It’s the JULY edition of Let’s Look!
If you don’t know what this is, once a month, Erika and I do a little link up where we “look” at different aspects of our lives (and then if you blog, you share and link up too!). We have been doing this little linky party for years now, and it’s always one of my favorite posts each month because most of the topics are YOUR suggestions!
In January, we looked at HOW WE ORGANIZE FOR THE NEW YEAR.
In February, we looked at WHAT WE EAT IN A WEEK.
In March, we looked at OUR FAVES FROM HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE
In April, we looked at HOW WE DO DATE NIGHTS!
In May, we looked at OUR HOMETOWNS!
In June, we looked at OUR GO-TO SUMMER LUNCHES
And today, we’re looking at….HOW WE KEEP HEALTHY!
Agh!
I don’t love this topic.
So…way back in December when I asked you ladies what we should discuss this year on Let’s Look, so many of you asked about how we “keep healthy”. Hmmmm…sitting here seven months later, I’m regretting selecting that as one of this year’s prompts. I’m going to assume that when those of you asked us to talk about this, it meant more like how do we (Erika and me) take care of ourselves emotionally, mentally and physically and that you’re looking for some “fluffy” answers. You’re looking for those easy little tips and ideas we have that encourage “healthy” living because (and excuse my frankness here) often being “healthy” is really just damn good luck. I know that so many of you live with health issues that are both physical and emotional/mental that you have ZERO control over. I pray over so many of you every day who currently have cancer. Or depression. Or many other awful things. I don’t want at all to act as if I have any control over those things in my own life. Okay? So far, I’ve been “lucky” to say the least, but I think we all know that my health (like many of yours) could turn on a dime, so I just don’t want anyone out there to feel even worse about a health situation they’re in while reading about me over here saying something trivial like “drink more water”. Water doesn’t cure most things, and I know many of you are dealing with heavy, heavy things.
So…with all of that said, I’m going to talk specifically about things I do to make me feel better each day and when I don’t do these things, I feel a bit lousy. This is not about anything serious, and I earnestly mean this when I say that I’m praying over you who are dealing with real health issues. This post is about fluff not real health issues.
So, here’s a pic of my sweet family to transition us into the fluff 😉 .
There are certain things that if I do/don’t do them, I feel better/worse about myself both physically and mentally.
I realllly love being 40.
Forty, so far, has been my very favorite age and one of the reasons why is that I have finally figured out some key ways I myself make me feel better or make me feel worse. I don’t know why I’m such a slow learner, but for whatever reason, this has been the year when many things have dawned on me. I *try* really hard to put these things into practice each and every day…and when I do, they almost always produce positive results and when I don’t, they produce negative results.
In no particular order, this is Shay at 40 keeping herself “healthy”:
#1: I don’t drink sodas. Ohhhh…I used to love me a diet soda until about ten years ago when I quit and let me tell you, huge difference! On the very, very, very rare occasion that I have one, I always feel icky after.
#2: I go outside every day. Whether I walk or run or simply go to my garden, sunshine and being outside is always a good idea.
#3: I stopped watching the news. Awwwww. Yes. This has been a big one. I now consume my news daily by listening to our local sports station. Several times an hour, they hit the day’s local, state, national and global news in a very politically neutral way. Should I need to know more about a topic (when news breaks), I will open up my computer and read a paper and/or turn on a TV news station, but other than that, I don’t need/want/enjoy the news on in the background of my life, and it’s helped me tremendously (and changed my viewpoints on many things!) when I’ve turned it off.
#4: I make annual appointments for skin checks, mammograms, with my OBGYN and I go twice a year to the dentist.
#5: I make dinner at home. I love eating out at restaurants and typically do about twice a week, but I find that eating at home is always a better choice for me. I don’t overindulge, I control the quality of what I eat, the timing of what I eat. Anytime I travel and eat out a lot, I always crave being home and having home cooked food.
#6: I drink water before bed and right when I wake up. This is a new one for me this year, and I love it! Before bed, I always drink a glass of water and then when I wake up, I drink one too (before my coffee). I always didn’t do this because I thought I’d have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night…but actually (thanks to a podcast that influenced me), I was waking up more often to get a drink then I do now to go to the bathroom. I really think I sleep much better!
