For as long as humans have walked the earth, women have played a central role in the family and community. Over time, the roles have changed with one of the biggest shifts taking place in the last two centuries. Only 100 years ago, a ‘woman’s job’ was caring for the children and the home. We all know that’s certainly not the case today. Today, women are caring for children, managing homes, careers, and the list goes on and on. However, that shift does not change a woman’s natural desire to nurture and care for those around her. And most women go above and beyond to do so.
Women, we know, and understand that with your growing to-do list, it can be easy to push your own needs to the bottom. But, the truth is, making your self-care and your health a priority is what allows you to be your best. And, what better time to discuss this subject than during Women’s Health Week! So let’s dive in and explore some unique and useful ways to put your health first, to refuel the tank, and stay at the top of your game.
When it comes to health and wellness, one size doesn’t fit all. We are all different and on a health journey that is unique to each of us. Your health journey is your own, and this week is about learning what is best for you! How? Glad you asked. It all starts with establishing a wellness routine that fits your lifestyle.
What exactly is a wellness routine? It’s simply a few daily habits that serve you and your wellbeing that you can commit to. Remember, complete wellness includes much more than diet and exercise. It’s a delicate balance and includes things like spiritual, physical, emotional, relational, and mental wellness. With that, your wellness routine should touch every one of these categories. And, depending on your schedule, you might be able to add all of these elements to your morning routine.
When it comes down to it, it’s not your timing that matters though. All that matters is that you make time for you and your wellness in a way that works for you. This is YOUR routine. You decide what you do, when you do it, and how often you do it. Need a few ideas to start building your routine? No problem, we’ve got you. Here are three “must-haves” to include in a solid wellness routine...
1. Get Up and Get Out
Living a sedentary lifestyle has been called the silent killer. Your body is meant to move and be active! While mainstream media might have you thinking this movement needs to come in the form of CrossFit or marathons, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Movement can fit into your life in a variety of ways including working from a standing desk, making time for a short walk break every hour, running around with your toddler, time at the gym, and so on. Choose movement that you enjoy. Being proactive with your activity levels is important to feeling and doing your best.
2. What Goes In…
You are what you eat. You are what you eat. Say it one more time for those in the back! You bet, you are what you eat. When you fill your body with whole food goodness that nurtures your entire body, your body returns the favor and begins to function at its best for you. We are talking about whole foods that haven’t been processed or have been minimally processed like legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, veggies, meat, and so on. The human body runs at its best on food very close to, or in, its natural state.
This is where meal planning and preparation come in handy, for more than one reason, actually. Planning your menu ahead of time and setting aside some time to meal prep for the week will not only help you stick to a healthier diet, but it is also very efficient and will help you save some time during the busy week ahead.
Speaking of what goes in, we can’t forget supplements because our food alone isn’t getting the job done anymore. That’s where supplements come in, filling the gaps and feeding our bodies the nutrients our diets are missing. And, when it comes to choosing your supplements, being picky is a good thing. In the world of supplements, you get what you pay for and it all comes down to quality.
The nutrients you put in your body are what fuel you for the demands you face each day. When you ensure you are getting the proper fuel each day you are putting your best foot forward. With that, you might consider adding a superfood-based supplement pack, like Essentials to your daily wellness regime.
3. Find Your Tribe
We are social beings and connection is absolutely necessary when it comes to emotional and mental wellbeing. When women band together, there is a strength that is unmatched. We all know and understand that making change can be hard, especially when it comes to self-care and wellness. While challenges help us grow and evolve, it’s support systems that help us push through the tough times. Invest in your social groups, find people who support you, and want the best for your health and their health!
Being a woman means many amazing and beautiful things, including striving to feel and do our best. A woman who is striving for wellness is truly an unstoppable force. Find what it means to practice wellness as a woman through getting up and active, putting good in, and grouping with those who are with you on this wellness journey.