With 2014 just around the corner, it is again time for those famous New Year’s resolutions. This year, why not resolve to adopt a few habits that will boost your health and contribute to your overall happiness?
Reorganize Your Living Space
Both reorganizing and decluttering your surroundings can do wonders for your mental and emotional health. Even if you are generally organized, perhaps try a new system; move your furniture around, or invest in some space-saving storage containers. One great idea is to read up on feng shui for optimal energy flow, and see your home in a new light.
Your new organization system could help you break free of old habits and stagnant routines. If your space functions differently, it might give you a boost to function differently as well.
When you get rid of unwanted clutter, it can help you achieve a sense of emotional freedom, without unnecessary “things” weighing you down. Life coach and nutritionist Ana Alexandre recommends, “Get rid of all the things you don’t need or that are not good for you… Clean out your cupboards, and get rid of all processed foods like those containing white flours, sugar and unhealthy oils.”
Reorganizing and decluttering your kitchen can be especially beneficial, as it will make room for healthy and delicious ingredients that you have always wanted to try, but never had the space to work with!
Be Grateful for What You Have
Some people experience what is known as a “holiday funk,” where things seem gloomy, and all of the problems in their lives seem to come to the surface all at once to nag at them. One very effective remedy for the holiday blues is to practice gratitude.
Make a list of everything in your life that you are grateful for, including people, pets, opportunities you’ve had, and positive qualities you possess. You may be surprised at how long your list is, and how many great things you have to be thankful for!
Set Attainable Goals
When making your New Year’s resolutions, choose goals that are realistic, and that you can actively work towards immediately. This way, you can feel the success that comes with accomplishing them. You may, of course, choose ambitious long-term goals as well. If you do this, however, break these goals down into smaller steps, so you will be well on your way to achieving them.
Alexandre says, “Create what you want. Set goals that excite you, that are tangible and something with a finish line. Write your goals in the present tense… This will get you believing that they can be a reality.”
Schedule Some “You” Time
Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to forget to take time for yourself. This, however, is crucial, and can really contribute significantly to your well-being. Whether you enjoy writing, painting, reading, or taking walks, scheduling at least half an hour per day just for yourself to do whatever you feel can be very rewarding.
You may consider learning a new, creative activity, just to shake up your routine and challenge your brain in a new way. Meditating for a few minutes every morning and every night can help get you in a proper headspace and gain the most out of your ‘you’ time.
Get Moving
Along with a healthy, whole diet, exercise is one of the most powerful things you can do for your body and mind. This year, resolve to be active every day. You are more than likely to feel worlds better as soon as you start, setting yourself up for a healthy and happy year.
Alexandre says, “Find an activity you like and actually want to do. Take a dance or yoga class, go hiking or rollerblading. It doesn’t really matter. Just get your body moving.”
Choose to make 2014 your best year yet!
-The Alternative Daily