Working hard and being diligent in the gym and the kitchen is definitely the key to a healthy lifestyle. But ya know what? Sometimes you’re friggin’ sore, and your mile time hasn’t gotten better, and that cute boy in class still hasn’t noticed you’ve been squatting. Getting your body to follow your mind into a healthy lifestyle takes time, and it’s important to let ourselves know often throughout the process that we’re doing awesome.
So, how can we keep our spirits up during those ever-so-deep valleys after the peaks in our journeys to Babeland? Reward ourselves, of course!
Here are some health-approved ways to reward your mind, body, and soul for being little warriors:
Drop some ca$$$$h at way-too-expensive health food stores:
So, I’ll admit I’m a poor recent grad and I can barely afford to buy off-brand mac n’ cheese, let alone some organic buckwheat noodles. I really wish I could shop only at Whole Foods but, uh, hello? Have you seen the prices? Even though those numbers are a little scary, I make it a point to stop in at my local Whole Foods every Saturday (after visiting my bargain stores, of course). I try to only let myself get 1 or 2 things, which normally comes out to be under $10. Letting myself splurge a little gets me excited about eating healthy and doesn’t break my budget. I normally get the freshly-ground peanut butter, you get to use the machine and everything! They also have killer samples every weekend!
Buy some expensive bath accessories and zone out:
This is by far one of the best things to do when your muscles are hating you after a long lifting session. For my birthday, my best friend bought me an awesome waterproof bath pillow! It’s perfect for making yourself comfy while tuning everything out. Try adding in some bath salts, Epsom salt or oils to get a scent in the air you love! I for one am loving those bath desks I’m seeing everywhere, it’s a perfect way to light a pretty candle, set your glass of wine down, and not get your book wet all at once!
Invest in a tranquility playlist:
I know I am a little weird on this one, but I don’t refresh my music collection too often. I suck at downloading all the latest tunes, I normally just flip on my Pandora (annoying ads included). When I’m feeling really stressed, though, I make it a point to put on some music that is really old school. For some reason it makes me calm down and take a step back. My favs are Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald and even classical pieces. I know people who love nature sounds as well. You can put this in any time you’ve had a rough day and need some distance from your issues, it really gives you some perspective.
Buy some fab sheets and buy a new e-book:
New sheets are probably one of my most favorite things in life. Whether they’re flannel, silk, or just plain old cotton their crispness just excites me. One great way to reward yourself after a really tough week is to buy a pretty pair of these puppies and download that popular book on Amazon. Having a whole new book you have to read in one sitting is a great excuse for staying between your new comfy sheets all day.
See if you fit into those awesome jeans you’ve been eying at the mall:
Although I really do believe that sizes are just a number, if the goal is within reason there is no reason why we shouldn’t use our change in sizes as milestones to a healthier life. One great way to keep yourself up if you’re feeling run-down is to take a look at yourself in the mirror wearing something you maybe used to be uncomfortable in. This could be anything in your closet or something around town you’ve loved forever but have been afraid to try on. Seeing yourself looking sexier than ever in something you love will keep you going on the right track.
How are you all planning to reward yourselves for your hard work? Tell me below and I’ll try it out this weekend!
[Lead image via Andresr/Shutterstock]
