HOW TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING THE FACE OF COACHING
Technology has forever changed the way we live our lives. From the clothes we wear to the food we eat; technology has had a profound impact on every aspect of our lives. It is no surprise then that technology is also changing the face of coaching.
In this blog post, we will discuss how technology is changing the coaching industry and how it is making it easier for coaches to connect with their clients. We will also explore some of the benefits of using technology in coaching and discuss some of the challenges that coaches face when incorporating technology into their practice.
Benefits of Technology in Coaching
Technology has made it easier for coaches to connect with their clients. With the advent of online coaching, coaches can now collaborate with clients from anywhere in the world. Online coaching has made it possible for coaches to work with clients who may not be able to meet in person.
This is especially beneficial for coaches who have clients who live in different time zones. Coaches can also use online coaching to work with clients who are not able to travel to a physical location for coaching sessions. Some services don’t necessarily need to have clients go face to face with the coach, and online guidance can actually save time and resources.
Technology has also made it easier for coaches to track their clients' progress. By using online tools such as tracking software or activity logs, coaches can get a better understanding of how their clients are doing and what steps they need to take to reach their goals. This is especially helpful for coaches who collaborate with athletes or other high-performance individuals.
Coaches can also use technology to connect with other coaches from around the world. There are many online forums and communities where coaches can exchange ideas and learn from each other. Coaching networks provide a great place for new and experienced coaches to collaborate, ask questions, and get feedback. Plus, online learning libraries and cloud computing for coaches is already a trend today so that information is accessible anytime and anywhere around the globe.
Challenges of Technology-based Coaching
There are also some challenges that coaches face when incorporating technology into their practise. One of the biggest challenges is making sure that technology does not interfere with the coach-client relationship. Coaches need to be careful not to rely too much on technology or become distracted by it.
Another challenge is ensuring that clients are comfortable using technology. Some clients may not be familiar with online coaching or tracking tools and may need some help getting started. Certain demographics are not welcoming to technology as other groups, so it is important to take note of this as you slowly integrate technology in your programmes.
One of the challenges you may face when using technology in your coaching services is that it can be difficult to keep up with the latest trends. Technology changes rapidly, and what was innovative last year may be outdated today. This can make it hard to provide your clients with the most up-to-date tools and resources, which can impact the quality of your services.
Another challenge is that technology can sometimes be unreliable. If you are relying on technology for your coaching business, you need to make sure that you have backup plans in place in case of technical difficulties. Otherwise, you risk losing important client data or not being able to deliver your services as promised.
Finally, you also need to be aware of the potential security risks associated with using technology in your business. If you are storing client information online, you need to make sure that it's properly secured to protect both your clients and your business.
Choosing the Right Technology
There are a lot of different technologies out there that can be used for coaching services. So how do you know which one is right for you and your clients?
Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right technology for your coaching services:
- What are your goals for using technology in your coaching business?
- What are the needs of your clients?
- What is your budget for technology?
- How comfortable are you with using technology?
Consider what you want to use technology for in your coaching business. Do you want to use it to provide online courses, modules, or video content? Do you want to use it to communicate with clients via email or chat? Or do you want to use it to track client progress and results?
Once you know what you want to use technology for, you can start thinking about which platforms will best meet your needs. For example, if you want to create online courses, you might want to investigate tools like Teachable or Thinkific. If you want to communicate with clients via email or chat, platforms like Mailchimp or Slack could be a good fit. And if you want to track client progress and results, software like Salesforce or Google Sheets could be a good option.
Consider your budget when choosing technology as well. Some technologies are more expensive than others. Keep in mind that there are also many free options available, so there is no need to break the bank when choosing technology for your coaching business.
Finally, think about how comfortable you are with using technology. Some technologies are easier to use than others. If you are not particularly tech-savvy, choose a platform that is user-friendly and has a lot of support options available. Alternatively, if you are confident in your ability to use technology, you might want to consider more complex platforms that offer a lot of features and customization options.
The best technology for your coaching services depends on your specific needs and goals. So take some time to think about what you want to achieve with technology and then find the platform that is right for you.
Coaching in the future
It's hard to say exactly what coaching will look like in the future, but there are a few things that we can be sure of. First, coaching services will become increasingly accessible thanks to technology. This means that people will be able to get coaching from anywhere in the world, at any time of day.
Second, coaching will become more personalized as coaches will be able to use data and analytics to understand their clients better. So what does the future of coaching look like? It looks bright!
Overall, technology is changing the face of coaching and making it easier for coaches to connect with their clients. While there are some challenges that come with incorporating technology into coaching, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Technology can make coaching more convenient, more effective, and more affordable. If you are a coach who is looking to incorporate technology into your practice, start by exploring some of the online tools that are available. You may be surprised at how much they can help you improve your coaching business. Thanks for reading!
BALANCING YOUR FEMININE AND MASCULINE ENERGY IN BUSINESS
For years, women have had to exert their influence through masculine energy in order to advance their careers in predominantly male-driven industries. The stigma around “being too feminine” has been associated with a lack of efficacy and weakness.
Meanwhile, men have had the social pressure of checking their emotions at the door in order to be perceived as strong. As a result, men who are comfortable displaying compassion have been labeled as soft or touchy-feely.
Typically, this has been seen as a negative thing. However, there is a movement happening where both feminine and masculine energy are being balanced in order to create more successful businesses.
In this blog post, we will explore what it means to balance your feminine and masculine energy in business.
Masculine Energy
When it comes to business, the traditional model has been focused on masculine energy. This is the energy of doing, achieving, and conquering. It is results-driven and often associated with qualities such as competition, aggression, and ambition.
Masculine energy is the dominant force in the business world. There are a few characteristics that men often have when it comes to business decisions. One is that they are more likely to take risks. They also tend to be more aggressive in their negotiations, and they’re often less emotional when it comes to making decisions. This can sometimes give them an advantage in the business world.
