Is a change in routine making you stressed? Here’s your action plan.

Changes in routine can be difficult to navigate sometimes. Whether you’re establishing a new schedule as the kids head back to school, managing new responsibilities or simply looking for a reset on your goals, here are some helpful tips on making change easier to manage

Talk to others

Opening up to those around you about how you feel can help you deal with any significant changes. Speak to close friends and family who will be able to support you through any difficult emotions and feelings you’re having.

Practice gratitude

A gratitude practice is when you regularly take the time to think about and appreciate things in your life. It can help you identify and focus on the positive. Practicing gratitude may help you to feel less stressed and anxious, and make change feel less overwhelming.

Maintain a regular schedule

Having some constants in your life can make adapting to changes easier to manage. Try to keep a regular schedule, when possible. It can help make life feel more predictable and give you a sense of control. For example, try to get up and go to bed at the same time each night and enjoy regular meals with your family or friends. A regular schedule gives you a set of anchors that can keep you grounded during change.

Focus on eating a healthy diet

When change happens, and we feel stressed, we sometimes reach for "comfort" food more often. Unfortunately, these food choices are sometimes highly processed and packed with sugar or unhealthy fats. It’s okay to enjoy treats from time to time, but it may start to negatively affect your health if you regularly use these foods to cope with the changes going on in your life. Meal planning is a great way to help you stay on track with healthy eating. It encourages you to cook nutritious meals at home rather than fast food. It also helps to ensure you have healthy snacks available when you reach for "comfort" food.