A useful tool
A tip I often use in clinic is to write down a list of the things you (usually) do regularly to keep yourself feeling well.
We all have things that we do to keep us energised, often without recognising that is what we are doing. Keeping a list of these habits means when you feel off-track or low in mood or energy you can check-in with yourself.
Are you doing what makes you feel good? What are the barriers to keeping your healthy habits?
What are examples of healthy habits?
This is the fun bit as it can be anything that works for you! Good examples include
– getting to bed by 10.30
– going for a walk / run outside
– meeting a friend for a coffee
– a morning smoothie
– drinking water regularly in the day
– keeping alcohol to the weekend
– eating lunch away from the desk
– having a bath
– phone free 30 minutes with my child after school
How many do I need?
This is also up to you – I’ve seen people with 15 things they do weekly and people with 3 things they do daily, whatever works for you!
Have a range of ideas for different moods and needs, such as when you want more energy and when you want to wind down. Don’t have too many that you get fed up with yourself for not doing them, the idea is to feel good about looking after yourself.
Perhaps you can engage your family? Teens and children often respond well to this and can also remind you to keep to your list.
Where do I keep them?
I have mine in the front of my diary as I use an old school paper diary to keep on track. If you keep everything on your phone how about using the notes pages? Make a beautiful list and keep it on your fridge? Where do you linger in the house that might be useful to keep a reminder of all you do that is good for you.
Top tip
Set a couple of times a year to review your list. Inevitably we change our routines and that might change our habits too. Or if you notice you are not doing anything from your list that suggests an overhaul is due.
Good luck and share your lists with me on Instagram?
