What should you do to get your New Year off to a good start?
Do you blindly head into the New Year hoping for the best without really giving it much thought or do you start your New Year off with good intentions only to find that a few weeks down the track that you are falling into a familiar routine along with bad habits?
The start of a New Year can be a new start for you to take small steps to create a happier healthier life. The key is to stay true to you and keep things real. If you set unrealistic goals for yourself to start with then you could be setting yourself up to fail. Below are a few things which could help you create a happier, healthier year.
1. Make a Realistic Plan
We are already into January but it is not too late to make a plan. Take a moment to think about what you want for yourself this year. Look at all aspects of your life and think of things you want to change or improve. Consider your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing. How are your relationships, work, finances etc. Write down what you would like to change and improve on so you have a compass for the year ahead.
You can download the FREE Planner below which will also help you keep track of your progress.
2. Introduce a Mind, Body Spirit Practice
If you want to feel more balanced and calm this year then one of the best things you can do for yourself is to introduce a practice such as Yoga, Qi-gong or even Tai Chi into your weekly routine. These ancient practices help to your keep your life force energy flowing, can lower cortisol levels reducing feelings of stress and anxiety and help to keep you balanced both physically, mentally and emotionally. Now is also a good time to include Meditation into your routine to help you stay connected to yourself.
3. Schedule time in Nature
If you only take one thing away from this post then take this one. Spending more time outdoors in a natural environment can have huge benefits for your overall health and wellbeing and help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Most of us have become disconnected from Nature without realising the damage it is doing to us on all levels. We are not separate from nature so schedule in time every day to spend some time outdoors, either in a park, woodland or even your own back garden. Being by water also helps to restore a sense of calm and feeling of wellbeing. Go for a walk or just spend time noticing the natural environment around you. If you are not sure what to do then check download your free guide here with easy ways to connect with nature.
4. Reduce Processed Food
Whether you want to lose weight or just feel healthier and less anxious this year then try to reduce the amount of processed food you consume. Remember 'fresh is always best' so eat plenty of fresh natural foods whenever you can. Ready meals are great if you are short on time but can be full of unwanted additives and heavy on salt, sugar and saturated fat. Buy fresh and batch cook if you can and keep healthier snacks available. Remember to drink plenty of water and replace fizzy drinks with sparkling or natural mineral water to keep sugars down.
5. Make time for Yourself
Life can be full on for many reasons and it is not always easy to make time for you but to maintain your own health and sanity you have to make time for yourself. Allow yourself to do something you enjoy or just take time out when you need it, if only for a few minutes. Don't put yourself at the bottom of your 'to-do' list this year.
Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year.
In warmth
Sharon K
Holistic Health and Wellness Coach
Reiki Master/Teacher
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