How to Support Loved Ones to Choose Healthy Habits
We all have loved ones whose bad habits worry us. It is hard to watch people you care about, do things that may hurt them.
Think about healthy habits of yours. Were they always part of your life? Was there an event or person that inspired you? Try these tips to help inspire loved ones to move toward healthier habits.
- Set a good example. How will you push someone to eat more veggies if you always reach for junk food? Show your loved ones how to make healthy choices by doing so yourself.
- Teach them. Research the facts and share them. You could show them an article on how healthy foods are better for your brain. Be careful not to sound like you are judging them—you want to help them!
- Don’t sound like you think you are better than them. Use your words and tone wisely. Don’t put down your loved ones for making less healthy choices. Remember, what is right for you might not be right for them.
- Lend a helping hand. Support loved ones by taking part in their healthy habit with them. Having someone to share your success will make you want to keep it up. If their goal is to lose weight, you can try a new recipe for dinner, or go for a walk with them. If they are trying to lower stress, try a breathing exercise with them.
- Try your best. Remember that you can’t make someone do something they don’t want to do. You can only push them to take steps forward. It is important to take care of yourself and your relationship during the process.
If a loved one is having a hard time getting healthy, have them reach out to an expert like a nutritionist, therapist, or doctor. These people have more knowledge to help your loved one reach their health goals themselves.
To learn more about wellness, talk to the Wellness Department at Community Healthcare Network at (212) 432-8494 or wellness@chnnyc.org
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