Life can be so chaotic these days. Everyone is always go, go, go! Sometimes there is no time to check in with yourself just to make sure you’re okay.
Many people live by a schedule that has them completely burnt out, some have created an unreasonably stressful life for themselves, and others just don’t have the ability to deal with stress the way they use to.
So, what do you end up doing? You sabotage your health with high sugar, high carbohydrate, highly processed, and nutrient deficient foods…which make you feel even worse…just to get you through.
You’re looking for some ‘sweetness’ in life and you say to yourself ‘I deserve it’.
Here are some tips on how to deal with stress without trying to eat it away:
Sleep: It is so important to get your 7-9 hours of sleep each night. When you sleep, your body rejuvenates, repairs, and rebuilds. It is also when your mind works through the day’s events, your experiences, and your thoughts. Did you know that you even lose the most weight when you sleep? If we don’t get enough sleep we try to make up for that energy loss with way too much coffee and quick, easy, sugar-filled foods that cause anxiety, decrease attention, cause digestive issues, and so on. Make sleep a priority.
Self Check-Ins: When there is no time to check in with ourselves, we just continue to repeat the same unhealthy patterns, thoughts, and perspectives. The truth is, this is the way you stay stuck. We can’t completely give of ourselves if we aren’t truly caring for and loving ourselves. Taking some time for ourselves to write (how am I feeling today?), to breathe (check out Dr. Weil’s 4-7-8 technique), and to rest is all we need to reset. Don’t be afraid to admit that you may need to make a change – no matter how big or small it is. This is your life – and you have the ultimate decision on what your life looks like.
Water: We should drink half of our weight in ounces daily (do not go over 100 oz/day). Many times when we feel hungry, we are really just thirsty.
Preparation: Set aside that valuable time each week to do your shopping and food preparation. You do not need to be an amazing cook to put a healthy meal together. All you need is some healthy proteins, healthy fats, and veggies. For extra busy days, make sure you have cut up veggies ready, your smoothie ingredients set, your mixed nuts and seeds bagged, and make your dinners whole food and simple. This will make all the difference.
The 80/20 Rule: “But, I deserve it.” No. What you deserve is to live a happy, fulfilling life where you feel healthy and energized and confident! Eighty percent of the time, treat your body well with clean, nutrient-rich foods – this body will only get you as far as the quality of gas you put in it. Twenty percent of the time, have some fun! This is life after all! However, pick and choose your battles. If you want a glass of wine, don’t get the pasta dish. If you want the pasta dish, don’t get the dessert.
Master the Mind: The mind is a very powerful thing and very weak at the same time. If you don’t learn how to master the mind before it masters you, then you are in for it. Be mindful of your thoughts and if your thought does not bring out the best in you mind, body, and spirit…say ‘no thank you’ and LET IT GO.
Do the TRIAD test: This specific functional test offered here at BeWell checks in on your overall health and gives you insight into why you are craving certain foods, what is causing you stress, if you are having a difficult time dealing with stress, and so much more.
At the end of the day remember, LIFE IS NOT AN EMERGENCY. Take a breath, check in on yourself, treat your body well with nutritious foods and positive thoughts, and master the mind.
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