As important as it is to take a break from our daily routines, it is equally essential to taking a break from our dietary habits and discipline. It provides us with a reset of sorts. It can be challenging to give up control, but it can provide long-lasting effects on our mental and physical health.
Recently, I decided to take a holiday from my discipline with nutrition and fitness to see how it would impact my body and health. Here are the top ten things that I learned when I took this break from my eating and fitness habits:
- I actually enjoy my daily habits
I thought the things I did every day were sacrifices but found that they have become habits that I actually look forward to doing. - I enjoy my regular meals and don’t enjoy junk food
After throwing caution to the wind for three days, I learned that I enjoy the food I eat regularly. It keeps me full. It helps me stay regular. And, there’s no bloat or guilt. - When I am off of my routine, I don’t drink as much water as normal
Even with my water tracker to remind me, I found I struggled (and often fell short) of my 80-100 ounces of water a day. This really played into the bloat factor and my inability to stay “regular”.. - I don’t miss alcohol
I really expected to go completely off the rails, to include alcohol. In reality, I didn’t have any alcohol at all and I didn’t miss it at all. Looking back, this is probably a good thing because I estimate I had over 3000 calories per day without it. Yikes! - I enjoy working out
I love my daily workouts. I enjoy the grind. I enjoy the feedback my body gives me when I sweat and work my muscles. My attitude is so much better when I workout. My sleep is better. - Rest is important
I realized that sometimes I forget how important it is to rest. Taking some time off allowed me to completely relax and recover from my everyday routine. While we can’t “catch up” on sleep, it is important to relax and recharge weekly. - Eating out doesn’t have to sabotage me
Before going on my nutrition holiday, I was scared of sabotaging my progress by dining out. However, it didn’t have to be that difficult, many restaurants had healthy options that were suitable for me and helped me stay on track. - Dairy Queen is overrated
For some reason, we decided to go to Dairy Queen for a blizzard. It was probably because I hadn’t had ice cream in a while and I thought DQ would give me the best opportunity to squash that craving. We should have gone to Coldstone Creamery instead. - I came back from my “discipline holiday” excited and ready to begin a new 100 day discipline cycle.
Taking a break from discipline made me realize how much I enjoy it. It gave me the time to reflect on my passion and get me to start planning my next steps. - The weight gain and bloat from a holiday like this only lasts 3-5 days
As soon as I got back and started back with my daily habits and discipline, the belly bloat went away. My weight went back to normal. I got regular again. I felt good.
In conclusion, taking a holiday from your daily habits can provide a new perspective on nutrition, fitness, control and its impact on our bodies. By being mindful of our consumption, exercise and making conscious choices, our health and well-being can see long-lasting benefits. Remember to celebrate your small successes, stay hydrated, and appreciate healthy food!
Radley West 