Wellness Speed Bumps

In an ideal world, events would go as planned, the sun would always shine, and our favorite team would always win. There would be no obstacles in our way. Ever. Unfortunately, we all know that isn’t reality. In the real world, there are ups and downs. Days we wish would never end and days we wish would end already. Likewise with our health, our intentions to work out, eat right, reduce stress, and sleep more may always be our goal, but there inevitably comes a time when we experience those wellness speed bumps.

Think of it as one of those speed bumps you come across in a parking lot or residential area. As annoying as it might be, there is a reason for its presence. It’s telling us to slow down, watch for children, beware of other vehicles. The bumps we experience on our path to wellness are there for a reason as well.

You might be thinking, “what exactly is a speed bump that I might experience on my quest for a healthier life?” Well, a great example falls about 6 weeks after the new year. Six weeks after we state our New Year’s resolutions. We get to a point where our motivation dwindles, we let excuses hinder our progress, or we simply get tired. That would be a wellness speed bump.

When this happens, acknowledge it. Don’t deny the shift in yourself. Maybe this speed bump is telling you that you need to recharge for a day or two. Maybe it means it’s time to mix things up a bit and pamper yourself as a reward for the progress you have made. Maybe it’s just trying to remind you that you are not a robot. Programmed to go through the motions without feeling anything. Either way, there is a message. Listen to what your body is telling you and honor it. Taking a break doesn’t mean you have given up. It only means you need some time to refocus on your goals once again. It happens to everyone. Don’t beat yourself up for being human. The path to a better life is filled with speed bumps. Learning to expect and respect them will help ensure you stay true to your wellness goals.