Thoughts of Gratitude
Start your day with a thought of gratitude and a positive intention for the day. This small, effortless habit takes no time and can be done while you are brushing your teeth or having a shower! If you are going through a tough time and struggle to feel positive, focus on the simple things like your warm bed and nutritious food you have the opportunity to enjoy. Carry your intention with you throughout the day and try to remember to check-in a few times to see how you are doing.
Load with Nutrients
Make your first meal a high-protein one and add a portion of fruit or veg. Yogurt with berries and a sprinkle of seeds to add some healthy fats is another effortless, no-time requiring example. Be mindful of mindless snacking out of habit throughout the day and have some nutritious options on hand.
Set Boundaries & Enjoy What You Like
Set aside 30-60 min in your day to do something you enjoy. Make sure you plan it and schedule it in because without your calendar blocked out, it is too easy for other tasks and priorities to sneak in, leaving you burned out and tired over the long-term. This does not need to be anything fancy or require effort. Maybe you just want to rest on the couch and catch up with a friend on the phone or perhaps go for a walk and listen to your favourite music while getting some fresh air.
Movement
Similar to “you time”, plan and schedule in movement for 30 min daily. Once again, if it is not in your diary, it is more likely to be missed. Also, aim to add small bursts of movement to break up long sedentary periods. If you have a smartwatch, it may already remind you to move for a minute every hour.
Wind Down
End the day with a quick reflection on your positive intention you set in the morning and a short meditation. A meditation is not something that needs to be done for an hour in a candle-lit environment. It can be a moving meditation, while walking or stretching, and anything from 5 minutes counts!
Do not forget, the new year is an opportunity for a fresh start, but it does not have to be a total overhaul. Concentrate on making small changes, embrace self-compassion, and take the time to celebrate your journey.
