Special to Palmetto Counseling’s Blog | August 27, 2018 1:15 PM EDT
This issue features an article by Gloria Martinez

With so many things to take care of, many women today feel like they’re stuck in a rut. It can be overwhelming to juggle work, family, home and all the projects we take on in any given week and still feel like we’re at the top of our game. Physically, emotionally and mentally, life can drain you if you aren’t careful, leaving you feeling tired, sluggish and uninspired.

Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to overcome those feelings. Focusing on eating well and exercising are two relatively small ways to change your lifestyle that can make a big impact. There are several things you can do to make those changes work for you. If you hate working out, for instance, you can integrate your hobby or another activity you enjoy into your routine, such as gardening or dancing, to make it fun and engaging. This will help you stay motivated even when things get stressful.

Here are a few of the best tips on how to overcome the daily grind for a healthier life.

Beat stress

Because stress and anxiety play such big roles in our lives, it’s imperative to learn how to beat them in the moment. This requires mindfulness, which involves focusing on the present instead of worrying about the past or future, and it can be achieved through meditation, yoga, or a mixture of the two. Learning mindfulness will help you relieve feelings of stress no matter what the situation so you can get through it and go on about your day.

Create a soothing home atmosphere

Your home may sometimes cause you stress–especially if it’s dirty or too cluttered–but it should serve as your sanctuary. You can take a few easy and inexpensive steps to create a calming, spa-like feel throughout your home. Choose muted, soft colors, like light shades of blue and green, for your paint scheme. Swap out harsh, fluorescent lights for natural and soft lighting. On a budget? Simply grab a few pieces of nature-inspired decor items, like seashells or paintings of sunsets and seascapes.

Eat well

Eating well-balanced meals every day will keep your body fit, but did you know it can also affect your mental health? What you eat can help you sleep better, boost your energy levels and prevent diseases, including diabetes and even cancer, all of which can have a positive effect on your brain.

Learning how to shop can be a huge help when it comes to cooking healthy meals. Make a list before you go grocery shopping that focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, and stick to it. Read labels every time you shop so you’ll get familiar with serving sizes and how to spot refined sugars.

Create a home gym

Creating a home gym will help you balance a workout routine with your everyday schedule, and it doesn’t take a bunch of expensive equipment. You can invest in dumbbells, kettlebells and a Bosu balance trainer and have a home gym that will keep you fit and active.

Focus on you

Take some time out during the day to focus on yourself for a few minutes. Even if it’s just to read a magazine or take a hot bath, spending time on your needs for a little while each day will help you relax and remind yourself that you’re worth it. While it can be difficult to carve time out of your busy schedule to tend to your needs, it will ultimately help you be the best version of yourself that you can be.

Overcoming the daily grind in order to feel healthier and happier probably won’t happen overnight. It’s important to try different methods to find out what makes you feel best. Focusing on your well-being by reducing stress and anxiety, eating right and working out every day can not only help your physical health, but your mental health as well.

About the author

Gloria Martinez started WomenLed.org to celebrate the advancements women have made and inspire women to become entrepreneurs and seek promotions in the workplace.

Do you have an article on mental health, addiction, substance abuse, mental health advocacy or other important topic you would like to submit?

Let us know if you would like to be featured as a Special Guest Contributor to PCC’s Blog by contacting us at info@pccrh.com