As we step into a new year, it’s common to reflect on our health and set resolutions or intentions for the year ahead. For folks managing PCOS, this process can be particularly impactful in supporting hormone balance and overall well-being. Especially for those wanting to manage PCOS from a non-diet approach and practice intuitive eating!
In this episode of the Nourished with PCOS podcast, host Sam Abbott, a registered dietitian and PCOS nutrition expert, delves into important questions to consider when setting New Year’s resolutions or intentions with PCOS.
These questions encourage a holistic, non-diet approach that prioritizes values, feelings, grieving, support team evaluation, and realistic goal setting. Let’s explore each aspect in detail to empower those with PCOS to approach their wellness journey with intention and compassion.
Aligning PCOS Wellness Goals with Core Values:
The first question Sam encourages us to consider is, “What are your core values, and are they reflected in your PCOS management?” Core values are the fundamental beliefs and guiding principles that shape our behaviors and decisions. By identifying two to three core values, individuals can evaluate whether their current approach to managing PCOS aligns with these values.
For instance, if peace, empathy, and stability are core values, it’s essential to assess whether the approach to PCOS supports these values. This introspective exercise can shed light on potential conflicts between goals and values, prompting individuals to realign their wellness journey with what truly matters to them.
Emotional Well-being and Intention Setting:
Sam prompts listeners to envision how they want to feel in the coming year and emphasizes the significance of aligning goals with these feelings. By assessing if intentions veer towards external appearance rather than holistic well-being, individuals can gain clearer insight into the underlying motivations behind their goals. This awareness can help them prioritize emotional and mental well-being alongside physical health, cultivating a balanced, sustainable approach to PCOS management.
Acknowledging and Processing Grief:
The concept of letting go or grieving specific aspects related to PCOS is a crucial but often overlooked consideration. Sam highlights the importance of acknowledging body grief and recognizing the need to process and release feelings of frustration or disappointment related to PCOS. By fostering a compassionate space for individuals to address and release these emotions, they can empower themselves to embark on their wellness journey from a place of emotional healing and self-compassion.
Evaluating the PCOS Support Team:
Sam encourages individuals to assess their PCOS support team, including healthcare professionals, to ensure they feel empowered, supported, and heard in their PCOS management. This highlights the significance of cultivating a collaborative and respectful relationship with healthcare providers. Alongside evaluating existing support systems, individuals are prompted to consider if additional professionals, such as registered dietitians, therapists, or physical therapists, can enhance their holistic PCOS management.
Realistic Goal Setting and Sustainable Wellness:
The final question emphasized by Sam revolves around the realism of goals in relation to personal lifestyles, schedules, and preferences. By acknowledging that wellness does not exist within a rigid, one-size-fits-all framework, individuals can construct realistic and sustainable goals that honor their unique circumstances. This promotes a compassionate approach to wellness that considers individual needs and fosters long-term success.
Conclusion:
Setting intentions and resolutions for the new year offers a meaningful opportunity for individuals managing PCOS to align their wellness journey with their core values, emotional well-being, and realistic, sustainable goals.
By delving into these five essential questions, you can cultivate a holistic, non-diet approach that nurtures their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. As we step into the new year, may these considerations empower you to embark on their PCOS wellness journey with intention, compassion, and resilience.
In conclusion, Sam’s insightful guidance offers a compassionate approach to PCOS management. By integrating these reflections into your wellness journey, you can cultivate a harmonious and sustainable approach that honors your values, emotional well-being, and unique circumstances.
As we step into the new year, let us embrace these considerations to empower ourselves in our PCOS wellness journey.
