This year has been challenging for many women, which is why it’s important to focus on self-care practices that help boost your well-being from the inside-out. Staying at home and self-isolating can exact a toll on mental and physical health, so it may be time to consider ways you can create a healthier lifestyle. For tips and resources for thriving in all parts of your life, 365 Daily Hustle offers the following guide to help you feel inspired and motivated to make a change.
Regain control
The pandemic has caused many to experience a lack of control over their lives—with strict precautions in many places, simple outings like going to coffee with friends became almost too risky to contemplate. If pandemic restrictions have lifted in your area and you’ve had enough of a sedentary and isolated lifestyle, it’s time to regain control by taking back the reigns of your health and mental well-being. You deserve the best you, and here’s how to make it happen:
Focus on nutrition
Adopting a more nutritious diet is one way to get your health back on track quickly. Food is a powerful form of medicine: if you choose healthy options, you can improve not only your physical health but also your mood and general outlook on life.
If you’ve ever struggled to stick to a new diet, you’re not alone:
diets typically don’t work, which is why it’s better to simply follow a few general rules for healthy eating. First, keep it real. Don’t lean on processed foods, and instead eat vegetables, fruits, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. Opt for home-cooked meals over restaurant food, because you’ll be able to better manage the amount of oil, salt, and sugar added.
One way to foster healthier eating is by signing up for meal delivery or grocery service near you. This is great for working mothers or those who just don’t have time to go shopping. When choosing a meal delivery service, be sure to pick out healthy meal options, and be sure to check reviews and cost before signing up. A grocery service can also be a big time-saver, and will still allow you to pick and choose specific items for your meals.
The power of new clothes
For many women, slipping into a new outfit feels incredible. A new outfit that’s comfortable and well-fitting can promote confidence, help you think more clearly and make you feel great.
When you’re shopping for new clothes, it’s important to keep occasions in mind. For the office, a smart suit and a spectacular pair of heels can make you feel unstoppable. When it comes to time at home or remote work, be sure to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. Pick out clothes that are great both for home and for heading out: a new pair of jeans is great for women who want to feel confident and comfortable out on the town. Pair your new jeans with a warm sweater, and you’ll be ready for your next coffee date with a friend. And don’t forget to include comfortable underwear or bras that fit you perfectly, so you can feel great underneath it all.
Daily exercise
With many gyms closed, it’s easy to make excuses for not exercising. Even if you don’t have workout equipment at home, it’s still possible to create a fitness routine without the gym.
Many fitness studios have turned to online classes for students who want to work out at home. You can find plenty of different class options, whether it’s yoga, pilates, or HIIT routines. There are many free options out there, but if you’d rather have personalized training, you can work one-on-one with trainers to help you get back into shape quickly.
If working out at home seems difficult or unappealing, take your workouts outside. An excellent way to safely socialize is by exercising with friends outdoors. Try doing yoga in the park, or consider a run or a hike with a friend. There are even some fitness studios who now offer outdoor classes while COVID-19 remains a concern, so call around to local studios to see what’s available.
Your life may have been turned upside-down this year, but it’s time to take back control of your health and wellness. You can do this in several ways, whether it’s committing to a healthier diet, exercising regularly, or buying a new outfit that makes you feel confident. Even if you decide to wait a while longer before heading back out into the world, these tips will help you gradually look and feel great.
If you’re a career-focused mother looking for a better work-life balance, 365 Daily Hustle can help you get your life on track with personalized coaching.