Health Journal Online

Tag: Habits

  • How to Build Mindful Social Media Habits in the Age of TikTok—for You and Your Kids

    How to Build Mindful Social Media Habits in the Age of TikTok—for You and Your Kids

    A few years back, I was scrolling through my Instagram feed when I came across an image of Miranda, my childhood best friend. She was on a beautiful white-sand tropical beach, tan and radiant, contorted into an incredible yoga pose. In contrast, I was sitting in my living room, pasty white and deeply bundled against the frigid Maine temps, nearly comatose from tech use. And I noticed something. As I stared at the pic, my throat clenched slightly. My shoulders rose up just a hair. And my stomach dropped. I had a wisp of a thought: Ugh. I wish that was me. This was followed by a cascade of reasons that I was better than her, in a desperate attempt to make myself feel better. 

    What makes this moment notable, even though this yucky feeling had happened a bajillion times while looking at Insta, was a recognition of how that image impacted me. If I think about my technology consumption like a diet, what I just ate left me feeling bloated and heavy—perhaps the equivalent of eating an entire bag of Cheetos. In the past, I might have scrolled on for thirty minutes, continuing with my day and feeling some unnamed uneasiness, but not really noticing or connecting my feelings to anything in particular. This time, though, it was clear as day. This time helped me wake up and ask myself, “Is scrolling through social media healthy for me?” The answer was a resounding no.

    So then I deleted all the apps and never got on social media again. 

    Yeah, right. 

    What is true is that this was the beginning of a long process of really waking up to how my technology use was impacting me. I was able to start noticing when my face felt hot and my muscles clenched because an email triggered me before shooting off a fiery response. I recognized that if I woke up and looked at the news on my phone first thing in the morning, I was extra grouchy toward my family as I got ready to teach school that day.

    Mindfulness basically asks us to take off our judgy pants for a second and really look at our experiences, especially the ones we think we already know.

    On the flip side, my awareness of some of the ways tech really served me grew as well. I was able to notice that I felt empowered by calls to action posted by friends who were promoting social justice. I was grateful for the electronic calendar that reminded me of a forgotten appointment I was supposed to go to in thirty minutes. And especially as we braved the COVID-19 pandemic, I deeply appreciated being able to connect with my students, family, and friends over Zoom.

    Listen, I have an obvious bias here. I believe it is really easy for us as humans to get sucked into mindless technology use, and I think that sometimes makes us feel like crap. I believe there are forces at work that make it hard to put the phone or video controller or computer screen down. And I believe that we do have control over ourselves and our choices, but only if we are paying enough attention to notice what’s going on. 

    Listen to Your Kids

    I want to be clear: This is not just a concern for young people. Though the specifics of the challenges around tech use may be generational, the modern struggle for balance and wellness affects all ages.

    I am a mother of two young kiddos (ages one and four at the time of publication), which means I am grappling with how to best support them in developing their own healthy relationships with technology.

    For now, it is easy because I can just turn off the iPad after one episode or take away the phone after the timer dings. But at some point, I need to transfer that power to them so they can start noticing and making their own choices about the impact their tech use has on them. Of course, they will make mistakes. Of course, I will make mistakes. But I’m hoping, much as I do with my students, that we can figure it out together.

    I encourage you to be vulnerable with the young people in your life. Model owning your struggles. Invite them to share theirs. Sit on the same side of the table and problem-solve together rather than fight. We all want less fighting. Be open to the possibility that you are in this together.

    You can learn a lot just by listening to kids. The world is different from the one we grew up in. I didn’t have a mobile phone or social media until college and a smartphone came well after that. I had an entire childhood before modern tech became a reality. I can’t fully comprehend what it would be like to grow up in a world where my relationships were mediated by technology. The closest I can come is simply listening to young people. One piece of advice that has really stuck with me came from Jeremy, a teen from Virginia, who said, “One of the biggest mistakes I see parents make is they try to relate too much. While both generations have issues, it’s not the same and they don’t fully understand. Parents should just acknowledge the generation gap, and be open to listening and understanding.” 

