A Routine In The Madness

My name is Reily and I’ve recently joined the RIG Crew as a nutrition coach for anyone interested in dialing in what and how they're eating. I’m excited to start working with you! 

With the onset of social distancing and shelter in place that has escalated over the past few weeks it can be difficult to know how to proceed in these times of uncertainty. Maintaining a daily routine during this time is going to be vital to keep you from feeling like you’re just “spinning your wheels.” Instead of letting the days slip by now might be the time to focus on some of those things you’ve been talking about working on for ages but never had the time for. You can utilize this time to implement some keystone habits in regards to your fitness, nutrition or night-time routine. Setting some goals to work that are directly within your control will help you feel like you’re making progress in some facet; no matter what is going on outside your house. This isn’t meant to create rigidity but rather help you prioritize what is important to you and ensure you are making strides in those areas. 

Several tips and considerations for the coming weeks:

  1. Maintain good sleep hygiene and a consistent sleep and wake time - It can be so easy to let the hours of the night slip away binge watching your favorite show but your body will thank you if you are able to go to bed and wake up at a similar time each day. It also helps you get the most out of the sleep you are getting!

  2. Knock out a chore - Not only will this help keep things orderly when you’re spending more time in the house but taking just a few minutes each morning to clean up a bit of clutter will help you feel like you’ve accomplished something. This will set you up for success to be more productive throughout the day.

  3. Set up your workspace - If you aren’t used to working from home it can be difficult to differentiate between when it’s time to work and when you are just sitting at home relaxing. Having a designated area will help cue your brain that it's time to get down to business. Try and find a bright area with some natural light. Maybe spruce up a spare room or corner of your house that you have available. Making the space inviting to spend time in will help make working from home more enjoyable too!

  4. Make time to move: If you’re familiar with RIG then this one goes without saying. Exercise is one of the staples that will keep us all sane in these crazy times. There are so many resources available online with ideas for body weight workouts if you don’t have access to equipment at your house. If you’re lucky enough to have a home gym setup then now is the time to use it! RIG is also providing some fun at home workouts to keep you moving and motivated! If you find yourself siting at your desk for most of the day don’t forget to get up and stretch your legs every once in awhile. A quick walk around the block will help break up your workday and if its not raining here in Seattle get you a little dose of Vitamin D; which is great for the immune system!

  5. Food is fuel - Most people find that one of the most difficult parts of this quarantine is maintaining good nutrition. In theory, it should be easier to eat healthy, homemade meals because we have the time to cook and far less options to go out to eat. Have fun with your new found time to experiment with some new recipes, prep food and grill outside if the weather allows for it. If you find yourself eating and snacking more than normal know that you are not alone! Between boredom and constant access to snacks it can be easy to get carried away. You might try to rearrange your kitchen a bit during this time; even if its just moving some of the tempting treats somewhere that is more difficult to access you will find that you aren’t snacking as much if the treats aren’t sitting right at eye level every time you open the pantry.   

Although this is certainly a time of uncertainty that doesn’t mean you have to just get through it. If you are interested in utilizing this time to set some nutrition or fitness goals reach out to myself or a member of the RIG crew and we would love to talk with you about options for working together to make the most of this trying time!

Stay safe and wash your hands!

Reily