Sometimes it’s the smallest changes that make the greatest differences to our lives. It’s tempting to look at your life goals and imagine that a significant lifestyle change like moving to the countryside or changing jobs is the way forward, but often it’s the little things that help the most instead.
If you’re in a rut – whether physically, professionally or in your personal life – it’s a good idea to sit down, breathe and take stock of your life so you can figure out what is out of kilter. To help inspire you, here are three lifestyle changes to make today.
Cut Back on Stimulants
Are you guilty of needing a cup of coffee in the morning to wake up, then a glass of wine to help you unwind at night? Most of us consume way more caffeine and/or alcohol than we realise, which can create a whole host of unwanted problems. If you’re feeling jittery and anxious or you suffer from indigestion, it might be time to cut back on caffeine and start drinking herbal teas instead. You don’t have to give it up completely, as a small amount of coffee can be beneficial, but it’s wise to moderate your consumption.
Likewise, if you feel sluggish throughout the day but can’t get to sleep at night, try cutting out alcohol for a few weeks to see if you notice a difference in your mood and health.
Exercise More
Exercise is not only vital for your physical health; it will also improve your mood, release endorphins and help you meet new people. Whether you get your daily dose of movement medicine by joining a gym, going for a run or taking up a new hobby, adding more physical exercise into your routine will have a positive ripple effect on other areas of your life.
Outdoor exercise is best for your mental and physical wellbeing as it brings you closer to nature, so try to get some fresh air for at least ten minutes each day. You could go running or join a hiking group through HulaHub.com.
Write Down Your Thoughts
Writing down your thoughts and feelings sounds simple in theory, but many of us struggle with the discipline of doing it every day. Nevertheless, if you can master the art of list making and journaling, your mind will feel less cluttered, and you might even notice a boost in productivity.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never written a word voluntarily in your life. Merely getting your thoughts, ideas, and worries down on paper will free up your mind and help you achieve your goals. You can use diagrams, lists, charts or free-hand writing, so find an approach that works for you and stick to it once or twice a day.
Trying any one of these three lifestyle changes should help you take control of your emotions and live more mindfully. By all means, implement all three changes together – just take care to set realistic expectations, and don’t give yourself a hard time if you slip up. Living well is a journey, not a destination, and there is plenty to learn along the way!
Leave a Reply