Regardless of how busy life gets, it’s always important to spend time on yourself. Today I’m excited to share my Healthy Happiness Habits (2018) so far this year that are improving my well-being, overall sanity and daily happiness.
If you watch TV or are on social media in any capacity, you’ve probably noticed that self-care is having it’s moment right now. And I for one am grateful.
It’s often easy to forget about caring for yourself when you have kids so I appreciate the reminder to say “hey it’s OK to focus on me.” And with small daily changes, I’ve noticed a massive impact on my health and happiness.
It’s been a whole year since my last Healthy Happiness Habits 2017. Back then I was very pregnant, getting ready for a crazy summer chasing my tot around all over the place. Looking back at my habits a year ago, I can honestly say that I still do a lot of them and they are still helping to improve my well-being!
My 5 minute (2X/day) journal has turned into a nightly journal app on my phone. I find this easier and more sustainable. Although I do not practice Phone Free Friday’s as strictly, I am trying to take breaks from social media every so often.
Practicing gratitude and reframing from complaining about little things is something I consciously try to practice everyday. I’m still setting goals for myself, although I’m much more focused on overall intentions.
Fast forward a year and life is brilliantly full as ever. I’m a mom of 2 kids, an active almost 3-year old and a crawling 8 month old! I’m blogging, working on upcoming projects, teaching tennis, getting back into running shape and gearing up for an exciting summer.
Now more than ever, my health and wellness routines are a focus for me. These are the things that will keep my body healthy, mind engaged, stress levels down and mood happy!
Here are my Happiness Healthy Habits in 2018
1. Yoga 3 days a week
Although I had big hopes of working out and/or running a bunch this winter and spring, that hasn’t happened. And honestly I’m OK with that. I’ve given myself permission to let that go.
I’ve instead been drawn to doing yoga more frequently and consistently and it’s been pretty incredible. I do yoga with my toddler, with the hubs and/or on my own. I have found my regular yoga practice to be relaxing, strengthening, calming and feasible with my schedule. Plus I feel stronger, more flexible and more in tune with my body than I have for a long time.
2. End of day journal
I’ve been a big fan of the 5 day journal for a long time but I found it to be hard to maintain both in the morning and at night. Instead I’ve been journaling every night in an app called DAY ONE.
It’s simple to use and you can even record a photo for each day. Taking a little time to reflect on life at the end of everyday always makes me feel so grateful for my family, friends and life. No matter what happened during the day, I always get a smile on my face before bed.
3. Green packed smoothie 4-5 days a week
I love me a good veggie and fruit packed smoothie like this one. And even though I don’t have one everyday, I try to make one as often as I can. Especially on days when we my meals don’t have tons of greens, a loaded green smoothie is my favorite way to get a little extra goodness in my body.
The great thing about having a super healthy smoothie is that I can get a ton of leafy greens, fiber, protein, vitamins and nutrients all in one drink without having to spend a bunch of time cooking. Because really who just eats a ton of kale and spinach during every meal? It’s way easier to drink’em than eat’em in my opinion.
Other green smoothie benefits include feeling more energized, satiated and clearer skin! And sharing with my 2 littles is always fun.
4. Slowly going all natural
This one is a work in progress. Essentially I’m trying to switch to more natural products with less toxins, chemicals and weirdo ingredients.
Personally that has meant opting for more natural hair products, skin care products and household cleaning items that are made with essential oils or homemade.
And I know that this day and age it’s impossible know what is in our products, but I’m trying to do more research and pay more attention. Some of my favorite resources that help me judge products and better food options are: Think Dirty, Dirty Dozen and just pain old common sense.
5. Minimal alcohol
After giving birth to baby Beany, I did not start drinking mainly because I was still breastfeeding. And truthfully I’ve actually enjoyed it. I find that drinking only very very occasionally means I drink way more water, I am way less tired and I don’t feel that need to have a glass of wine after a long hard day.
Not saying drinking is bad or that I never ever do it, but lately I’ve left drinking to very special occasions. Date nights, fancy restaurants or vacations. But day-to-day, alcohol isn’t really adding a whole lot to my well-being so I’m giving it a break.
6. Reconnect with an old friend
Two of my intentions this year were to practice kindness and positivity. So with that in mind, I recently took a leap and reached out to an old friend. Our friendship was strained and we had not talked in several years.
This was something I have been wanted to do for a while and finally found the courage to do. And I can’t even express how good it felt to chat again. For now, I’m taking it slow and getting to know each other again, and that feels good.
7. Get outside
I probably sound like a broken record but being outside makes me happy. No matter what is going on, being outside and getting some fresh air helps me clear my mind. A walk, a run or just sitting outside with the kids, works wonders for my well-being and sanity sometimes.
Finally got myself a double jogger, which we are already rocking daily strolls or runs. Not only am I getting exercise but being outside is calming, rejuvenating and perfect for putting my kids to sleep! Win win win!
8. Help others
I am alone in thinking that could all probably do more of this?
Every time I talk to my family in Venezuela, read on article or simply listen to the news, I am immediately transported out of the little bubble I live in and into the real world. I know I can’t change the world, and I know I am busy like every one else with family and life, but there is always time to help others.
I have found happiness in helping my native country as best I can by managing a GoFundMe site that raises money to help the hundreds of starving families in Venezuela. And I also find happiness in helping friends and family. Reaching out, making a meal for others or offering to watch people’s kid(s), are ways I like helping those I love.
9. Listen and learn
Listening to the news and feel good podcasts is one of my favorite ways to feel happy, informed and connected to the world around me. Anytime I’m driving I listen to NPR and when I run, or go for ways I listen to podcasts on subjects that interest me. Some of my favorites are the BBC News, NPR Appetites, TedTalks, and several food blogging related podcasts.
I find listening to programs that cover topics I’m interest in also help me learn new things. I can still play with my kids or run errands or do my usual house work while listening to cool info that is making me an engaged citizen.
10. Practice gratitude
This sounds so cliché but this daily ritual has been a true source of energy, positivity and all around joy in my life. My life is not perfect and some days are hard and long and just blargh. But I love my life. And I love the people in my life.
For me gratitude looks like waking up at the crack of dawn with my baby and giving a kiss on her forehead in gratitude. And every night as I write my quick end of day journal entry, I jot down something I’m grateful for. Because really, I have so much to be grateful for.
Do you practice any Healthy Happiness Habits? Are there habits you want to try? Healthy, self-care, mental, physical, how do you stay happy in your everyday life? I’d love to know! Share your thoughts in the comments ❤
Originally posted 2018-04-26 03:10:00.
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