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How you can make getting fit, healthy and happy inevitable
Ash Thomson • December 31, 2022
If you eat and exercise with awareness and you associate that with a happy life, you’ll build the habits you need to live a healthier life too.
In May, 2005 a nationally acclaimed psychologist who specializes in eating disorders was arrested in West Hartford, Connecticut after inhaling aerosol from whipped cream cans and passing out on a supermarket floor. The woman claimed later to have been in a state of deep psychosis due to an extreme deprivation diet she was experimenting with.
Yes, a healthy, educated young woman who was an expert and acutely aware of the psychological processes going on when dieting craved sugar so desperately that she almost killed herself. That’s a solid case study in why fad diets don’t work. Telling yourself to ‘just do it’ doesn’t work. At least not for most of us and certainly not for very long.
Most people eat what we like for psychological reasons. 100% of people drink or smoke for psychological reasons. It tastes good, it makes you feel good, takes the edge off, whatever, but you’re doing it to change your state somehow. You eat and drink to feel good, and when something feels good you naturally want more.
That feeling is just a logical association you make though. It’s got nothing to do with macro-nutrient proportions or recommended daily intakes.
Consciously or subconsciously our brain makes connections between things we sense – sights, sounds, smells, tastes – and how we feel about them. The smell of sunscreen reminds me of the beach as a kid, and makes me feel happy and joyful – even when we were living in Switzerland over 600km from the closest beach. The smell of insect repellent reminds me of growing up in Australia and I feel nostalgic. Despite being chemical, even toxic cues, I have very positive associations with these things and they instantly trigger strong, positive emotions.
We’re left 100% to ourselves to interpret these senses. If you can associate a healthy diet and exercise with feeling good, and unhealthy food and overeating with pain then you will actually want to eat healthier and you’ll enjoy it. Once the association is there and it’s strong enough, to your brain there’s no difference. You will literally crave the avocado and rocket salad with the same fondness as the guy next to you is enjoying his mega-burger and beer.
Try it yourself.
You need to work on it and it takes a bit of time to get the habit but this is powerful stuff. Once you start feeling good, if you eat and exercise with awareness and you consciously make these associations, you’ll build the habits you need to live a healthier life. It’s that simple.
Try this for just ten days. If you can change the way you think about food then getting fit again is easy. Once you start thinking about how food and exercise is making you feel, you’ll actually want, even crave healthier food.
What do you have to lose? If you decide you really do like pizza and don’t care that it makes you sick you can apply that sensory acuity to a future life free of guilt. That’s not bad. If you feel better you can choose to continue and profoundly effect your own future and the futures of those around you.
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Noosa is known for its stunning beaches, active lifestyle, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a surfer, golfer, runner, or simply enjoy staying active, your body goes through its fair share of wear and tear. That’s where sports massage in Noosa comes in. At Noosa Back Massage, we specialize in helping you recover, perform better, and feel your best, no matter your activity level. What is Sports Massage? Sports massage is a specialized form of therapy designed to improve athletic performance, prevent injuries, and accelerate recovery. Unlike relaxation massages, sports massage focuses on specific muscle groups used during physical activity. This therapy often involves techniques like: Deep tissue massage: Targets deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to release tension and improve mobility. Trigger point therapy: Releases tight areas within muscles that can cause pain and discomfort. Stretching and mobilization: Improves flexibility and range of motion, essential for athletes and active individuals. At Noosa Back Massage, we tailor each session to meet the unique needs of our clients, whether you're preparing for a competition, recovering from an injury, or simply maintaining your body’s health. Why Choose Sports Massage in Noosa? Noosa is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. With its world-class golf courses , surfing spots, hiking trails, and fitness culture, it's no surprise that locals and visitors alike lead active lifestyles. However, this active lifestyle can take a toll on your body, leading to muscle fatigue, stiffness, and even injuries. A sports massage offers the perfect remedy. Here’s why you should prioritize sports massage in Noosa : Optimal recovery in a serene environment: There’s no better place to recharge than in the tranquil surroundings of Noosa. Pairing the physical benefits of a sports massage with Noosa’s calming atmosphere enhances your overall wellness. Our massage service is 100% mobile offering you the benefits of massage in the comfort of your home or holiday accommodation. Support for an active lifestyle: Whether you’re hitting the golf course or catching waves, our sports massages are designed to keep you moving pain-free. Personalized care for athletes and fitness enthusiasts: At Noosa Back Massage, we understand the unique needs of each individual. Our therapists are trained to address the specific demands of your sport or activity. The Benefits of Sports Massage The benefits of sports massage extend beyond just feeling good. It can have a profound impact on your physical health and performance. Here are some key advantages: Improved circulation and oxygen flow: By promoting better blood flow, sports massage helps your muscles recover faster and reduces post-workout soreness. Faster recovery from injuries: Whether you’re dealing with a strain, sprain, or overuse injury, regular sports massage can speed up the healing process by reducing inflammation and improving tissue elasticity. Enhanced flexibility and mobility: Stiff muscles and limited range of motion can hinder your performance. Sports massage helps maintain flexibility, reducing your risk of injuries. Relief from chronic pain: For those suffering from long-term issues like lower back pain or repetitive strain injuries, sports massage offers a non-invasive way to manage pain and discomfort. Mental relaxation and stress relief: Physical recovery aside, a sports massage can also ease mental tension, helping you stay focused and stress-free. Why Golfers Love Sports Massage in Noosa One of the groups that benefit the most from sports massage in Noosa is golfers. Golf is every bit as physically demanding as other sports, and it places significant strain on the back, shoulders, and core. At Noosa Back Massage we specialize in helping golfers stay pain-free and perform at their best. Whether it’s addressing lower back stiffness, improving shoulder mobility, or reducing muscle fatigue after a long day on the course, we’re here to help. Our Approach at Noosa Back Massage At Noosa Back Massage, we take pride in offering personalized, results-driven treatments for every client. Our approach combines deep knowledge of sports massage techniques with a focus on your individual needs. How to Book Your Sports Massage in Noosa Ready to experience the benefits of sports massage? Booking a session at Noosa Back Massage is simple. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’re here to help you feel your best and stay active. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and discover how sports massage can transform your performance and recovery. At Noosa Back Massage , we’re passionate about helping you achieve your wellness goals. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, preparing for a big event, or simply maintaining your body’s health, our sports massages are designed to meet your needs. Let’s keep Noosa active and pain-free—one massage at a time.
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