Why is it difficult for Indian Moms to take time out for fitness

The Ignored Lessons of Being a Mother!!

 

“There is already so much to do. Looking after the house, the kids, their food and school projects, husband duties. I have no time to go to the gym and exercise”

A universal response most of the mothers give on their negligence over their health and fitness. Whether you are a recent mother struggling with cleaning nappies or have a school/college going kid, mom’s priority has and would always be the wellness of their loved ones. They work long hours, have sleepless and tired nights, early mornings always wearing a smile and selfless heart.

Remember Yourself –

“God can’t be everywhere and so he created Mom”.  She is always so occupied doing things for others that she has almost forgotten her own self. Be it her hobbies, beauty or fitness and health she limits herself to being a lovable mom and overlooking the other aspects of life.

Being a mother can be the best thing that can ever happen to a woman but that should not stop you from taking care of yourself. Let’s just say, how often do you find a fit mom in your known circle?

 

Negligence –

It can be safe to mention that it is quite common for Indian mothers to gain weight either during their pregnancy or post. And why does this happen?

If we are a young mother then the immense love showered by our in-laws, post-partum anxiety and lack of patience to cook takes the form of calorie flooded food. Adding to this unhealthy and fatty diet, the negligence towards yourself only piles those extra kilos. We ignore exercise or any healthy activity as we assume running behind our kids the entire day is enough exertion.

For the mothers who fall in the age bracket of 35 plus face issues of knee and back pain. This has of course come a long way with your thoughtlessness again. The tight schedules and these knee and back issues put an end to that tiny little thirst of getting healthier and leads to a sedentary lifestyle.

 

 

Being Slim Is not Being Fit –

Remember this famous quote “Those who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness”

When we talk about being “Fit” we definitely don’t mean being “Slim”. Being fit is a state where the mind and body complement each other to feel strong, confident and beautiful.

Lack of physical exercise or a sedentary lifestyle only invites diseases like diabetes, cholesterol, high BP, weaker bones, heart issues and depression.

Body Is the Temple of the Soul –

When you are healthy you are happy and positive. And this is the best and probably the only way you keep your loved ones happy.

Do you know, exercise releases the happy hormones called dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin which also keeps your body in good shape. So quit the thought that workout is stressful and unpleasant. Make up your mind and kick off. Simple yoga, walking, jogging, cycling, quitting the elevator and choosing the stairs can be a good start. You may find a fitness trainer, hit the gym and run on the treadmill or lift those heavyweights. Remember, fitness is a lifetime commitment and not a one-time goal. So don’t wait for a special occasion to hit the gym or be a seasonal visitor. Remember, it is you who defines, stretches and limits your own strength.

 

Any exercise is better than no exercise –

Some tips which might help the gorgeous mothers can be

• You have 7 days in a week. Remember each day has 24 hours. If you remove 8 hours of sleep you have 16 hours left. Squeezing 1 hour out should not be difficult.
• Try and get your kids involved. This not only helps you to spend time with them but also gets them habituated to a healthy lifestyle
• Work out at home – as mentioned earlier, you don’t need to go and lift those heavy weights or do deadlifts to get fit. Simple activities can help. If you are unable to drive down to a gym, make your home one. Simple!
• Eat mindfully – Remember your digestive system is not a recycling bin and anything your kid leaves in his/her plate needn’t go there.
• Chalk out a Diet Chart – Consult a good nutritionist and sketch a great diet chart for yourself based on your lifestyle. It would be a great idea if you stick this chart either in your kitchen or any visible place to help you be on track.
• Get inspiration from the fitness superwoman and follow their fitness journey.

 

Remember ladies, the joy is the climb itself.  You will always have those hectic days, relatives visiting, guests coming over, kid’s exams and projects, nagging in-laws and lazy husbands. But the golden word remains “Health is Wealth”.