Most of us who are not on the medical frontlines here in the USA are about 3-4 weeks into their Home Isolation-Shelter at Home situation. A common statement I’m hearing from friends and clients is along the lines of “I think I’m getting settled into our new routine.”
Obviously, it is a unique situation for everyone. Parents don’t get their “break” the same way or frequency as before. Some telecommuters are finding themselves working MORE than before, burning a lot of that midnight oil. Couples are defining new patience limits with each other, perhaps needing to explore their co-routines just as much as their independent routines. Some single people are grateful for having their own bubble, but contending with a different loneliness and extended period of time for pajama-wearingness.
The daily routines have changed.
They are still changing.
They will continue to change.
As much as we may associate “routine” with “boredom,” routine is actually a beautiful thing. It give us structure and a foundation of trust. It provides us the ability to implement “the controllables” in our ever-changing and unpredictable lives. I know that if you do ABC everyday, you will likely have XYZ happen everyday as a result.
This week, one of my clients said “I have to stay true to my routine and lifestyle to support my health.” She went on to tell me the things she had kept consistent and structured in her daily life, despite the numerous lifestyle changes due to The Virus. Her food routine has kept consistent, even though availability of some of her usual foods has changed. You could hear Relief, Confidence, and Stability… which is a pretty cool thing these days with all of our uncertainties looming.
So, how is your food routine looking these days?
If you haven’t thought of your food routine, or the impact it could have upon your life right now, I’d like to offer you a fun exercise to shed light on the situation. And even if you think you know the ins and outs of your current food routine, I’d still encourage you to participate in this exploration exercise.
Let’s call it: BeYoBO. Be Your Best Observer.
I talk about this in my Endurance Nutrition Primer program, but in a nutshell, it involves you noting in journal format (and in a judgement-free nature) what goes on in your days in and around food:
the WHAT - what are you eating? drinking?
the WHEN - what time of day are you eating and drinking?
the WHERE - where do you sit or stand to eat?
the WHY - what is it you are feeling (hunger, fullness, emotions, cravings, etc.)?
the WHAT ELSE - what do you notice is going on around you? how did that meal work for you? and much more…
Taking time to observe, and be your best observer, can shed so much light on how your current routine is helping you. Or isn’t helping you. I find this tool extremely powerful for folks who dive in and let the days unfold as they are, but then spend time self-reflecting in the process.
Once you see, you become more clear about areas in your Food Routine that have room for enhancement.
You can then decide to act and make your own daily 1% change that keeps you on your personal success path.
Give it a try.
You Be You. And BeYoBO, you beautiful people.
Hang in there,
Dina