The stress of COVID-19 has spawned some unhealthy habits. Check out these tips to help get you back on track.
- Start with Small Steps
This year, we have all been in our bubbles with nothing but time to think about what we should be doing. This can have us feeling a sense of urgency to “DO IT NOW!” Don’t start with dramatic changes to your diet and exercise routine. This could be overwhelming and typically sets you up for failure. Start with small, attainable goals for long-term success. Try cutting back on those sweet comfort foods and checking out a new fitness class. You will find those healthy habits will be easier to fall back into than you think.
- Find your Fitness Buddy
Healthy habits love company! Meet up with a workout buddy for motivation and accountability. Just having that scheduled workout with a friend helps to keep you showing up. When we agree with someone else to meet up, we tend to be less likely to talk ourselves out of it because someone else is waiting on you.
- Work on Those Healthy Sleeping and Eating Habits
We have all gotten a little off track with these two areas. The stress and worry that comes along with a pandemic can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns. The FDA recommends that most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Not everyone gets the sleep they need. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep most nights, you may have a sleep problem called insomnia. Some of us turn to food for comfort. Stress eating can lead to weight gain, which causes stress. One way to combat this is to go for a walk or try replacing the snack with something that gets you up and moving. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can cause weight gain in four ways: it stops your body from burning fat, it's high in kilojoules, it can make you feel hungry, and it can lead to poor food choices. Water is always best.