Of course, there are many successful women entrepreneurs with feminine energies, but research has shown that on average, men do better when it comes to business. This may be due to the fact that society has traditionally been geared more towards masculine characteristics, with different expectations and opportunities.
Feminine Energy
Feminine energy, on the other hand, is about being, feeling, and creating. It is process-oriented and often associated with qualities such as cooperation, empathy, and intuition. Feminine energy is all about being in the present moment and enjoying the experience of life. It's about creating and exploring new possibilities.
There are many factors that make women excel in the business world today. One reason is that women have become more confident in their abilities and are no longer afraid to take risks. They are also better at networking and building relationships, which can help them secure important deals and connections.
Additionally, studies have shown that women are often better multitaskers and decision-makers than men, making them well-suited for senior executive roles. Finally, businesses are beginning to realize that having a diverse workforce, including more women leaders, can be beneficial for both the company and its employees.
Diversity of Energies in the Workplace
In order to create a successful business, it is important to balance both energies. When you are able to tap into the power of both feminine and masculine energy, you will be able to create a business that is not only profitable, but also fulfilling.
One of the main reasons for this disparity is the different energies that are associated with masculine and feminine traits. Masculine energy is often associated with aggression, assertiveness, and competition, while feminine energy is often associated with cooperation, communication, and caretaking. These energies can be present in both men and women, but they tend to be expressed differently depending on gender.
When it comes to the workplace, masculine energy is often seen as more desirable and it is often the type of energy that is rewarded. This is why we see so few women in leadership positions, as they are less likely to exhibit masculine traits. And even when women do display these traits, they are often met with hostility and criticism.
We need to start recognizing the value of feminine energy in the workplace and start rewarding it just as much as masculine energy. This means creating an environment where both men and women feel comfortable expressing their true selves. Only then will we be able to achieve true gender diversity in the workplace.
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to work is to maintain a balance between our own energies and those of our workplace. Too much or too little of either can lead to problems.
In order to maintain a healthy balance, we should try to keep the following in mind:
- Be aware of our own energy levels and how they change throughout the day.
- Take breaks when needed in order to re-charge.
- Avoid working when we’re feeling overwhelmed or drained.
- Watch for signs that our energy is affecting our work performance or those around us.
- Adjust our behaviour and attitude as needed to create a more balanced environment.
When you balance your feminine and masculine energy in business, you create a space where both energies can thrive. You no longer have to rely on one energy at the expense of the other. Instead, you can use both energies together to create a powerful force that is unstoppable.
So, what are you waiting for? Start balancing your feminine and masculine energy today!
ARE YOU DRIVEN BY LOVE OR FEAR?
What motivates you to achieve your goals? Is it love or fear? It might be surprising to learn that fear-based motivation is quite common, but it's not as effective as you might think. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between love-based and fear-based motivation, and we'll discuss how love can be a more effective motivator in the long run.
We all know what fear-based motivation feels like. It is that whisper in our heads that tells us we have to do something—or else. Fear can be a compelling motivator, and it can be tempting to rely on it as a way to get things done. But fear-based motivation has some severe drawbacks.
Where is the fear? And how can love diffuse it? These are the questions inherent in almost all motivational challenges. By developing a deeper understanding of the fundamental relationship of love and fear and how they function in the human organism, we can begin to see where fear-based motivation comes from and how we can work to diffuse it.
Fear-based Motivation
Fear-based motivation is when you get yourself or others to do something out of fear of what will happen if you don't do it and do it well. This might work in the short term, but it can have long-term detrimental effects on your performance, relationships, and well-being.
There are a few ways fear can be used as a motivator in fitness: fear of pain, fear of failure, fear of not being good enough, and fear of the unknown. These fears can lead to anxiety and stress, which can impact your ability to focus and perform at your best.
In the short term, fear may help you push through a challenging workout or diet plan, but it can have the opposite effect in the long run. When you're constantly stressed and anxious, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can lead to weight gain and a weaker immune system which means you are susceptible to illnesses.
One way to cope with fear is by setting realistic goals and focusing on progress rather than perfection.
It's also important to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress each day. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can all help to calm the mind and body.
Ultimately, fear should not be the primary motivator for getting fit. Instead, focus on enjoying your workouts and finding activities you love. When you're enjoying your fitness journey, fear will have less of a hold over you, and you'll be able to achieve long-term success.
Love-based Motivation
On the other hand, love-based motivation is based on care, concern, and connection. Therefore, we can say that this motivation is more sustainable than fear-based motivation.
When you're driven by love, you want what's best for yourself and others, and you are more motivated to achieve something for yourself whatever it takes. It's a powerful force that can help us achieve our goals and overcome any obstacle.
Fear-based motivation may work in the short term, but it can be exhausting and stressful. The love-based reason is more enduring because it doesn't rely on feelings of threat or danger. It's a more positive and powerful motivator based on caring for ourselves and others.
When we're driven by love, we're more likely to persist in the face of challenges. We are also more likely to be happier and more satisfied with our accomplishments. So if you're looking for a more sustainable way to pursue your fitness goals, love-based motivation may be the answer for you. With love as your driving force, you can achieve anything you set your mind to!
So, which type of motivation is better? The answer is neither one is inherently better than the other; it depends on the situation. Fear-based motivation can be effective in certain conditions, but love-based motivation is more sustainable and less likely to cause long-term damage.
Your decision as to which type of motivation works best for you matters at the end of the day. Keep in mind that love is always a more powerful motivator than fear. So if you're feeling stuck or struggling to stay motivated, try focusing on what you love most and let that guide you towards success.
WAYS TO LOVE YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY
Here are nine simple ways to help you develop love instead of fear throughout your journey:
- Make a commitment to yourself.
