Breaking Bad Habits

Stress management image.

Habits: good and bad, we all have them. Our good habits serve us well. Our bad habits hold us back, create more stress in our lives and make us miserable in the long run. Consciously choosing to replace something we know we shouldn’t do with something good for us is a wonderful thing—especially if it advances our health.

In order to turn bad habits into good ones, identify them. On a sheet of paper, list your bad habits. This is important because it raises your awareness. Bad habits attack when self-esteem is low. They often give us temporary pleasure, but usually make things worse. Being aware of a bad habit helps you to stop doing it. (If you can’t think of any bad habits, ask your spouse!)

To the right of your bad habit, think of an alternative behaviour to each one and write it down. Next to your replacement habit, list some of the positive emotions or feelings that would result by substituting the good for the bad.

Exercise is a great tool to help you break bad habits. Exercise makes you feel better about yourself, which reinforces the benefits of exercising and makes you more likely to exercise again. As you become healthier and fitter, you’ll also become more productive and less likely to resume those old, bad habits.

Be easy on yourself as you make small changes in your life a little at a time. Breaking bad habits takes time and discipline.

Dr Jon Asks some important questions of interest to Canberra residents - Chiropractor Canberra Dr Jon Asks...

How long will you need chiropractic care?
You'll need chiropractic care as long as you live in Canberra and encounter physical, chemical or emotional stress that you cannot adapt to or accommodate. Ready to get started? Call our office today.
Why are chiropractors wary of the germ theory?
Louis Pasteur originated the idea that germs caused disease. Yet, on his deathbed he recanted, declaring, "It's not the seed, but the soil." Meaning, it's not the germ that causes disease, but the condition of the body that allows the germ to thrive. Chiropractic care in our Canberra office is designed to bolster your resistance so germs don't see you as a good host.