We are all familiar with spring cleaning for our homes and garages, but what about our body? This spring don’t forget about your body and mind. A spring cleaning for your body and mind can improve your physical and mental health. Below are three things you can do to take the next steps in your health journey.
How are your sleep habits and routine?
The first place to start is to spring clean your sleep routine. A small but huge change is to adjust your sleep schedule, so you go to bed at the same time each night. Make it a goal to establish a 10 o’clock bedtime. Did you know that each hour of the day corresponds with internal organ “housekeeping?” From the hours of 11pm-1am our body resets our adrenals. Adrenal glands are responsible for managing our stress hormones. Have you ever experienced a late night “second wind”? If you are still awake during this 11pm-1am period, you are not allowing your body the opportunity to reset for the next day.
If you are constantly tired, stressed, and having a difficult time losing weight, belly fat is a sign of hormonal imbalance, it is time to work on your sleep schedule. Turn off electronics at least one hour before bed, reduce daily caffeine intake, and go to bed by 10 o’clock. You will be amazed how energized you will feel and will be ready to start the day. Check out a previous blog that discusses even more benefits to getting a good night’s sleep.
Is it time for a stress check?
Not all stress is bad when it is managed properly. When controlled, stress can help us met deadlines and accomplish our goals. However, prolonged stress can have serious consequences that impact your health and wellness. Start by determining the source of your stress. Is your space messy? Do you have too many notifications and distractions pulling you away from your pertinent tasks? Do you procrastinate? Prioritize and schedule your day so you are not tempted to deviate from the plan. Establishing good habits and routines can reduce your long-term stress and help with productivity. Stress does not only happen in the spring, it is important to re-evaluate your stress levels often and make adjustments.
Is it time for a check-in?
It is important to pause and reflect on your week by checking-in with yourself. Ask yourself this simple question: How are things going? If you are unable to honestly answer, “Great!”, then evaluate what went well and what areas were a challenge this week. Some areas to evaluate are eating habits, stress management, relationships at work and home, and exercise routine.
It is important to make time to spring clean your body and mind. If you do not clean periodically, it is inevitable that things pile up, get dirty, increase stress and anxiety, and begin to cause problems. Pick an area in your life that causes the most stress and plan on how to improve your mindset and habits. Goals are good, but systems and an actionable plan on how to reach your goals is more important. Take care of your home, work, body and mind and you will be able to start enjoying life and feeling better.
If you need help getting started, we are here at Venture Chiropractic to help you move better, feel better, and be a better you.
