Now is the time to take charge of your health. Keep in mind to do what is best for you. What your body needs is specific to you. Our bodies are always giving us clues for re-direction if we are off course and not feeling our best. Are you paying attention? Our bodies want to come back to balance and vibrate at a high level of functioning because that is where we feel good from the inside out.
Every little thing you do, either guides you towards or away from health. Your environment, the nutrition you consume, your thoughts, physical activity level, stress, support system or lack thereof… Are you overwhelmed with where to start and then just give up? If so, you’re not alone. Change takes time and your intention will be your foundation.
First, take a step back and figure out how you got to where you are now. Be honest with yourself and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Reflection on how you got into your current health situation may give you clarity. Think about what worked or what did not work towards your health goals. What are your daily habits?
When it comes to needing more energy there are a few things to think about. Do you need more time to relax or are you emotionally stuck? Is sleep an issue? Are you leading a sedentary lifestyle? Is there stagnation or pain in your body? Is toxic load bringing you down? Are there stressful factors weighing you down? Identifying what you actually need for your health is important so that you don’t cause more harm. For example, if you’re not getting quality sleep then you don’t want to begin a daily regimen grinding out gym workouts when you’re already running on low. Perhaps, epsom salt baths at night may be more beneficial to get back on track.
Next, decide what your health goal may be and if there’s a time frame you would like to accomplish it by. Specificity can be motivating. You may be thinking I just want to feel better. That’s fine, but put some energy into what that means. Is it more energy, less pain, improved mood, clear thinking, increased motivation, weight loss or weight gain?
Then, make a simple and feasible step in the direction of health specific for you. Start small and try your best to be consistent. When it comes to eating habits, adding in the good may be more appealing than taking away certain foods. And that’s ok. The more you add in fiber and antioxidants your palate will change and I promise you that shifts in your body will take place and cravings will pivot. Once your palate changes, then maybe you can take the next step in removing offending foods from your diet. If you make any changes that create a feeling that you are missing out on something, then you are setting yourself up for resentment. When it comes to diet changes, it takes a shift in mindframe from the misconception that there is a lack of food to realizing that there are endless options of nutrient dense food available to you.
Believe in yourself that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Ask for help. Surround yourself with people who are supportive. If you’re stuck on taking the first step towards wellness, consider finding a Naturopathic Doctor who is trained from an accredited Naturopathic Medical School in creating health plans encompassing Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle Habits & Supplements that are specific for your health goals. Find your tribe to help you – they are out there!
In Good Health,
Dr. Dawn Siglain ND, LAc