Small changes can get big results
Are you going into January full of resolutions about things you are going to do differently this year?
That’s great if that works for you, but for a lot of people January resolutions often don’t last that long. And then you can start to feel bad about not sticking to them.
Sometimes we put ourselves under pressure to make drastic changes too quickly, without having the foundations in place to make sustainable change.
Or for someone people January is just not a good time to make changes – mood can be low after all the busy time of Christmas and Near Year is over, it’s often cold and dark making people feel tired and there are plenty of winter bugs around.
Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming
My approach when supporting clients to make changes is to start slowly. Small changes done consistently can get you big results over time – it doesn’t have to be extreme or hard work. If you start where you are at and just add in one small change it feels manageable. Then keep this going over time and eventually it becomes a habit that you keep doing long term. And then bingo – that’s when you notice a difference.
And the change you start with doesn’t have to be drastic. In fact, I think the simpler you keep it the more likely you are to get results. I really can’t stress how much difference just getting the basics right can make to people.
If you make large drastic changes and only manage to keep it going for a month, you might not notice much difference. But if you make small consistent changes over time and gradually keep adding to them, this can lead to big results.
So whatever time of year to decide to start making a change (why do we think we can only do this in January?) here are some ideas for simple, low cost and often free things you can do that done consistently can make a difference to your health – whether that’s energy levels, gut health, hormone balance or pain.
Start with one or maybe two things and then once they’ve become a habit, add another thing in.
Top things to do that can make a difference to your health
- Get a consistent 7 to 8 hours sleep a night
As well as helping you feel more energised, getting a consistent night’s sleep can help support your immune system, reduce inflammation levels and regulate some of your hormones.
2. Stay active daily
This doesn’t have to mean joining a gym. Just getting some movement every day will help boost your mood, reduce stress, strengthen bones, support your immune system and encourage movement through your digestive system. A short walk round the block, a dance in the kitchen or picking up leaves in the garden all count.
3. Fuel your mornings right
Skip the sugary breakfast cereal and power up your breakfast with protein or healthy fats instead. This will help to balance your blood sugar levels, give you more consistent energy levels and help balance your hormones. Think avocado or eggs on toast or a spinach omelette.
4. Pick a daily stress buster
Reduce the impact of stress on the body by doing something stress busting every day. This could be a blast of your favourite tune, a few rounds of deep breathing or a blast of cold water in the shower.
5. Drink more water
So many of us are not properly hydrated. Getting this right can help with concentration and focus, energy levels, digestion and headaches.
6. Add some colour to your plate
Eating as many different coloured fruits and vegetables as you can help your gut health, reduce inflammation and pain and support your immune system.
7. Prioritise self-care
Take some time out for you. Whether that’s a soak in the bath, a walk in nature or a chat to a friend. Looking after yourself is keep for managing any hormonal challenges and just about any health condition!
Stick this up on the fridge and whenever you feel a bit down or under the weather, try doing something off the list.
Let me know how you get on!
Content Disclaimer
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this blog are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this blog. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this blog. Emma Belton Nutrition disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this blog.