Gabby Bernstein and think! challenge everyone to exercise this muscle, interview

On a daily basis, one muscle impacts each and every aspect in the day. Gabby Bernstein and think! want people to have a meaningful conversation on mental strength, learn how to nourish that sometimes neglected muscle, and join that think! strong challenge.

Whether it is before the sun rises or after work, many people hit the gym. From running on the treadmill to lifting weights, people can see those efforts in the mirror. It might be more muscle tone or how a favorite outfit fits. The work shows in that physical transformation.

Although it can be motivating to keep going when the results are visible, the mind cannot be seen in the mirror. But, that muscle controls the whole day. Mental strength guides people through high moments and difficult times. Harness that mental fortitude and building it on a daily basis should be on the agenda, just like getting those 10,000 steps.

Recently, think! and Gabby Bernstein partnered on a new challenge to encourage everyone to be “Stronger Than You think!” The six-week challenge encourages everyone to go on a discovery journey. Beyond making balanced food choices, each day has a mindfulness component. By the end of the challenge, the hope is that people will have strengthened that mind muscle and will feel empowered to continue the journey on a daily basis.

FoodSided spoke with Gabby Berstein about her think! challenge partnership. While the wellness expert and No. 1 New York Times bestselling author might have a plethora of tools at her fingertips, she appreciates that people need to grow into this journey of self-discovery. One step, one day, can lead into more understanding, and eventually the process becomes habit.

Cristine Struble/FoodSided: Many people happily spend hours in the gym building their biceps, quads and other visible muscles. Why do you think that some people do not make building their mind muscle a priority?

Gabby Bernstein: The benefits of physical exercise tend to be more immediately tangible – people can see the results of their efforts in the form of increased strength, improved endurance or a more toned physique. Meanwhile, the effects of mental exercise are often less visible and might take longer to manifest. While there are various ways to exercise the mind, such as reading, learning new skills, problem-solving or engaging in creative activities, these activities might not be as clearly defined as lifting weights or running miles, so people put them on the back burner. Partnering with think!, we want to remind people that prioritizing their mental strength is just as important to our overall wellbeing.

CS: This program focuses on turning positive thoughts into positive action. Why is it important to focus on process, not perfection when going on a wellness journey?

GB: We all possess the incredible strength within us to transform our lives, and it starts with our thoughts. The think! Strong challenge is an invitation to tap into that power by nurturing our minds and bodies. Our goal is to help participants realize just how strong they can be – mind and body – over the course of six weeks.

There is no one solution or final destination when it comes to achieving wellness – it’s about the process and the steps you take and the changes that you make during that time to achieve those goals. Each week presents new calls to action, ranging from mindfulness and positive thinking to mindful eating habits and daily movement. These are some of the fundamental building blocks that help you to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between the mind and body.

CS: Some people can see and feel the impact that food choices have on their bodies. How do you balance mindful eating with balanced food choices?

GB: Practicing mindful eating, making sure you get enough protein and prioritizing better-for-you food choices in your day are all habits that enhance your overall well-being. I try to plan to make sure I’m not going hours without food – or end up so busy and stuck without healthier food options. I make it a habit to always have protein rich snacks with me when I’m on-the-go. I always have think! High Protein Bars in Creamy Peanut Butter in my bag – these hit the spot and have zero grams of sugar and 20 grams of protein to keep you going. By making sure I have the proper fuel for my body, that then powers my mind, that gives me back the strength to do the things I love.

CS: From vision boards to mantras, many people look to empower their journey by seeking an end goal. Is it really the end goal that people seek or confidence in continuing the journey?

GB: Having an end goal in mind can provide direction and motivation, it is often the confidence and empowerment gained throughout the journey that truly enriches our lives.

While vision boards and mantras can be helpful tools for manifesting our desires, they are not solely about achieving a specific outcome. They are more about cultivating a mindset of possibility, abundance, and self-belief. Check out the week one think! Strong challenge video on “The Power Behind Our Thoughts.”

By setting intentions and visualizing our goals, we tap into the power of our subconscious mind and align our energy with what we want to create. This process helps us build confidence in our abilities and strengthens our belief that we are capable of achieving our dreams.

However, it is also important to remember that the journey itself is where the true growth and transformation occur. Along the way, we learn valuable lessons, develop resilience, and discover our strengths. The challenges and detours we encounter can often lead us to unexpected opportunities and new paths that we wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.

CS: Cutting the negativity in and around people’s daily lives can be a constant struggle. How does a person get stronger in vocalizing that decision to surround themselves with positivity?

Cutting negativity from our lives can indeed be a constant struggle, but it is also an essential step towards creating a more positive and fulfilling existence. To strengthen your ability to vocalize the decision to surround yourself with positivity, I would suggest the following:

1. Awareness: Begin by cultivating awareness of the negative influences in your life. Recognize the people, situations, or thought patterns that drain your energy and bring you down.

2. Intention: Set a clear intention to prioritize positivity in your life. Visualize the kind of positivity you want to cultivate and the impact it will have on your well-being.

3. Boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries with individuals or environments that consistently bring negativity into your life. Communicate your needs respectfully, but firmly. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who share your values.

4. Self-Love: Nurture self-love and self-compassion. Understand that it’s okay to distance yourself from negativity and prioritize your own well-being. Treat yourself with kindness and make self-care a priority.

CS: For a mom, like myself, self-care often falls to the bottom, or totally off the to-do list. What are some simple, easy ways to carve out a moment or two for that important me time?

I hear you! I know how hard it can be to squeeze in time for mental and physical wellness as a busy mom. When life gets hectic, remember that self-care is not selfish; it is a necessary act of self-love. Partnering with think!, we want to remind people to prioritize their well-being, even if it means stealing moments for yourself amidst the hustle and bustle. Remember, you are worth the time and effort to cultivate a balanced and vibrant life.

More information on the thinkStrong Challenge can be found online and on the brand’s social media channels.