The first step to love is making a commitment to yourself. You have to be determined to reach your goals, and you have to be willing to incorporate hard work to achieve them. If you're not fully committed, it will be tough to make progress. Remember to put goals as a motivator rather than pressure, as pressure also develops detrimental effects in the long run.
Aiming too high and not reaching your targets may result in disappointments at the end. Always start with small goals that you know you can achieve, and then gradually increase the difficulty as you progress.
- Find a supportive community.
It can be beneficial to find a supportive community of people who are also interested in the things you are. This can provide you with motivation, advice, and encouragement when you need it most.
There are plenty of online forums and Facebook groups to find like-minded individuals. Or, if you prefer in-person support, try searching for local fitness classes or groups.
- Find an exercise routine you enjoy.
One of the essential things about sticking to a fitness routine is finding an activity that you enjoy doing. If you don't like the exercises you're doing, it's going to be very difficult to stick with them for long. Go try different activities until you find one that you love, and then make sure to include it in your plan.
Take your time and explore until you pinpoint something that fits your personality and interests. Some people love going to the gym and lifting weights, while others prefer outdoor activities like hiking or running. Some enjoy participating in team sports, yoga, or taking dance classes.
If you do an activity that you love and value, it won't feel like a chore, and you will stick with it for the long haul.
- Make time for yourself.
It is important to make time and space for yourself, even when trying to achieve a fitness goal. This means taking a break from your workouts now and then, relaxing with a favourite book or movie, and just generally taking some time for yourself. This will help you recharge your body and keep you motivated for the next round of workouts.
- Be patient.
Success doesn't happen overnight, so be patient with yourself as you embark on your fitness journey. You can't expect to achieve exceptional results without putting in the hard work first. Progress may be slow at first, but sooner or later you will see results if you stick to your plan and stay dedicated.
- Celebrate your successes. Reward Yourself!
Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishment along the way, no matter how small they may seem. Achieving a fitness goal feels great, so make sure to take the time to enjoy it!
Maybe treat yourself with a new dress, book a massage, or take some time for yourself to relax and reflect on your progress. Every little accomplishment deserves recognition – after all, you've worked hard for it!
- Seek Help
If you feel like you need help with your fitness journey, don't be afraid to ask for advice from a friend or professional. There is absolutely no shame admitting to yourself that you need some assistance, and seeking help can only make you successful in the long run.
Not asking for help when you need it spurs fear, and we don't want that, right? Health coaches like Rita Trotter can provide you with bespoke guides and programmes based on love rather than fear.
- Stay positive.
Finally, remember to stay positive throughout your fitness journey. You are more likely to succeed on your endeavours if you keep your spirit high. Always be proud of your accomplishments, no matter how small they may be, and never give up on your goals.
Staying positive in the whole journey makes you hopeful, and hope brings out the love for what you do.
- Don't compare yourself to others.
Like fear, comparison is a killer of success and happiness. It's important to remember that everyone is different, and there is no "right" or "wrong" way to be fit. Comparing yourself to others only leads to self-judgement and dissatisfaction. Focus on your journey, and celebrate your successes.
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Work for your health and fitness goals with love instead of fear. Love yourself enough to want to be the best possible version of yourself. And most importantly, enjoy the journey! Fitness doesn't have to be a chore – it can be something you look forward to each day.
So forget about fear – let's focus on love! Let's use love as our motivation to create a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life for ourselves.
HOW TO IMPROVE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE BY IMPROVING EMPLOYEE HEALTH
Did you know that your company's performance could be improved by improving employees' wellbeing? It's true! Many organisations are now starting to see the importance of employee wellbeing and are making changes to how work is organised to improve it.
Having a healthy and happy workforce is a key to any successful business - after all, they're the ones who are responsible for generating revenue and meeting goals. In this article, we'll discuss some of the ways that you can improve your business performance by improving your employees' health and wellbeing.
HOW EMPLOYEE HEALTH AFFECTS THE BUSINESS
Sick employees reduce the productivity and overall efficiency of a business. Also, having sickly employees who miss work costs the company. In fact, it's been found that employers lose an average of £255 per employee per year due to missed days and lower productivity while ill. But it's not just about absenteeism or matters of productivity. Occupational hazards and non-compliance to quality assurance due to an employee not feeling but still going to work are things to watch out for!
On the other hand, healthy employees are more productive - they take less time off work, have fewer accidents on the job, and generally generate more revenue for the company than their unhealthy counterparts.
Remember that human resource is the most critical resource of a business. If you fail to put a foundation of healthy and productive employees, that yields a guaranteed negative effect on the performance of your business in the long run.
There are many ways to improve your employees' wellbeing to see these benefits come to fruition. Making small changes that support employees' health and wellbeing can significantly impact your company's success. By creating a culture of wellbeing at work and taking steps to improve employees' physical and mental health, you'll be well on your way to seeing improved productivity and profitability.
COST-EFFECTIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE EMPLOYEE HEALTH
There are several ways to improve employee health, many of which don't involve spending a lot of money. Here are just a few:
- Create opportunities for physical activity:
Whether it's encouraging employees to take the stairs instead of taking a lift, setting up walking meetings or offering employee discounts at local gyms, there are several ways employers can encourage physical activity throughout their workday.
Establish and design workplace health and fitness programmes. Make it a priority by setting aside enough budget to implement these activities.
One way is by offering wellness programs such as health screenings, smoking cessation programmes, Zumba or yoga sessions during breaks or identified weekly schedule, or weight loss challenges. Encourage employees to participate in these programmes by letting them know the importance of staying fit as an individual, employees, and parents or breadwinners.
Encouraging employee exercise during lunch breaks or after hours will help them feel energised and more focused when returning to their desks.
