or tension in your musculoskeletal system.
They will then develop a personalized plan to help you achieve and maintain a more upright and healthier position.
Chiropractic adjustments and techniques focus on realigning the spine and joints, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing your body's overall function. These targeted adjustments can relieve discomfort associated with poor posture and help you maintain the necessary habits to keep your posture in check.
Are Chiropractors Worth It?
The worth of chiropractic care largely depends on an individual's specific needs and circumstances. Chiropractors can benefit many people, particularly those seeking relief from musculoskeletal issues, back pain, and certain headaches.
Chiropractic care is often praised for its non-invasive and drug-free approach, focusing on addressing the root causes of problems rather than merely alleviating symptoms. It can also be a cost-effective alternative to more invasive treatments.
However, it's essential to consult a qualified chiropractor and carefully consider your health goals. For some, chiropractic care may significantly improve well-being, while for others, alternative forms of treatment may be more suitable.
Whether chiropractors are worth it should be based on individual health needs and preferences.
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Are you someone who is investigating the potential benefits of hemp oil and do not know where to start?
Do you know Hemp Oil is different from CBD Oil, which can also be extracted from the Marijuana plant and has THC content?
Have you looked at some products made from Hemp Oil, which can help you with inducing natural sleep, joints pain, etc.?
In the past few years, a number of leading research articles and studies have been published in reputed science journals on the benefits of Hemp Oil. Just to be clear, Hemp Oil is made from the Hemp plant. Unlike CBD Oils, which can be made from the marijuana plant and have a high THC Content (THC is the element, which makes one feel high).
In other words, CBD oil can be extracted from both-
The Hemp Plant
The Marijuana Plant
In this article, we are going to look at five important things you did not know about Hemp Oils. We speak to leading brands experimenting and creating products with Hemp oil in Colorado and ask them to shed some light on the matter.
List of 5 Important Things you did not know about Hemp Oils
1. Hemp Oils do not have any THC Levels in them-
Hemp oils are derived from the Hemp Plant. This is also called CBD Oil. However, a lot of people confuse CBD Oils with being derived from the marijuana plant. The same contains THC levels and is responsible for making someone feel high. Hemp Oil on the other hand does not have any traces of THC in it. In scientific parlance, there are no psychoactive substances in it.
2. Hemp Oils are packed with Nutrients-
Scientific studies on Hemp have shown the presence of the following nutrients-
Proteins
Unsaturated Fatty Acids
Omega 3s
Omega 6s
Insoluble Fibres
Vitamin E Antioxidants
In other words, they are packed to the rafters with nutrients, minerals, and proteins, which are great for human beings.
3. Scientific studies have proven their efficacy in fighting diseases-
A number of leading research firms and pharma companies have published reports to show that using hemp oils has reduced and prevented heart disorders and other cardiovascular illnesses from taking place. They also point out that applying hemp oil to our external skin helps it glow in a natural manner. Studies also show its role in fighting autoimmune illnesses.
4. Great for Women’s Reproductive Health-
Women who suffer from PMS, Menopause-related disorders, and hormonal imbalances before, during, and after childbirth can benefit from hemp oils. As it is richly packed with proteins and has been shown to positively react against hormonal imbalance, it is proving to be a boon for women in improving their reproductive health issues.
5. Can be taken by Vegans-
As most are aware, seafood is a great and active source of Omega 3s and 6s. However, the same is not possible for vegans and this makes them lose out on the multiple benefits of Omega. Hemp oil has rich elements of Omega 3s and 6s and can be taken by vegans without any issues whatsoever. They do not have to worry about it being an animal-derived supplement.
Is it Legal to use Hemp Oil and Products?
Many of you reading the article might be wondering about the legal status of Hemp Oil in different parts of the world. To be honest, lawmakers are still trying to figure out the actual details. However, most importantly, what you should know is that the legality concerns THC levels. If a CBD or Hemp-based product contains 0.3% or lower THC content, it is absolutely legal to use. However, if the percentage of THC in the product increases beyond the permissible 0.3% then it falls under the psychotropic substances list.
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We are sure that you can connect with the feeling of no ounce of energy we invest in your body after a long, tiring day at work. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, we just can’t seem to unwind at the end of the day after working hard. Your brain is still working at an overdrive thinking about the could haves and would haves.
