Time to Start

Maybe it’s because the sun has been out and the days are getting longer, but I am more motivated than ever to prioritise my health.

I don’t think of myself as being someone particularly “unhealthy” (though this is a very general phrase that could mean an abundance of things), but I have noticed myself slipping into habits that don’t serve me well. Which is why I’ve decided to be intentional for the next three months, and see what differences are made.

Earlier this year I found a new doctor and went to them about some ways I feel sick and know my body isn’t functioning quite as it should be. Making a change can take up so much space in my mind, but I feel settled enough in other areas of my life that prioritising this now feels right.

Being intentional for three months involves new habits and strong discipline. This can be challenging. But I know I need to be strict in order to fully look after myself and find out if I can naturally help what’s going on.

For the next three months, I am committed to a new workout routine (which should mean I drink more water, too) and no sugar or alcohol.

I know a common attitude can be this is too strict, you should be able to treat yourself or have everything in moderation. But in order for me to feel better and for my body to function as it should, being strict is the way to go. It doesn’t mean you’re no longer allowing yourself to enjoy food, or rest, or rich experiences. I simply want to do what I can.

Settling into a full-time job in an office has meant I am not outside as much as I should be. It has meant long periods of sitting down at a screen. We know this is not good for us, especially in the long-term and as we get older. I want to implement walks in the sun, being in the fresh air, while I’m young. I don’t want the rest of my life to be spent sitting indoors and feeling sick.

I had a blood test recently to see if I have coeliac. In order to test if you have coeliac, you need to eat a specific amount of gluten for a specific amount of time.

For a fortnight, I ate the equivalent of four pieces of bread a day.

It taught me that most things look better or smell better than they actually are. I don’t feel jealous when I see someone eating a gluten-filled doughnut, because I know it isn’t as good as my expectations want it to be. Maybe this is simplifying things too much, but I enjoy food and I have not found myself enjoying it less when I’m gluten free or sugar free. (Strawberries and whipped cream! Camembert and olives!)

I am excited, and happy. Already I have spent longer in the sun, walking, and when I do it feels like I am not wanting for anything else.

I know in the next three months there will be times when I am exhausted, or sad, or busy. Everyday life does not always fit well within a routine. But every week is a bad week to start a new habit. Every weekend something pops up and you think things will clear up next week or next month or next season. I’m starting in winter, which means there will be difficult, cold mornings ahead. But something has to change, and if I don’t do it now, I’ll keep on wishing I felt better without actually ever feeling better.

Let’s go!

Sarah xx