With the new year, many people make resolutions, but few succeed in sticking to them. Yet feeling great and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to enjoying life AND its celebrations to the fullest! With the holiday season behind us and its accompanying indulgence in less healthy foods, most people enter the new year with a determination of making changes—intending and hoping to get fit and healthy once and for all!
Yet the Forbes Health/One Poll survey found that the average resolution only lasts a few months. Only 8% of respondents tend to stick to their goals for one month, 22% for 2 months, 22% for three months and only 13% last for four months. Having taught fitness classes for years, I can tell you that the gym was packed in January, but by February and March the numbers had already dropped dramatically!
Why is this? How do we create new habits and really have them become our new norm?
We have to COMMIT to what we want and have a strong WHY that’ll keep us going when it gets hard. Let’s also avoid overwhelming ourselves trying to improve every aspect of our lives and routines!
The Key Pillars of Health: Nourishment, Movement, Sleep, and Sacred Space.
We touch on these below, and here’s what we suggest:
- Choose the one that you’re the ‘weakest’ in and implement it for 90 days. Really make it a habit!
- Then move onto the next pillar you want to incorporate.
Remember, success is just a series of small wins/habits stacked up together over time!
1. NOURISHMENT
- Balanced Nutrition: Aim to fill up on foods rich in nutrients such as vegetables, lean proteins, nuts & seeds and some berries.
- Nourish your Soul: What brings you joy? Incorporate daily and weekly activities that nourish your being and make you happy.
- Stay Hydrated: With the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forget about hydration. Ensure you’re drinking an adequate amount of water to support digestion, maintain energy levels, and keep your skin radiant. Hot herbal teas are a great way to stay hydrated this time of year!
2. SLEEP
- Prioritize Sleep: Establish a consistent sleep routine, even amid stressful times, to support your body’s recovery and resilience. Do your best!
3. MOVEMENT
- Regular Exercise: PRIORITIZE physical activity! Whether it’s a brisk walk, a home workout, or a dance session, staying active contributes to overall health and can be a fun way to engage with loved ones! Find what you love and don’t let your mind come up with excuses. As Nike says, just do it!
4. SACRED SPACE
- Manage Stress: Create time for connection and quiet. Incorporate peacefulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, or a short walk. These practices can help balance stress hormones and promote a sense of calm. This also helps keep blood sugar more balanced!
Rather than just ‘getting through our days’ let’s learn to make life about joy and connection, reflection, and gratitude. Prioritizing your health allows you to fully embrace life and learn to THRIVE. (Not to mention that prevention goes a LONG way!)