Mind over MATTER

The best foundation for making healthier choices is to get your head in the game

- AMBER BRAMBLE& KIMBERLY GILLAN

Many of us have been under the impression that achieving our health goals primarily comes down to the food we eat and the exercise we do. But experts now increasingly believe that if we start with a “mind first” approach, we’re far more likely to achieve long-term good health.

“We start with the mind because if we are thinking clearer, we’re more prone to making better choices in life,” explains Lexi Crouch, Endeavour College nutritionist and mental health instructor. “The journey of mind dieting gets you feeling really empowered in yourself and your choices.”

Here’s how you can tune into your thoughts through “mind dieting” to reap some serious health benefits.

First up, when you next pull on your sneakers, do it for your brain, not your body.

“Even if you go outside for a 20-minute walk, you will get clarity and a raise in [brain chemicals] serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for reward pathways,” says Crouch. “Switch the mentality of exercise being about weight loss. When you exercise, you’re happier and have more energy – those are the real benefits.”

Crouch particularly recommends yoga for helping us learn to better connect with our minds.