Have you been hearing this phrase? What does it mean to you to start a new year? For some it means more opportunity, better planning and strategies for work or pleasure. Some people are embarking on new diets or new lifestyles this time of the year. Do you have any goals set? I used to be a new years resolution maker but this may be the first year I didn't make any. This year I have decided to just enjoy life and work hard. A new year is a good time to throw out the old and bring in the new. This can mean physically, emotionally or even mentally. Here are some of my simple suggestions on how to welcome the new year and discover the new and revitalized you without making any extreme resolutions.
Physically:
- Drink more clean water! Don't go for the cup of jo, juice or energy drink first thing in the morning. Make some warm water in your kettle and squeeze some juice from a fresh lemon into the water. Sip this first thing in the morning to get your digestive system up and running.
- Park further. Let's be real, we drive a lot and we drive everywhere. Why not get a few more steps in by parking in a space further from the entrance. If you are in a rush then you can jog your way to the entrance to get your heart rate up!
- Get that dog moving! If you have a dog then get your dog out of the house more and go for a nice long walk if not everyday then every other day. If you already do this than try going even further than your normal routine. Chances are even if you have an older dog, a longer walk can benefit you both.
Mentally:
- Start blogging! If you do not already have a blog then create one! There are plenty of free and easy to use blog sites that can offer you space the be creative. Start sharing those amazing recipes, beauty tips, decorating tips, food reviews or home-made tips and tricks! Your advice and experience is valuable! Be heard, or be brave and be seen by vlogging!
- Go back to school! Well maybe a 4 year university isn't for you or you don't have the time. But what about a night class at your community college? It could improve your creative life or even career. Learn that foreign language you have always wanted, or take a course in computers to get more tech savvy. You can even learn a new instrument or take a philosophy or history class. The options are limitless!
- Enjoy the arts more! Grab your local newspaper or free flyers and see what's going on near you. Maybe there is a play or perform for a charity or for free coming up and it could be a great evening out. Museums are always changing up their exhibitions, so check out their website and see when free night is an take a friend to check out the new art.
Emotionally:
- Be vulnerable. If something is bothering you speak up. It is all about using the right words and tone of voice to get the message across that you need change. Do not be afraid to ask for what you need if it means your happiness or success. Start off by telling the person exactly how you appreciate how they provide for you what you need and appeal to their intelligence by explaining to them how capable they are of making you even more happy. Trust me, words can be magic if used correctly.
- Be still and be quiet. Take at minimum 5 minutes a day to just close your eyes, and focus on your breath. If the work day is getting hectic or personal issues are bring you down, step aside and find a quiet space to be alone for only 5 minutes and turn everything off---your phone, your mind, your expectations. Count your breath in and out and imagine as you breath you, you are breathing in a smile on your face.
A new year does not have to mean a radical new you. It doesn't have to mean a starved, or altered or fake version of you. Look for small ways to improve that make you feel better and allow you to live the life you want. Your amazing personality is what you bring to the world, not your waist size or highlights. Do what makes you feel alive, sexy, confident and respected.
Happy & Healthy New Year,
Dr. S