- Offer employees access to healthy food options:
This doesn't mean you have to provide a full kitchen or subsidise their food bill, but having access to fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can make it easier for them to make healthy choices. You could also offer healthier vending options or incentives for choosing nutritious snacks over less healthy ones.
- Reward your team members:
Recognising employee achievements is not only good for morale; it also makes people feel valued and appreciated by their employer. You do not have to spend much money on rewards either and damage your cashflows – just make sure that you give them in front of others, so everyone gets recognition as well!
Incentives can be monetary (like bonuses) or non-monetary (such as additional time off). Still, whatever form they take, management must understand how these programmes work best for different individuals within an organisation. Hence, everyone feels valued when participating in them – not just those who already have good health habits! This could mean providing opportunities like employee gyms at discounted rates where people feel comfortable exercising during lunch hours, while others may prefer flexibility with their schedules so they can go home early after working out each day.
- Don't miss out on employee's mental health:
Mental health issues affect millions of people from around the globe each year. Yet, less than 50 percent of those suffering from these conditions receive treatment because many believe they cannot afford it or think it will be too expensive or because of the social taboos associated with mental illnesses.
Employee health affects more than just the individual. It also affects the business as a whole. When employees are stressed or struggling with their mental health, it shows in their work. They may be less productive or take more sick days. In some cases, they may even quit their job altogether.
Always remember that mental health is equally important as physical. It contributes to the motivation and mood of employees to work, which in turn significantly impacts productivity. Aim to reduce workplace stress by encouraging employees to take breaks. Set up lounges and relaxation stations for them to breathe and find peaceful space when work is overwhelming. Let them have the option for flexible working hours.
Another way businesses can help is by creating a positive work environment. This includes providing adequate resources such as desks, computers, printers, and office supplies. It also means having a good work/life balance policy in place. Employees should take time off when they need it without penalty.
Offer mental health benefits. Many employers realise the importance of employee mental health and provide access to affordable counselling services through employee assistance programs (EAPs). And lastly, find opportunities for communication, socialisation and celebration!
- Promote financial wellness:
This could mean offering workshops on budgeting or debt management, matching employee contributions to plans up to a certain percentage, or even providing information on how to plan for retirement.
Most of the day to day and long-term stress/anxiety comes from finances. Employees will appreciate this knowing that the management is responsive to improving their wellbeing beyond physical or mental health and considering all aspects of life that can impact happiness at work, including financial stability and social support networks, for example.
- Provide education around nutrition and exercise:
There is no magic bullet for improving employee health; however, there are many ways employers can help their team members make better choices. Educating your employees on the benefits of healthy eating habits and regular exercise is one way. Invite professionals to speak during seminars and forums about specific health issues and prevent them as early as possible.
- Offer health coaching services:
Employees struggling with diet or weight issues may benefit from working one-on-one with a trained professional who can give personalised recommendations tailored specifically for them.
This is where local coaches like Rita Trotter come in - they can help your employees develop and follow bespoke programmes to improve their health and wellbeing. So, if you're looking to give your team the best chance at success, consider investing in some coaching services!
- Encourage employees to take sick days when needed:
Instead of forcing themselves to go to work through illness just because it's essential (and sometimes even necessary) for projects to get completed on time, let them have paid sick leaves until they are fit enough to go back to work.
Find other means to keep operations running, such as delegating other tasks to other present employees. This could also mean having meetings over Skype rather than in person if possible, so you don't spread germs around the office! Employers should also ensure that there aren't any employee policies that encourage presenteeism – this is when people come into work even though they're not feeling well.
- Establish a committee for health and wellness
The wellness committee should work with management to identify health and wellness goals for the organisation.
This committee should develop programmes or initiatives that promote physical activity, healthy eating, stress management, and smoking cessation. This also includes providing education and resources on wellness topics and developing marketing materials to encourage wellness services offered by the organisation. In this way, the management can delegate the responsibility to this circle of people to do the planning and execution on their behalf.
Final note
Employers committed to creating a culture where employees feel valued as human beings rather than just another number have better retention rates because they're more likely to take pride in their jobs while also feeling supported by management when things get tough outside of work hours.
It's not a secret that happy employees lead to successful businesses. Show your team you care about them as individuals by taking an interest in their lives and wellbeing aside from pure work and business.
Creating a culture in the organisation where employees feel valued is essential for any business looking to make a positive, productive workplace. By following the suggested tips above, you'll be well on your way to building a team of engaged, healthy, and productive employees.
HOW TO LET GO OF NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND STRESS
Sometimes, no matter how great our lives are, there is just some negativity that gets into our heads. It can feel like being under a heavy black cloud. And if you let it linger there for too long, it just may have the power to create negative impact on your wellbeing.
Let me assure you, these unhappy thoughts and stress have not come out of nowhere -- there was always an emotion and reason swirling underneath them which they fed on. These emotions could be fear or anxiety -- any feeling that is unpleasant will do the trick!
HOW NEGATIVITY AND STRESS AFFECT OUR HEALTH
Negative attitudes and feelings of anxiety and stress lead to chronic stress, which upsets the body's hormone balance and damages the immune system. And chronic stress can decrease our lifespan.
People who are stressed out have higher risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, migraines, autoimmune diseases, infections and even some forms of cancer. They also have a lower quality of life overall.
So, to prevent these unlikely outcomes, the best way and prevention is to manage negativity and stress firsthand.
But let go of negativity and stress? Impossible? Not with the right techniques.
Let me tell you how you can manage it:
1. LET GO OF WHAT PEOPLE THINK OF YOU
People's opinions will always be their own and you do not need to let it affect your life. People can say what they like, but all that matters is how you feel about yourself. Be comfortable in your own skin. Improve yourself for you and not for others. If someone tries to put you down, let them know by not reacting in a way which would let them make themselves feel better by making you feel bad.
If the person is not worth your time (because let’s face it we're all happier without negative people around us), then just ignore them and walk away or do something else for a bit until they get bored and move on!
