I don’t know about you, but for the past several years, I have found the “do this 1 trick to lose weight,” or “eat this to take 10 years off your life,” or “follow this one exercise regime to get fit and stay fit” media overwhelming! And let’s face it, it’s a market that is taking off and making millions because it is so convincing and, of course, it appeals to the side of us that wants to do what’s easy. But does it actually work? And should that even be our focus?
Throughout my life, my goals have changed. A lot! And thankfully so. I bet yours have, too. In fact, I don’t set goals anymore. I set intentions. An intention is so much more than a goal, and doesn’t beat us down when we don’t reach it. An intention gives us something to strive for. It sets a standard that builds us up. The difference between an intention and a goal is this: A goal is “I will eat 5 fruits and 5 vegetables today.” Nothing wrong with it. And easy to do or fail. An intention is “I will be a healthy person today.” So much more potential in an intention with not as much focus on doing or failing. An intention opens more doors and provides more opportunities for success than a goal. Try it! You’ll like the positive mindset that surrounds it.
But where do we start to make the most of our intentions?
First, research is hard to argue with. But there are a few things to keep in mind when looking at research. One of the first things I always look for in a research based idea or article is who funded the research and who is going to profit from the research. If the research was funded by the very commodity being touted as a cure all, then chances are it may be biased. Good research takes years, is comprehensive, includes a large and diverse sample, and often answers one question while asking more. That’s good research. Even research that doesn’t prove the hypothesis is good research because it eliminates a thought, idea or product/commodity from a solution. Pay attention to what type of website or source is publishing it, and what their ultimate motive is for you. If they want you to buy something they are selling in its place, it’s most likely biased and inconclusive research.
Second, look at research that shows up in more than one area. For example, as many of you know, I also work for the Alzheimer’s Association and have recently been appointed a research champion. One of the things that has been most exciting to me is to realize that the research that is coming out of the Alzheimer’s Association is also showing up in my ACE (American Council on Exercise) re-certification modules! Two worlds that don’t intersect much, and yet the research is all pointing in the same direction. And it’s as simple as this: eat real food, avoid processed foods, exercise regularly, socialize, challenge your brain, and get good sleep. There is no magic pill, diet, food, or regime.
Finally, choosing healthy foods and exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. The best healthy foods for you are the ones you enjoy. The best exercise for you is the one you enjoy. And if you’re like me, you may need to mix it up! I’ve been known to go on tangents where one type of food or exercise is all I focus on. Then, when I don’t enjoy it anymore, I look for something new and different. A better approach, and my newest intention, is to add diversity all along, which I am getting better at. Where I used to have a very planned and strategic work-out/running schedule, I now listen to my body and switch it up if I need to. Sometimes it’s a beautiful hike while listening to a book or podcast. Other days it’s an intense HIIT and Hills run on the tread. Still other days it’s a bike bootcamp. Of course, yoga is always incorporated as my centering time and time to focus on recovery, healing, and celebration. I’ve also become more forgiving with my menu choices and selections. I’ve learned to savor and enjoy food. For years, food controlled me and how I viewed myself and my will power. Now I control food and enjoy the experiences associated with it.
So, is there a magic pill? A one size fits all, goal oriented, biased research approach that will solve all our health problems? The simple answer is no. But there is strong research and evidence that a balanced, healthy lifestyle will eliminate chronic disease and stave off Alzheimer’s or dementia by 40%. After all, isn’t quality of life for the duration of our life our ultimate intention?
None of my views or opinions are intended to replace professional medical or psychological help. Please see your doctor for any medical or psychological concerns you may have.