“New year, new you!” Isn’t that always how the saying goes? The threshold of a brand-new year inspires introspection and planning ahead; which is why New Year’s resolutions have become such a popular ritual that so many individuals embrace. Embracing wellness – from specific physical goals to refreshing a holistic health approach – always ranks high among the New Year’s resolutions that people set. 2024 is no exception!
Let’s start the year on the right foot and explore how to craft resolutions that align with a healthier, happier life!
Why Wellness Matters
Setting health-focused New Year’s resolutions typically brings to mind practices like “dry January,” signing up for a new gym membership, or diving headfirst into the latest diet craze. While all of these may be steps on an individual journey, wellness is something much larger than any of those things on their own. Wellness goes beyond physical fitness; it encompasses the total picture of nurturing the body and the mind. Embracing wellness means embracing the investment of taking care of yourself to ensure a more fulfilling life. In terms of specific benefits, prioritizing wellness can lead to heightened energy levels and productivity, and improved mental health.
Crafting Your New Year’s Resolutions
Did you know that over 90 percent of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned within the first few months of the year? There are a few reasons for this that experts have identified. The first is that committing to any long-term change requires the proper contemplation and preparation to help us shift our mindset. Secondly, individuals will set resolutions without getting into the ‘why’ of their goals. What is it the ultimate reward that is driving this resolution?
The final and most important of these challenges is that individuals often set goals that are too big and too vague! Common New Year’s resolutions include losing weight, eating healthier, or drinking less alcohol. How much weight? What does “eating healthier” mean? The answer could be vastly different from person to person – as would the methods.
When crafting your New Year’s resolutions, dream big – but don’t forget to break it down. Instead of setting the broad goal to just “eat healthier,” consider what that would look like for you. Perhaps eating healthier just means doing more cooking at home, or avoiding fast food, or keeping your daily calorie intake at a certain level. Identifying specific steps can make any goal more manageable!
Taking a Well-Rounded Approach to Embracing Wellness
True wellness is an all-encompassing look at health. That goes for physical wellbeing, as well as soft factors like our social lives and mental health. Consider the following key areas:
1. Practicing Mindfulness
A little bit of mindfulness goes a long way! Integrate some mindfulness into your daily routine through simple practices like meditation and deep breathing. It’s possible to foster emotional intelligence by dedicating some time to self-reflection; that’s ultimately a benefit to you and your loved ones.
2. Get Physical
Physical activity is essential and can be so fun! For a long-term approach to managing physical health, choose activities that you genuinely enjoy! Some great examples are yoga, hiking, and dancing! Don’t forget that rest is just as important as working up a sweat! Prioritize sleep to support your body’s natural healing processes.
3. Set a Foundation of Nutrition
It’s vital to make informed food choices that nourish both the body and mind. Proper nutrition is responsible for so much of how our bodies function, from supporting immunity to keeping us strong and cognitively sharp. Tip: Experiment with incorporating more plant-based options into your diet.
4. Tending to Your Social Network
Humans are social animals. We need our communities, large and small. Cultivate meaningful relationships by spending quality time with loved ones. To strengthen your broader circle, consider joining clubs and groups that align with your interests! This will ensure that you’re connected to your broader community and it can even help further your other wellness goals!
5. Embracing Wellness at Work
It’s impossible to discuss overall wellbeing without discussing work. After all, much of our days are spent at work and around our coworkers. Bringing wellness goals into the workplace can pull double-duty to set you up for a myriad of goals. Consider applying your other wellness goals to your approach to work, to establish a healthier work-life balance and to prevent against burnout. Career goals present another opportunity and not just for ambition! Goals that are aligned with your personal values and passions can be a spring of joy and wellness!
Embracing Wellness as a Process
The journey to wellness is just that, a journey. It’s important to acknowledge progress and the value in every little step. Start small. Hold yourself accountable. Celebrate milestones. Above all, extend kindness to yourself and remain open to adapting your resolutions as you gain insight into what truly works best for you!
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