Pressing reset: Restoring healthy habits when you have lost your way

Life can sometimes throw us curveballs, where our healthy habits can be put on the backburner and unhealthy habits can creep in. Whether it's a busy work schedule, holidays, or personal stressors, when we find ourselves veering off course from our once-established healthy habits it can lead to feelings of tiredness, sluggishness and feeling generally out of sorts. Read these simple steps to get you feeling your best again in no time.  

1.     Reflect and set intentions

The first step in pressing reset is to take a moment for self-reflection. Consider the habits that have slipped away and the factors that led to their decline. Was it a lack of time, motivation, or perhaps a combination of both? Acknowledge these barriers without judgment, and then set clear intentions for your health journey ahead. Remember, small, realistic goals are key to sustainable change.

2.     Take an hour each week to plan your meals

Effective meal planning can be a game-changer. Allocate time each week to plan your meals and snacks. This will not only help you stay on track but also prevent impulsive, less healthy choices. Prepare a few ingredients in advance to simplify your cooking process during the busy weekdays.

3.     Clear out your kitchen 

The foods you keep in the kitchen are key to eating well and avoiding unhealthy quick fixes.  Clean out your cupboards and fridge, bidding farewell to biscuits, crisps, and other overly processed foods and snacks. Replace them with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stocking your kitchen with wholesome ingredients will make it easier to make nutritious choices every day.

4.     Prioritise hydration

One of the simplest yet often overlooked health habits is to stay hydrated. Keep a reusable, ideally non-plastic, water bottle with you at all times and sip fresh filtered water regularly throughout the day.

5.     Get walking  

Movement is vital to boost your endorphins and help you feel your best. One of the most accessible ways to get movement every day is to simply walk. Getting outside also makes you feel good and can aid sleep, so get your trainers on and get those steps in.

6.     Restorative sleep

Good quality sleep is the cornerstone of well-being. Establish a bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night. A good night's sleep rejuvenates your body, sharpens your mind, and contributes to overall vitality. See previous blog post.

7.     Eat a balanced and colourful diet  

Go back to basics with your food and ensure that each meal covers the nutritional bases of complex carbohydrates, a source of protein and some healthy fats. A broad range of colourful fruits and vegetables is also important to ensure that you get a variety of nutrients in your diet, as well as being good sources of fibre. Start adding more colourful fruits and vegetables into your daily diet and challenge yourself to see how many different colours you can eat in a day.

8.     Seek support and accountability

Cultivating healthy habits can be more enjoyable and sustainable when you have support. Share your goals with friends, family, or a supportive community. Also consider enlisting the help of a nutritionist and/or personal trainer, to provide more thorough and personalised guidance, and to keep you motivated and accountable.

Remember pressing reset on your health habits requires self-compassion. It's not about achieving perfection overnight, but rather embracing the journey towards balance and vitality. Here's to a fresh start and a healthier, happier you!