Taking care of your body and losing weight is way more than a strict diet, hours at the gym and the self loathing you feel after a cheat day.

1. Drink more water

It actually takes little effort to do this, but the benefits will be amazing. More intake of water means more toxins being flushed from your system, clearer skin and happy kidneys. Need another reason? Water makes you feel full for longer, so you won’t experience cravings that often.

2. Get a massage

Trust me when I say you’ll be way happier after a massage. It not only reduces stress hormones and gives you relaxation. A massage will also improve circulation and your skin tone. What more could you ask for?

3. Use positive affirmations

Be kind to yourself. You’ve acknowledged you’re not in your best shape right now, and actually made the decision to focus on better health and fitness. That took guts! You are working on making your body happy and healthy. Your body is becoming stronger and more beautiful every day!

4. Celebrate your successes

You skipped the chocolate fudge cake after dinner? Woohoo! Swapped your donuts for a fruit bowl? You’re doing great! Any decision that prioritizes the health of your body above everything else needs to be celebrated. You should feel good about every effort you make to stay on the right track. Strip and twirl before your mirror, you’re doing great!

5. Use social media pages as motivation

With society pressuring us with its “ideal body image”, it’s hard not to feel bad about yourself when you see others doing so much better than you. Unfollow any page that makes you feel unattractive or insecure. Your social media feed needs to be filled with not just success stories of weight loss and healthy living, but the entire process. Follow creators who share their weight loss journey. Their successes and failures will put you at ease, and inspire you to stay committed to your goal.

6. Invest in yourself

Whether it’s a new pair of boots or some sexy lingerie, buy something that makes you feel confident about your body.  It doesn’t have to be material things, either. Treat yourself to a day at the spa, get a facial or a haircut. Also, buy clothes that compliment your skin tone and physique. Dressing confident can actually make you feel confident. It’s science!

7. Take a walk

Social media is great and all, but you need some fresh air. Taking a walk at the park or even in your backyard can be so calming. It’s best to do this before noon so you can soak up all that vitamin D. Turn your face towards the sun, feel the wind on your cheeks and just breathe in nature. Clear your thoughts for a little and feel your body become lighter and refreshed. Walking will keep your mood lifted as well.

Remember that feeling good starts in your mind. While you work on eating healthy and exercising, speak positively to your body.