6) I set boundaries - with myself

In applying all of the above, I learned a few key things that continue to support my mental health today. 1) I don’t drink alcohol (unless I’m at a wedding or a celebratory event). I never had a problem with drinking but the “hangxiety” and “booze blues” just aren’t worth it anymore. That said, despite not having a problem with alcohol, it was initially challenging to remain sober while others were drinking. It has become easier with exposure and I’ve noticed a big boost in my self-esteem since (that boost wasn’t anticipated but the affirmation of my mental fortitude has been a nice reward!).

I prioritize good sleep hygiene, and if I do stay up late (past 12am), I will only do so if I know I have space/time to rest and balance the sleep debt the next day.

I move my body to support my mental and hormonal health. As someone with a history of disordered eating and body dysmorphia, my relationship with exercise and physical activity has been turbulent to say the least. I’ve been obsessive in my approach before with the goal of achieving a certain aesthetic. Today, I move my body for some long-lasting dopamine, typically in the morning before my client work so my mind isn’t tired and distracted. I also don’t bother to look at monitors that track calories burned; I opt to be more intuitive around the length of my workouts (i.e., checking in with myself to see how much energy is in my tank, so to speak. Some days it’s 15 minutes, other days it’s 45 minutes). This helps me prevent exhaustion and burnout and ultimately keeps my nervous system regulated. Oddly enough, embracing flux has also helped me stay consistent.