Remember that progress as a result of consistency will always make you feel more empowered and motivated as time goes by

It might be overwhelming to achieve balance but remember that you are always capable of finding harmony in your wellness journey and sustaining your desired results through moderation and consistency.

Drastic lifestyle changes following quick-fix strategies can create physical, mental, and emotional imbalances. It is also a waste of time, money, energy, and resources. So why not focus on moderation and consistency in your day-to-day life?

READ: Forget about fad diets and focus on establishing healthy eating skills this year

I have had my fair share of eating issues in the past that created such imbalances in my life, and this motivated me to pursue a master’s degree in counseling psychology just after a year of working as a fitness coach to understand the roots of my struggles and resolve them immediately. I have learned so much in life ever since.

 

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Here are some experiences that shaped my thoughts and behavior to overcome health and lifestyle imbalances:

1. I used to join marathons and monthly 10K to 21K runs years ago, but this made my menstrual cycle irregular and affected my recovery, hunger pangs, and productivity. My priorities, goals, lifestyle, and life stage have changed significantly. I still love running, but I needed to adjust. I still run at least three times a week, but I shortened it to 30 to 50 minutes and joined 10K races once a year only. I have observed that too intense workouts significantly affect my hormones (irregular periods) and immune system. I prioritize full body weight training at this stage of my life for hormonal balance and faster metabolism. 
2. I used to concentrate on eating right without considering how my body felt, which usually leads to feelings of deprivation. Now, I focus more on food quality and the proper timing of meals. These satisfy me (while improving my energy level) and help me avoid cravings later in the day, which is essential in regulating sugar levels and stress hormones.
3. Now, I prioritize rest, giving at least two hours before bedtime to get a complete quality sleep, which is essential in preparing me to face the next day with solid energy and motivation.

Embracing change and achieving balance took years. I realized that having a flexible mindset, learning how to live in moderation, and doing my best to stay consistent in my desired habits are important in achieving the type of balance I have always longed for. However, this still requires constant effort because I constantly renew my daily goals and plans to adapt to unforeseen changes that life brings me.

 

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How I define a balanced life and lifestyle

1. Keeping motivated, driven, and passionate about my life goals
2. Experiencing the right amount of stress and challenge to stimulate my senses
3. Building enough energy for daily responsibilities and chores
4. Taking time for self-care and self-love
5. Having that feeling of physical balance, such as low-stress levels, regular menstrual cycle, healthy bowel movement, stable moods, fewer food cravings, and good stamina
6. Improving and feeling good about my fitness level
7. Sleeping and recovering well
8. Achieving satisfaction in my healthy diet without feelings of deprivation
9. Allotting time for play, leisure, travel, and hobbies
10. Spending time on personal growth (intellectual, emotional, and spiritual)
11. Genuinely listening, connecting, and openly expressing feelings to others
12. Feeling well each day, free of health issues and physical discomfort
13. Creating ways to make my environment a healthy place to live in

 

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A flexible mindset: Embracing life in moderation

1. You can’t just say, “Eat in moderation.” You should always have a game plan. Manage your time, set goals, plan, and start your journey
2. Create a lifestyle journal so you can assess your progress and return to it when needed
3. Be realistic with your body goals by considering your lifestyle, current health status, and fitness level
4. Accept that we must change our approach now and then because what worked before might not be effective today 
5. Ask for help when needed
6. Prioritize recovery by sleeping early, learning how to say no, controlling your alcohol intake, and avoiding late-night eating while watching television
7. Don’t feel guilty for indulging in your favorite treats. But always eat in moderation
8. Look for inspiring role models who practice flexibility in their lifestyle efforts to achieve lasting results
9. You can’t have it all, you can’t do it all. Sometimes, you need to let go and choose your priorities. That’s how you grow

Consistency creates results beyond numbers

1. Set reminders, respect your time, and create a routine 
2. Evaluate your day and set a game plan for the next day
3. Have a vision board in your workstation to remind you of goals in life
4. Use a fitness tracker to see your progress and things you still need to improve on
5. To stick to a healthy diet, love the foods you eat and visualize their positive effects on the body
6. Always get excited about exercising by adding fun, challenge, and variety. Use new moves or music and try different props
7. Don’t forget the playtime with your kids, pets, and/or partner
8. Ask your partner or exercise buddy to remind you about sticking to your desired healthy habits
9. Stay positive by constantly reminding yourself of your strengths and blessings
10. Give yourself non-food rewards
11. Don’t complain. Just act on the issues

Email the author at mitchfelipe@gmail.com or follow/message her on Instagram @mitchfelipemendoza