creating a sanctuary within

a gentle reset and reflection

lately i’ve found myself obsessing over my health—new symptoms, chronic conditions, the spiral goes on—wondering what i need to shift and fix. i’m also in a more anxious state, with some things going on where the only thing you can do is take it day by day.

one of my “unhealthy” coping mechanisms is to obsess over my body and health. i’ve realized over the years in therapy that this hyper focus on my health is my brain’s way of trying to find control.

but i also feel like i can fine tune some things. more of a gentle reset, for my routines and habits before the school year starts, because it will be a busy rest of the year.

so as someone who has had a toxic relationship to wellness exhibits a & b. i’m trying to find a way to ease my anxiety in a graceful and sustainable way.

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i’ve been wondering how can i recalibrate in a healthy, sustainable, and graceful way.

as i’ve reflected on how to navigate this, i have come up with a few things:

a. focus on the big 4

—sleep: 7-9 hours

—nutrition: balanced meal, mostly whole foods, NO EXTREME restrictions

—movement: more walking, 10 minute dance session, strength, whatever it is just do it

—regulate stress: tech free moments, simple be

note to self: check the current foundation, don’t rush the process, don’t add 10 things at once.

b. find movement

doom scrolling + netflix binging have been a major comfort?distraction?addiction? at the moment. which i like to think they aren’t always a bad thing, but i’m tired of this being my current fall back. so coming back to the four pillars, where can i find more movement in my days.

—bring walking back

—personal yin yoga practice 10-40 mins

—low impact strength + core

x10 squats
x10 glute bridges
30 sec/side forearm planks
x10 pushups
gentle stretches

note to self: it always feels good to move

c. regulate + reset

—2–5 min breathing practice

—journal check-in

—tech free pockets of time during the day to let my brain exhaleeeee

note to self: these things don’t have to be daily, they are reminders of things you can do. maybe once a week or whenever the mood strikes.

d. have fun with style

i keep noticing how getting dressed feels different. like it can be a form of play again. i want to treat outfits the way a little kid would.

—mix colors and patterns without overthinking

—layer on bold accessories just because they make me smile

—wear what feels good and a little different instead of defaulting to safe clothes

epilogue

since writing this piece i have stumbled across the book mind your body—30 pages into the book and i’m already thinking of all the people i need to buy this for. it’s one those divine interventions, where this book arrives at the perfect time, touching on all the things i’ve been reflecting on.

thanks for being here xx