Why Staying Healthy Feels So Hard (And What You Can Do About It)
Let’s be honest—staying healthy today feels more difficult than ever. Between financial pressures, the rising cost of living, and the constant temptation of convenient but unhealthy foods, it’s easy to feel stuck. On top of that, many of us spend long hours at desk jobs, barely moving throughout the day. After work, we’re often too drained to think about exercising or cooking a healthy meal. Stress builds, energy levels plummet, and the cycle continues. On top of this, we have the challenge of constantly conflicting information on social media that sends us down the wrong rabbit holes, not only wasting our time but also our precious financial and energy resources.
If this sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone. So many of us feel the weight of everything pulling on our time and attention, and the idea of “getting healthy” just feels like one more impossible task. But here’s the thing—it’s not about trying to do everything perfectly. It’s about being honest with ourselves about what’s important to us and taking small, meaningful steps from there.
The Power of Self-Awareness
When was the last time you paused to really check in with yourself? Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. We tend to power through our days on autopilot, ignoring our body’s signals until we’re completely depleted. This is where self-awareness comes in.
Self-awareness isn’t about judgment or criticism—it’s about paying attention. It’s about noticing when you’re running on empty and being honest with yourself about what you truly need in that moment. Maybe it’s more rest. Maybe it’s better nutrition. Maybe it’s movement, or even just a moment of quiet.
The key is to align your actions with what truly matters to you. Is prioritising your health important? If so, how can you create space for that in your life, even in small ways? It’s easy to get caught up in what we “should” do—exercise more, eat better, reduce stress—but if it doesn’t feel aligned with what you need right now, it’s hard to sustain.
Avoiding the Rabbit Holes
In our quest for health, the internet can be a double-edged sword. Social media and online articles often bombard us with contradictory advice, leaving us feeling more confused than empowered. To avoid falling into these rabbit holes, consider these strategies:
Choose Reliable Sources: When seeking health advice online, focus on reputable sources—health professionals, nutritionists, or organisations with a strong track record. Avoid getting swept up in the latest trending fad or “quick fix” that promises results but lacks scientific backing.
Limit Social Media Exposure: Curate your feed to follow only accounts that inspire and educate you. Unfollow those that leave you feeling overwhelmed or inadequate. Remember, it’s okay to take breaks from social media if it becomes a source of stress.
Focus on Your Journey: Remember that everyone’s health journey is unique. What works for one person may not work for you. Trust your instincts and prioritise what feels right for your body and lifestyle.
Tips To Stay Healthy & Thrive
Once you’re honest with yourself about your current reality, you can start making small adjustments that fit your life. And these don’t have to be the typical “drink more water” or “get more sleep” tips you hear everywhere. Here are a few small, mindful shifts you might consider:
Energy Check-Ins: Throughout the day, pause and ask yourself, “Where is my energy at right now?” If you’re running low, take five minutes to do something that recharges you—whether that’s a short walk, a few deep breaths, or simply stretching at your desk. It’s about listening to your body instead of pushing through exhaustion.
Boundaries with Time and Stress: We often say we don’t have time for health, but what if we looked at how we spend our time with a bit more curiosity? Are there moments where you could set clearer boundaries—like cutting back on screen time or saying no to something non-essential—to make space for activities that truly restore you?
Redefine Movement: If finding time to work out feels overwhelming, redefine what movement means to you. It doesn’t have to be a 60-minute gym session. Could you dance around the kitchen while cooking, or do some gentle stretches while watching TV? Small moments of movement can help ease stress and boost energy.
Be Gentle With Yourself
Above all, be kind to yourself. Health isn’t a race or a competition. It’s a lifelong relationship with your body and mind, and that relationship will change depending on where you are in life. What works for you today might not work tomorrow, and that’s okay. The goal is to remain curious and flexible.
By developing self-awareness and being honest about your needs, you create a foundation for sustainable well-being. It’s not about achieving perfection—it’s about finding what works for you, even if it’s just one small step at a time. What other tips would you suggest to help you stay healthy and thrive?
If you're looking for personalised support on your journey to better health, I'm here to help. As a certified personal trainer, breathwork facilitator, and nutrition coach, I offer tailored sessions designed to meet your unique needs. Together, we can create a plan that fits your lifestyle and empowers you to make sustainable changes. Reach out today to learn more!
Melanie Briony is a health, fitness & wellness specialist dedicated to guiding women in unlocking their physical and emotional strength. With her support, you'll not only feel strong inside and out but also enjoy a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Choosing to prioritise health, fitness, and overall vibrancy is the most empowering gift you can give yourself and it's a journey worth starting today. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s or you 50s and beyond, a positive transformation is always within reach.
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