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staying grounded when life feels like a lot. tools for self-care.

sarahskobeloff

Shit’s a lot right now.

tea, breakfast cereal, and book

When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to want to say “eff it” to our usual routines. Whether it's work stress, family responsibilities, or just the general unpredictability of life, you might feel tempted to throw structure out the window. I get that, and I’m not here to judge you for it.


I do, however, want to offer this: I wonder if a little routine + self-care could be of service to you right now?

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We don’t always need to push through chaos at full speed. Sometimes, what we need is grounding, small habits that offer stability, and permission to slow down. So this week, I’m sharing a handful of tools for your toolkit. Which one(s) can you add to your routine to foster some grounding and compassion?


Step Away from Your Screens  

Claw yourself away from your screens and take a walk around the block. Walk for five minutes or for 45—it doesn’t matter. The habit lies in the break, not the distance you take. Giving your brain a rest from scrolling and doom-refreshing can do wonders for your stress levels and mental clarity.


Pack Snacks Like a Pro

Keep snacks in your bag, car, or workspace. Stress and changes in routine can affect our appetite, sometimes making us forget to eat until we’re starving. You might have a lot of emotions right now; don’t let yourself get hangry on top of it. Protein bars, mixed nuts, cheese and crackers, or a sturdy sandwich can keep your energy steady when life feels wobbly.


Lean Into Ease with Meals

This is a great time to plan a menu of low-effort, high-satisfaction meals. Think sandwiches, wraps, nacho dinners, breakfast-for-dinner, and snack plates. The goal? Less thinking about food, more nourishment with ease. If planning meals feels overwhelming, jot down three simple dinners for the week and call it good.


Sprinkle in Some Magic

If motivation for movement is running low, add some small sparks of joy. A new playlist, a fun pre-workout carb (hello, peanut butter toast with banana), or some reflective gear for outdoor walks can make movement feel more appealing. And don’t forget about the power of an accountability text—drop a friend a message and see if they want to join you for a low-stakes workout or a “hot girl walk.”


Embrace the Pause

If your body feels confused, disoriented, or overstimulated, listen to what it’s telling you: “Hey, can we take a beat for a moment?” You don’t need to have it all together all the time. It’s okay to slow down before picking up again. Rest isn’t just acceptable—it’s necessary.


Have a Hot Lil’ Drink

ICYMI, holding a warm beverage promotes the release of oxytocin, which helps us feel calm and relaxed. Is this the week to start a nighttime tea routine? Yes. Yes, it is. Whether it’s tea, cocoa, or a warm mug of broth, let this small ritual be a cue to wind down.


Ask Yourself: What Can I Do From Where I Am?

Sometimes, when life feels overwhelming, it helps to focus on small, tangible actions that make a difference. Consider where you can put your energy in a way that empowers you and your community. Can you bring food to a local community fridge? Make a donation to a health clinic? Volunteer with a project doing good in your area? Even something as simple as taking a trash bag and gloves on your next walk can be a small act of care.


Take More Screen Breaks

If you feel your hand slowly taking on “claw” formation from holding your phone for too long, it’s time to put it down. Get your hands busy with a small house task, a favorite recipe, or a stretch break. Your nervous system will thank you.


Take the Houseplant Approach

Start your day with water, food, and light—whether that’s actual sunlight or a SAD lamp. Take your Vitamin D. Resist the urge to dive headfirst into everything the world is throwing at you, and try to savor 2-3 minutes for yourself before engaging with the outside world.


Focus on What’s in Your Control

Passively refreshing and consuming media can get us stuck in “rot mode.” Yes, we can Hot Girl Rot, but eventually, it’s time to shift gears and give our brains a small win. Write a to-do list, change your sheets, clean your water bottle, organize your inbox, or learn something new. If you’ve been meaning to start a new book or hobby, this might be the perfect moment.


Give Yourself Permission to Rest

You don’t need to be at your most productive right now. You don’t have to “push through” just for the sake of pushing through. Some weeks are for thriving, some are for surviving, and both are okay.

So, take a breath. Put your feet up for a second. Drink some water. Take a break. Give yourself grace.


Because the world will keep spinning, but you don’t have to keep running just to keep up.


What’s one small thing you can do today to give yourself a little more ease?


If you you could use a little support improving your blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure without restriction, get on the waitlist for Inside Out. Want 1:1 nutrition coaching? Apply to work with one of registered dietitians.

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©2024 by Maria Terry Nutrition and Wellness

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