Sunday Stuff #006
IT’S NEVER GOING TO BE ENOUGH
Let’s all agree that any attempt to change oneself (decreased weight, slimmer waist, bigger muscles and more expression in the eyes) signals dissatisfaction with the way things are.
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Which can be interpreted as “when I lose weight (grow muscles, read enough books, spend enough time meditating - feel free to continue this list yourself), then I’ll be happy”. Not only does this hypothetical “happiness” have no clear definition, but you will never achieve it either. Never.
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Well, here is your proof: there is always someone out there with…
- better genes
- a more symmetrical face
- wider shoulders and narrower hips
- smaller shoulders and firmer bum
- high-speed metabolism (my clients will smirk here).
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In addition to it let’s clarify that:
- to lose weight/grow muscles to get approval from others is silly;
- to lose weight/grow muscles to be appreciated by the opposite sex is silly;
- to lose weight/grow muscles to “be feared” is silly.
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Although all these can serve as decent starting points, they will go on forever. Such self-destructive thoughts will eat you alive from the inside until the balance you achieved in your body is adopted by your mind as well.
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Just think of all the beautiful people (or those with truly gorgeous bodies) who have failed financially and struggle with their personal lives.
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The car will run smoothly only if all wheels including the steering wheel are functioning properly. Improve yourself in all areas with physical improvement being an integral part of a bigger process.
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When you are proud of your achievements and feel that you have something to share with the world, then your actions aren’t dictated by the need to change anything but rather by your interest and drive.
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Here is an example: if someone gives you enough money so that you won’t have to work ever again, most likely you’ll sit back for a couple months and then focus on your hobby.
So, when you apply this conscious approach to your body, then you’ll ACT WITHOUT GIVING UP, CARRY ON WITHOUT SETBACKS, ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN RESULTS (to be fair the same principle can be applied to any area of life).
“You are not the cause of everything that happens to you, but you are responsible for how you respond to everything that happens to you."
– James Clear
THREE TIPS
THREE EASY SUMMER 'TREAT' ALTERNATIVES
# 1
SUGARY DESSERTS - GREEK YOGHURT PARFAIT.
With unsweetened Greek yogurt, fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), and low-sugar granola (homemade ideal). In a glass or bowl, layer the yogurt with berries and granola, repeating until full. Optionally, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for sweetness. This parfait is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
# 2
CHEESE & CRACKERS - CUCUMBER/ CARROT STICKS & HUMMUS.
Slice cucumbers into rounds or cut carrots into sticks and spread hummus on each. Top with chopped cherry tomato and sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor.
# 3
ICE BLOCKS - FROZEN GRAPES.
Wash and dry red or green grapes. Lay them in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid. These naturally sweet frozen grapes offer a cool and satisfying alternative to sugary popsicles.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Half your problems are just your mind making minor things seem like major things.
What are you over-thinking right now?
RECIPE
Kale Chips
INGREDIENTS
1 head of kale, washed and thoroughly dried
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Dash of cayenne pepper
Sea salt, for sprinkling
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 135°C.
Remove the ribs from the kale and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces (or just scrunch and rip into bite-sized pieces).
Lay on a baking sheet and toss with the olive oil and salt.
Bake until crisp, turning the leaves halfway through, about 10-15
minutes.
