New Years

Photo by STIL

It’s that time of year again when most people set their New Year’s Resolutions, or ask, “What’s your New Year’s resolution?” Although resolutions can be a great tradition, often times individuals set resolutions that are too challenging and are then unable to keep them. After a few days or weeks, they fall back into their previous behaviors. Because of this, I prefer to set attainable daily or weekly goals that help me take a step toward my larger goal – at ANY TIME DURING THE YEAR. For example, when my son was in preschool he had trouble falling asleep at night. He would call out and get out of bed and ask me to stay with him. I would find myself getting easily frustrated at the lack of time I had for myself and would take that out on my family. It was a terrible cycle! I decided to make a change that would benefit us both. My son needed to know I was there for him and I needed a better self-care routine. So, every night when he was falling asleep I sat at his doorway and listen to a mediation app. It helped me sleep better and feel more grounded and present with my frustrations so that I could then change my mindset. Through this daily practice I was able to show up for myself and my son in a healthier way – and even started looking forward to sitting near him at night so that I could meditate without distraction.

What is one of your wellness goals? Maybe you want to cut back on soda, drink more water or start a morning routine. Whatever you choose, I challenge you to make this choice every day for seven days to create your new habit. If you want to cut back on soda, replace 1 soda with a sparkling water or other healthier beverage, every day, for one week. At the end of the week, notice how you are feeling. Are you still reaching for soda, or are you reaching for your replacement drink instead?

Setting a new habit can be fun and exciting! Create your attainable goal, then challenge yourself to follow through every day. At the end of your first week, take time to celebrate your dedication! Then, keep going. Continue to stick to your new habit every day until it no longer feels like a new habit. And one day, sooner than you think, you will realize it has become your normal.

Lindsay Coward
Certified Yoga Instructor
Owner, Yoga Nut