Healthy Habits
You know what they say about holidays? Post holiday-blues.
I’m back from a wonderful break in Fiji, and while I came back rested and recharged I decided while away it was time to reset and refocus
I’ve committed to forming (or restarting) some healthy habits, and I thought you might like to come along for the ride. Here’s what I’ve been putting my energy into:
Meal prep
For me, this is one of the simplest ways to implement some structure and organisation into my life, both in terms of saving time and ensuring my eating habits are on point. Each week, I’m setting aside an hour or two to get some meal components prepped for the week, saving me time in the mornings and preventing those last-minute lunches on the go, which more often than not aren’t so healthy, and end up adding to my weekly spend. I try to have my lunch box packed and ready in the evening straight after dinner. Little savings here and there can go a long way in the current climate!
Some of my favourite things to prepare are fresh fruit washed and cut, Israeli Couscous, bean salad, roasted beetroot and coleslaw. I also make sure my fridge is full of salad bags, the freezer has frozen bananas and blueberries and the pantry has protein powder, tinned fish etc.
Intermittent fasting
The benefits of intermittent fasting are widely becoming known and it’s a practice used by many around the world. Some of the key benefits include improving the body’s metabolism and lowering blood sugars, leading to deeper benefits including a clearer mind (less brain fog), and encouraging the body to use stored fat as energy, as opposed to sugar. I have committed to a nine-hour eating window so I’m keen to see if it makes a difference. Spoiler alert, I dropped a kg in week one!
10 min pre-bed meditation to busy the monkey mind
The caption says it all, really. I love to try and switch my mind off before going to bed to encourage a better sleep and discourage those midnight mind wanderings. It’s a great way to stop, reflect on the day that’s been and reset for a peaceful sleep and a new day ahead. I am struggling a little on this one, to be honest, it's been a bit hit-and-miss.
Better sleep and exercise!
Easier said than done, right?! Most of us know that getting enough sleep and exercise can be key drivers in creating a healthier mind and body. I’ve committed to going to bed a little earlier, and to moving my body in some way each day. My daily step goal is the magic number we have all heard before, 10,000 steps, along with a gym session a couple of times a week. I’m only a week or so in, but already my mind is clearer and I can feel my body getting stronger little by little.
What are some of your must-do healthy habits for a happy body and mind?