    So, I encourage you to be vulnerable with the young people in your life. Model owning your struggles. Invite them to share theirs. Sit on the same side of the table and problem-solve together rather than fight. We all want less fighting. Be open to the possibility that you are in this together.

    Create Social Media Habits That Serve You

    Mindfulness basically asks us to take off our judgy pants for a second and really look at our experiences, especially the ones we think we already know. When we fully pay attention, defenses down, hearts open, we can be amazed by how much more there is to learn. By hearts open, I mean we can do this work with care. We can do it because we care . . . about ourselves, about our families and friends, and about the larger community. Acknowledging that we truly do want what is best for all can help us make moves that might not feel easy. Perhaps we create a social justice post to highlight the ways we can better care for one another and this world. Perhaps we put our phones down to really show care to the people we love.

    Close your eyes. Okay, I guess you have to read through this first, but then come back and close your eyes and walk yourself through this exercise.

    1. Imagine yourself waking up on your most perfect day. What does it feel like to be in bed? How do you soak in that moment? Do you stay there for a while to enjoy the restfulness? Are you someone who loves to jump right up and throw on some upbeat music? Whatever those first few moments in your ideal day look like, imagine them.
    1. Afternoon rolls around. What now? Do you go out for a walk? Take a catnap in a sunny patch on the couch? Hit the beach or slopes?
    1. How will you wind down from your day? Watch a movie with your family? Read a book curled up in your beanbag chair? Take a short walk around the block?
    1. When you are ready, come back to the present.

    This is an idealizing exercise. Obviously, we don’t usually have this much control over every moment of the day. We must consider other people’s needs. And we do things—work, errands, exercise, and so on—that may not feel gratifying in the moment but may ultimately serve us. Some life circumstances simply do not allow for us to do all that we wish. But it can be really helpful to know in our bodies what it feels like to live a beautiful day, as well as what factors help create those feelings.

    This exercise is meant to highlight the fact that how you spend your time matters. What you fill your mind with—experiences, content, images—matters. It may be the most important thing to consider. The way we spend each moment ultimately adds up to our lives. If we really want to start being clear about how our tech can best serve us, we need to be very clear about what we want it to serve. Many people grapple with this big question their whole lives: What work, activities, causes, and ways of being in the world make me feel most alive, most connected, and most authentically myself? There will not be a final answer to this question. It will be a lifelong inquiry, and your response will undoubtedly shift as you grow and have new priorities.

    Finding meaning in our lives won’t come just from what we do, but how we show up.

    Finding meaning in our lives won’t come just from what we do, but how we show up. Are we all the way there for those experiences? Or are we distracted? Can we find meaning and contentment even in moments that are not exciting, awe-inspiring, or fun? Our tech habits do not exist in isolation. Sometimes they are a result of some unmet need in our lives. Sometimes our habits result in an unmet need. It helps to figure out what things nourish us and help us to feel most alive. Only then can we really understand how our tech use can support that. 

    You Can Always Begin Again

    The truth is, at least momentarily, it is easier not to try. It is easier not to notice. It is easier to just hop in our tech inner tube and let the tech companies’ brilliant neuroscientists and psychologists whisk us away on a “happy,” tech-fueled river float. It’s easier to let our habits and patterns whisk us away than it is to look at those habits and ask them, “Are you getting me where I want to go? Are you creating the life I want to live?” Sometimes just asking ourselves to pause can feel Herculean. We aren’t used to it. Our habits push us to stick with what we know. Knowing this, perhaps you ask yourself, Can I love the dance? Can I love my humanness? Can I love myself when my actions create sleep deprivation, jealousy, work backlogs, or sadness? Can I fuel my desire to keep coming back with love and care instead of shame?

    If we go into the practice of examining our tech habits by criticizing ourselves, and criticizing others, for not living up to our ideals, we won’t want to keep trying. Lead with love.

