How To Get Back On Track and Back To Your Normal Routine
It happens to the best of us — you’re in a great healthy routine, eating well, getting enough sleep, and getting plenty of exercise, when all of a sudden, something changes. Whether it’s a much-needed vacation where you eat more than you normally do or a busy period at work where you’re not able to fit your workouts in for an extended period of time, getting back on track can be a challenge. We recommend following these steps to get back on track and back to your normal routine.
Step 1: Get Enough Sleep
Once you’re out of a healthy routine, getting enough sleep can be a challenge. Use your smartphone to your advantage by setting the phone to automatically enter “sleep” mode at a certain time each night and turn off sleep mode at the same time each morning. This reminder will help you get to bed at your normal time instead of staying up too late scrolling.
Step 2: Hydrate Properly
One of the first healthy habits to go out the window when we’re stressed or busy is proper hydration. Getting enough water in each day requires focus if you’re not someone who regularly drinks plenty of water. Try using a large refillable water bottle of at least 32 ounces. Make a goal to drink the entire thing before lunchtime, then fill it up again. Drink the rest of the bottle before dinner and you’ll have gotten in 64 ounces of water with a few hours to go until bedtime, helping to stay hydrated.
Step 3: Boost Your Nutrition
Whether you’re eating out on vacation, ordering takeout thanks to a busy work schedule, or just struggling to prepare healthy meals, boosting your nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. One of the easiest ways to make your meals healthier and cut down on extra snacking is to add some extra protein to each of your meals. Protein keeps you feeling full for longer in between meals, potentially helping reduce snacking. If you’re pressed for time, making a quick protein smoothie or drinking a protein shake is a great way to get the nutrients your body needs while limiting the empty calories from sugar and simple carbohydrates that you’re better off skipping.
Step 4: Increase Your Physical Activity
Finding the time to work out during the day can be challenging, particularly if you work long hours, have an odd schedule, or are a parent to a small child. The good news is that you don’t need to run for an hour every day in order to improve your health and get back on track. If finding a dedicated chunk of time to work out is a challenge, try incorporating small amounts of movement throughout the day. For example, park your car at the far end of your work parking lot to get extra steps on your way into the building, or take half your lunch break and walk a mile to get some fresh air.
