Nutrition by Dawn - Blog

This month, we’ve been focusing on mental wellness, a topic that’s both deeply personal and universally important. And today, we’re digging into a piece of that puzzle that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough: boundaries.

Let me tell you a quick story…

Someone recently thought I was upset with them. But I wasn’t mad, I was setting a boundary. 

A healthy one. One that says: “This isn’t something I can take on right now.”

Boundaries can feel awkward at first. But they are essential to protecting your time, your energy, and your well-being.

So many of us are stuck in the cycle of doing everything for everyone else. Maybe you’re in a caregiving role, or maybe people have just gotten used to handing you their problems. And maybe they’re asking nicely, with love. But it’s still too much.

You look up one day and realize:

• You’re skipping your workouts.

• You’re grabbing food on the go instead of planning meals that nourish you.

• You’re struggling to make time for rest, for stillness, or even just to breathe.
   

That’s your sign. A bright red, flashing neon sign.

When your own basic needs start falling off your radar, it’s past time to ask: where can I reset my boundaries?

The 6 Plates We All Need to Keep Spinning.

Let’s go back to the foundation. There are six areas of wellness I talk about all the time:

1. Nutrition

2. Movement

3. Hydration

4. Sleep

5. Stress Management

6. Supplements (or medications)
    

These are the non-negotiables. If even one of them is consistently out of balance, your body and mind will feel it.

And here’s the truth: You cannot keep those plates spinning if you’re constantly taking on everyone else’s.

So what can you do?

• Start small: Say no to just one thing today that doesn’t align with your priorities.

• Offer an alternative: “I can’t do that right now, but here’s something else that might help.”

• Check in with yourself: Which plate have you been neglecting the most?

• Let others figure things out for themselves, especially when they’re capable.
   

Boundaries can be firm and still kind. They protect your energy and model healthy behavior for others around you, especially young adults or growing kids who are watching how you handle it all.

Final thought: This isn’t just about you. When you care for yourself well, you show up better for the people you love. And that benefits everyone.

As always, what I hope for you is that you live a life you love without giving up the things that bring you joy.