| In health there is no denying the power of self-awareness and the tools for creating a healthy mindset. One of the most challenging aspects on our transformation journeys is working through discomfort. If we understand how we approach our choices, we are more likely to make healthier decisions instead of slipping back into unhealthy habits in uncomfortable situations. In fact, experiencing discomfort can be necessary for growth. In order to reprogram our habits when we’re faced with difficult choices, we first have to see the opportunities for making better choices. Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen offers some suggestions on becoming more mindful: Plan ahead. Prepare healthy meals in advance or keep a small healthy snack handy to account for what you are going to eat before you become too hungry. Keep a journal. Reflecting on your day and documenting the healthy choices you did make or could have made in your journal will help make you more mindful when these scenarios happen again. Work with a Health Coach. Talking with someone regularly that supports and guides you through your health journey can help you see more opportunities for transforming your health. Recognizing how our own habits are structured is the next step toward transforming unhealthy habits to healthy habits when faced with a difficult or uncomfortable situation. This practice is easier if you use Stop. Challenge. Choose.: Stop. Take a slow, deep breath to help control your emotions. Recognize that you are triggering an unhealthy habit. Pausing and taking a breath helps to regain control. Challenge. Think about why you are responding to the situation the way you are. Remind yourself of your goals and the choices you should be making to reach these goals. Choose. Make the healthy choice that gives you a similar reward but is much better for your long-term health.Like other habits, using Stop. Challenge. Choose. may take some time to practice and implement, but over time it will become an automated response. |
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Independent OPTAVIA Coach and Certified Health and Wellness Coach
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