How to Kickstart Your Health & Fitness Journey

Want to put your best foot forward this Winter? We’re here to help. With warmer weather slowly creeping away from us, it’s more important than ever for Australians to solidify their health and fitness regime to avoid that overall ‘sluggish’ feeling that creeps up on us during the cooler months. We’ve come up with some ideas on how you can avoid that winter slump and kick start your health and fitness journey.

Where To Start with Health & Fitness

The best thing you can do is set realistic goals for yourself that will leave you feeling accomplished at the end of each week, instead of burnt out and frustrated. This means avoiding the intense ‘I must workout 7 days a week, be able to lift 100kg and be able to run 5k immediately’ mindset and instead reflect on your relationship with fitness to create an exercise plan accordingly with realistic expectations. Maintaining movement is far more productive than pushing your body too hard with extensive workout routines that leave you struggling to get out of bed the next morning. If you have your heart set on a new you, why not indulge in a new sport or activity that can both improve your fitness and mental wellbeing. Have a look around what’s happening in your area and take up something new. 

I’ve got my body moving. What now?

Other than exercise, it’s always important to try and incorporate foods that are both nutritious, healthy and most importantly delicious. See what works for your body and don’t forget the healing qualities herbs and spices possess and play around with finding a spice mixture that suits your taste buds and health goals. 

Turmeric is an excellent place to start. Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, and it has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been studied for its potential health benefits. Some of the health benefits of turmeric include:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties: Curcumin has been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat obesity and metabolic disorders, and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Additionally, curcumin has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, which could help  prevent insulin resistance and diabetes, both of which are risk factors for weight gain.
   
   
2. Antioxidant properties: Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant, which means it can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals, which may protect your cells against pre-mature ageing and many chronic diseases.
   
   
3. Pain relief: Turmeric may help to relieve pain, particularly in conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
   
   
4. Improved brain function: Curcumin may also have neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain against cell damage and potentially improve cognitive function.
   
   
5. Reduced risk of heart disease: Some studies suggest that turmeric may help to improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. 

Ginger, Rosemary and Sage are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease muscle soreness.

Nurturing your joints and muscles is essential when committing to a health and fitness regime which is why it is imperative to support your journey with a healthy diet and healthy mindset. 

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your health and fitness requires a balanced approach that includes setting realistic goals, getting your body moving and incorporating nutritious foods into your diet. Remember to prioritise your physical and mental well being and to always listen to your body to avoid burnout and frustration. With dedication and consistency, you can kick-start your health and fitness journey and maintain a healthy lifestyle all year round.