This one goes out to all of my intern buddies!
Some of us know this and others tend to forget, but it is some of the most important advice…ever! Last week, some fellow dietetic interns and I were talking about the many stresses in our lives now as well as some solutions or ways to relieve the stress. Everyone mentioned they did not have any time for exercise (This might not be a concern for some people, but us nutrition lovers tend to also love our exercise). So, what was the solution? There is no black and white answer for all situations, but basically–find the time!
Finding time for yourself can mean so many different things to different people. For me it is finding time to exercise, be outside, make pasta, or even to draw something. For someone else it might mean to finish a puzzle, take a walk, take a nap, or read. Whatever it is, enjoy the time without thinking about what is going on in your life at the time. In ballet class, my teacher used to tell us, “Write your problems or thoughts down on a slip of paper and leave it at the door on your way in. If you'd like, you can take them back on your way out.”
So, how the heck is one supposed to find the time? It's not always easy. Over the summer I was working an average of 70 hours each week. The only way to fit in some exercise time was to wake up at 5:00 am. So I did. Some people said I was crazy, but it was one time each day to let go of thoughts, and simply enjoy the little things in life. Maybe you'll have to give up TV, cut your shower time in half, or wake up 30 minutes earlier and go to bed 30 minutes later. What ever you decide to do, stick with it! It doesn't have to be every day.
Exercise is a great stress reliever. It will also help you sleep better at night. At the least, try going for walks or stretching your entire body. I don't know what I would do without my kung fu and yoga! (I think I would be a very mad person)
Marina Bedrossian is a Northport, NY dietitian nutritionist who helps people with holistic nutrition solutions and food sensitivities. Visit this page to schedule an appointment and don’t forget to join the private Facebook group “Ingredients For Healthy Families” more information here.
