Are you like me? Do you get tired of the monotony of some of the things you know are good for you? Anyone else get bored with brushing your teeth?! (Random, I know! And you’re probably laughing and rolling your eyes, as I am.) Really, I’m SO very thankful for my healthy pearly whites, but come on, let’s be real, brushing gets very…redundant!! And seriously, drinking water?!! Especially in Arizona. YES, It’s so wonderfully refreshing, but sometimes, it just seems…sooo…blahhh!
I was reminded this week, sometimes just the smallest tweaks that switch things up a little can make the biggest difference, especially when they become a regular part of our everyday living. While writing, I’ve been challenged to re-think and re-examine my daily habits to tweak and hone to get a few more benefits. I’ve realized I’ve gotten bored with water too (meaning I don’t drink quite as much as I’d like to.) Without really thinking, I pulled out a cute, plastic tumbler from a friend, complete with colorful straw, started filling it with cold water (though I usually drink room temp water!) and wow….all of a sudden, water seems just a little more exciting than it did last week. Funny! It was such a little tweak but it really made a world of difference! Now, I’m drinking more water again, and I get a reminder of a precious friend; so thankful!
Speaking of really breaking routines, my new favorite: vacation…stay-cation…whatever! And ‘tis the season! Amazing what a little change in routine, a day off, a change of scenery, a day off of make-up and “real” clothes and a change from the norm can do to refresh, renew and recharge the body! It’s a must and I’m learning to be even more intentional about making sure they happen regularly, not just once a year.
So here’s Week 2’s fun 12 Secrets continued. Be thinking how you can be inspired, knowing results can come through even the smallest changes and improvements.
3- Hydrate
Water is essential to life, making up 75% of your body. It helps keep your entire body healthy and hydrated, transporting nutrients into the cells and clearing out toxins. How much should you drink? Your weight ÷ 2 = ounces needed daily. Add extra to compensate for exercise, warm temperatures and when drinking coffee, tea or soda, which can be dehydrating.
4- Rest, Relax and Refresh – Now, this one is FUN!!!
Most illnesses are stress-related, throwing off numerous hormones throughout the body. Endless “to do” lists press our limits, but we need rest, daily and weekly. Rest and sleep unwind, rebuild and rejuvenate the body, enhancing creativity and performance, boosting moods, strengthening the immune system, helping us process life…and even learn! Be sure to take time to relax. Be still. Reflect. Read. Pray. Choose something fun to do. Build relationships. Pursue your dreams and hobbies. Get enough sleep. You’ll find the invaluable stress-relieving effects for your entire body!
5- Soak Up Some Sun
Be sure to get a daily dose of sun on bare, exposed skin (think beach, even if you’re in the city!!!). Increasing research shows just how vital Vitamin D (made in your body from sunlight) really is for boosting the immune system, preventing cancer and diabetes, maintaining weight and the health of every cell of the body. If you live in a place with lots of rain, clouds, primarily stay indoors (because it’s SO HOT!), or are super sun-sensitive, consider taking a supplement and getting your blood levels checked regularly to monitor your progress.
Now, it’s your turn!
What 3 tweaks are you going to make this week?
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What will you do this week to break up monotony, stress and routine in your life?
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Hellooo August! Guess what?! You still have 5 full months to hit your goals!! You can do it!!!
And, how’s your progress from last week’s tips? Update me! I want to know what’s working and where the struggle is real. (Missed Week 1 Secrets? Catch them here.)
I’ll be back next week with Week 3’s tips…and a new flavor of toothpaste. 🙂