Habits Now Build Habits Later

Here we are! Depending on where you live, you’ve been sheltering in place for close to a month. I can safely say the novelty has worn off, but this still doesn’t feel normal. No one really knows when restrictions will be relaxed and that uncertainty can lead to resignation. While I am all for taking a “self-care” approach by not loading up on a bunch of self-imposed expectations of how to “productively” spend your time at home, keep in mind that you may also unconsciously be building habits that will be hard to break later.

Unfortunately, you cannot hit the pause button on behaviors without other behaviors taking their place. Have you ever taken a break from the gym for an extended period of time and found it really hard to get back into a routine? That’s because you created a new routine of not going to the gym. The same holds true for food, and possibly to a greater degree. Since food is often used as a means of coping with stress and anxiety or to cure boredom, an emotional reliance on not-so-great food can develop. When I work with my nutrition clients, this is one of the first places we start, how to recognize and address the emotion/food relationship.

I’m not saying you have to be perfect— it will never be perfect, especially right now with so much out of our control. Instead, focus on what you can control.

• Set a weekly workout/activity goal.

• Set a goal for your food. Maybe counting macros is too much right now. Try shooting for eating 800g for vegetables and fruits (even beans count!).

• Find a food alternative when you get stressed. This one will take some practice and will likely be uncomfortable, but you can do it!.

If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out!