Begin with Ease
The key takeaway from experts like Andrea Leigh Rogers and Kristina Schuldt is that the best approach is to start with the "low-hanging fruit." Instead
of overhauling your entire life at once, focus on one or two manageable changes. For instance, if increasing water intake is a goal, use a large bottle marked with measurements to track your progress. If quitting smoking is on the agenda, reducing the number of cigarettes by one at a time can be a comfortable and effective strategy. Starting small prevents feeling overwhelmed and increases the likelihood of sticking to your goals. The principle is not to tackle the entire wellness universe at once, but to build a foundation of small, consistent habits that can grow over time.
Embrace Consistency
Consistency is crucial when aiming for a healthier lifestyle, and it's more important than the specific activities chosen. Rogers uses the acronym FEEL (Fast, Enjoyable, Effective, and Longevity) to outline characteristics of a good plan. This approach suggests finding activities you enjoy and can sustain over the long term. An example would be a regular walking routine; even if you're not used to long walks, starting with a few blocks and adding two blocks each week can gradually build your endurance. If the goal is weight loss, Jenny Watson's story shows that with consistent effort, including exercise and dietary changes, the pounds lost can stay off. This perseverance, combined with sustainable habits, is essential for long-term success and achieving wellness goals.
Explore Wellness Aspects
Wellness encompasses various dimensions, including physical fitness, mental health, financial stability, and spiritual well-being. It's important to identify your own wellness goals because this allows you to define what wellness means to you. James Keppel, who recovered from cirrhosis, made significant life changes, including becoming sober and making nutritional adjustments. Another example is Jenny Watson, who, weighing 420 pounds, found success by exercising and adopting a more wholesome diet. By defining your personal wellness aspirations and incorporating consistent routines, you can tailor a plan that considers multiple aspects of your life.
Nourish with Food
Nutrition plays a significant role in establishing a healthier lifestyle. Experimenting with different foods to discover your preferences is essential. Kristina Schuldt recommends finding healthy foods you enjoy, such as pumpkin instead of kale, and avoiding those you dislike. Another suggestion is to eat slowly and savor each bite, paying attention to your body's fullness cues. By making mindful choices in the kitchen and at the table, you can create a sustainable dietary pattern that supports your overall wellness. The goal is to find a balanced and enjoyable approach to eating that encourages healthy habits without forcing yourself to consume foods you don't like.
Mental Health Matters
Prioritizing mental well-being is as important as physical health. Consider incorporating practices like mindful breathing or stretching. When recovering from a difficult period, such as personal loss or job stress, taking time to rest, read, or watch TV is critical. Rogers stresses that it's important to avoid comparison with others and not to be overwhelmed by a multitude of wellness trends. Prioritizing mental health helps individuals to find peace of mind, creating a supportive foundation for any other changes they wish to implement.