#7: I have a very specific bedtime routine. Speaking of sleep, Andrew and I love our bedtime routine 🙂 . You can read all about it HERE. From our essential oils to the air temperature (we keep it cold!), a sound machine…listen, it’s a lot but I’ll tell you, we sleep SOLID!
#8: I unfollowed so many people on Instagram that I didn’t need to see every day in my feed. Hi, my name is Shay, and my profession is to be an influencer, but I’m going to tell you to stop following influencers/celebrities/family/friends that add irritation to your day. My feed is nothing but happiness and sunshine. Why? Because the world as a whole has sucked a lot lately, so when I open my Instagram, I like happiness and sunshine. If people are sunshine and inspire me, I want to see their content…if they don’t, I don’t want to see their content. If they’re someone I know and love personally who would be offended if I unfollowed them, I “mute” them so that they’re not in my feed and yet they don’t know that they’re not.
#9: I watch and read things that bring me joy. You know this about me…I read books and watch shows/movies that make me happy. If it’s cheesy, positive and uplifting, sign me up! If it’s heavy, dark and scary, I’ll pass.
#10: I limit how much time I spend on my phone. I have so many timers set to shut off my apps each day, turn my phone on ‘do not disturb’, etc that my phone is basically useless 99% of the time, but I love it. It took me less than five minutes to add a few daily tweaks to my phone’s setting so that it doesn’t bother me when I’m trying to live in the moment.
#11: Protein is my go-to. Whether for breakfast, lunch or a snack, I feel better when I grab things like nuts, eggs, maybe some cheese, a little chicken instead of packaged/carby things.
#12: I walk my dogs. No matter the weather or time of day, I never regret a nice walk…with my pups is always a bonus!
#13: I aim for 7 hours of sleep. Ohhh…this one is harder for me, but I feel better when I get closer to 7 hours of sleep. Now, I super duper struggle with making it happen, but when I do, I feel great!
#14: I enjoy time with my girlfriends! Whether it’s dinner or just a fun group chat, I always get encouraged and uplifted when I spend time with the women in my life. Those relationships keep me laughing and keep me happy.
#15: I lift weights. I know a lot of women don’t want to get “bulky” but really, how often do you see a “bulky” woman (and how often is that even a bad thing?!”). Lifting weights makes me feel strong, helps boost my energy, my metabolism, makes my clothes fit better, makes me physically able to do more, probably keeps my bones stronger…it’s all good stuff! If you missed Andrew’s weight lifting post on Monday, catch it HERE for at home, easy ideas!
#16: I have hobbies. Call me crazy, but I think hobbies make happy people. I have a variety (and they ebb and flow throughout the year), but from reading to working in my little veggie garden, yoga, running, reading books about French culture, Sudoku…you guys, the list is LONG! I love a hobby. I feel like anything I can do just for me that makes me happy, makes me physically present in the moment, expands me, grows me, educates me or just makes me smile is a good thing to do.
So, those are my 16 little healthy habits. I know they’re not earth-shattering, but sitting here this afternoon with two dogs asleep at my feet, French music playing and a La Croix on my desk, these are the things that I immediately thought of that make me a better me.
Now, it’s YOUR TURN! I would LOVE to hear what you do to keep yourself “heathy” (and happy!) during the year! Please comment and share!
If you’re curious about other health-ish related posts I’ve shared over the years, I have a few below:
I HAD A HYSTERECTOMY
HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
CELIAC DISEASE
Next time of Let’s Look…
…HOW YOU DO YOUR EVERY DAY CLEANING!
If you blogged with us today, make sure you link up below!
Have the best Wednesday! xx
Emily says
Ahh the truth comes out about why you blocked Erika 😉😂 Great and practical list!
Mix and Match Mama says
Bahahahaha! It only took me like two months to figure it out too!
Sheila says
YES on so many of these!!! 🙌 Turning off the news has been a HUGE one for me over the past year as well! Also, lifting weights, getting outside, eating at home and getting my sleep….basically the majority of what you said! HA!! Have a great day!! 🥰
Taylor says
Yes yes yes to not watching the news!! The last time i watched the news was in march of 2020 and we all know what was going on then. I haven’t turned on the news since and it has helped so much with my anxiety. I do follow a few non-biased Instagram accounts to keep me in the loop but that’s it! Loved this post!
