There's so much in our lives that can stress us out and make us feel strung out, run down, and just exhausted. I've found though that certain consistencies in my week help to create peace and wholeness in an otherwise crazy week. Trust me I don't do these things perfectly, I mean I haven't been actively going to a gym since summer ended so I know I have areas in which I could improve. All the same here are five habits I've found that keep me grounded when it feels like everything around is a mess.

1. Eating home cooked meals the majority of days

I would also add that if possible a few of these meals should be shared. It doesn't have to be terribly fancy, it's a wonder what you can do with some canned sauce some fresh veggies, and the pasta of your choice. I'm always searching for easy recipes that I can make. Just tonight I had grilled cheese and sweet potato fries it was heavenly. And there's no shame in using a crock pot, what's important is that you sit down and enjoy it knowing it wasn't microwaved or overly processed.

2. Praying/journaling

I realize that there are many people who don't feel they are prayer or journaling people. The essential of it is that there is a space in your life where you can fully express yourself. I know that I can be my full self with God and in the safety of a journal. In different ways, they create space for me to be open and honest, especially prayer. And even more so because prayer is communication with God, I feel loved and heard afterward.

3. Spending time with people I care about

This is so important to do weekly. I think it's so easy to neglect especially if you live alone. You can also get lazy with other relationships when you have people you live with. I know it's easy for me to go awhile without seeing my friends outside of my house because I have great people at home. I try to intentionally spend time with my friends inside and outside my home every week.

4. Doing something just for you

The to-do lists can be endless. We all have responsibilities with our jobs, our families, school, church, whatever. Sometimes you look down and realize it's been a year since you had a manicure (if that's your thing). It's important to do things that give you enjoyment. Life isn't just about you, but it's also not about everybody else all the time either.

5. Getting some exercise

So I'll admit the last day I went to the gym wasn't supposed to be the last day. I fully thought that next week I would be there again working it. But it just didn't happen and now it's been 4 months. Still part of my commute includes a 15-minute walk which means at the bare minimum I'm walking 30 minutes every day. I'd like to get more in, but whatever extra movement you can get in your life, take it.

There's plenty more things you can be doing, but especially if you're life right now is lonely microwave dinners and just feels like all you do is sleep, eat, work, these are some simple habits you can start implementing to create a healthier life and a healthier you. I wish you all the best!