One of the most freeing things I’ve learned on my journey toward a more balanced, compassionate relationship with food and myself is this: It’s not what you do on one day, it’s what you do on most days that counts.
Honestly, take the pressure off. Have the cake. Enjoy the cookie.
Your health, your well-being, your relationship with food and body—it isn’t built in one perfect day or broken by one indulgent moment. It’s the rhythm you create over time that really shapes how you feel.
That said, it does help to get curious about your patterns. Are you the kind of person who eats one cookie and feels satisfied? Or do you find yourself eating the whole bag and still not quite feeling full—physically or emotionally? There’s no shame in either. But noticing these patterns gently, without judgment, can open the door to real understanding. And from understanding comes choice. From choice comes change.
This is where self-awareness becomes our most powerful tool. When we start to pay attention—really pay attention—to what we need, what we’re craving, what helps us feel good in our skin, we begin to move from autopilot to intention.
And let me be clear: this isn’t about being perfect. It’s not about controlling every bite or nailing every workout. It’s about knowing yourself. Tuning in. Being honest and kind at the same time.
Sometimes we can do the hard things—wake up early, go to the gym, cook a nourishing meal, say no to something that drains us. And those days feel really good, don’t they? But sometimes, we just can’t. And on those days, we don’t need more pressure—we need grace.
One thing that’s helped me a lot is having a morning routine that grounds me. I never really even thought about this until I did. It’s nothing fancy- just a few things I try to do most days: I wake up slowly, stretch, and set a small intention. I drink my water, enjoy my coffee in a favorite mug and appreciate the quiet before the day begins. This small act of consistency reminds me: I can take care of myself. Even when life feels chaotic, these little anchors help me feel steady.
Over time, these simple habits—paying attention, being kind to myself, moving with intention—have changed so much. They’ve helped me feel more at home in my body, more connected to my choices, and less thrown off by the ups and downs.
So if today didn’t look how you wanted it to—if you skipped the gym, ate the thing, lost your patience—it’s okay. One day doesn’t define you. You’re not meant to get it “right” all the time. You’re meant to keep showing up. Gently. Consistently. With love.
Because what you do on most days? That’s what builds your life. As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and Intuitive Eating Counselor, I’m here to help you integrate these practices into your life. If you're interested in working with me, feel free to reach out at rachel@livehealthynyc.com