Miranda Foster says
I love all these. I am 36 and newly divorced after a lot of betrayl trauma and have 2 children. I do almost all of these and it has kept me strong, healthy, & resilient through all this!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m going to be praying for you, Miranda! You sound like one tough cookie. Good job, mama!
Carly says
We have the same news sources. I was getting so overwhelmed and upset with even the daily local news that I stopped watching. The radio does such a straight forward “facts only” news cast that I feel informed and go from there. So much better!
Elspeth says
These are such great tips and totally manageable too! Thank you for sharing!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Lauren says
I learned during COVID how important it is for me to be around other people in person, as opposed to texts/social media. A few friends and I now meet up weekly on Tuesday nights to play tennis and catch up, as opposed to texting and phone calls. Being with my favorite people (in person) gives me energy and makes me happier! Not to mention we are being active by playing tennis.
Laura says
You are so right about being 40 and making your life what you want! I do many of the things you mention. Bedtime routine. Drink a glass of water right before bed and a glass of lemon water before coffee. I stopped watching the news about 5 years ago, including the weather. Eat at home! Unfollow/unfriend/Block/Restrict on social media is a glorious thing!
This year I started therapy when I realized my insurance pays 100%; it’s truly the very best thing I’ve ever done for myself. Her first recommendation for me was to do something only for me that brought joy so I started cross stitching again. I have a nice little stack I’m going to use for gifts.
I REALLY appreciate your sentence there at the top stating your opinion that a lot about health is pure luck (and genetics). I whole heartedly agree. Some folks can do all the health & fitness things and still aren’t healthy. Some people eat pure chocolate for breakfast and can’t gain weight. Just be a kind, brave, smart, etc human…looks don’t matter!
Christi says
Good for you! Great job!
Alison says
I love your list, and I loved that you turned it into Healthy/Happy! Such a great idea! I need to try drinking a glass of water before bed. I was just afraid it would make me go to the bathroom all night. Thanks for sharing, friend! 🙂
Laura says
Hi Shay! I just wanted to say that your disclaimer before your tips is lovely. I’m only a year younger than you but it sounds like we both have had and still have people in our lives with chronic or serious health issues that they had/have no control over. I have a sister with thyroid disease and it has totally changed her life. I’m thankful for good health so far and try to be appreciative of it openly. It’s such a gift!
Heather Stanton says
I hate to admit it! I stopped eating sugar regularly. I was eating a lot of “a little” sugar everyday.
A cookie with coffee, a handful of gummy bear (I flipping love good, soft gummy bear!), a dessert after dinner with the kids. Plus many other “little” sneaky sugar snacks.
I figured out that it tastes AMAZING but makes me feel achy, slow and tired. My body aches (knees, back) when I eat too much!
I didn’t give it up….or cut it out, I went with the moderation and enjoy whatever it is that I’m having as a small portion.
Pam Ecrement says
Totally love this and your list are so on target (even for those of us well past 40)!
Bev says
Shay, great tips but what struck me was how you prefaced it all by being so thoughtful of others and their health needs. I love your approach to giving tips and advice. So sweet! 💞
Ari says
Your thoughtful acknowledgement of how little choice there is in health for some people was so kind. Thank you.
Pamela says
This post is amazing…love it all! I always feel better on days I make time to read my Bible and pray for others. Your blog everyday also makes me happy 😀❤️
Susan says
I love so many of these! If you don’t follow Sharonsayso on insta I highly recommend her. She breaks down the news in a non partisan way …just the facts.
Claris Yoder says
I love her so much! She has taught me so much and she is about the only person I listen to when it comes to news. And she’s fun too – such a great combination.
Lisa K. says
I really loved this post! Thank you for sharing even though it’s not your favorite topic.
Erika Slaughter says
I’m trying to get more sleep too! I always feel so much better when I do!
