Words can be a powerful force. Mantras, or a statement that is repeated frequently, can be even more powerful. Studies have shown that mantras can relieve one’s stress and increase one’s self-esteem. However, can mantras and affirmations be detrimental to one’s health? I believe that they can be. Especially the ones that promote unhealthy behaviors and undermine one’s self-worth. If you scroll through “Fitspo” accounts on Instagram and Pinterest, you’ll see exactly what I mean.
Which to ditch…
– “No Pain, No Gain”
First of all, if you feel “pain” during your workout, STOP DOING WHATEVER IT IS YOU ARE DOING. There is a difference between the feeling of pain and the feeling of a challenging workout. The “no pain no gain” mentality will just set you up for injury. The takeaway here? Listen to your body! If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t!
– “Nothing Tastes as Good as Skinny Feels”
This one makes me cringe. Sorry to break it to whoever wrote this, but there are a lot of things that taste as good as skinny feels. This quote also sets up negative feelings and habits toward food. There are no “good” or “bad” foods. Food is not the enemy – it’s energy. It’s what keeps us alive. Besides, life is all about balance. One cookie isn’t going to make you fat, just like one salad won’t make you skinny.
Which to live by…
– “I am enough”
Accept yourself. Accept where you are at in your fitness journey.
– “It always seems impossible until it is done” – Nelson Mandela
Believe in yourself! You can make it through your run. You can make it through your tough workout and you will reach your fitness goals.
Written by GUADs staff member Angelina
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