The benefits of a healthy lifestyle speak for themselves. Not only do we enjoy a leaner body, clear skin and strong hair and nails, not only do we gain the confidence that comes with feeling string, hit and capable, not only do we enjoy body positivity and an optimistic outlook, not only is it easier to manage chronic conditions, we know that we are laying the foundations for a long and happy life. Nonetheless, as hard as we may try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even the most diligent efforts can be derailed when the unexpected comes along. When we’re injured at work, on the street or in the gym it can be a painful and distressing time for us. It can threaten to seriously derail our healthy lifestyles and set us on a negative path.
We can lapse into poor habits, lethargy and low mood. We can become more reclusive, sedentary and isolated. While it’s essential that we allow our bodies time to recover, we can fail to acknowledge our limits and punish our bodies. Here we’ll look at some ways in which you can maintain your fitness and lay the foundations for a speedy recovery.
In the face of negative circumstances, try to stay positive
When we feel hurt, vulnerable and depressed we can retreat into ourselves. We can become isolated and self destructive. We can try to sate ourselves with comfort foods and TV marathons but rarely do these actually make us feel any better. In fact, processed junk foods have been proven to aggravate depression and can cause a downward spiral of negativity.
It’s our responsibility to stay positive in any way we can. Get an experienced personal injury attorney and seek justice against the persons or organizations whose negligence caused your injury. Stay as active as you can, get out in the sun and spend as much time with your friends and family as much as you can. Positivity is a powerful healing agent.
Exercise safely
Regular exercise gives us a helpful endorphin boost that you’ll likely be keen to chase once again. Consult your doctor and your personal trainer to see if you can still exercise in any way without exacerbating your injuries. This will keep your metabolism efficient, and the flood of endorphins and dopamine that come with exercise to help in maintaining that positive mindset.
Eating right just got even more important
A good diet is essential both for your physical recovery and mental wellbeing. Avoid junk foods as their inflammatory properties that can actually impede your recovery. Every plate you eat should be packed with fresh veggies and fruits to give you the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients you need for a swift recovery.
Rest, the oft neglected ingredient!
Finally, while staying active is important, you must still be sure to get plenty of sleep bed rest. Even generally healthy people often deprive themselves of the sleep that’s so essential to knit together broken bones and repair torn ligaments. People who get at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night recover far more quickly.