Dana P says
Love your beginning disclaimer…good health is a gift and not necessarily something we can control. I hate seeing people on social media pushing products to try to capitalize on people’s vulnerability that they don’t have it. Anyway, I love all your little tips and after following you for so long, a lot of them are mine as well! I’d add that I like to follow Axios news via their short newsletters (they have a local Dallas edition, too). It keeps me updated, but it’s short and their late night edition is actually helpful and motivating. I also love to drink tea a couple of times a day and instead of going on social media, I like to flip through old seasonal magazines. I really just enjoy looking at the beautiful pictures!
Katie Stewart says
This is why I still read your blog day after day! It’s easy for people to look at a blogger/influencer and forget that at the end of the day, we’re only human and everyone is susceptible to whatever life might throw. Thanks for keeping it real!
Stacy says
I do some of these things, I stopped watching the news too and I changed what and who I was following on social media too ! I need to figure out how you set limits on your apps on phones because I need to do that too!! I’m drinking that water before coffee now! Reading is my favorite hobby I read lots of books!!Great tips
Suzanne says
I definitely agree with the being in your 40s and getting a good handle on how to keep yourself healthy. You’ve actually inspired me with your workouts and I LOVE your book recommendations! I also like to get a massage once or twice a year. And pedicures in sandal season.
Thanks for all you do!
Julie says
I love this post so much! Times for us all have been, well, hard lately!, and these are such lovely ideas that are “easy” enough to do. I’m with you on basically all of these. (Though I do miss Diet Coke, sigh). And I basically never watched the news to the grave disappointment of my parents lol!
One thing I’ve added into my morning routine for the past year or so is daily meditation. I’ve tried it many ways, but now I do a ten minute meditation every weekday, and a five minute on both Sat and Sun. I exclusively use the Peloton app for this as they have great meditations and you can choose them based on your mood! (if you need more patience, or more courage to deal with your day for example).
I also routinely toggle through my last few phone calls (i.e. call history). If almost every call has been work related, I reach out to a relative or friend. If my phone is solely social, I try to do a little work thing or touch base with a client or something.
I also recently got a bird feeder! And it’s a very cute little “hobby” taking care of my blue jays and cardinals. It makes me happy to see them outside my kitchen window. I recently added a bird bath, and well, umm, they HATE it? But oh well. It’s there if they need it.
Hope you have a wonderful week!
Dana P says
Bird watching is one of my favorite activities, too! It’s funny how the older I get, the more into nature I am in general. 😊
Beth Valenta says
I love your upbeat list! The water before bed is worth me trying. I love to be outside too and honestly the sun gives me energy. My little feel good to reconnect is sending cards. I hit Trader Joes for them (so cute) and I just randomly send them out. I know some of my girlfriends need encouragement or just a verse to get them through. It makes me happy and purposeful. Have a happy Wednesday! ps. Keep me in your thoughts ….going to NYC on Saturday with my daughter to the game. Those fans don’t like my B hat, but hope we keep things rolling. 🙂
Kayla Sugrue says
Oh Shay I love this post! One thing I do in the mornings when I first wake up is actually have a mug of just hot water. It might sound gross at first since it did to me too but it is so calming and gives me the same effect as a cup of coffee or tea – but I feel so much better and now I look forward to it!
Donna J Simpson says
I also just wanted to say I love the way you started this post! Very thoughtful of you. I also loved all of your tips! I really wonder about the glass of water before bed though, I’m 63…:)
Cherry says
Me too Donna! Shay, can you share that podcast you listened to?
S says
You’re spot on to mute friends/family who are negative all the time. These past few years have really brought out the worst in people, and they are not changing anytime soon. I also had to stop watching the news! What a difference it made! I read 8-10 books a month, and I love it!
chaeli says
I LOVE that you led with luck- you’re so right. A lot of things people are struggling with was just a result of being on this side of heaven. We have broken bodies until we are made whole. BUT, and this is a big but, you CAN do things every day to help with health, and you did a great job touching on those things. Thank you for this post. You’re a bright spot in my day!
Ruth says
I totally agree that we should be grateful for our health every day! Hanging out with great friends and not listening to or watching the news are probably two of the best things that I have done to keep healthy/happy!
