Stuck in a Rut - Simple Daily Changes

When you don't feel 100% in your own body but there's so much information / advice being given, it can be overwhelming to even start to make changes. Let’s look at simple things that will make a positive difference to your daily routine. Here are my 5 TOP TIPS:

MORNING ELECTROLYTE DRINK

Drinking electrolytes first thing in the morning can provide several benefits, especially after a night of fasting during sleep, when your body naturally becomes dehydrated.

Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium enhance water absorption, ensuring that your body re-hydrates efficiently and restores balance.

Electrolytes are essential for cellular energy production, giving your body a jump-start for the day and helping you to feel energised. They will also help support optimal brain performance, especially magnesium which supports neural activity, reducing mental fogginess.

When choosing which electrolytes to enjoy, you can start with natural sources: Coconut water is a great one or a pinch of sea salt with lemon in water can be a good alternative too. Personally I love True Hydration from Ancient & Brave, which is an electrolyte powder as well as Elete Electrolytes - both simple to add to water.

When trying to make healthy choices, there are so many we can choose from. Here is is another tip:

GET OUTSIDE

If possible first thing in the morning. Getting outside first thing in the morning is a simple yet powerful habit with a host of physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

Morning sunlight / daylight signals your brain to suppress melatonin (the sleep hormone) and produce cortisol (the wakefulness hormone), helping you feel alert and energized. It may also improve sleep quality - Exposure to natural light in the morning sets your internal clock, promoting better sleep at night.

Sunlight triggers serotonin production, which boosts mood and combats feelings of stress and anxiety. Starting your day outdoors can lower stress levels compared to staying indoors.

Step outside for 10–15 minutes - Even a short amount of time in natural light can be beneficial. Try combining with movement - A brisk walk or yoga session outdoors amplifies the benefits.

Starting your day outside aligns your body with its natural rhythms, boosting both physical and mental health.

MOVE DAILY

Incorporate at least 30 minutes of physical activity. Daily movement is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. It impacts nearly every aspect of your physical, mental, and emotional health, making it a cornerstone of a balanced lifestyle.

Regular movement strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. It supports muscle tone, balance, and joint health, reducing the risk of injuries and promoting mobility. Moderate activity enhances the immune system, making you more resilient against illnesses. Weight-bearing activities, such as walking or resistance exercises, strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Not to mention the benefits for our mental health. Movement stimulates the production of endorphins, which help alleviate stress and promote a sense of well-being. Regular activity increases serotonin and dopamine levels, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression.

Daily movement will also enhance focus, memory, and creativity by increasing blood flow to the brain as well as helping to regulate sleep patterns, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.

How to Incorporate Daily Movement

  • Keep It Simple: A brisk walk, stretching, or even household chores count.

  • Stay Consistent: Aim for at least 30 minutes a day

  • Mix It Up: Combine strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises

  • Listen to Your Body: Adjust intensity based on your fitness level and how you’re feeling.

Daily movement is not just about structured exercise; it’s about staying active throughout the day. Small efforts, like taking the stairs or stretching at your desk, can add up to significant health benefits over time. Just make sure to do something daily for at least a combined time of 30 minutes!

HAVE BREAKFAST

Eating in the morning rather than fasting can offer significant health benefits, especially for maintaining energy levels, supporting metabolism, and promoting overall well-being. While intermittent fasting has its place in some lifestyles, here’s why having a morning meal can be essential for many people especially those who exercise regularly, particularly increasing strength AND women over the age of 40.

After a night of fasting, your body’s glycogen stores (energy reserves) are low. A morning meal replenishes these, providing immediate energy for your day. Eating in the morning signals your body to start metabolizing food, helping to regulate your energy use throughout the day. Prolonged fasting in the morning can lead to a slower metabolism, especially if it becomes a habit over time.

Morning meals help maintain steady blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of fatigue, irritability, and cravings later in the day it will also help to prevent your body from breaking down muscle tissue for energy. Breakfast can be a chance to consume fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein that are harder to fit into later meals. and a balanced breakfast can curb excessive hunger, making it easier to control portion sizes and make healthier choices throughout the day.

What to Eat for a Balanced Morning Meal

  • Protein: Eggs, Greek yogurt, or plant-based options like tofu or nuts.

  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of olive oil.

  • Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains (oatmeal, whole-grain toast) or fruits.

  • Hydration: Pair your meal with water, electrolytes, tea, or a small amount of coffee.

For most people, eating in the morning supports optimal energy, mental clarity, and long-term health. It helps your body prepare for the demands of the day and reduces the risk of overcompensating with poor eating habits later o

My final tip for creating a healthier lifestyle is probably the most important one for me.

DAILY STRESS MANAGEMENT - YES DAILY!!!

This is imperative because chronic stress can have far-reaching negative effects on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Proactively managing stress helps prevent long-term health issues, improves quality of life, and enhances your ability to navigate daily challenges.

  • Prolonged stress increases the risk of conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.

  • Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses.

  • Stress often causes muscle tension, leading to headaches, back pain, and other discomforts.

  • Effective stress management can prevent or reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

  • Stress often causes insomnia or restless sleep.

  • Chronic stress leads to consistently elevated cortisol, which can disrupt metabolism, immune function, and overall health. Daily management helps regulate this hormone.

  • Stress can trigger overeating or appetite loss.

Stress Management Practices

  • Mindfulness or Meditation: 5–10 minutes to calm your mind.

  • Exercise: Physical activity reduces cortisol and boosts mood-enhancing endorphins.

  • Journaling: Writing down thoughts / feelings helps to process emotions.

  • Deep Breathing Exercises: To activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

  • Nature Walks: Spending time outdoors can reduce stress and promote relaxation.

  • Social Connection: Talking with friends or loved ones to alleviate feelings of isolation and provide emotional support.

Why Consistency Matters - Stress doesn’t just go away—it accumulates if left unaddressed. Regularly managing it prevents the buildup of chronic stress, which is far harder to resolve and has more severe health consequences. By incorporating daily stress management practices into your routine, you can improve your overall quality of life, protect your health, and build a foundation for handling life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience.

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