On my recent week-long staycation from work, I was able to breathe, disconnect, and unwind. 

I didn’t rush around anywhere or write out any lengthy to-do lists for the day.

I worked out, saw family and friends, leisurely cooked, went for walks and treated my body well. It was just what I needed. 

Even just that week of dedicated self-care had an impact on my health.

I felt happier, I was motivated to eat better, my sleep was better, I moved my body mindfully, and I had a week of great bowel movements.

I know that sounds like TMI, but is anyone going to argue with the satisfaction in a good, healthy BM? 😂

So many people walk around daily with GI upset, irregular digestion, fatigue, an imbalance of female hormones, poor recovery from exercise, insomnia, and other signs related to chronic stress. 

I’m not saying a week off will cure everyone of chronic stress (it’s definitely not that simple), but taking time for self-care is a good start. 

What I’m getting at here is that people tend to overlook one of the biggest reasons they can’t reach their aesthetic or weight loss goals.

It’s not only about the food you’re eating; it’s also about the state your body is in once that food enters your system. 

Chronic stress can force the body to have to prioritize one function over others, and the result is usually down-regulation of digestive functions. Pair that with the urge to consume more comfort foods and emotional eating, and we have ourselves a hefty road block in reaching those aesthetic goals. 

With chronically high cortisol levels, most people will find it difficult to reduce body fat, recover well after workouts, and get the appropriate amount of sleep. 

Note: this is also why chronic dieters have trouble reaching their goals. Not consuming enough food = added stress on the body!

The answer to all of this is not always a quick and easy fix. Life is far too complicated for it to be that black and white.

Making drastic changes is rarely ever the right move (unsustainable and overhwhelming!) Small steps can be taken to begin the work of reducing stress. Your nutrition coach should be guiding you to include healthy habits into your routine that will lead to stress reduction and prioritizing self-care.