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How to Create a Self-Love Practice at the Gym

hands in the shape of a heart against sunshine
Learn how to create a self-love practice for your fitness routine.

by Lindsay Tigar

 

No matter how many demands you have in your personal and professional life, scheduling some "me time" is essential! That's why it's important to learn how to create a self-love practice for exercising that fulfills and energizes you. After all, exercising and maintaining an active lifestyle can do more than just give your body some TLC — it can contribute to your confidence and attitude too.

Everyone expresses gratitude differently, and it isn't always easy to do so for yourself, but here you'll find some steps you can take to create a self-love practice that's effective and meaningful!

Step 1: Ask Your Friends

Far too often, we are our own worst critics. We hold ourselves to impossible standards and sometimes can't help but compare ourselves to others. But being proud of who you are is essential to practicing self-love!

Studies show that speaking to yourself kindly can make you more satisfied with where you are in life, but very few people prioritize doing so. If you ask your friends and gym buddies about your best qualities, they'll probably be able to list them off with ease! Seek out your support system and explain that you're working to create a self-love practice and need their help. With some words of encouragement, you may find it is easier to shift toward a more positive mindset.

Take the time to repeat this mantra to yourself: "I surround myself with people who love and support me."

Step 2: Track Your Health Progress

From your very first day at the gym until now, think of how far you've come! Being able to walk or run for a little longer, lift a few more pounds, or rock a workout circuit are all feats to celebrate. So why not track your progress and congratulate yourself along the way?

Writing down your goals and checking them off when you meet them can make you more excited to keep going. Though it might seem old school, just think of the jolt of good vibes you'll get when you're able to check off a major milestone!

Mantra to try: "I am strong and powerful. Nothing can stop me!"

Step 3: Choose Optimism

Fun fact: According to science, the more you choose positive and kind words to describe your health, your body, your progress, and yourself, the less anxiety you're likely to experience. As you practice positive reinforcement and mantras, you may find that it's easier than you thought to work toward your goals and take up healthy habits.

When working out how to create a self-love practice, you'll often be faced with the choice of whether to think positively or negatively. Maybe you meant to make it to the gym one day but instead, you were hit with a last-minute deadline at work and couldn't make it. Don't give yourself a hard time! Remind yourself of other ways you can still make a positive difference in your day, like by choosing healthy foods.

Mantra to try: "I am always enough."

Step 4: Make Time for Yourself

Schedule the time to take care of yourself, whether that be in the gym or enjoying a well-deserved break. It's important to reward yourself for all you do to take care of yourself and those around you. Start your day off on the right foot with a little "me time." Science suggests that exercising in the morning can leave you feeling more optimistic and less stressed during your day!

Mantra to try: "I'm going to love myself today no matter what happens!"

As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.