HOW TO STRUCTURE YOUR WEEK FOR OPTIMAL LIVING
Living an optimal life means finding balance between work and play, productivity and rest, and being intentional with our time! We all have the same amount of hours in a day, but it’s how we use them that determines our level of satisfaction and overall well-being. One way to structure our week for optimal living is through intentional reflection and planning.
Begin by carving out time at the start of each week to reflect on the past week and set intentions for the upcoming one. This can be done through journaling or simply sitting in silence and contemplating what you want to achieve. Start by asking yourself some key questions such as: What are your top priorities? What would make your week feel amazing? How can you take care of yourself? Consider your goals and commitments for the week ahead, and how they align with your values and overall vision for your life. It’s important to be realistic with what you can accomplish in a week, and to make sure you’re not overloading yourself. This is where setting priorities comes in handy, as it allows you to focus on what’s truly important and let go of the rest.
One of your goals might be nourishing your body and staying hydrated throughout the week. Refer to our 3 Recipes For Spring & How To Properly Hydrate blog posts for inspiration, or flip through some of our favorite cookbooks such as Giada's Italy: My Recipes for La Dolce Vita & Molly Baz’s Cook This Book. And don’t forget to set some time aside for movement and sun. Lay out your activewear and decide how you will move your body (even if it’s just for a little bit each day). See our 4 Morning Stretches To Boost Your Mood or try the essentrics app which we love so much for a combination of pilates, yoga, and mind to muscle connection.
At the end of the week, reflect on how the week went overall. Ask yourself how you feel, what your body needs, and what you accomplished. Be proud of yourself for what you achieved and release any guilt / shame for what wasn’t completed - instead focus on what you learned and how you can adjust moving forward! And don’t forget to take time for rest, fun, and connection. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but it’s important to make time for the things that bring us joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, engaging in a hobby, or simply taking a nap, prioritize activities that nourish your soul and help you recharge.
Remember, the key to living an optimal life is to find a balance that works for you. This requires being intentional with your time and prioritizing the things that matter most. Don't be afraid to adjust your plan as needed, and be kind to yourself along the way. With each passing week, you'll become more in tune with your needs and desires, and you'll find that living an optimal life becomes more natural and effortless. So take the time to reflect, plan, and prioritize, and watch as your life transforms before your eyes.
Ashley Cox is a certified IHP (Integrative Health Practitioner), wellness innovator, and writer based in San Diego, CA. When she’s not with her dog at the beach, or skiing in the mountains with family, she enjoys empowering others through research-forward writing and holistic skin education.