What a crazy and uncertain time we are all in, but how amazing we are all able to adapt. This may take some of us longer than others and some of you may have found the past few weeks difficult, and that’s ok.
Its dangerously easy to fall into negative emotions, killing your drive and fall into the trap of ‘Netflix and chill’. Create a plan each day to keep you busy and keep a positive and healthy mind.
A routine and structure during this time is more than just about getting in shape, its about implementing daily discipline and creating a new routine to ensure you stay mentally and physically fit. It doesn’t have to be about getting leaner but simply keeping control of your mental health.
- GET DRESSED. Monday to Friday at least anyway. The best advice I can give you is to get up in the morning and get dressed. Even just having a shower and putting on some loungewear instead of staying in your PJs will make you more productive. You will move around the house more, clean, tidy, cook a nutritious breakfast. If you don’t you are much more likely to; snack, grab something easy for breakfast like cereal instead of making a nutritious omelette, miss that workout you was going to do. All of this will leave you feeling lethargic, less motivated and this can become a vicious cycle of negativity.
- MOVE YOUR BODY in some way every day- walk, stretch, workout. If you are someone who wants to keep up your exercise routine or wants to start one then you must plan and structure this into your day. Plan it like you would a meeting. Be ready to go at the time you set.
- PLAN YOUR WEEKLY DIET!! I cannot emphasise this enough to avoid over-eating. Plan a healthy, balanced diet to aid your immune system and feel your best.
BOREDOM AND EMOTIONAL SNACKING. This is one that will catch us all off guard, which is why a well structured eating routine will benefit you, particularly during this time.
A plan will keep you more on track and less likely to give in to temptation. Only go into the kitchen at meal times. If you are working from home, set your office as far away from the kitchen as possible.
TREATS IN MODERATION. We all deserve a treat every now and then but think about it, whatever you buy you will eat. So how about you don’t buy it!! Then the days you feel you want a treat, bottle of wine, takeaway or whatever a treat is to you, walk to the shop and get it.
- HYDRATE. It’s tough when we are not moving as much to be conscious of the amount of water you are drinking. However, staying well hydrated is essential for our physical and mental health. Improve sleep, reduce hunger/cravings, productivity, clearer skin, reduce mood swings, reduce risk of migraines, health conditions and COVID-19!! FACT!
- SLEEP. No better time than now to prioritise sleep. Woohooooo.
Getting enough good quality sleep will;
- Reduce Ghrelin (your hunger hormone), meaning you will experience less hunger throughout the day.
- Decrease Cortisol levels (stress hormone).
- Sleep is a cognitive enhancer; increasing daily awareness, decision making, memory and learning both physical and mental patterns.
- Make your body more efficient at recovering from workouts.
- PHONE A FRIEND or family member to check in with and make sure they are ok. Talk to them, be honest about your emotions as they are probably feeling exactly the same.
Be Safe, keep hydrated, eat your veggies, wash your hands.
Leanne xxx