    Maybe we notice we have been scrolling for over an hour one day, only to miss noticing the same behavior a week later. Maybe we choose to set a timer when we play video games one day and hop up after thirty minutes to go get some fresh air, only to hole up for a whole weekend playing games a month later. Still, we can begin again.

    And still, we can value ourselves as we fall. We can value ourselves enough to try again. 

    Attention Hijacked: Using Mindfulness to Reclaim Your Brain from Tech by Erica B. Marcus. Text copyright © 2022 by Erica B. Marcus. Reprinted with the permission of Zest Books, a division of Lerner Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this text excerpt may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the prior written permission of Lerner Publishing Group, Inc.

    Can We Have Compassionate Tech? 

    Aden Van Noppen, founder of compassionate tech company Mobius, answers our questions about how technology hijacks attention and how we can foster a healthier relationship with our screens.
    Read More 

    • Ava Whitney-Coulter
    • August 16, 2022

    You Can Change Your Life by Loving Yourself 

    Learning to take care of your heart, to accept the pain that comes with seeing the people you love suffer, and to be okay with suffering yourself, is the true work of self-love—and it begins with the breath.
    Read More 

    • Ali Smith, Atman Smith, and Andres Gonzalez
    • June 10, 2024



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  • Build Healthy Habits in the New Year With 3 Science-Backed Strategies

    Build Healthy Habits in the New Year With 3 Science-Backed Strategies

    Our habits create our lives. 

    They are the basis for most of our positive outcomes in life. They determine how often we practice mindfulness, our exercise patterns, our ability to place our full attention on our work. They bolster our capacity to interact with the people around us from a sense of compassion and full presence.

    Our habits also create most of the problems we encounter in life. They keep us stuck in self-defeating patterns like eating that full pint of ice cream, getting lost for hours on social media, or “checking out” instead of being present for the people we love.

    As you begin this New Year, it’s easy to get caught-up thinking only about goals, outcomes, and New Year’s resolutions. These are important. But we think it’s even more important to consider the underlying habits that either keep you stuck or allow you to experience profound changes.  

    How do you nourish healthy habits? Here are three proven steps:

    3 Science-Backed Strategies to Build Healthy Habits in the New Year

    Step 1: Take an Inventory of Your Current Habit System

    Edward Deming, one of America’s leading management scientists in the 20th century, declared, “Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.” Allow that to sink in for a moment. 

    The idea here is that your current system of habits is “perfectly designed” to produce the negative, self-defeating, patterns you wish you could change. If you struggle to exercise, it’s because your current habit system is perfectly designed to keep you from working out. If you can’t find time to meditate, it’s because your current habit system is perfectly designed to prevent you from training your mind.

    Which existing habits are standing in your way? Which new habits will allow you to make the changes you would like to see?

    And that raises an important question: what results do you wish you were getting? For instance, do you want to be more mindful, less distracted? Do you want to be kinder, less agitated? Do you want to spend more time exploring the things that matter most to you, less time binge-watching shows on Netflix? These are the outcomes you want to change.

    Next, look one level deeper, at changes in habits that will help you achieve these outcomes. And this begs a second question: Which existing habits are standing in your way? Which new habits will allow you to make the changes you would like to see?

    Step 2: Build New Habits By Stacking Them on Habits You Already Have

    By now, you should have a few new habits in mind that will help you achieve the changes you’d like to make. The question then becomes: how do you build these new habits?

    In our work with high performers and executives, we’ve found that the best way to build new habits is to, in the words of habit expert James Clear, “stack” them on top of existing habits.

    For example, let’s say you want to build the habit of spending less time distracted by your phone. You could try to build this habit from scratch by saying, “I am not going to look at my phone at all in the evening.”

    Stacking this new habit on top of an existing habit is a much more effective strategy. For example, you can say: “After I walk through my front door and take off my jacket in the evening, I’m going to put my phone on Do Not Disturb mode.” This approach increases your likelihood of building the habit not only by tying it to an existing habit (taking off your coat as you walk in the door) but it also includes a specific action, which the research says is another important strategy for making habits stick. Instead, saying vaguely, “I’m going to try to look at my phone less,” it’s based on a tangible action, “switching my phone to Do Not Disturb.”

