Fall into Healthy Habits
As we move into fall and experience the changing seasons, we can use this spirit of transition as an opportunity to reflect on our current lifestyle. It can sometimes feel like a variation in structure will knock a good routine off balance. However, we can shift the way we view these transitions from something to dread into a positive opportunity for change.
For example, you may anticipate challenges in maintaining your healthy lifestyle habits in the fall. Colder weather and shorter days may leave less time for exercise. Perhaps you felt it was easier to cook more nutritious meals over the summer with fewer scheduled after-school activities and an abundance of fresh produce.
Pulling from Carol Dweck’s research on a “growth mindset,” which views challenges as an opportunity for experimentation and learning, let’s embrace the fall with optimism as a chance for enhanced healthy lifestyle habits. As you are contemplating this, contemplate:
What’s working well for you now?
What would you like to change?
What resources can you draw on to support you?
So, consider what you can adjust to meet the new season’s challenges using the above example. Could you view this as an opportunity to experiment with new flavors of fall vegetables, such as winter squash or kohlrabi? Is it a good time to invest in warm workout gear or explore indoor exercise options? Maybe more batch cooking or slow cooker meals can aid with a lack of time for meal prepping.
When we adopt a growth mindset, we can view challenges as opportunities for development and expand our creativity to cultivate the habits we desire in each new season. Here are some tips for embracing the changes in each new season of your life:
Practice shifting your thoughts into a more supportive framework – instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” reframe into “I’m still learning this.” “I don’t want to make a mistake” turns into “Mistakes are how I learn about myself and get better.”
Visualize your future self, practicing the healthy behaviors you desire or mastering new skills. This visualization can be a powerful tool for a lifestyle change.
Design your environment for success – reflect what would make it easier to make healthy choices and what makes it more difficult for you.
Don’t underestimate the power of small steps. Sometimes making a small change that compounds over time can be more sustainable and realistic than trying to overhaul everything all at once. Be patient with yourself!
Working individually with a dietitian or health coach may be helpful if you are experiencing challenges in achieving balance with a healthy lifestyle. In our practice, Cultivate WNC, we explore your unique goals, habits, challenges, and strengths and build a realistic plan to see your health thrive. You can visit our services page to learn more about our approach and to schedule a free exploratory call.
We look forward to learning how we can support your journey toward health!
