Jan 14, 2024 We find ourselves smack in the middle of “Dry January” with a bit of holiday let down, ....... and perhaps a little New Year’s resolution remorse.
When we commit to changing a habit, getting clear on your “whys” is critical. The reasons for wanting change are usually connected to how we feel. We want to feel better, stronger, healthier, happier. In addition to knowing why we want the change, finding something to replace the habit with can help. This is where creating a list of “tools” to choose from when temptation arises can help move you closer to your goal.
Healthy distractions can be more inviting when you create the list around your personal favourites. Here are some healthy ideas to get you started. Feel free to use them all or simply a few. Have fun with it and don’t hold back. Remember you want to distract from the urge and FEEL GOOD!
Try using “H.A.L.T.” Am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired?
Hungry - eat something
Angry - Exercise or Move!
Lonely - Talk to a friend or walk in a public place
Tired - take a nap, rest or go to bed early
Relaxing bath
Cup of favourite tea and a good book
Play with your pet!
Put on your favourite music and dance around the house
Whatever is therapeutic to you - work in your garden, garage, cook, bake, etc.
Walk in nature or anywhere outside and breathe in the air
Think about how this too will pass. Nothing stays forever.
Exercise in nature
Paint if you paint.
Play cards with someone
Grounding
Make a fancy coffee or latte
Knit with friends - knitting can be a callaborative
Large glass of water
Tapping
Voo Breathing
Meditation
Use any healthy distraction that replaces or distracts from the urge.
If you fall off, start again. Look at your percentage of success days. Viewing a "slip" as a failure fosters negativity, so call it as a “data point” and learn from it. Get curious around the feeling that was present and journal about it. What was the feeling you were trying to change? Where did this feeling come from? What was I doing at the time?
Habit change is never a straight line and expecting perfection isn’t realistic.
Give yourself some grace and compassion.
Remember; Read your whys. Re-commit. Use your tools. Repeat with Grace
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