    The path to changing your life is more about the process of building the habit than the specific habit itself.

    There are numerous ways to enact this strategy in everyday life.  You could use your walk into the office as a time for practicing present moment awareness, use slowing down in your car at stop signs or stop lights as a cue to take one or two mindful breaths, or use beginning meals as a cue for expressing one thing you are grateful for. 

    The possibilities here are endless with this simple strategy: Stack the new habit you wish to create on top of an existing habit so that it becomes integrated into the midst of your everyday life.

    Step 3: Build and Sustain Your New Habits Using the Four C’s

    The final step uses what we call the Four C’s of habit formation to weave these new habits deep into the fabric of your everyday life.

    1. Commence Small. This first critical tip builds on Stanford professor BJ Fogg’s research, which suggests you start with a goal you can realistically achieve. For example, it’s better to start with 5 minutes of meditation each day than to set yourself up for disappointment by trying to meditate for an hour. Be careful of setting unrealistic New Year’s goals that risk failing in mere days because they are too big. Remember, the path to changing your life is more about the process of building the habit than the specific habit itself.
    2. Commit.  Make a 100% commitment to building your new habit.  It turns out that it’s actually easier to commit to building a new habit 100% of the time than 99%. That 1%, after all, can make you miserable.  It fuels that voice in your head that says, “I’ll skip it just this once.” But by making a 100% commitment to a tiny habit, you end this mental argument. We have seen over and over again with thousands of people that this is really the key tip for creating new habits.
    3. Create a consistent Cue. Going back to the idea of habit stacking, where creating a “cue” helps you remember to act. Use one of your existing habits as your cue, as a trigger that helps you remember to build the new habit.  If you want to spend less time mind wandering and more time noticing the sights, sounds, and sensations of the present moment, for instance, come up with a regularly repeating cue that reminds you to practice, a cue like waking up, going to bed, walking upstairs, stopping at stoplights, riding in elevators, or standing in line at the store. 
    4. Celebrate. All you have to do to celebrate is savor the experience for just a few seconds. Savor the exquisite feeling of connecting to your breath. Savor the feeling of pleasure that you derive from doing the activity you made a 100% commitment to carry out.

    So, while the world hammers on about goals, outcomes, and New Year’s resolutions over the next few weeks, remember that real change and progress only happens when we carefully construct a system of habits that make new outcomes possible.



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  • 10 Simple Habits to Boost Your Confidence and Self-Esteem

    10 Simple Habits to Boost Your Confidence and Self-Esteem

    10 Simple Habits to Boost Your Confidence and Self-Esteem

    Building confidence and self-esteem takes time and effort, but there are many simple habits that can help. Developing these habits can have a profound impact on your overall well-being, relationships, and success. Here are 10 simple habits to boost your confidence and self-esteem.

    Habit 1: Practice Positive Affirmations

    Positive affirmations are simple, yet powerful phrases that can help rewire your brain with positive thoughts. Repeat phrases like "I am capable and competent," "I am worthy of love and respect," or "I can achieve my goals" to help you build confidence and self-esteem. Try using a mirror, journal, or even a sticky note to remind yourself of these affirmations throughout the day.

    Habit 2: Take Care of Your Physical Health

    Exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep are all essential for boosting your mood and energy levels. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and self-confidence. Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can also provide the necessary nutrients for a healthy brain and body. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help regulate your hormones and give your brain a chance to recharge.

    Habit 3: Practice Gratitude

    Focusing on what you have, rather than what you lack, can significantly improve your self-esteem. Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. This can be as simple as a good cup of coffee, a beautiful sunset, or a supportive friend. Reflecting on the positive aspects of your life can help shift your focus away from negative self-talk and cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation.

