As we start a new year, let’s talk about something you might not think about often: discomfort. What if getting uncomfortable could make you healthier and happier? It sounds strange, but it’s true.

Michael Easter’s book The Comfort Crisis explains how our modern lives are a little too comfortable. Because of that, we miss out on challenges that could make us stronger, healthier, and more resilient.

At Natural Wellness Physiotherapy, we believe growth happens when you push your limits. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or someone looking to feel better in your body, making small, uncomfortable changes can lead to big improvements in how you feel. 

Why Discomfort is Good for You

Modern life is full of comfort—convenient meals, cozy couches, and constant entertainment. While these things are nice, they can also make us lazy.

In the past, people had to deal with challenges like finding food or staying warm. These struggles helped them stay strong. Now, we don’t have to work as hard, so we lose out on the benefits of facing tough situations.

The good news? You don’t need to do something extreme like climbing a mountain or running an ultramarathon. Adding a little bit of discomfort to your daily life can make a big difference.

How to Add Healthy Discomfort to Your Life

You don’t have to toss out all the comforts of life to see benefits. Small, simple changes can help you grow stronger—physically and mentally.

1. Move More

If you sit at a desk all day or spend a lot of time in the car, your body might feel stiff and sore. Fight this by adding movement to your routine:

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

• Stand up and stretch every 30 minutes.

• Go for a quick walk during lunch. [10 reasons to go for a walk or two each day] 

Small actions like these can keep your body feeling better over time. 

2. Try Cold Showers

Take a cue from Wim Hof and introduce your body to the benefits of cold.

A cold shower might not sound fun, but it can help wake you up, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. Start with 30 seconds of cold water at the end of your shower and work up from there.

If cold showers aren't your jam, any kind of cold exposure can be beneficial. Simply spending a few minutes outside on a chilly day is worth it!

3. Push Yourself in Exercise

Challenge yourself to go a little harder or do something different in your workouts: 

• Try a new fitness class or gym, even if it intimidates you.

• Add short bursts of high-intensity exercise, like sprints.

•  If you're a runner and haven't introduced strength training, make this your year to make it a priority! [Get our free download: The top 5 strength moves for runners]

These small steps can help you build strength and confidence both in your workouts and in life. 

Eating Outside Your Comfort Zone

Food is often a source of comfort, but stepping outside your normal habits can lead to healthier choices:

• Skip dessert after dinner or your regular sweetened morning coffee. [5 strategies for overcoming tempting trigger foods]

• Experiment with new, healthy ingredients you’ve never cooked with before. [7 Fruits & Veggies that boost performance and recovery]

• Prep your meals ahead of time, even if it feels like extra work.

Mental Discomfort Helps You Grow, Too

It’s not just your body that benefits from discomfort—your mind does, too. Here are a few ways to challenge yourself mentally:

• Try meditating for 5 minutes a day, even if it feels awkward at first - and it will! 

• Read books written by, or have conversations with, people who see the world differently than you.

• Set a big goal for yourself, like running a race or learning a new skill. [Make your resolution a reality. Setting SMART goals and finding your WHY]

Why Discomfort Works

When you get comfortable with discomfort, you’ll notice big changes:

• You’ll be stronger: Facing challenges helps you build resilience. 

• You’ll feel better: Moving more, eating well, and trying new things improve your overall health.

• You’ll have more confidence: Overcoming discomfort teaches you how capable you really are.

Here’s to making this year your healthiest year yet!