Small but Significant Changes

In an effort to live life to the fullest, minimize stress and anxiety, and increase overall health and wellness, husband and I have made some changes to our daily routines. Our journey toward wellness started four or five years ago when we transitioned to a paleo diet and lifestyle, but lately we have implemented a few new changes that are definitely resulting in more rest, energy, an greater sense of well-being. 

1. Monitor your television and internet intake

Instead of turning on the television or the computer at the end of the day, we have been making an effort to spend time reading {we have been checking out books from our local library}, sitting on the front porch {the weather has been amazing!}, or sharing our evening meal at the dinner table instead of in the living room. We definitely have shows that we enjoy {hello Master Chef}, but we typically record them and watch them together one or two evenings a week, usually after a loooong day at work.

2. Spend an hour or more each week doing yoga together

Not only is yoga great for strength, flexibility and muscle control, it's great to have a partner. Some stretches can be deepened just by having a pair of hands to hold. Also, we have found that working out together makes us work harder - we encourage and motivate each other to do our very best.

3. Read the same passage of scripture daily or have a weekly family devotional

Even if you read the Bible separately, having something common to discuss allows for great conversations and deeper insights into the Word. Often times we find different perspectives on the same scripture or generate interesting questions and insights just by talking about what we've read. This is also a great practice to start as a couple, and continue as your children grow older. {Side note, I love this website.}

4. Plan and prep your meals for the week... together

I've talked about the importance of a stocked pantry and meal planning before, and we will talk about it again soon, but putting in the effort together makes the process much easier and much more enjoyable. For us this means good tunes in the background, a specific menu with recipes, and delegated tasks for us both. We usually spend about two hours in the kitchen on Sunday afternoon. Typically we make one stovetop meal, bake chicken or boil eggs for lunch salads, toss something in the crockpot, and maybe make a frittata or paleo muffins for snacks. The key though, is that we do it all together.

5. Get eight hours of sleep

I know most of you think this seems impossible, and I know it's gotta feel that way when there are littles involved. BUT, sleep is crucial. I won't get all sciency on you, but a lack of sleep elevates cortisol, a stress hormone, which in turn prevents you from losing weight or gaining muscle, and places your body in a state of constant stress. So look for things you can cut out of your day or save for the weekend. For us, weekly meal planning and cutting out TV gives us the time during the week to get into bed on time.

6. Walk everyday

Even if you only have ten or twenty minutes, take a walk {preferably without your cell phone} together. For me, it helps clear my mind from the days events and allows husband and I to just be together, even if its only for a few minutes.

xoxo

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