    Habit 4: Take Calculated Risks

    Step outside your comfort zone and take calculated risks to challenge yourself. This can help build confidence and self-esteem by proving to yourself that you’re capable of handling new challenges. Whether it’s asking for a promotion, taking on a new project, or trying a new hobby, remember that growth often occurs outside your comfort zone.

    Habit 5: Practice Mindfulness

    Mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises can help you stay present and focused, reducing stress and anxiety. Regular mindfulness practice can also improve your self-awareness, allowing you to recognize and challenge negative thoughts and emotions. Start with short, 5-10 minute sessions each day to build your mindfulness muscle.

    Habit 6: Surround Yourself with Positive People

    The people you surround yourself with can have a significant impact on your mood, self-esteem, and confidence. Nurture relationships with positive, supportive, and encouraging individuals who uplift and inspire you. Limit your exposure to toxic or negative relationships that drain your energy and self-worth.

    Habit 7: Celebrate Your Achievements

    Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. This can help build confidence and self-esteem by recognizing your hard work and progress. Reflect on your achievements and accomplishments regularly, and be kind to yourself when you encounter setbacks.

    Habit 8: Challenge Negative Self-Talk

    Negative self-talk can be a significant obstacle toconfidence and self-esteem. Pay attention to your inner dialogue and challenge negative thoughts by reframing them in a more positive and realistic light. For example, instead of "I’ll never be able to do this," try "I’ll learn and grow from this experience."

    Habit 9: Practice Self-Care

    Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is crucial for building confidence and self-esteem. Schedule time for self-care activities that bring you joy, such as reading, taking a walk, or enjoying a relaxing bath. Prioritize your own needs and make self-care a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.

    Habit 10: Embrace Your Imperfections

    Perfection is a myth, and it’s essential to remember that everyone makes mistakes. Embrace your imperfections and don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Celebrate your uniqueness and individuality, and recognize that your imperfections are what make you, you.

    Conclusion

    Developing these 10 simple habits can have a profound impact on your confidence and self-esteem. Remember that building confidence and self-esteem is a journey, and it takes time, effort, and patience. Start with small, achievable steps, and be gentle with yourself as you work towards building a stronger, more positive you.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Q: How long does it take to develop these habits?
      A: The amount of time it takes to develop these habits varies, but with consistent effort, you can start to notice improvements in your confidence and self-esteem in as little as 30 days.

    • Q: Are these habits only for people with low self-esteem?
      A: No, these habits can benefit anyone looking to boost their confidence and self-esteem, regardless of their current level of confidence.

    • Q: Are there any specific resources or tools I can use to support these habits?
      A: Yes, there are many resources available, such as meditation apps, gratitude journals, and positive affirmation workbooks. Find what works best for you and use it to support your habits.

  • Fuel Your Fitness: The Ultimate Guide to Healthy Eating Habits for a Fit Body

    Fuel Your Fitness: The Ultimate Guide to Healthy Eating Habits for a Fit Body

    Healthy eating habits are the foundation of any successful fitness journey. When it comes to fueling your body for optimal performance and optimal health, a well-planned diet is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ultimate guide to healthy eating habits for a fit body, providing valuable insights and practical tips to help you power your fitness journey.

    The Role of Nutrition in Fitness

    Effective nutrition is a critical component of fitness success. Adequate nutrition provides energy for workouts, supports muscle growth and repair, and helps with recovery. Without adequate nutrition, your fitness goals may be unachievable, regardless of how much exercise you do. Proper nutrition helps ensure that your body has the necessary nutrients to function at its best, support muscle growth and repair, and accelerate recovery.

    The Importance of Adequate Protein Intake

    Protein is a vital nutrient for any fitness enthusiast, providing the building blocks for muscle growth and repair. Adequate protein intake is essential for:

    • Rebuilding and repairing muscle tissue after intense exercise

    • Supporting muscle growth and increase in muscle mass

    • Regulating appetite and supporting weight loss

    • Assisting with immune function and overall health

    Aim for 1-1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, spread out over 3-5 main meals and 2-3 snacks. Good sources of protein include lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu, and plant-based protein powders.

