We know New Year’s resolutions are often good through the first week of January so we have compiled a list of ways, seemingly small and insignificant, that can improve your health and well-being by simply focusing on them rather than losing steam and giving up on good intentions. ?Here are some of our favorites:
- Drink more water (flavor it with citrus, cucumbers, mint, etc.). ?Good hydration = increased energy.
- Add one vegetable/fruit/nut to your daily nutrition.
- Cut back on caffeine.
- Take a few minutes each day to stop everything and be still. ?Practice being in that silent peaceful space underneath all the “mental chatter.”
- Pay attention to the stillness and beauty of nature each day.
- Laugh when you can (and if necessary, smile often to trick your mind/body into feeling happy).
- Designate one hour of “Me” time per week.
- Use deep breathing to manage stress and remember it as the breath of life.
- Center yourself before each patient visit using a few moments of prayer or meditation.
- Take a picture of something beautiful every week on your smart phone.
- Extend kindness and compassion every day, remembering that it is happening in your mind/body first.
- Purchase a super comfortable pillow at your local outlet store.
- Think of yourself as a vessel for goodness.
- Be less judgmental and more understanding if you have not walked a mile in another’s shoes.
- Remember that the time to be happy is now.
- Remember that your spiritual Self is always present whether you feel connected to it or not. ?You cannot change it.
- Be open to friendships you might least expect.
- Listen more, speak less . . . and really listen.
- Take a break from material desires and feed your spirit instead.
- Read something inspirational each morning.
- Bless the Earth that feeds and sustains you.
- Allow someone else to merge into your lane, cross the street, turn the corner first – then smile and wave as you do it.
- Take time to let go of the negative past and live in the present.
- Create positive memories to look back on and hold in your heart.
- Give without expecting in return – you never know the ripple effect it will have.
- Tell stories about the kindness of a stranger.
- Let the person behind you in the grocery store go before you.
- Offer to walk a neighbor’s dog.
- Remember your own beauty, grace, and love beyond physical characteristics.
Wishing you all experiences that open your heart and nourish your mind, body, and spirit in 2015!