You can’t stop yawning, your muscles are sore, you have no energy, or you want to nosh on some nachos but you’re trying to follow your eating plan. Sometimes a nap or a snack is your answer, but other times something less obvious might be going on. Look to your mind and body; both contain clues about what you really need. When you can name the emotion or physical symptom you are feeling, it raises your awareness, which is the first step to finding relief. If you’re weighed down by one of the feelings below, recite the following affirmation a few times a day and do the suggested exercise.
You’re feeling… Bored
Affirmation
“I am thankful for all the things I can do. Opportunities come to me from every direction. I am a very creative person.”
Exercise
Ask yourself, what do you want to see more of in your life? Then do something productive or helpful. Even cleaning out a drawer, taking a drive, or walking around the block will jolt you out of feeling self pity.
You’re feeling… Fatigued, exhausted, sleepy
Affirmation
“I sleep perfectly well. I wake up feeling refreshed and energized with an abundance of energy to accomplish my many goals. I am motivated.”
Exercise
Take a short power nap of no more than thirty minutes. If you haven’t had coffee and you want some but also feel like a siesta is in order, drink your java right before your snooze. When you wake up, you’ll be refreshed and the caffeine will just be kicking in.
You’re feeling… Hurt, wronged
Affirmation
“Life is not meant to be fair. I am not the judge; I am only responsible for my own actions. I move forward as the loving person I am.”
Exercise
Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and send love to all the children around the world who are looking for opportunities and trying to better their lives. Send them blessings.
You’re feeling… Lonely, alone, isolated
Affirmation
“I will brighten my day by reaching out to someone, and I will also take pleasure when I have times of solitude. It is valuable time to self-reflect and explore my talents. The more I do this, the more I have to offer.”
Exercise
Find a social event, book club, bowling league, or library event that you can join to get out and meet like-minded people.
Adapted from Mind Your Body, by Joel Harper, Harper One, 2015.
Banana Almond Shake
This drink is fully packed with plenty of fiber, protein, and calcium (84 percent of your daily needs) to get you started in the morning.
- 1 banana
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop whey protein powder
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- 4 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add water for desired consistency.
