What three “gifts” would you give a 20-something if you were a “Forty-Godmother”? Here 40-somethings share three wishes to help a 20-something get a head start on the confidence to make decisions that are right for themselves. No more woulda, coulda, shoulda.
By Mica Walsh, 4020 Vision Ambassador
Zulma Eliana Restrepo is a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Zumba Instructor, and Wellness Coach in New Jersey. She is also a mother of two who recently celebrated her 50th birthday and looks fantastic! Zulma is “in love with life” which shows in the way she teaches her Zumba classes. Her positive energy and enthusiasm make it fun to exercise. Here are the 3 gifts that she’d like to give a 20-something year old, including some exercise tips.
- A positive attitude. Whether it’s losing a few pounds or overcoming a bad habit, there is no magic pill. If we want to change something about ourselves, we have to make a commitment. There are no short cuts and it’s not always going to be easy. That’s why it’s so important to keep a positive attitude. Make a list of your strengths and be kind to yourself when you look in the mirror. Reading motivational books or quotes and practicing gratitude are also ways to stay positive.
- A love of exercise. Exercise is the best way to relieve any kind of stress. Instead of eating a chocolate bar when you’re nervous, try jumping, dancing or walking instead. Any kind of movement is great! And don’t forget to drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks. I think that water, exercise, and a positive attitude lead to happy days!
Zulma Eliana Restrepo
- Get the support you need. When I was in my 20s I suffered a lot because I didn’t accept my body. I was always looking for quick fixes. I went on diets, took pills, and became bulimic. From that experience, I learned the importance of finding support. There are so many resources today—counselors, nutritionists, and trainers—who can help you to lose weight safely, if needed, and to develop healthy habits.
Almost Summer Bonus: Putting a gift in action:
There are so many effective exercises that we can do at home. I personally love the squat and push-up. The most important thing is to do the correct form so that we don’t hurt ourselves.
To do a good squat, stand with your feet apart, directly under your hips, and place your hands on your hips. Tighten your stomach muscles and lower down, as if sitting. Your body weight should be on your heels. Then straighten your legs and repeat.
To do a beginner “wall push-up”, place your hands on the wall at the level of your shoulders, slightly greater than shoulder-width apart. Make sure you contract your abdominal muscles and keep them tight throughout the exercise. Slowly bend your elbows and lower your chest until your chin reaches the wall. Then return to the starting position.
Do these little changes and you’ll see your life flourish!
For more exercise and nutrition tips with Zulma, visit her Facebook page, “Be Happy Be Healthy Be You.