Two of the most important things you can do stick to your intentions and new habits
The importance of having a powerful intention and how to create habits you stick to! #3
How did you sleep last night, {$name}?
How calm or stressed have you felt this week?
How are you feeling in body and mind right now?
Two of the most important things you can do to help yourself create and stick to your intentions and new habits are to reduce your stress levels and get good quality sleep...
Now, this might pose a problem for you, (this includes me) because getting a good night’s sleep consistently, and feeling less stressed day to day might be two of the biggest challenges you be faced with right now.
I think you’ll agree it’s important you understand why reducing your stress levels and getting better sleep is so beneficial to you creating healthy habits, and it would be helpful to know how you can help yourself do both those things!
Firstly, when you’re stressed or have had a lack of sleep you’re likely to have less patience and compassion, you might feel more irritable and be less able to focus. You’ll undoubtedly have less energy for what you need to do that day meaning you’ll be less productive or things will simply take you longer to do.
On the other hand, when you're feeling calm and centred, or have had a good night's sleep you’re more likely to be in a good mood, you’ll have more compassion and interest in situations and people you interact with, you’ll feel motivated and inspired, and you’ll be able to concentrate better on the things you are doing.
You can see why feeling less stressed and getting a good night's sleep supports you in putting you in a good mindset for sticking to healthy habits and your intentions.
So, how do you begin to feel calmer, more centred and start getting a better night's sleep?
I'd like you to think about the things that make you feel good in your life, these will also be the things that help you feel calm and centred.
Going for a run might be what you do to clear your head and energise yourself.
Morning mindfulness might set you up in a positive state of mind.
Reading a book in the bath at the end of a long day might soothe your aching body and calm your mind.
You'll have own things to add here.
Whatever it is that makes you feel good and helps you feel calm, do more of it!
Sleep... zzz
When it comes to sleep there’s a whole book I could write on the topic but let’s start with simple practical steps to a better night's sleep…
Look at your existing bedtime routine.
Is it encouraging a restful, full night’s sleep or are you going to bed late watching TV, or mindlessly scrolling on your phone?
Maybe you’re eating late and going to bed feeling too full or waking up for the loo in the night?
Are there things on your mind from the day that are causing you to wake up through the night?
What small change can you make to your bedtime routine to help yourself get into a calm, restful state of mind so you can enjoy 7-8 blissful hours of sleep and restoration?
Remember: Start small.
What one change can you make to your bedtime routine that will encourage better quality sleep?
What are the activities and things that help you feel calmer, and how can you do them more often?
You might like to have a further read of a blog I wrote on sleep for some more helpful tips!
If you need some additional guidance to help yourself drift into a deep restorative slumber you can download my Sleep Relaxation using the link below!
Big love
Becki
