5 Little Tweaks To Help You Maintain A Healthier Lifestyle

Sometimes my nutrition clients are surprised at first when we discuss non-food topics, but healthy living isn't just about what you're eating: There are so many other factors that affect our health and well-being, and while it might not seem like they affect our eating on the surface, it's all part of the same big picture. 

What I've found throughout my work in clinical, corporate wellness, my private practice, and through media work is that the struggle is usually not about not having enough information about what's healthy and what's not—it's about staying consistent with those healthy habits when life becomes busy and hectic. 

That's why I've packed my new book, The Little Book of Game-Changers: 50 Healthy Habits for Managing Stress & Anxiety, with the tools that have helped my clients meet their goals and maintain their success even in the face of challenging situations.

Often I see people trying to follow a diet or exercise plan that may sound great on paper but doesn't quite work for them. Either it's too restrictive or demanding, or it's built around foods they don't enjoy or activities they can't maintain in their day-to-day. 

Sometimes the word "routine" has a negative association or conjures up images of 5 a.m. alarm clocks, punishing runs, and chalky smoothies. It doesn't have to be that way at all! Having a consistent but flexible routine (for example, an at-home and a travel version) with little habits that help you feel grounded and keep you on track can make it easier for you to stay consistent with healthy habits.

One of the most powerful tools I use with my clients is this: Put your own name on your calendar.

We need to graduate from glorifying "busy" schedules (something I've certainly had to work on!). Setting boundaries with our time and energy allows us to devote more to what truly serves our bigger picture and helps us feel more present.

Feeling lonely can be extremely triggering, leading many of us to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Come up with a plan of concrete things you can do when that loneliness starts to creep in (and be honest with yourself about your weak spots—mine is online shopping and trying to buy the experience I wish I was having), so you don't revert to your usual crutches. Be it mindlessly snacking in front of the TV, eating in front of the fridge—whatever your coping mechanism might be.