Experts Say February Is the Secret Weapon for Building Better Habits
With January often buried with added pressures, experts agree that February is the secret weapon of habit-building.
Without the added pressure of New Year’s expectations, individuals can finally focus on making progress at their own pace. To help equip this transition, Protein Works has launched a new wellness framework – the 28 Reset Hub.
By focusing on five low-impact, high-reward habits, it details how individuals can reclaim their energy and mental focus during the year’s shortest month.
Kyle Crowley, Chief Product Officer and Nutrition Expert at Protein Works, explains:
We’re seeing a significant shift in how people approach health at this time of year. After the initial adrenaline of January fades, many are hitting a wall of burnout and ‘brain fog.’
“However, by focusing on science-backed, manageable habits, rather than grueling regimes, individuals can help their goals stay within reach, turning a 28-day reset into a permanent lifestyle shift.”
5 simple habits to prioritise this February
1. Prioritise your nutrition
Whether you’re looking to increase your protein intake, fibre intake or simply drink more water, it’s important to focus on what you need most.
Good nutrition is a health fundamental that helps with basic bodily functions including brain function, hormone production, muscle/tissue repair, and supports the immune system.
2. Form a stable sleep pattern
According to the NHS, a healthy adult usually needs between seven and nine hours of sleep per night, yet many of us aren’t getting enough sleep.
The first step towards better sleep is to establish a sleep routine which means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This helps regulate your internal body clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.
Research shows that consistency in sleeping patterns is associated with better health too, including cardiovascular, metabolic and mental health.
3. Take time for yourself
If you find it hard to make time for yourself amidst the busyness of your day, see if you can make 10 minutes of ‘you time’ to de-stress. This can be as simple as taking a 5-10 minute walk to help reset your mind.
This little step can have several benefits including helping to recharge mental resources, reduce stress levels, and ultimately improve your productivity.
4. Get some sunlight
Whether you’re looking to get more steps in, or simply need a breath of fresh air, try to see the sunlight each day.
This can be particularly challenging during the winter months, but exposure to sunlight increases serotonin production, which helps to boost mood and energy levels. Sunlight is also an essential Vitamin D source that supports calcium absorption to improve bone health and immunity.
5. Do something for ‘future you’
This one’s on you, and it can be in any format. Is it getting your washing done? Fitting in a workout? Reading a new book?
A common example includes the ‘Sunday reset’ where you reset your environment for the week ahead. This usually involves taking out the bins, washing your towels and bedding. It can also be organising your work bag or packing your gym bag the night before.
Whatever the activity, future you will be grateful for it.
For more information, expert commentary, or access to the 28 Reset Hub, Google Protein Works 28.
Looking for a lifestyle magazine UK readers trust? Explore more stories at Crave Magazine.