A Week of Great Habits: Your Path to Perfect Health
January in Scotland can feel like a bit of a slog. The days are short, the weather is cold, and the temptation to curl up with cakes and biscuits is oh-so-real. But what if this week, you focused on building habits that set you on the path to perfect health? It’s not about perfection in the moment—it’s about progress, balance, and keeping your goals in sight.
Let’s dive into how you can make this week one for the books, including a little wisdom from Steve Peters’ The Chimp Paradox and a call to action to treat yourself to some well-deserved care.
Understanding the Inner Chimp
In The Chimp Paradox, Steve Peters explains that we all have an "inner chimp"—that impulsive, emotional part of our brain that loves instant gratification. This is the part of you that reaches for the cake, sneaks a biscuit, or decides to eat an entire packet of crisps because “why not?” It’s natural to have these moments, but perfect health comes from learning to manage that chimp, not banish it.
Recognize the chimp’s voice. When you hear it saying, “You deserve that third biscuit!”, pause and acknowledge it. It stopped me eating more than two chocolates last night. My inner chimp was kicking off!
Give your chimp healthier options. Instead of completely cutting out treats, swap them for something satisfying but nourishing. A square of dark chocolate or a handful of nuts might do the trick, or an apple, or maybe you are dehydrated!
Be kind to yourself. If your chimp wins sometimes, don’t stress. Just get back on track at the next meal or snack.
A Week of Great Habits
Now that you’re equipped to manage your chimp, let’s plan a week of uplifting, healthy habits that will help you feel your best—body and mind.
1. Start the Day with Movement
Whether it’s a brisk walk in the frosty air, a yoga session at home, or even just a few stretches to wake up your body, morning movement sets a positive tone for the day. Bonus: getting outside in the daylight can boost your mood and energy levels.
2. Eat to Nourish
Focus on whole, warming foods that keep you satisfied. Think hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and comforting stews. Embrace seasonal produce like root vegetables, and don’t forget to hydrate—even when it’s cold, your body needs water. I have bought this months Slimming World magazine and am batch cooking this week for the win.
3. Plan Breaks for Joy
Schedule in moments of joy and relaxation throughout your day. Read a chapter of your favorite book, call a friend, or spend five minutes practicing mindfulness. These small habits can have a big impact on your overall well-being.
4. Wind Down Properly
Evenings are for rest and recovery. Avoid screens an hour before bed, dim the lights, and create a calming ritual like journaling or sipping herbal tea. Good sleep is a cornerstone of perfect health.
Treat Yourself: Book a Massage
All these habits are great, but let’s not forget the power of self-care. A massage is more than just a treat—it’s a way to reset your body, release tension, and reconnect with yourself. Why not book one this week as a reward for all the positive steps you’re taking? You deserve it.
Final Thoughts
Perfect health isn’t about being perfect. It’s about creating a balance that works for you, managing your inner chimp with compassion, and celebrating the small wins along the way. This week, let’s embrace great habits, nourish our bodies, and take time to care for ourselves—because even in the coldest January, we have the power to create warmth and joy.
Here’s to a week of progress, positivity, and feeling your best. You’ve got this!
Remember I am in TWO locatons across Glasgow, and I have online booking to make things super easy booking in.