2. LET YOURSELF KNOW WHEN ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
When we let negativity seep into our lives, usually we push ourselves too hard at work, let our house get a bit messy and let things slide with friends and family.
So let yourself relax, let go of your anxieties and try not to let anything bother you for an hour or so. Go on a walk, stare at the clouds, or just take some deep breaths. You cannot let negativity win if you are doing nothing about it!
3. LET YOURSELF BE SILLY!
Why should only children get to play and laugh all day? Think back (or pay attention next time) -- we laugh more often as children than we do as adults because we spend less time worrying then. The more we worry about what other people think of us (see number 1), the less likely we are to inject a little silliness into our lives.
So let yourself let go of your inhibitions and let loose! Dance, make funny voices, do a silly walk -- let yourself really get into it and tap into the child inside you that never got the chance to grow up because we made them stop playing too soon.
4. BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN LIFE
Think about all the things you are unhappy with in your life right now -- this job, this living situation, being single, being unhealthy, whatever it might be -- what can you do to change them?
If there's nothing you can do then let go of any feelings of resentment or jealousy towards other people who have something you don't because they worked hard for it while you did nothing. But if your situation needs action, then do something about it today. Doing nothing about your situation will only yield more negative thoughts, which will lead to more negativity and stress—this is not a good cycle to let yourself get caught up in!
5. LET YOURSELF BE OPEN FOR POSSIBILITIES
The world is full of possibility, so let yourself see it too! Letting go of negativity and stress means asking help from other people. If you think you find it hard to lose weight no matter how you try and you get stressed over that fact, then seek help. There are professional health and fitness coaches like Rita Trotter who can help you move out from that unhealthy cycle.
Again, stress and negative thoughts are part of human emotions, they are our natural responses to the things and events around us. But always remember that too much is bad for your overall well-being.
Manage your stress today, and do not let negativity and stress take over your life the next time around.
HOW TO HABIT STACK YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS
You want to lose weight. You want to get in shape. You want to be successful. But you don't know how to start. Or maybe you've started, but you can't seem to stick with it for more than a few days or weeks.
When it comes to improving our health and fitness, we all know that forming good habits is the key. But most of the time it can be tough to get started, or to keep on track. And that's where habit stacking comes in. Habit stacking is the process of linking together a series of related healthy habits into a single routine. This can make it easier to stick to your goals and can help you see better results overall.
In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of habit stacking and how you can use it to achieve your own health and fitness goals!
HOW HABIT STACKING WORKS
The basic idea behind Habit stacking is that your brain prunes away connections between brain neurons that don't get used and builds up connections that get used more frequently. Habit stacking is a special form of an implementation intention, which means you pair your new habit with a particular existing habit.
You have patterns and behaviors that have been strengthened over years, and by linking your new habits to a cycle that is already built into your brain, you're more likely to stick to them.
For example, if you want to start going to the gym regularly, try pairing it with another behaviour that's already ingrained in your routine- like stopping for lunch or your morning shower. Or if you’re used to reading a newspaper in the morning, decide to link that routine with eating a fruit of your choice while doing so.
THE HABIT STACKING FORMULA
Habit stacking was made popular by James Clear with his New York Time’s Bestselling book ‘The Atomic Habits’. He introduced a simple yet effective formula on how to habit stack:
After/While doing [current habit], I will [new habit].
Simple as that. It’s an effective formula to trick your brain to rewire existing habits with the new ones until it becomes part of your daily life without the need to push yourself to exhaustion or procrastination.
Here are some examples of habit stacking:
- While I brew coffee, I will do stretching or run in place
- While brushing teeth, I will walk around the bathroom
- After dropping my kids to school, I will take my dog for a run
- After tying my shoelace, I will do 10 seconds Warrior 1 pose
- I will put on my workout clothes after brushing my teeth in the morning
- I can do yoga, while watching my favorite Netflix show
In habit stacking, your old habits become your triggers to do the new ones. Your brain has the capacity to automatically tell you to do an action upon a perceived trigger formed overtime, just as how you wash your hands after going to the bathroom or putting on a seatbelt before you drive. So, when you practice habit stacking in the long run, it becomes automatic and not a chore.
HOW TO BUILD SUCCESSFUL HABIT STACKING
Habit stacking is known to be effective as it only takes very little effort to complete and does not require much thought. The key here is consistency, so make sure to do it every day for about two weeks before adding on another task.
You’ll find yourself in the zone of doing both tasks with ease. Remember, it’s important to start small, and gradually add more tasks as you become more comfortable with the process. And don’t forget to have some fun in doing so! Choose habits that you know will make your life a little easier and more enjoyable. After all, if you don’t enjoy doing something, it’s going to be pretty tough to stick with it for the long haul.
Research shows that it takes around 21 days to develop a consistent action into a habit. So get your fitness booklet and start jotting down habits you would like to start stacking. Soon enough, you will have formed some powerful new healthy habits that will help support your success not just in fitness, but in all areas of life!
LOSE WEIGHT THE NATURAL WAY WHILE YOU SLEEP
You probably didn't know it, but one of the best times to lose weight is while you sleep. That's because the human body is designed by nature to repair itself during the hours we are sleeping.
Our bodies use sleep to repair and strengthen our muscles, joints and other parts that get tired and damaged through use and exertion during waking hours.
This restorative process uses energy to rebuild lean muscle mass and to help rebuild other kinds of body tissue. That is worth repeating -- this rebuilding process uses energy -- and if the rebuilding process is running smoothly and efficiently, that energy comes from places in our body where energy is stored -- from fat.
In other words, the body rebuilds tissue, organs, bone, and lean muscle by burning fat.
Several things about this process are worth noting. They have an important bearing on how efficiently it works.
