Looking to make some improvements to your health, wealth and wellbeing in 2019 but tired of trying and failing at your New Year’s resolutions? Research suggests that many people quit their resolutions after just two weeks of the new year. Sometimes, that failure is because they chose the wrong resolution in the first place.
But even if your resolution is a smart one, not every year offers the time or mental energy to take on a huge new challenge. Making a goal that’s time consuming and large could be really great during a year when you have the energy to do it. But if you don’t, you might want to consider tackling something less daunting. There’s nothing wrong with skipping the lofty resolution this year — these small resolutions can still make a big impact on your life!
- Read More
Reading is not only a good way to learn something new or hear a great story — it’s also a good way to gain compassion, connect with others, and keep your brain sharp and healthy. Reading just a little bit each day has been scientifically proven to strengthen brain connectivity; start with just one book, and see if the habit sticks! - Journal for 10 minutes every day
Journaling is a way to spend time with yourself that’s more valuable than just scrolling through Instagram or staring at a constant stream of Netflix. Take a couple of minutes each day to jot down your thoughts. You may find that you discover interesting truths about yourself or are able to work through difficult emotions that have been weighing you down. Some people like to do this as part of their morning routine, as they find it sets the right intentions for their day. - Try a new form of exercise
Life is too short to spend it on gruelling exercise that you hate. Workouts don’t have to suck! There are so many different kinds of movement out there; the chances are high that there’s a right one for you. Try a new workout like biking or swimming, or sign up for a new group fitness class like kickboxing or pole dancing. (Yes, that exists.) Get out of your comfort zone a little! - Stretch every day
Taking care of your body can sometimes be surprisingly simple. Stretching does your body a world of good, helping your blood flow and calling your attention to anything strange or uncomfortable that may be happening. Do you sit all day? Stretching your upper back can help with the negative consequences of slouching. And that’s just one example of the benefits that come from a simple stretch. - Call your friends and family more often
Set a reminder on your phone or make a weekly appointment with your parents; whatever works to help you keep in touch with the people you care about, consider trying it this year! Social connection is so important and dedicating time to the relationships you value can help them grow. Plus, giving that friend or family member a call may actually help extend their life! - Schedule doctor’s appointments
It’s a hassle, but going to check-ups, teeth cleanings, and other routine doctor’s appointments is a really important form of self-care. Make a point to schedule at least the bare minimum; and if going to the doctor overwhelms you, know that you’re not alone. Come to your appointment armed with the right questions and these tips straight from doctors themselves on how to make the most out of your appointment. - Volunteer for a good cause
If you have the time, try spending it by volunteering for a cause you care about. You can meet other like-minded people and feel good about having contributed. Not only that, but volunteering often provides opportunities to learn new skills, builds on your experience, and improves your mental health. - Spend more time outside
This can be difficult if you live in a colder climate, but being outdoors can have huge benefits for your mental and physical health. Try exercising outside by going for a run or a walk, biking around your town, or going swimming at the local pool. Even getting outdoors to sit under the sun and read a book can be beneficial. - Stop skipping meals
You might think that skipping meals is saving you cash (and calories), but studies show it might be doing more harm than good. Make a point this year to treat your body well by feeding it with three nourishing meals per day. You might notice it makes you feel much better — and you might be inspired to stop making these other common diet mistakes, as well! - Give your social media a mental health makeover
Social media, when used to excess or in the wrong way, can be destructive to your mental health. Give your social media platforms a mental health makeover. What does that mean? Get rid of anything that makes you feel badly about yourself or others. Unfollow people you find you’re comparing yourself with, whether it’s based on their body, career, or social life. Get rid of negative influences, such as accounts that are guilting you about your food and exercise decisions or spreading political messages you disagree with. Make your social media a happy place. And follow a few new accounts that make you feel good, instead!
Good luck with any goal or plan you decide to make and we would like to wish all of our clients, followers and friends a very happy healthy and prosperous 2019!
Article taken in part from www.msn.com
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Disclaimer
All content on this website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.