Small habits make a big difference.
I used not to have any of these habits before, but life can feel overwhelming at times, and I’ve found that simple, consistent habits help me stay centered and healthy.
During 2024, I’ve developed five key practices that keep me grounded, energized, and ready to face whatever the day brings.
These habits are easy to follow and adaptable, making them perfect for anyone looking to improve their well-being without drastic lifestyle changes.
I hope you can find yours too!
The first habit I rely on is running or walking every day, depending on how I feel.
To tell you the truth, I hated running. Running is one of the least things I wanted to do in exercise, and I’m amazed that I didn’t start running until I was in my 40s. So, even if you do not like running now, don’t worry!
At first, I could only run for about 5 minutes, and that’s OK. Walk the rest of the course. Next time you will be able to run for about 10 minutes, and next, 20 minutes, and now, I am running for about 30 minutes.
Some days I wake up feeling motivated, ready to lace up my shoes and head out for a long run. Other times, my body craves something gentler, and I opt for a brisk walk. No matter what, I make sure to move daily. This keeps me energized, clears my mind, and ensures I stay active without forcing myself into a rigid routine.
What a gift to be able to run in such beautiful places!
The second essential part of my day is eating a healthy breakfast. Starting the morning with homemade granola gives me the energy I need to stay focused throughout the day. I love simple meals like granola with nuts and fresh fruit & honey. A nutritious breakfast not only fuels my body but also keeps my cravings in check and sets a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Here is the recipe for my healthy granola.
Mix the following ingredients, (except dried fruits,) in a bowl, and spread on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven (350F) for 15 minutes. Take it out once and mix it widely with a spatula or spoon to loosen the lumps. If it is too large, it will not be well cooked, so loosen it so that it forms a raisin-sized lump. Add dried fruits, and bake for another 15 minutes, mix and let it cool down before putting it in a container. (Drited fruits can easily get burned, so add later)
- Oatmeal……200g
- Flour……80g
- Sugar……80g
- Salt……1 pinch
- Vegetable oil……50g
- Water……80㎖
- Nuts （Any nuts of your choice）……100g
- Dried fruits （Any dried fruits of your choice and cut them into small pieces. I like to add dates.）……80g
They are so good with yogurt or milk of your choice.
Third, when stress or irritability sneaks in, I turn to light exercise or a soothing cup of tea. A quick stretch or a few minutes of deep breathing helps me reset when I feel overwhelmed. If I need a moment to unwind, I reach for a calming tea—chamomile or herbal tea works wonders in these moments. This small ritual helps me shift my mood and manage stress effectively, without feeling guilty for taking a break.
Look what I have in my house! This is a sandbag that my husband bought over my objections. I have to admit that it is actually worth it.
I twist and kick at the waist to make my stomach thinner for a few minutes and I start to sweat. It’s useful when I do not want to go outside running or walking, but still want to do some exercise.
I don’t do boxing, but just twisting my body and kick is a nice exercise, and my favorite tea collection.
Fourth, journaling has become another daily habit that I cherish. In the morning, I use my journal to set intentions and jot down a few goals for the day. At night, I reflect on what went well and what I could improve. I keep my notebooks everywhere, even at my bedside. This simple practice allows me to track my progress and brings clarity to my thoughts, helping me stay motivated and mindful of my personal growth.
I have several notebooks in my house so that I can keep writing anytime I want.
The final habit that keeps me balanced is meditation. I meditate for five to ten minutes each day, either in the morning to start with calmness or at night to wind down before sleep. Meditation helps me stay present, reduces stress, and brings a sense of inner peace. Even on busy days, a few moments of stillness make a big difference in how I feel.
Incorporating these habits into my daily life has transformed how I manage my time, emotions, and energy. Running or walking, eating a healthy breakfast, doing light exercise or drinking tea when I feel irritable, journaling, and meditating have become the pillars of my well-being. Each one plays a unique role in helping me stay grounded, no matter how hectic life gets.
Healthy habits don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. The key is consistency and finding practices that work for you.
