Muslimah
What if we told you that it is possible to stay healthy and fit whilst balancing a hectic lifestyle? Seems impossible? Even the word spells I’ M POSSIBLE. After all, between a full time job, caring for a family and running errands; trying to fit in exercise may seem a far-fetched idea concocted by someone who obviously doesn’ t bear the amount of responsibilities of the average woman. Having a healthy lifestyle can be far off the list of priorities. However, by creating healthy lives for ourselves and our families can only benefit us; presently and in the future.
FITTING FITNESS INTO YOUR LIFE
WRITTEN by. AASIYAH ALI
As women we have so many different roles in society, how are we to DO all of them to the best of our abilities if we cannot even find the time to do the main duty of taking care of ourselves? Get Fit Muslimah TT has devised a 10 step program that can assist in managing them all while still including a healthy lifestyle. Always remember with anything we do, consistency and moderation is key.
10 Steps to Stay Healthy with GFMTT
Begin with Bismillah & remember your Intention- Before doing anything we should always start in the name of Allah( SWT). Ask for His blessings and ease in the tasks that lay before us. Purify your intentions and remember everything that you do or intend to do is for the sake of Allah( SWT). A better and healthier you will only help you to serve your Maker in a manner that befits His Majesty.
Make time for you – We neglect our health whilst placing priority on everyone and everything else. If we’ re not in good shape how can we cater to our families, our communities and most importantly ourselves? Create health goals and work feverishly towards achieving these goals. We are the builders of our nation, and we are awesome! Being in shape is a must! Say no to procrastination! There is no right time to make better choices and get active! We must make the time! Yes you can! –“ The biggest difference I’ ve noticed between successful people and unsuccessful people isn’ t intelligence, resources or opportunity. It’ s the belief that they can make their goals happen”( James Clear). Believe in yourself. Challenge yourself. Never think that you cannot do it. Mentality is key, when embarking upon a healthy lifestyle. Think good thoughts and be positive about achieving your goals no matter how big they may seem. The body achieves what the mind conceives!
Be an example – You do not know if your actions and determination can motivate another. When you think no one is looking on, there are people admiring your courage. You can be an example to your siblings, parents and children. Children are‘ sponges’. How often do we make our children an excuse as to why we cannot get proper fitness in? We should include them in our workouts and healthy lifestyle. Let them be part of your healthy meal preparation. You’ ll be surprised at how much more excited they would be to eat those vegetables! Get creative. Use the babies as weights( just kidding …. not kidding) but seriously, if we involve our kiddies in our workouts both parent and children receive the health benefits while having fun( for the kids at least), quality time is spent and that parent-child bond is still being maintained. Teaching our children how to live healthy lives start with‘ practising what you preach’. Remember that your children emulate you and are looking up to you. Having healthy lifestyle habits will transfer on to those around you thereby creating a healthy family and by extension healthy families produce healthy communities.
Swap the Snack –‘ Rome wasn’ t built in a day’. Little changes over a period of time ultimately amount to achieving your‘ snack swapping’ goal. Make sure to include wholesome vegetables and nutrient dense foods in your diet on a daily basis. Exchange that unhealthy snack for something which is better and much more nutritious. Sometimes it boils down to replacements, for example; if you’ re craving some buttery microwaved popcorn, invest in an air popper and do it yourself! Drizzle a little( I stressed little) butter and salt. In this way you take charge of what is being put into your body, you get to control the ingredients and you have a few extra dollars in your pocket as these prepackaged microwavable are more costly. Be creative!
Stay hydrated the RIGHT way – Dehydration can lead to many health problems. Increase your water intake. It hydrates and detoxifies your body. If you’ re keen on taste then add some slices of cucumber / lemon / apples or any fruit you desire to‘ spruce’ up the taste a bit. If you’ re concerned about getting in the recommended amount
32 | Ihsaan | Issue 1