Erin Springer says
Stairs!! I work in a hospital and typically walk 40-50 flights/day. I NEVER take the elevator 😊That and working out first thing in the morning (lots of weight lifting) are my 2 keys!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love this tip!!!!
Renee says
I always take the stairs also. My family always take the stairs. One of my schools is moving to a new building and someone told that everyone said, “Renee will love the stairs here!” They know me so well!
Alison says
Sundays make me happy. I know most people don’t consider that their favorite day because the following means it’s Monday. But part of helping me feel happy and well is a strong dose of fellowship and Jesus, so it’s church in the morning and brunch with my kids. We love to try new places each week. Those couple hours feed my healthy heart every week. 🙂
Erin H says
Great list! I recently gave up soda and while some days I still crave it (it’s hard to eat pizza or popcorn without it!) wow do I feel better without it! I haven’t had to take a single Tums since I stopped drinking it! So crazy.
Kristin Lyngaas says
#1 If you work outside the home make sure it’s at a place that has a positive vibe, allows you to sleep well at night, and doesn’t leave you completely drained everyday.
#2 Yoga really does change your body in every way especially as you get older
#3 Having faith and prayer keeps my centered for anything else that comes my way. Bible studies are fun and educational. It only took me 53 years to actually complete one! So worth it! Priscilla Shirer is fabulous!
#4 Quit complaining
#5 Get your mammogram, yearly skin check, and have your eyes checked. They can change or save your life!
#6 Don’t worry- it will all work out ❤️
Heather says
Love this ❤️
Melissa Terry says
Yes to all of these! I wasn’t a huge soda drinker in the first place, but I gave it up completely after my daddy died four years ago because I noticed it was upsetting my already/constantly upset stomach. Once I noticed how much better I felt, I never went back. Therapy was so helpful for a season (I did 18 months of grief therapy during that same time)…reading for joy and pleasure, cooking, gardening, ignoring the news, limiting social media. It all helps so much. Thank you for sharing!
Kelly says
Man, I love everything about this! I’m 39 and will turn 40 in February. I’m in the process of figuring out the things that make me happy/feel good. A lot of it is on this list. I love the water idea. I literally made a cup of coffee as I was reading and stopped drinking it and drank a glass of water real quick. I think I need to work on social media. I’m on the PTA board and so many other things/groups use FB as their notifications. It always annoys me. However, I think some muting and unfollowing would make it a lot better! Thanks for always being so honest and vulnerable.
Tiffany says
I love your list and your sweet disclaimer at the start.
My two favorite health/self care must haves are: ACUPUNCTURE- I go twice a month. At the appointment I share whatever is going on that I need extra support with (insomnia, stress, allergies, kidney stones, etc). Between what I report and what my amazing acupuncturist can tell from my pulse & tongue- I have and hour of zen catered to my needs on her table and always leave feeling amazing.
RESTORATIVE YOGA- I attend a weekly class at a local studio. It’s the best weekly reset for me. There are restorative classes in the Peloton app too.
Anne says
Since you began eating G-free at home, have you noticed a difference in how you feel personally, even though you do not have an intolerance like K?
Mix and Match Mama says
I honestly don’t think I feel a difference. I don’t eat 100% gf like K does (I’ll eat it when I’m out/not with her), but for K it has made a HUGE difference!
Carolyn says
I can’t comment right now — I’m busy unfollowing people. 😂. Seriously, I’ve been wanting to for a while and your post is encouragement to go ahead and do it. I also don’t watch the news.
Talia says
This may be my all time favorite post. YES to so many of these things and your disclaimer was spot on! Thank you for sharing!
Rebekah Holland says
I was going to say the same thing.
This is the best post I’ve read from Shay.
I’ve been reading for a long time!
Traci m says
Love these!! Working out, being outside, bible study and water. So good for the soul! And cherishing every moment with my little fam. ❤️
Darcy Sexson says
I love, love this post and the heart of it. 🙂 What a nice gift to open up and read this morning; it helped set my frame of mind in a great spot.
I don’t have any tips, but this year I’ve been shifting my frame of mind from “getting exercise” (which I find to be hard to do consistently, just with my job/young kids/traveling spouse) to “getting more movement in” and as soon as I shifted to that, it’s funny how my rings on my Apple watch started filling up every day and how much healthier I feel. I’m going to try your water tip too!
