In the journey to achieving a healthier lifestyle, guidance from experts can be incredibly valuable and transformative. Dr. Amen is one such figure whose expertise in brain health and wellness has impacted many lives, particularly women who are looking to make substantial changes in their lifestyle.
In this blog, we will explore Dr. Amen's insights and tips that are practical, and effective, and can serve as catalysts for lifelong wellness.
Who is Dr. Amen
Dr. Amen is a renowned psychiatrist, brain disorder specialist, and author who advocates for a holistic approach to health. His work emphasizes the interconnectivity of the brain and body, suggesting that a healthy mind leads to a healthy life. For those unaware of Dr. Amen's work, he offers more than just tips; he provides a pathway towards sustainable and enjoyable healthy living.
There are four principles for a healthy lifestyle. They are: (1) eating healthy foods, (2) moving your body every day, (3) setting your home and workspace up for success, and (4) developing skills enabling you to easily follow these principles. Continue reading to find out how.
The Four Principles For a Healthy Lifestyle
There are four principles for a healthy lifestyle. They are: (1) eating healthy foods, (2) moving your body every day, (3) setting your home and workspace up for success, and (4) developing skills enabling you to easily follow these principles. Continue reading to find out how.
Learn to Love What You Hate
One of Dr. Amen's core principles is the idea that enduring change often requires a shift in perspective. It's about learning to love healthy living—finding joy in nutritious foods and exhilaration in physical activity, rather than seeing them as chores or punishments.
It's common to dislike or even hate certain healthy foods and exercises initially. Dr. Amen encourages us to focus less on that hate and more on developing a passion for their benefit. Appreciate the crunch and freshness of vegetables, relish the boost of vitality after a workout, or revel in the peace of mind that comes from a calm, meditative walk.
Discovering and nurturing these positive aspects can reinforce good habits and diminish the distaste you may initially feel. This approach is less about pushing yourself with sheer willpower, which can be fleeting, and more about cultivating a genuine liking for these healthful practices.
Do What You Can't
Often, the mentality of "I can't do this" becomes the largest barrier to a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Amen suggests that it's not a question of willpower but a lack of skill that can be learned and developed over time.
If you struggle with cooking healthy meals, take a cooking class. I went to an online cooking school. It’s affordable. If interested, go to Web Cooking Classes.
If you think you can't run a mile, start with short distances, and gradually increase your stamina. Don’t like running? Try tennis, golf, ping-pong, gardening, bicycling, or just walking. Prefer going to the gym or staying inside? Then use the treadmill, a stationary bicycle, or try yoga. There’s something for everyone. Just find what you like to do.
It's about building the skills you need to live healthily, grow in confidence, and eventually, turn "I can't" into "I can."
Make Space Work for You
The environments we occupy play a significant role in influencing our lifestyle choices. Dr. Amen underscores the importance of structuring your environment to support your health goals.
At home, this might mean avoiding junk food and instead stocking your kitchen with nutritious and delicious options. Placing home exercise equipment in a conspicuous spot increases its use. Every time you see your yoga mat or dumbbells, you’re reminded of your commitment to physical activity.
The same principle applies to workspaces. Swapping out unhealthy snacks for healthful alternatives or keeping a pair of sneakers at the office encourages you to take those lunchtime walks. These subtle cues in your daily surroundings continuously nudge you toward better choices.
Taking Inventory of Your Skills
Lastly, Dr. Amen advises taking a "skill inventory" to identify the abilities you need to cultivate to lead a healthier lifestyle. This self-assessment directs you to resources and learning opportunities that empower you to achieve your health objectives. Whether it's nutritional knowledge, meal planning, mental resilience, or physical training, equipping yourself with the right skills can make all the difference.
Conclusion
Dr. Amen's approach to a healthy lifestyle is not a quick fix but a long-term strategy built on love for better living, skill development, personal growth, and environmental modification. For those seeking to embark on this transformative journey, his advice is invaluable.
Remember that every small step you take is progress, and with each positive choice, you're crafting a healthier, happier you. Reflect on your environment, reassess your skills, reframe your attitudes, and most importantly, celebrate every victory along the way. Here’s to a vibrant lifestyle brimming with well-being!
“Transform your life, one healthy choice at a time.” – Dr. Amen
To start your day with a healthy drink, I recommend the Smoothie “Diet”. All the smoothies are given in a very specific sequence and frequency to maximize your results. For example, the nutrient and ingredient ratios vary week to week to make sure the weight keeps coming off and stays off. You only drink a smoothie once or twice a day. The rest of the time you’re eating regular food.
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The inspiration for this blog is Dr. Amen’s book Change Your Brain Every Day by Daniel G. Amen, MD, copyright 2023.
This is just one of many books by Dr. Amen including cookbooks.
Keywords: Dr. Amen, healthy lifestyle, wellness, health tips, brain health, women's health, lifestyle change, nutrition, exercise, mental wellbeing