Embarking on a healthy journey means so much more than eating healthy foods and getting enough exercise. Our state of mind can help or hinder our progress along the way.
How do sleep, stress and work impact your health? Our team knows how to help you find a balance.
Lori Yeary, who works at the Perrysburg, Ohio location of Medical Weight Loss Clinic, says there are three factors we can’t overlook when we’re working hard to lead a healthier life. For those of us who are prone to overworking, taking on too much stress or getting too little sleep – these are big factors that can negatively impact our health.
“It is very important to know your work and life balance limits,” says Lori. “Stay in tune with stress and if your body is telling you to rest, don’t feel guilty! When your sleep and stress levels are off, it impacts everything around you - including your eating habits.”
The first step in making a change, is recognizing which of these three areas might be a challenge. Lori says take a step back and evaluate when you feel stressed, overtired or overworked.
“Take a few minutes every day to reorganize, have a cup of tea, take a quick walk or read a fun article,” she suggests. “Let your mind rest a bit! Get some exercise. It's a natural stress reducer!”
At Medical Weight Loss Clinic, we’re seeing more and more patients with these concerns. The pandemic has made life challenging for us all – and it often takes the form of stress or losing sleep.
“More people are covering additional responsibilities with layoffs,” says Lori. “Feeling short tempered, experiencing tension headaches and always being ‘on’ are good indicators that you are operating on Full. Don't be afraid to take a few steps back and refresh daily.”
And check in on your sleep habits.
Lori says six to eight hours per night is optimal for most adults. She suggests that patients stay away from caffeine after 6 p.m., turn off electronics an hour before bed, lower the lights and relax a bit before bed.
“Ease into your evening feeling more relaxed,” she says.
Chronic stress can be tough to combat. If that’s something you’re struggling with, Lori says that focusing on one day at a time is helpful.
“Every day there is a chance for a victory,” she notes. “Make good choices one day, then another, then another...they will all add up!”
Keeping your sleep, stress levels and work in check is easier when you add movement to the mix, too.
“Daily exercise is key to feeling energized and clearing the mind,” Lori says. “I turn down lights and let my environment get cozy. It makes me feel more settled and I find myself easing into the night more relaxed and ready to sleep.”
Patients can count on Medical Weight Loss Clinic and professionals like Lori to get on the right track – and stay there. The staff is dedicated to helping patients reach their healthy goals.
“It’s an investment in your future and we are always working on attaining weekly goals to keep you motivated,” she adds.
Are you ready to meet your healthy goals? Learn more about how Medical Weight Loss Clinic’s customized programs. Schedule your free consultation online or by calling 1-800-GET-SLIM.
