How to Reset
Have you ever been in a phase where making healthy choices feels really tough? Maybe the thought of eating healthy food doesn’t excite you, you aren't getting enough sunshine, it’s harder to get motivated for exercise, or you just don't feel like hanging out with others. Whatever it is, it’s totally normal—we all hit that wall at some point.
I've had my share of days and even weeks like that. Sometimes all it takes is a little change in mindset and a few small SIMPLE choices to help me bounce back and start making healthier decisions again.
Let’s be real you probably know what habits you have been neglecting that would make you feel significantly better.
Here is some inspo from my life for when you need to get out of a funk or lull. Feel free to use this list or even just use it to make your own reset list.
How to Reset
physically & mentally
These tasks might seem obvious but sometimes we need a reminder as to why they actually work and why you might not be feeling super motivated if you haven’t be doing these simple tasks.
Spend intentional time in the sun - sit outside for 10 - 20 minutes. close your eyes and soak in the sun on your face or invite someone to go to coffee and sit outside for the coffee date. *Morning light specifically can help regulate our circadian rhythm so our body and brain are more alert during the day and then ready to wind down when the sun goes down.
Wash your face - this sounds absurd but sometimes all it takes is doing one task that says “I am worth taking care of” to get you on the path of making better choices throughout the day. Don’t knock this one until you try it. Here are some simple skincare products to try.
Drink water - we all know this one but I think we forget how beneficial drinking enough water is for our bodies and brains. “Even mild dehydration—as little as 2% fluid loss—can affect memory, mood, concentration, and reaction time (NCOA).” When we are hydrated our brains can function better and we even can have more energy - which will help us with motivation! When we are dehydrated our bodies have to work harder and create a decreased flow of oxygen to our brains. *If you find yourself struggling to drink more water try to get more fruits like apples and watermelon to stay hydrated. I try to add in electrolytes like Perelel Health Cellular Hydration Powder. This powder not only helps me get vitamins and minerals to stay hydrated but I have noticed my skin looks WAY clearer when I am consistently drinking this!
Do one task you have been putting off - show yourself some self-respect. Show yourself you can trust yourself to follow through. There is this quote I love that says comfort creates self-care and discomfort creates self-respect. Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves we are capable of following through. *Set a timer for 30 minutes and just START. This could mean starting a work project, paying your bills, doing a workout at home, responding to your texts or emails, checking in on a friend you keep saying you will check in on, writing thank you letters, doing the dishes, following up - whatever it is just START. I am often surprised by what kind of momentum this creates for me.
Invite a friend on a walk - invite a friend to be in community and to hold yourself accountable to some movement. Sometimes all it takes is one 30 - 60 minute walk with a friend to get our energy back and to remind us how much better we feel after some movement and how much we need connection with people. Schedule it for a time you know you can commit to and just show up! Walks have proven to not only impact our physical health in the form of weight loss and improving our blood pressure - but walking has been shown to improve our mental health in the form of cognitive function (memory and the growth of new brain cells) and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety by producing dopamine and serotonin.
Buy one healthy meal out - Sometimes, the idea of cooking a healthy meal can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not in the mood to eat healthy as of late……A helpful option is to find a restaurant that offers a great salad you enjoy—ideally one that includes protein, grains, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. OR look for a place that serves curry with protein, vegetables, carbs, and fats. For instance, yellow curry with chicken or tofu served with a side of rice is a good tasty choice. Another idea is to opt for a salad and soup combo meal; just make sure the salad or soup contains enough protein to keep you full. When we nourish our bodies with nutritious foods, we're not only providing the energy needed to stay active, but we're also reminding ourselves that we are individuals who take care of our health.
What else would you add to your reset list?
