Small Shifts

Three small habits that can make a huge impact on your well-being

In our fast-paced world, we often overlook the small changes we can make in our daily routines that can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. Sometimes we want to make big changes but they feel overwhelming, or too hard to achieve. I have been thinking about three simple yet powerful habits that can bring about transformative effects in my life. I am dedicating myself to focus on increasing my water intake, aligning my sleep schedule with the rising sun, and having a regular meditation. With these small shifts, I hope to experience profound improvements in my physical, mental, and emotional health. Here’s my thought on this:

Hydration people! Water is the elixir of life, and staying properly hydrated is essential for optimal bodily functions.  Increasing your water intake can have numerous benefits. We all have heard this before but hear me out one more time. Firstly, drinking an adequate amount of water helps to maintain healthy bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, and regulating body temperature. Secondly, it aids in flushing out toxins and waste products from our system, promoting clearer skin and overall improved complexion. Lastly, staying hydrated supports cognitive function, boosting mental clarity, focus, and concentration. I want all those things, so I am dedicated to drinking at least half the number of my weight in ounces of water daily.  And most days more then that since we are getting into the warmer months of the year. Sounds simple, but most of us don’t drink enough water! If you can make just one change with me this should be it.

Seeing the early morning sun. Waking up early allows us to harness the quiet and peaceful hours of the morning. Actually getting outside bare eyes and letting the sun help set the tone for the day. Exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, helps regulate our circadian rhythm—the internal clock that controls various physiological processes. Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is essential for optimal mitochondrial function and overall cellular health. Sunlight exposure, particularly in the early morning, can stimulate the production of beneficial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in your body. These ROS molecules act as signaling molecules that help regulate cellular processes, including mitochondrial function. In controlled amounts, ROS can enhance mitochondrial efficiency and resilience against oxidative stress.  My plan is to be outside daily to help get me in the rhythm of the world around me. I hate getting out of bed, but I always feel better when I get outside right away. Plus, I have a mini horse WeeWoo, and other animals who want to be fed so that helps get me out the door.

Stillness, cultivating inner peace and clarity. In simple words: meditate.  And it can look different for all of us, but find what works for you.  In the chaos of daily life, finding moments of stillness and inner peace is essential.  I find that just a few minutes with my morning coffee help set my mind right for the day. I like to sit outside and turn my face to the sun, and just take it in for as much time as I have before the world around me starts to get going.  Sometimes this is only five minutes, but often times more.  I find that even a few minutes each day meditating can help reduce stress levels. It allows you to cultivate mindfulness, focus on the present moment, and develop a greater sense of calm and resilience.   By observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and respond to life's challenges with greater equanimity. 

These three healthy habits can make a profound impact on how you feel.  Join me in trying to make small changes to a better existence.  I always want to do it all at once, but then end up feeling like I have failed when I don’t follow through. So I am taking small steps towards making a huge shift.  Lets do it together!

Anne