GETTING STARTED CAN BE THE HARDEST PART

   It's 4am in the morning when my alarm goes off. I remind myself to not lay there and get right up after saying a quick prayer of thankfulness...not always feeling thankful! Next 10 minutes I spend prepping my coffee and summoning  the courage to step outside in  10-20 degree weather to head to my garage for a 29 degree cold plunge. Smash the ice layer apart with a hammer, set the timer and just DO IT!! The first day I started this, it wasn't pretty to say the least.  

   Starting new healthy habits can feel overwhelming at first, but breaking them down into simple, manageable steps can make all the difference. One of the easiest ways to begin is by setting clear, specific goals. Instead of vague resolutions like "eat healthier," try something concrete like "eat two servings of vegetables with dinner every day." The more specific your goal, the easier it is to track progress and stay motivated. Additionally, start small. If you're looking to incorporate exercise into your routine, begin with just 10-minute workouts and gradually build up over time. Small wins create a sense of accomplishment that fuels your momentum.

   Consistency is key when it comes to healthy habits, and building a routine can help keep you on track. One effective approach is to pair a new habit with an existing one. For example, if you already have a morning coffee routine, you could add stretching or journaling afterward. This method works because it ties the new habit to something you already do regularly, making it easier to remember. Another tip is to make your healthy habit visible. If you're trying to drink more water, keep a water bottle on your desk or kitchen counter where you'll see it often. Visual reminders make it harder to forget your goals and keep you focused on what you're working towards.

   Lastly, don't be too hard on yourself when things don't go perfectly. Building new habits is a journey, not a destination, and it’s normal to experience setbacks. The key is to get back on track as soon as possible without feeling discouraged. Tracking your progress, whether through a journal or an app, can help you stay motivated and reflect on how far you’ve come. Remember, healthy habits aren’t about perfection—they're about making small, sustainable changes that add up over time. Be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of becoming a healthier version of yourself! 

   If you need some extra push into that cold water and the expert advice on all the details to make this plunge possible and take the first step in the direction of powerful change in your life, fill out the form by clicking the button above!