**Collagen is very important to the body repair process
Collagen is the most common protein found in our bodies. It is the main component of our skin, nails, bones, cartilage, and connective tissue and is found in all of the body organs. Cartilage is the cushion and shock absorber between joints, and the reason we stay flexible and mobile. Healthy cartilage is constantly being regenerated by the body naturally and this process contributes to keeping us youthful and flexible.
As we age, our bodies lose the ability to produce collagen at sufficient levels needed to support the deep restorative sleep processes that our bodies are designed to perform. This can be a major contributor that leads to a premature aged appearance and can definitely affect our flexibility and mobility. It stands to reason that a collagen supplement combined with other natural ingredients can have a dramatic effect in better supporting the deep restorative sleep process. This in turn can allow the body to experience more energy, build more lean muscle, and burn more fat.
Try a liquid supplement before bed to see how your sleep improves.
**Amino acids enhance the regeneration process
The rebuilding process is also influenced by the efficiency of the amino acids normally used for this purpose. As part of the rebuilding process, amino acids help maintain lean muscle mass and allow the body to more readily consume fat for energy. This contributes to weight loss.
Again, as we age, our body's production of efficient amino acids is reduced. A supplement such as L-Carnitine is a special amino acid that enhances the body's normal function and helps your body convert excess fat into readily available fuel. During deep sleep, these special amino acids work like a natural "turbocharger" to help your body repair, preserve and build lean muscle while burning stored fat to supply the needed energy.
**Not eating before sleeping is important
Since the body uses deep sleep for the restoration process, it is important when using a collagen supplement not to eat three hours before going asleep. This is because we don't want nutrient competition between undigested food and the collagen supplement special nutrient formula itself. If the body has to concern itself with digestion it will not absorb the collagen formula properly. Therefore your body will not be performing its natural restorative process while you sleep, but rather will be concerned with undigested foods and will actually be storing fat from the continuing digestive process rather than burning fat as the energy for the deep sleep restorative process.
This tends to put us into a "diet circle of frustration". The less time your body spends in deep restful sleep (without competing digestion), the less time it has to restore its natural health, and the less fat that is burned in support of this natural rebuilding process. Now we understand the key connection between deep restorative sleep and weight loss many times goes hand in hand with our overall health.
Reducing or eliminating the intake of food three hours before bedtime allows the body to use its natural fat reserves for metabolic fuel during the deep restorative sleep cycle.
LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT STARVING YOURSELF
Many people believe that weight loss is a painful thing. To shift those stubborn pounds you must go hungry all the time. Many are afraid to even set a weight loss goal because they can’t stand the thought of going hungry and the frustrations that it brings.
For a lot of people it's just better to be overweight than to suffer hunger pangs.
Well who can blame them?
If the only way to lose weight or stay slim was to go hungry all the time very few people would be at their ideal weight and the vast majority of the planet would be extremely overweight! It isn’t necessary.
Our body is a marvellous device. It is truly amazing! Its natural rhythm and internal workings tell us when we are hungry. It has a self protection mechanism that lets you know when you need to stock up on fuel. A hunger signal is the body notifying you that you NEED to eat in order for you to sustain a healthy level of energy and have the reserves necessary for healing, repair and maintenance of your cells. Serious hungry pangs are a strong self-preservation signal from the body that it is in danger and needs food immediately to restore it’s balance. These signals should not be ignored!
Your body has no idea that food is in plentiful supply and that it is one of the cheapest commodities of the 21st Century. Your body is acting the same way your ancient ancestor’s bodies worked. The general design of the human body hasn’t changed one bit since then. When your ancient ancestors were living in caves they relied on their ability to hunt for food to feed themselves. Sometimes they would go days or weeks without a kill and the body would send them warning signals that they were in serious danger. When they did eat the body immediately, being still in self-preservation mode, stored as much of the energy as it could in reserve as FAT! Your body works in exactly the same way today.
Starving yourself just doesn’t work. It goes against nature to think that you can starve yourself and lose weight. Of course you can get the exception when people just don’t take in anywhere near enough food to sustain themselves but we all have the effects of this kind of dieting!
So, we know that starvation diets don’t work and you don’t want to spend 2 hours a day in the gym. How do we lose weight then?
Well the good news is you do not have to go hungry to lose weight. Nor do you need excessive amounts of exercise. The truth is, eating regular nutritional meals and allowing your body to fill itself to satisfaction is the key to reaching and maintaining a healthy, slim body. By not allowing yourself to go hungry you will in fact avoid overeating - which is the very thing that usually happens when you break a starvation diet.
One method is to eat five or six, fairly small, healthy meals divided up throughout your day. Instead of eating three large meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner, divide the same quantity of food into 6 meals instead and eat an extra small meal between a small breakfast and lunch, one between lunch and dinner and if you are hungry later have another one. Try to avoid having the last meal close to bedtime, anytime up to 2 hours before bed is all right.
Don’t wait when you feel hungry. Eat as soon as you can. If you wait for a long period of time before you eat your body will go into panic mode, thinking that you don’t have enough resources to feed it and you will overeat! Therefore, eating frequent yet smaller meals will help to keep your body satisfied and you will be less likely to over-indulge.
Do not miss a meal in the hope that it will help burn some extra calories. You may believe that by skipping a meal you will save some calories or fat intake, but, as you have seen, the opposite tends to happen. In addition, if you go for a long period without a meal you are much more likely to over-indulge when you get fed-up and can‘t take the starvation any more.
Did you also realise that by skipping meals you are actually slowing down your metabolism? Because your body thinks there is a food shortage it not only stores extra fat but it also slows down the amount of fat it burns. The body’s natural survival instinct is triggered, you put on extra weight and burn fewer calories and fat. As the body burns fat to convert into energy you will find that you become lethargic and tired. Starving yourself just doesn’t work!
