Have Fun with Wellness
When you have ADHD, much of the information and strategies for moderating and regulating the symptoms revolve around the brain and its functions.
Things like creating a positive mindset, learning to think in creative ways, and finding new solutions to produce more dopamine are very common topics within the ADHD community.
But what about strategies that focus on things outside of your brain?
By that, I'm talking about your physical body.
It's about more than your mind
Recently, on Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast, Pete and I talked with popular ADHD influencer, Matt Raekelboom, about how regulating and maintaining a healthy body is just as important as anything you do to regulate inside your head.
...I find that very few of us are actually focusing on what water does for you, what having very, very good amounts of healthy protein and fiber in your stomach consistently regulating does for you, what a good amount of movement, not exercise, movement does for the ADHD brain.
It's true! There are many studies that have been done that show the positive impact healthy living can have on your brain and how it functions.
But, I also know how difficult it can be for ADHDers to do things that they may find "boring" or unappealing, or even just trying to remember to drink or eat at regular intervals throughout the day.
What if we could make some of these things a little more fun or engaging?
Fun with wellness
Below, you will find a few suggestions on how you might be able to get creative with your wellness routines which will ultimately help in regulating and supporting your ADHD brain.
Make it a game
When you turn a boring or avoided task into a game, the task doesn't seem so bad.
Challenge yourself to a water drinking contest each day and see if you can beat the previous day's total.
Incorporate your best dance moves into your movement, even if you’re just going from one room in your house to the next.
Create small prizes to award yourself each time you complete a wellness or self-care activity. You might even consider keeping a sticker chart and give yourself a bigger reward when you reach the top of the chart.
Invite a friend
Almost any activity can be made more enjoyable when you do it with friends! Plus, you instantly add in extra accountability to keep you on track.
Catch up with friends or co-workers on a walk instead of sitting at the coffee shop.
Challenge a friend or family member to a contest to see who can drink the daily recommended amount of water the most number of days in a row.
Compete in cooking challenges at home with friends or family. Set out a bunch of fresh ingredients, put on your chef hats, and cook new dishes head-to-head to see what you create. You can even add a set time limit to up the stakes.
Do the research
While the word "research" may not immediately sound like “fun”, I have heard from many past clients and members in our Taking Control Discord Community that have shared stories about the many, many rabbit holes they have found themselves in when they find a topic they want to know more about.
Discover the connection between wellness practices and regulating your brain. When you know how it works and why, you may find yourself seeking out these wellness routines rather than avoiding them.
Keep a journal of the activities you are doing to help your physical body, as well as keeping track of your mental and emotional wellbeing each day. Put on your detective hat and see if you can find a positive connection between the two.
Now it's your turn
I hope you are able to find some inspiration with some of the suggestions I have offered. If not, I encourage you to get creative and find your own ways to make it fun to maintain your physical health and wellness each day.
In the end, your brain will thank you.
Thank you for your time and attention,
Nikki