Fool Your Mind for a Healthier You: Make Habits Easy, Exciting and Beneficial

Fool Your Mind for a Healthier You: Make Habits Easy, Exciting and Beneficial

Do you ever struggle to follow through on tasks you know are good for your health? Cooking a healthy recipe or packing your gym bag might not always feel exciting, and oftentimes this can deter you from doing what you know is good for you.

This April Fools’ Day, it’s time to fool your mind into making healthy choices! Here are some clever ways to turn your goals into something you actually enjoy.

Drinking More Water

Do you ever find yourself at the end of the day realizing you didn’t drink enough water? Try investing in a larger water bottle and carrying it with you wherever you go. Having it easily accessible can make it easier to sip throughout the day, and you might find yourself drinking more without even thinking about it!

Bonus Water Tip: If you’re struggling to get water down, consider adding some flavoring! Whether it’s squeezing in some lemon in or getting sugar-free flavor mix packets, it’s a great way to start building the habit of drinking more water.

Going to the Gym

Before you even step foot in the gym, finding the motivation to prepare can be a challenge. Turn the trip into a mini adventure instead of just another task. Set a timer to pack your gym bag quickly, create a workout playlist, write a motivational note or pack your favorite snack. I’ve also noticed I’m a lot more motivated when my exercise session is easily accessible. A short walk to my yoga studio offers a breath of fresh air and is a lot more appealing than a 15-minute drive. Reframe the workout as a fun quest, and it’ll feel more exciting!

Cooking a Recipe

Cooking can be tough—it takes time, effort and sometimes a bit of trial and error. To make it more enjoyable, treat it like an experiment, not a chore. Take things a step further by finding recipes that feel like a treat, such as healthier Snickers bars (with dates) or lasagna (with cottage cheese). These meals can be tasty and health-conscious, without sacrificing flavor.

Getting Enough Sleep

It's easy to want to watch one more episode of your favorite show instead of getting ready for bed. Instead, set a bedtime schedule and create a routine you enjoy—whether it’s skincare, wearing your favorite pajamas, stretching or another calming activity like reading or listening to a podcast. I love winding down with a long shower and a good book to set the tone for a cozy night. Best of all, I wake up energized and ready to start the day!

Check out more ways to fool yourself this April Fool's Day with the other post in this mini-series: Fool Your Mind for a Healthier You: Make Habits Fun, Tasty and Rewarding.

 

Nikki Brahm is a Communications Specialist at TOPS and a Contributing Editor for TOPS News. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, reading, snuggling with her cat, Nova, cooking new recipes and soaking up the summer sun along Lake Michigan.

 

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