One Small Step Toward Healthier Habits (Even in Winter!)
BY DORTE BLADT
Maybe it’s the weather. Maybe it’s the energy. I’m not sure exactly what it is, but I’ve noticed something in the practice lately. Lots of people say this and maybe you’ve said it too?
“I really need to start exercising.”
“I really should change my diet.”
“I need to spend more time with my friends.”
These intentions usually come with a little disclaimer:
“Next week... next month... when the weather’s warmer…”
Sound familiar?
There’s no doubt that winter makes us want to hibernate—curl up indoors, sleep a little more, indulge in our favourite comfort foods. And honestly, that’s not a bad thing. Our bodies need rhythm. We’re not designed to run at full speed all year round. Slower seasons are part of our natural life cycle, offering time to rest, reset and recharge.
But while this pause is healthy, it’s also important to remember that good habits don’t need perfect conditions to begin. In fact, today is as good a day as any to make a small change that supports your health and wellbeing.
It’s the Decision That’s Hardest
The hardest part of building a new habit—or letting go of an old one—isn’t the act itself. It’s the decision.
Once the decision is made, everything else becomes a series of rehearsals: choosing again and again, moment by moment.
“I don’t feel like going for a walk today—it’s cold/wet/windy…” But you’ve decided that walking each morning is your new habit. So get up, pop your shoes on, and head out before your brain starts negotiating.
Don’t overthink it. Don’t make it complicated. Just remember the promise you made to yourself—and follow through.
A Personal Story: My Dairy Dilemma
I’ve always known dairy and I don’t get along—hello sniffles, hay fever and foggy brain. But I LOVE it: Brie, Manchego, Compte, Castello, creamy pastas... heaven. Despite knowing better (even after getting assessed for it in chiropractic college), I didn’t stop. Not until my young son started showing signs of the same sensitivity. That changed everything. Suddenly, it wasn’t about me anymore. I gave it up in solidarity—from one day to the next. And that shift in motivation made all the difference.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
If you’re trying to shift a habit, having someone else involved can make it so much easier.
Organise a morning walk with a friend—you wouldn’t leave them out in the cold alone!
Decide as a family to go chocolate-free for a while—then remove the temptations together.
Shop on a full stomach to help avoid impulse purchases (yes, those snacks that call your name from the pantry).
And if you slip up? It’s okay. Enjoy it. Truly. Then keep going with your new habit—no guilt, no shame. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress and the promises we make to ourselves.
Let This Be Your Reminder…
You don’t need to wait for a new week, a new month or a change in the weather. Your health goals are worth starting now. One small decision at a time. One walk. One meal. One conversation.
You’ve got this—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To your health, naturally,
Dorte and The Family Chiro Team
