Most people long to feel good and look good. That is not to say everyone wants to be a supermodel, instead, they want to be the best version of themselves and enjoy doing it. Being aware of the healthy-happy relationship is a great starting point, so know that your mind and body are forever hitched. Once you recognize that one factor influences the other and vice versa, you should be able to strengthen the link without too much worry. Here are a few simple ways to make that connection happen.

Don't Go At It Alone

There is something to be said for kicking back and decompressing with friends. Whether it is a group of newbies who you are just getting to know or some old faithful you have known for years, the comfort of a familiar face is wonderful. Unfortunately, it can be hard to find a time or location that fits everyone's calendar no matter how much you all crave the opportunity. One of the easiest ways around this obstacle is to schedule a virtual happy hour so people can join from anywhere. Meeting up this way can be a blast. Imagine a group of college friends who are scattered around the world but want to celebrate a milestone or reunion. Costs and logistics could make this impossible, but logging on to a laptop or personal device can make it a reality.

Find a Way to Have Fun While You Workout

If sitting on the sofa swapping adventure stories is a delightful distraction, then pumping out push-ups and building up a sweat can be a recreational escape. Joining a gym with a friend might provide each of you with the motivation to stick to a routine. Getting side-by-side treadmills lets you burn calories while you chat. On the other hand, if you prefer a more competitive but laid-back environment, consider joining a local club. Many businesses and restaurants sponsor softball teams that can offer a chance to meet new people, forge friendships and get a little exercise all at the same time. Purchasing softball gloves will allow you to show up for games and jump on the field. Being a part of a group like this helps alleviate stress.

Keep a Journal

Tracking what you do and how you feel can be a helpful way to maximize your routines. Create a bulleted list of warm-up, aerobic and cool-down exercises. Next to each one, write a short narrative noting how your body reacted and what you thought. As you make progress and become more aware of how activities impact your emotions, you can quickly monitor what works for you. In addition, read up on the benefits of team sports as well as solitary quiet time to find even more ideas if you start to get bored or lose motivation. 

Set Measurable Goals

Try not to look too far into the future. Concentrating on short-term, measurable goals makes it easier to notice your advances. Pick a bi-weekly date to check in with yourself. For example, if you walk one mile on Saturday, decide that by the next Saturday you will increase that to two miles. Not only should you mark things like distances and repetitions, but also emotional corners as well. Resolve to call three friends or have lunch with a colleague to step away from other pressures.  When you hit your mileposts, reward your commitment. There is no need to spend a lot of money here, maybe buy some flowers or watch a favorite movie.

Deciding to focus on your own well-being is an affirmation of self-worth. Get excited to discover your potential.

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