New Week, New Attitude

While I exercised on my Peloton Tread today, I reflected on my goals for the week and everything I’ve already accomplished. This week’s theme is simple: treat yourself.

But what does that really mean?

For me, treating myself can look different depending on the day. Sometimes it means focusing on my needs and protecting my inner peace. Other days it might be something simple, like enjoying an ice cream or taking a shopping trip. Whatever helps you stay centered and grounded is what you should allow yourself.

This week’s focus is healthy me, healthy you. I can’t fully give to my family if I’m not being true to myself or taking care of my health first.

At this stage in my life, I’m focusing on finding my peace and balance. One part of that is making sure I eat foods that support my body so I can avoid unnecessary pain. About ten months ago, my husband and I started juicing. It has helped meet my nutritional needs so well that I’ve even been able to eliminate my vitamins.

My typical routine is:

• Juice in the morning

• A healthy lunch

• A nice dinner

Recently, I’ve been experimenting with having a larger lunch and a lighter dinner—usually a salad—to see if that helps with weight loss. We also do a lot of meal prepping. On weekends, I prep juices for the week and plan easy, healthy meals that fit into our busy schedule.

Of course, food is only part of my formula.

I’ve realized I need something grounding every day—something that reconnects me with myself. Sometimes that means a walk with our dog. Other days, it’s simply sitting outside and letting the sun warm my face. Occasionally, I’ll walk out to the front yard and just stand barefoot in the grass.

There is always at least one moment in my day dedicated to nature, prayer, or meditation. It’s essential for my well-being.

Exercise is another key part of maintaining my health and managing pain. Movement is especially important after neck surgery. If I don’t stay active throughout the day, I become stiff. And if I skip a workout, I feel it the next day.

So, I try to walk 3–5 miles a day and incorporate low-impact workouts that keep me flexible and strong. Movement also brings me peace. I feel better mentally and physically when I stay active.

I used to be a marathon runner, so now I focus on getting those same emotional and mental benefits—just within the new boundaries of my body.

Reading has always been important to me, but lately I haven’t made it as much of a priority as I should. Instead, I’ve been blogging, working on my resume, and focusing on educational goals. I think reading is one area I’ll intentionally return to in the coming weeks.

Perhaps the most important part of my well-being is nurturing my relationships. I spend time with my husband, our dog, my family, and my girlfriends. Having a support system is essential.

There was a time when I didn’t have the bandwidth or ability to invest in those relationships the way I wanted to. Now I understand how important it is to have people in your life who show up for you—and for whom you show up as well.

I call them my ride-or-dies—the ones who will hold your hair when you’re throwing up. (You know exactly who those people are!)

This week, I’m focusing on maintaining a healthy rhythm:

• Professional goals

• Exercise goals

• Nutritional needs

• Self-care moments

One of my favorite ways to end the day is with a warm bath followed by an ice experience. It helps me reset and relax before the next day begins.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is this:Find your inner peace so you are healthy enough to give your best self to the world.