    Hydration and Fuelling for Performance

    Adequate hydration is essential for optimal performance during workouts. Dehydration can lead to decreased intensity, reduced strength, and impaired mental focus. Make sure to drink water regularly throughout the day, aiming for at least 8-10 glasses daily. Additionally, consume electrolyte-rich fluids, such as sports drinks, to replace lost salts and minerals during long or intense workouts.

    Meal Planning and Timing

    Meal planning and timing is crucial for optimal nutrition. Aim for 4-6 main meals and 2-3 snacks daily, spaced 2-3 hours apart. This strategy helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite, providing a steady flow of nutrients to support your fitness goals. Important meal planning tips include:

    • Plan your meals around your workout schedule to ensure optimal nutrition before, during, and after exercise

    • Incorporate complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and fiber for healthy digestion

    • Balance your macronutrient ratio with a mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates

    Healthy Eating Habits for a Fit Body

    Adopting healthy eating habits is a long-term process, and it’s essential to focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. Here are some practical tips to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine:

    • Create a meal plan and stick to it, even on rest days

    • Shop fresh and organic whenever possible for the highest nutritional value

    • Choose whole, unprocessed foods as often as possible, avoiding packaged and sugary snacks

    • Cook at home using simple, healthy recipes rather than relying on takeout and dining out

    • Incorporate healthy fats and essential fatty acids into your diet to support overall health and fitness

    Fueling for Your Fitness Goals

    Fitness goals are unique to each individual, but understanding the fundamental principles of nutrition remains the same. Whether you’re an endurance athlete, strength training, or a recreational fitness enthusiast, effective nutrition provides the foundation for your performance. Here are some specific tips for fuelling for your fitness goals:

    • For Endurance Athletes: Focus on consuming complex carbohydrates and healthy fats for sustained energy during long workouts. Incorporate electrolyte-rich fluids to maintain hydration levels.

    • For Strength Trainees: Prioritize lean protein and healthy fats to support muscle growth and repair. Consuming carbohydrates post-workout promotes muscle recovery.

    • For Recreational Fitness Enthusiasts: Aim for a balanced diet that includes lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Include snacks and meals that support hunger and energy levels during workouts.

    Supplements for Optimal Nutrition

    In addition to a well-balanced diet, supplements can provide additional nutrition and support for optimal performance. Some essential supplements include:

    • Protein Powder: A convenient option for post-workout recovery and muscle building

    • Creatine: An effective supplement for increasing strength, power, and endurance

    • Glutamine: An anti-inflammatory agent that supports immune function and muscle recovery

    • Fish Oil and Krill Oil: Rich sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids for heart health and joint support

    Conclusion

    Nourishing your body with a balanced and well-planned diet is crucial for any fitness enthusiast. By incorporating healthy eating habits, fueling for your fitness goals, and considering supplements, you can optimise your nutrition for optimal performance and health. Remember to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods, balance your macronutrient ratio, and focus on sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: What is the best ratio of macronutrients for fitness success?
    A: Aim for a balanced diet with a macronutrient ratio that includes 1-1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, 1.5-2.5 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight, and 0.5-1 gram of healthy fat per kilogram of body weight.

    Q: When should I consume protein powder?
    A: Consider consuming protein powder post-workout for muscle recovery and growth, as part of a balanced meal or snack, and before bed to support muscle repair during sleep.

    Q: Can I still lose weight by eating healthy and exercising regularly?
    A: Yes, healthy eating habits and regular exercise can lead to sustainable weight loss by promoting increased metabolism, reduced inflammation, and improved overall health.

    Q: What are the signs of adequate hydration?
    A: Include pale yellow urine, a fully hydrated tongue, and normal blood pressure as signs of adequate hydration.

    In conclusion, effective nutrition is the backbone of any successful fitness journey. By adopting a comprehensive approach to healthy eating habits, fueling for your fitness goals, and incorporating supplements when necessary, you can ensure optimal performance, health, and fitness success. Remember to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods, focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, and seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.

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