Amy says
LOVE this post, thank you for sharing!! I do just about all of these things and started most of them in January 2020 when I decided I wanted to just become a healthier happier person (didn’t know what was about to rock our world). I also started counseling that year and was the best thing I have ever done. I am so glad you chose to do this post and everything you included in it was perfect. Hope you have a great rest of your week I am off to do a little reading.
Oh and one thing I love to do to keep myself healthy is to meditate even if it is just for 3-5 minutes! Love listening to The Simple Sophisticate podcast that you recommended. Her voice is so soothing and relaxing plus she talks about some great stuff!
Tish says
I’m trying to add in more protein. But gosh I love those carbs! Haha! Can you share ideas of protein for snacks, breakfast, and lunch? Dinner I’ve got down!
Mix and Match Mama says
All the basics! Eggs (any variety), cheese, nuts, sometimes a Greek yogurt, almond/peanut butter…the norm.
Leslie S says
Robert Irvine Fitcrunch bars are the best protein bars!! You can get them on Amazon and at Walmart, grocery store. Peanut butter is my fav, also the mint and caramel.
Bethany says
I feel like drinking more water is always my goal! And reading my Bible and actually writing out my prayers in the morning gets my day off to a better start. Watering my plants and flowers every morning gets in some steps and listening to the sounds outside sounds silly but so peaceful!
Ashlee says
Would you mind sharing the apps you use to limit screen time on your phone? I desperately need some help with staying off my phone! Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
You don’t even need an app! Go into your phone’s settings and you can manage the do not disturb times/days along with going to “screen time” and then go to “downtime” to limit when they’re available on your device.
Ashley B says
This may be one of my favorite blog posts you’ve ever done. It really resonated with me. I’m 38 years old with an anxiety disorder from childhood trauma. So many times I’ve felt late to the game because I’m a people pleaser by nature and want to do ALL the things. I’m slowly learning to put focus on things that bring ME joy and peace. I so appreciate what you’re willing to share with us. You are most certainly a bright spot in my social feeds. Thank you for being YOU!
Amanda M says
Since we are in an energy crisis in DDW and are being told to conserve energy I hope that your family is turning up the air since you continually comment on how cold it is in your home you can’t be conserving much energy.
Mix and Match Mama says
We are 🙂
DK says
Love this post! And I am curious to know more about your #6 water routine. Would you mind sharing the podcast that influenced you? Thank you for considering!
Mix and Match Mama says
Of course! It was The Simple Sophisticate! I do remember which episode though…
Christi says
I love your disclaimers! So much of health is pure luck.
And I wanted to share that I’ve read several studies on the importance of strength training for our bones as we age as well as helping our bodies heal more quickly. I live strength training.
I still have a long way to go but these are things I do regularly for my health
1. Yearly skin check, mammograms and gyn appointments as well as a physical with my family practitioner for blood work. Every 5 years I get a bone density scan (due to chronic low vit D and a Colonscopy because I’m over 45 🥺! Oh and the dentist 2 times a year.
2. I workout at my functional fitness gym 5-7 days a week with strength and endurance. It’s such a positive place that I need and want it in my life as often as possible.
3. Protein…protein…protein!
4. Gave up drinking Starbucks everyday!
5. No news watching.
6. Spreading positivity and being encouraging and kind as often as possible. Negativity is contagious and I don’t want to spread it.
7. I look for the rainbows as they are there and if I’m having a tough moment I permit those feelings and give myself grace but then I just keep going.
8. No negative self talk! It’s bad! Though this is hard for me.
9. I volunteer and help others because it brings joy.
10. I love to be outside…walking, hiking, searching for waterfalls, etc.
11. I limit my worry about health concerns, tough appts, etc because worry causes stress which makes me feel like crap!
Jane says
I appreciate your disclaimer at the beginning of your post. I recently was diagnosed with breast cancer after a yearly mammogram. I had no warnings, no noticeable lumps (turns out there are two). My health is good and, yes, my health has turned on a dime. I’m 64 and thought I was getting away with getting through life without any major issues. My surgeon is expecting a good outcome. We caught it early, the two spots are small and it’s non-aggressive. So, when I first saw the title, How to Keep Healthy, I cringed just a little. Keeping healthy is just hard. But, I appreciate you and your lovely family and I love keeping up with you and all the fun things you do. Keep all the good ideas coming. I could use them.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, I am so sorry you’re going through this right now. Jane, I am writing down your name and will be praying for you specifically. Please keep me posted on how you’re doing or if there are any specific things I can pray over. I wish I could give you a hug right now.