In addition to eating smaller more frequent meals you should also teach yourself to eat slower. Place your knife and fork down between every bite and chew for a few seconds longer than normal. It can take us up to twenty 20 minutes to realize that the body is full and completely satisfied. When you eat at a fast pace “stuffing“ food into you before you have time to recognise the “full“ signal your body is sending your brain. When you eat at a slower pace you start to recognise these signals from your body and train yourself to identify them at an earlier stage.
Take an extra 15 minutes extra a day. To some of you this may sound like a lot. But all you have to do is split it up throughout the day. Leave for work with an extra 5 minutes to spare and walk to a bus stop further away from or park the car 5 minutes further away than you usually do. At lunch take a 5 minute stroll or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk to the local shop instead of driving. It is easy to complete 15, 30 or even an hours exercise everyday if you split it up like this. And remember don’t starve yourself, it just doesn’t work!
HEALTH FOOD SUPPLEMENTS - YOUR CONSUMER GUIDE
Health food supplements are one of the hottest selling products in the market these days. Their total consumption values billions of pounds in the U.K. alone. Recent surveys show that more than half of the adults in the U.S. and U.K. consume health food supplements in different forms, such as tablets, capsules, powders, soft gels, gel caps and liquids.
The increased consumption of health food supplements can be attributed to public awareness of health issues and improved standard of living in our society. Many studies have shown that there is a close correlation between health and nutrition. Insufficient supply of nutrients can weaken our body's defence mechanism, causing medical problems from common ailments to more severe illnesses in the long term.
There are different types of health food supplements, including macronutrients (amino acids, proteins, essential fatty acids), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), enzymes (digestive enzymes and antioxidant enzymes), probiotics (beneficial bacteria in the gut), and herbal supplements. These supplements have unique functions in our body. They are either essential for life and good health, modulate our immune system or help with liver detoxification, digestion, mental clarity, etc.
Many people argue that there is no need to consume health food supplements as long as you have a healthy lifestyle and eat a balanced diet. While this may be true, the fact is maintaining a healthy lifestyle and proper diet is difficult to achieve by many people.
Over the past few decades, the green revolution has changed the farming practices over the world. We use more chemical fertilizers, more pesticides to grow the food produce in order to increase harvest and shorten the growth period. As a result, soil nutrients and the population of beneficial soil bacteria are depleted rapidly, and the produce we grow today contain less micronutrient than before.
A stressful lifestyle, improper eating habits, imbalanced diet and increased exposure to chemicals such as environmental pollutants (air, water) and pesticides, drugs, hormones, heavy metals in foods also weaken our body gradually.
Although health food supplements can be beneficial to our health, consumers should still choose the products carefully. Currently, there is little regulation on the quality of health food supplements. Composition of some health food products may not match the label claims and the quality of raw materials and finished products is not guaranteed. Therefore, consumers should only buy from reputable health food manufacturers, read the labels carefully and read more related literature.
Here are some general rules for buying health food supplements:
1) Supplements made from whole foods, natural sources are better than the synthetic ones. They are more bioactive, can be absorbed readily, and less likely to be contaminated by chemicals such as coal tars used in chemical synthesis.
2) Protein-bonded vitamins and minerals (vitamins and minerals in organic form, binding to amino acids) are more bioactive than the inorganic forms.
3) Buy supplements using safe extraction methods, such as cold pressed extraction or supercritical extraction. This can avoid the harmful residue from chemical extraction.
4) Herbal concentrate and extract are usually more effective than the raw herbs.
5) Organically grown or wild crafted herbs are less likely to be contaminated by heavy metals, pesticides and other chemicals.
6) Read the labels, do not consume more than the recommended dose.
7) Be careful when consuming certain herbal supplements, such as Ma Huang / ephedra, Kava Kava, comfrey, etc. Some studies have shown that these herbs may cause severe side effects to some people. Stop use if unusual signs appear after consumption.
8) Some health food supplements may interact with drugs, either by decreasing or increasing their effects. Consult your doctor if you are currently taking medications.
9) Pregnant and nursing women, people with specific medical conditions such consult the doctors when consuming health food supplements.
10) If in doubt, contact the supplement manufacturers or distributors for more information of their products.
11) Health food supplements are available in many places, such as food shops, health food stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, department stores, online stores, etc. Be a smart consumer, compare the price and service before purchase.
Rita, The Coach x
EAT YOUR STRESS GOODBYE - STRESS REDUCING DIET
When you’re stressed out, the foods that you’re turning to are most likely going to be traditional ‘comfort’ foods – think big meals, take-out, fatty foods, sweet foods, and alcohol. Let’s face it – we’ve all found some comfort in a tasty meal and a bottle of beer or glass of wine when we’ve been stressed out or upset about something. However, this isn’t a good permanent solution.
When you’re turning to unhealthy foods you can feel better temporarily, but in the long run, you will feel worse. When your body isn’t getting the right nutrition, you can begin to feel less energetic, more lethargic, and in some cases less able to concentrate and focus. All of this can lead to even more stress.
Foods that Fight Stress
If you’ve been feeling more stressed out than usual lately, it’s important to know which foods are best to choose and which to avoid when it comes to combating stress and helping you to deal with feelings of stress and anxiety. The best way to fight stress is to have a healthy, balanced diet which includes a moderate amount of each of the different food groups.
Filling up on foods such as whole grains, leafy vegetables, and lean proteins as the basic staples of the diet is the best way to ensure that your body gets the optimum amounts of nutrients to fight both physical and mental health problems. When it comes to choosing the foods to eat, some have a range of great properties which help the body to combat stress. Choosing these stress-busting foods will help to heal and calm your mind permanently, rather than providing a temporary fix.
