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Happy Monday, boo! 
 
I'm a fan of analogies, so today, I want to share one that'll help you think about your health and well-being a little differently:
 
"Care for your body like you would care for your brand new car."
 
Imagine you just drove off the lot with the car of your dreams. 
 
How do you take care of it? 
 
You follow the maintenance schedule, keep it clean, and make sure it runs smoothly. Why? Because you know that with proper care, it will serve you well for years to come.
 
Your body deserves this same kind of TLC to perform at its best.
 
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Here's what I mean…
 
1. GIVE IT HIGH-QUALITY FUEL
Make healthy food and drink choices as often as possible - fruits, veggies, healthy carbs, proteins, healthy fats, and lots of water. What you eat and drink plays a huge role in your energy and ability to perform. It’s true…you really are what you eat.
 
Tip: When it comes to your water intake, you should aim to drink ½ your body weight in ounces.
 
2. DON’T LET IT SIT FOR TOO LONG
When your car sits without being used, it rusts, and the battery is drained. The same goes for your body. It was designed to move, so aim to move it daily in some way.
 
Tip: Walking is the most underrated form of exercise. If you don't have time to do a full workout, treat your body to a 10-minute walk outdoors or on the treadmill.
 
3. DON’T PUSH IT TOO HARD
Rest and relax consistently, slow down, and don’t overload your system. Also, don’t shift gears too quickly; it causes stress and damage to your body.
 
Tip: When you have a never-ending to-do list, it's important that you make time to rest. Look at your calendar for the week ahead and block some ‘me time’ throughout the week.
 
AFFIRMATION
My body is my most precious asset. I am committed to nurturing it with care and giving it the nourishment and exercise it needs to thrive.
 
4. GET REGULAR AND NECESSARY MAINTENANCE
Routine inspections will keep your car in tip-top shape. The same goes for your body. Schedule annual check-ups. Go to the doctor when you’re sick – don’t put it off until you totally break down. 
 
Tip: When was the last time you had an annual check-up? If it has been a while, you gotta prioritize that, boo. Make that appointment this week.
 
5. POLISH THE EXTERIOR
Take care of the outside, too. Practice good hygiene. Get a fabulous haircut and wear clothes that make you feel confident and attractive!
 
Tip: Studies show that dressing nicely can boost your confidence by up to 73% - and yes, this includes how you dress for your workouts! If you are unmotivated to exercise, consider buying a new outfit to build your excitement and confidence for your next workout session!
 
6. GIVE IT AN OIL CHANGE
Give your body a cleanse at least 1x a quarter. Flush out the toxins so your body can reset from the inside out (spoiler alert: you don’t need to buy detox teas or pills to make this happen - your body can do this naturally with the proper fitness and nutrition plan!).
 
Tip: If you've been feeling sluggish, experiencing a lot of bloating, struggling to see the numbers on the scale go down, or even dealing with inflammation, it may be time for a cleanse. Check out my 7-Day Reset Program for a step-by step cleanse plan to follow.
 
Remember, your body is your most valuable asset. Just like a well-maintained car performs better and lasts longer, a well-cared-for body leads to a healthier, more fulfilling life. You got this!

 
Whenever you're ready, here are 3 ways I can help you:
 
Have a great week!
 
Ariel Belgrave, CPT
Certified Fitness & Nutrition Coach
Creative Wellness Consultant
Board Member, Women's Health Mag
Under Armour Athlete
P.S. Feel free to forward this email to someone who could use the pep talk (sharing is caring!)
 
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