It’s a new year and, as always, there’s a lot of talk about taking steps to create the “new you.” While this may seem like a great idea to some, it’s not always the right answer for everyone.
Though we’re sure you’re perfect just the way you are, that doesn’t mean there’s no room for improvement or doing a few nice things for yourself.
Instead of creating a rigorous transformation plan, resolve to take care of yourself in a few new (or old, tried-and-true) ways that are sure to make this a great year.
Eat Well
Maintaining a healthy diet is hard work but what you’ve heard is true
When you eat healthy foods, you feel better overall. Your body clock will keep a more consistent rhythm, you’ll feel more rested every morning, and your body will have fewer aches and pains throughout the day.
Though it’s best to keep a balanced diet, it’s also okay to indulge every once in a while. Enjoy that piece of cake, go through the drive-through and order a milkshake, or have a bowl of ice cream at the end of a long day. Having a treat every now and then is always nice.
Make an Effort to Exercise
Exercising, to some people, is all kinds of fun. To others, it’s loathsome.
Regardless of which camp you fall into, make an effort to get up and move around a little each day. Whether it means going for a short walk in your neighborhood, working up a sweat to a workout video routine, or heading to the gym for a class, exercising is good for your physical and mental health.
You already know it’s good for you: Exercising can help you combat obesity and weight gain, depression and anxiety, and help lower stress. If you’re feeling angry, it’s also a great way to work off some of that steam!
Visit the Spa Regularly
What is it about going to the spa that makes you feel so wonderful? When you leave, you always have that unmistakable deeply-relaxed glow.
Make a point to go to the spa regularly – at least 2-3 times a year. Call your preferred spa to see if they’re offering any special packages and make a day of it. When you take care of your body, relax, and enjoy yourself, everything around you seems to be more harmonious.
Take Up Meditation
Meditation has a number of fantastic benefits, stretching from your physical health to your cognitive and spiritual well-being. It can help chase away stress, clear your mind of scattered thoughts, and bring peace to a busy day.
Try meditating for just 10 minutes a day. You don’t have to sit on the ground – find a comfortable place that’s quiet where you can ease your mind and focus on your breathing. The more you meditate, the more comfortable you’ll become with the practice and the more you’ll gain from it.
Aromatherapy is about more than just nice smells. Aromatic oils have some excellent health benefits as well. Studies have shown that aromatherapy can improve sleep and help reduce and relieve stress.
Want to make it a great day? Invest in an oil diffuser for your home or office. Choose some calming scents like lavender, peppermint, or tea tree to help stay alert and relaxed.
You don’t have to make big changes in order to take better care of yourself. With just a few small adjustments, you’ll make plenty of improvements that will help you live a better life.
Here’s to you and your health this year – make it great!