Some of the best stress-fighting foods include:
- Avocado – Avocados are a creamy and versatile fruit which can be eaten in a range of different ways whether you enjoy it raw, made into sauces, dressings and dips, or in a smoothie. These nutrient-dense fruits have the properties to stress-proof your body, thanks to their high glutathione content which specifically blocks the intestinal absorption of certain fats which cause oxidative damage. Avocados also contain higher levels of vitamin E, folate, and beta-carotene than any other fruit, which boosts their stress-busting properties. However, be careful with portion control when eating avocado, as it is high in fat.
- Blueberries – If you’re feeling stressed out and reaching for the snacks, swapping chocolate or chips for one of the best superfoods is a great way to help you deal with your stress levels and achieve a higher level of calm. Blueberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants, especially antho-cyanin, which means that this berry has been linked to a wide range of health benefits including sharper cognition, better focus, and a clearer mind – all of which can help you to better deal with stress.
- Chamomile Tea – Of course, it’s not all about what you’re eating when it comes to managing stress; what you’re drinking can also alleviate or worsen the stress you're feeling. Drinking liquids which are high in sugars and caffeine, such as coffee, energy drinks or soda, can actually increase your stress levels if consumed regularly. Chamomile tea has long been used as a natural bedtime soother, and it has also been used in clinical trials, which determined that chamomile tea is effective in reducing the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
- Chocolate – Although it’s usually seen as an unhealthy treat, there is an undeniable link between chocolate and our mood. Studies have shown that eating chocolate can actually make you happier. However, that doesn’t mean that you can start munching on chocolate bars every time you're stressed out – chocolate works best as a de-stressor when eaten in moderation and as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Dark chocolate in particular is best for you, as it contains more flavonols and polyphenols, two hugely important antioxidants which can help combat stress, more than many fruit juices.
- Beef – Grass-fed beef is not only kinder to the planet and to animals, it’s also good for people, too. Grass-fed beef has a huge range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and Vitamins C and E, which can help your body to fight stress and anxiety. If you’re looking for more reasons to spend a little more money on organic, grass-fed beef, it’s also lower in fat than grain-fed beef whilst being higher in omega-3.
- Oatmeal – Oatmeal is great in that it can be a filling comfort food, but also has a large number of healthy properties to actually make you feel better from the inside out. A complex carbohydrate, eating oatmeal causes your brain to produce higher levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin, helping you to feel calmer and less stressed. Studies have shown that kids who choose oatmeal for breakfast tend to be much sharper throughout the morning in school compared to kids who had alternative morning meals.
- Walnuts – If you’re looking for a healthy snacking option which will help you to stay better in control of your stress levels, walnuts are a great choice. There is no denying the sweet, pleasant flavour of walnuts and they can be a tasty snack for in-between meals or as part of a desert. A versatile nut, walnuts are great for salads, or add them to a sweet treat such as coffee and walnut cake.
- Pistachios – another food which is great for snacking on and can also help to combat stress and anxiety in the long term is pistachios. Studies have found that simply eating two small, snack-size portions of pistachios per day can lower vascular constriction when you are stressed, putting less pressure on your heart by further dilating your arteries. Along with this, the rhythmic, repetitive act of shelling pistachios can actually be quite therapeutic!
- Green Leafy Vegetables – leafy, green vegetables should be a pivotal part of anyone’s diet. Along with helping to combat stress, leafy greens are full of nutrients and antioxidants which help to fight off disease and leave your body feeling healthier and more energized. Dark leafy greens, for example spinach, are especially good for you since they are rich in folate, which helps your body to produce more mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is a ‘feel-good’ chemical. Making leafy greens a part of your diet will help you to feel happier and less stressed out overall.
- Fermented foods – last but not least, eating fermented foods such as yoghurt can help to keep your gut healthy, which actually in turn will help to improve your mental health and reduce stress levels. The beneficial bacteria which are found in fermented foods such as yoghurt actually have a direct effect on your brain chemistry and transmit positive mood and behaviour regulating signals to your brain via the vagus nerve.
Putting Together Your Diet Plan
Planning your meals wisely is key to not only staying physically fit and healthy but also to staying mentally strong and being able to best manage your levels of stress. Knowing which foods to avoid and which are the best to reach for to snack on when you’re feeling worried and anxious is important to helping you get control over your emotions and fears.
When you’re feeling stressed, you may be tempted to reach for classic ‘comfort foods’ – usually foods which are laden with sugar, very starchy, or greasy. However, although these foods can make you feel momentarily better, they will actually make you feel worse in the long run.
Having stress-busting snacks such as fresh berries, dark chocolate, yoghurt, walnuts or pistachios, or even a fruit smoothie with avocado and leafy greens in it can help you to feel better in both the short and long term when it comes to stress. When it comes to combating and dealing with stress in the long run, it’s important to make sure that for the most part, you are eating a diet that is healthy and balanced.
In order to stay on track, it’s a good idea to make a meal plan for your week and plan ahead to make sure that you have a good selection of these stress-busting foods in your kitchen to make meals and snacks from when you’re feeling like stress-eating. Making sure that the majority of your meals include foods such as lean proteins and leafy green vegetables will not only make you feel healthier overall but can improve your mental health and stress levels, too.
A good example of a healthy, stress-busting menu would be:
Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries or a fruit smoothie with avocado and berries
Mid-morning snack: Natural yoghurt with fruit or a handful of pistachio nuts
Lunch: A whole-grain pasta salad filled with plenty of leafy greens
Afternoon snack: Dark chocolate
Dinner: Grass-fed beef with vegetables
Before bed: Chamomile tea
Of course, you don’t need to stick to this menu – but it gives you a good idea! Remember to exercise good portion control when eating foods such as nuts, chocolate, yoghurt or avocado! As the saying goes, you are what you eat – so make sure that first and foremost, you’re filling yourself up with foods that are good for your mental health.
Love
The Coach xx