If you ask anyone a way out, they'll simply tell you to leave your job at your office. However, it is better said than done. Read on as we list a few ways in which you can relax and calm physically and mentally.
Lie Down on Your Bed and Do Nothing
Of course, we were going to start with this tip!
You have spent hours at your job sitting in the same position with no rest. Do you feel that strain in your neck and shoulders that is constantly irritating you? It is due to this very reason.
Just lie down in your bed or couch, close your eyes, and do nothing. For this purpose, you need to ensure that your bed or couch is comfortable. If it’s not, take the necessary steps to make it comfortable.
For your couch, if you feel that your cushions are not good enough, you can use pillows instead. In fact, there are also pillows designed for neck pain relief to effectively help you relax your body. Stay away from clumpy couches as well - not good for your back. If you prefer lying down in your bed, make sure that the mattress is good. Often, long office hours can cause back pain. To get relief, you can buy a mattress designed for back pain as well.
In the end, do nothing - just lounge around and try to take the mind of your work.
Take a Hot Bath
Most of the time, we take short and quick showers to rush to the office – a short hygienic ritual and we’re done.
This gives you all the more reason to take a long bath at the end of the day. Soaking in hot water has a therapeutic effect on your mind. The soothing effect of hot baths can help you drastically lower your anxiety levels. In addition to this, it’s also beneficial to regulate the circulatory system as well as lower your blood pressure. The warm wetness surrounding you can be the perfect way to destress yourself, for sure.
Indulge in Your Hobby to Enjoy Yourself
The dictionary defines a hobby as an activity that is done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure. Well, this couldn’t have been after.
The reason why you call something your hobby is because you enjoy it, which can also make it a great stress-buster. If you like reading a book, this is the best time to get lost in the world of imaginary characters and powerful plots. If you prefer reading non-fiction too, the inspirational stories can help to instill in you a sense of contentment and positivity.
If you like painting, cooking or listening to music, go ahead and indulge! In fact, listening to music can really be one of the best ways to destress after a long day - even research backs this fact!
Call Your Friends and Family
Thank God for friends and family for being there when we want to vent or share things. We always have a few family members or friends who help us calm down. Maybe it’s their advice, their humor, or just their ability to hear which makes them that perfect refuge. So, when you return home, make yourself comfortable and call your lifeline.
Even if you don’t want to share anything about your day, you can always listen to them recount a funny story from the past or share something amusing that may have happened to them.
Try to Meditate
You must already be aware of the benefits of meditating. Taking out even ten minutes of your daily schedule can be extremely positive for your body. Your mood, blood pressure, breathing, and your stress levels will all be under control.
There are also many meditation applications available on the internet which you can download for this purpose. Just make sure that you are in a noise-free environment where you can relax.
Visit the Gym for a Last-Minute Workout
If you are health-conscious or like visiting the gym, you might already be aware of the benefits of gymming. If you aren't, before you cross this tip out of the list, hear us out first.
According to Mayo College, exercise is actually helpful to reduce stress in multiple ways. Not only do you feel your confidence improve, but due to the secretion of endorphins in the body, you also feel good.
The fact that you also are doing something productive makes your mood better as well.
Change Into More Comfortable Clothing
Formal clothing is usually uncomfortable because you have to wear full suits, shirts, pencil skirts, heels, and whatnot. If you quickly change your clothes into something more comfortable or even nightwear, you’ll be figuratively be shedding off heaps of exhaustion and frustration. Make it a point to follow this because, at first, you might feel a bit lethargic but, it actually is better for your own wellbeing. Not that fashionable, but oh-so-comfy!
Watch Relaxing Videos Online
Since the purpose here is to enter into a blissful state away from worry, watching relaxation videos on YouTube can be the best way out. Not only is this completely free of cost, but you get to enjoy nearly any video that you feel can help you recharge your batteries.
You can also watch your favorite sitcom, movie, or TV series. A good tip would be to stick to watching comedies. The laughing can be good for your soul and spirit. Seeing your favorite stand-up comedian in action can help you forget about your deadlines, work pressure, and anything that may be weighing you down mentally.
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