Angela T. says
I love, love, love all of these! Especially the no news. You are so right, in a world of such sadness lately, it is nice to check out of the scene. Thanks for sharing!
Jade says
I LOVE that this post also focused on emotional and mental health vs just physical well being! Taking many things from this! <3
Kristen says
I needed that reminder to “mute” and “unfollow”certain people on instagram! Such a simple thing, but I know it’ll help my mental health. 🙂
Hannah J says
“#1: I don’t drink sodas”….alcohol isn’t any better for you, lol. It’s actually terrible for you. Sorry, there’s just so many people who pride themselves in not drinking soda, yet freely drink alcohol, which is terrible for the human body. But no one wants to talk about that. It’s not like I’m an avid soda drinker, I have an occasional soda and realize it’s not good for you, but the comments I hear from people, the very same people who drink every day of the week, are annoying.
Mix and Match Mama says
I think there is certainly truth here! Absolutely!
Chantelle W says
Hey Shay,
Longtime reader here, but never a commentator. 😆
I really wanted to say a couple things about this post!
– I loved your beginning stance on recognizing what “healthy” can mean, and not wanting to bring any shame to people struggling with health issues. Insightful of you to recognize that many things are just “luck of the draw,” and we’re all doing our best.
– Screentime! Could you do a future Post about the timers/restrictions you use to limit screentime and how you implement them in a day? I think that would be really helpful 🙂
Thanks,
Chantelle
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you for being a long time reader, Chantelle!! And yes! I will jot that down!
AliJ. says
I LOVE your list and some I already do as well! I stopped watching the news a few years ago as I just could not take it. I’ll go online to read our local newspaper and if there is a bigger story that I want to know more about, I’ll go online to find more information. I also have limited what I see on Facebook and Instagram – I want happy and positive so on Instagram I see lots of squishy babies and English bulldogs (have an English bulldog). I go for daily walks with some friends during the summer and I love it because we do it first thing in the morning. It also gives us a chance to catch up and find out what’s going on at school or with our kids and their friends.
I quit drinking pop about 5 years ago and now can’t stand the taste of it. I prefer water and that’s what I drink 99% of the time but for breakfast I do have a cup of milk. I’m not a coffee drinker at all!
I also make time to read outside – I work inside all day so I enjoy sitting on our porch or deck and reading for an hour or two. When the weather gets cold (I live just outside of Chicago), I’ll read on my sunporch or living room.
I’m also trying to be mindful of taking me time and only doing things I really want to do or volunteer for.
I’ll be an empty nester soon with my daughter going to boarding school and I’m sad but I’m looking forward to seeing what is on the horizon not only for her but also for me.
Ellen says
I work in media, and I still have to limit my news consumption. There is a big difference between legitimate news sources and all the screaming and opinion-slinging that dominates now.
I appreciate your acknowledgment that some of this is luck! And I agree with your advice.
Beth Hall says
Thanks for understanding the perspective of others in different situations from yours. And highlighting it in your post. Health is fleeting and can turn on a dime even when you do all the right things. Recognizing that and explaining that to your readers is a straight up classy move.
Rachel Kazmier says
Love these ideas. I too recently purged my friends list on social media! We live in a very gorgeous setting right in the middle of COS, it feels like we are in the mountains. Outside front porch time and back deck time are key. In fact I think we have watched tv once this whole summer. Travel is my mental health guide. 3 weeks in Europe, Sonoma for wine, heading to Crested Butte for a week, and wrapping up the last weekend before school with hiking a fourteener, boating and Lake Dillon in the mountains. Outside is my jam and thankfully I’m Colorado we can be outside all year long! I also exercise/weights/hike every day. Mixing those up of course. Today we are tubing on a mountain river!