Are We Really in the Second Half of September?!
Now that September is here, the mornings and evenings feel cooler, and the leaves on the trees are gradually turning golden brown. I personally love summer, but autumn is simply beautiful. It almost feels like a fresh start. There’s something about this season that naturally encourages us into a new routine—perhaps because of that back-to-school energy. I don’t have children, but I definitely sense it.
‘It’s the time of year the trees show us how beautiful it can be to let things go.’
I break this line out every September 😉. We officially enter autumn next week, and given that it’s the season of fresh starts, let’s talk about change and habits. Summer is a more sociable time of year, enjoying BBQs, those extra G&Ts, and perhaps slipping into a few habits that aren’t really serving us. It’s time to re-embrace the good ones and put yourself back on the priority list.
Consistency, Not Perfection
The all or nothing approach rarely works long term, consistency is key. I know it’s bloody boring, but it’s true. I’ve learned this the hard way and have seen it in my clients as well. Good habits tend to stick around longer when we start small. So, maybe set yourself a few simple goals. That could be switching your phone off earlier and getting those all important 8 hours of sleep. Or increasing your daily step count. Rather than aim for the magical 10,000 steps a day, look at what you’re currently averaging and add a bit more each week (I’ll let you in on a secret – I aim for 8,000 a day and top it up at the weekend). Another small but easy change is to start the day with a nourishing, high protein breakfast that contains around 30 grams of protein.
I’ve included my go to personal favourite for you. I prep it the night before or first thing in the morning, depending on my teaching schedule. It is completely plant based, which supports the gut microbiome. It is also high in fibre and protein. It’s incredibly easy, delicious, and the ingredients are interchangeable, allowing you to tailor it to suit your taste buds. You might choose to swap the soya yoghurt for natural Greek. Or, if you’re not a fan of chia seeds, you can swap them for milled linseed, pumpkin seeds, and so on.
We covered protein powders a few months ago, but in case you missed it, I use Bulk pea or soya protein isolate. It’s third party tested and has no unnecessary additives. That said, there are plenty of others to choose from.
I buy my soy protein mince (also known as TVP – Textured Vegetable Protein) from Holland & Barrett. It’s completely tasteless, so it takes on the flavour of whatever you mix it with. And without getting too sciency, it contains all nine essential amino acids. And that’s a good thing!
Rhubarb, blackberries and butternut squash have been on the menu in our house this month.
I’ve been stewing the rhubarb in water, keeping a batch in the fridge and adding it to my porridge, topped with a dollop of yoghurt and seeds. Throw on some blackberries, too.
I peel and cube the squash, then lightly cover it with extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme, and roast it in the oven, delicious! Great hot or cold. Also makes a super simple and tasty soup.
All three are rich in fibre, vitamins and antioxidants. Aiding digestion and supporting your immune system.
Exciting Free ‘Power Through the Pause’ 7 Day Challenge 💚
Feeling a bit lost? Want some practical advice and accountability? This whole menopause malarky getting you down? I hear you! It can be hard to get motivated and start forming good habits. That’s why I’m launching my free 7 day challenge, and I’ll be sharing all the details with you next month. Grounded in experience AND science.
Feel free to send me an email if you have any questions or topics you’d like to chat about! I’m here to help!
Take care of yourself.
Paula (aka Yogi Bird) 🧡
