Forget rigid resolutions, 2024 is our year for meaningful commitments. Instead of grand pronouncements destined to fade by February, let's focus on sustainable habits that nourish our health and wellness throughout the year.
This blog isn't about trendy diets or six pack challenges. It's about carving a path to a happier, healthier you, built on small achievable steps and a whole lot of self-compassion.Take a look at the beautiful graphic below created by Andrea Evgeniou.
Here's how we can ditch the pressure and embrace thriving:
Move with Joy, not obligation:
Ditch the guilt spiral of "I should excercise". Find activities you truly enjoy, whether it is swimming, dancing,climbing or brisk walks with a friend. Start small, like 20 minutes three times a week and gradually build on your joy.
Make friends with your plate:
Forget restrictive food rules. Focus on noursihing your body with delicious real food. Fill your plate with the colours of the rainbow by choosing fruits, vegetables and wholegrains and lean protein. Listen to your body's cues and enjoy treats without judgement.
Sleep like royalty:
Prioritize enough shut-eye:
Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, dim the lights and ditch the screens before bed. A well rested you is a happier and healthier you. My next blog will be focusing more on the importance of sleep and recent research. If you have not yet read the book by Matthew Walker : Why we sleep, do yourself a favour and read it.
Breathe:
Stress happens, but we can manage it. Find your stress buster whether it is meditation, yoga, journaling or being in nature. Focusing on good quality breathing assists hugely in calming the body and mind.
Fuel your inner spark:
Make time for activities that bring you joy and purpose. Read that book, try that new hobby, learn a new skill. Spark your curiosity and creativity. A fulfilled soul nourishes a healthy body.
Be kind to yourself: it's the coolest trend.
Ditch negativity! Every stumble is a chance to learn. Forgive yourself for the slip-ups, celebrate your progress and be your own biggest cheerleader. Self compassion is the secret sauce to lasting change.
Surround yourself with wellness champions:
Find your tribe! Connect with people who inspire and support your health goals. You are not alone in this journey, lean on your community.
Celebrate the little wins:
Don't wait for the major milestones to celebrate. Acknowledge and appreciate every step you take towards your healthier, happier you. Reward yourself with a self care ritual, a fun outing or simply a pat on the back.
Remember this is not about perfection. It's about progress, about cultivating a lifestyle that feels good and fuels your well-being. So, let's ditch the pressure, embrace sustainable commitments and make 2024 the year we thrive, inside and out.
From my heart to yours
Alex
