As human beings, we like to think that our brains have all the answers. We can rationalize, analyze and strategize such a vast amount of information, so it can be difficult to understand that we sometimes truly don’t know it all.
Your Body: An Intricate System
The human body is a fascinating thing. It’s how we experience the world through taste, touch, sight, hearing and smell. It’s also how we develop and cultivate emotions, complete our day-to-day activities and navigate the world around us. Our bodies help us to exist!
For that reason, paying special attention to your body on the weight management journey is absolutely critical. And no, we’re not just talking about its shape, weight or general appearance. We’re talking about all of the things which go into building a healthy body and mind. Your body’s intricacies are designed to keep you alive, healthy and functioning!
Listening to Your Body: Recognizing Important Signs and Symptoms
Throughout every aspect of your weight management journey, listening to your body is a must. Here are a few key things to always tune-in to:
Hunger
A healthy, functioning body will alert you when you are hungry and in need of food. When deciding to eat, listen to these hunger cues – but try to do so before you reach the point where you are starving. Conversely, if you feel a sense of satiety and don’t experience any hunger cues, it may not be the right time to eat. In most circumstances, trust your body to tell you when it needs fuel through nutrition.
Thirst
Unfortunately, it’s very easy to confuse hunger with thirst. If you experience hunger but you’re not sure whether or not it’s time to eat, ask yourself “How much water have I had to drink today? Could I be dehydrated?” Drinking a sufficient amount of water each day is necessary for your body to function at its best.
Fatigue
A lot of times, we physically push ourselves to the point of exhaustion. This could be a result of stress, personal responsibility or simply the way we are conditioned through cultural and societal norms. If you feel fatigue, know that it’s important to take some time to rest and recuperate. That’s when you will truly be the most productive!
Pain
If you’re feeling pain in your body, this is a warning sign that you should address before participating in any kind of physical activity. If the pain doesn’t seem to be something you can manage on your own, schedule a doctor’s appointment to determine the best course of action. A body in pain makes it difficult to live a healthy, happy life!
Stress/Anxiety
As much as we don’t want to believe it, stress and anxiety can take a serious toll on your weight management efforts. If you’re experiencing these types of emotions, stop to think about what will help you feel better. Maybe it’s a workout to release endorphins. Maybe it’s a much-needed nap, a massage or simply “down time.”
Your body knows best, so make sure you’re tuned in at all times! Developing a mind, body and even spirit connection will only propel you forward toward your weight and health goals.
