New Habits To Bring Into 2021
It’s safe to say that this year has been an absolute rollercoaster of a year. But we’ve survived it!
I’ve been looking forward to the chance to review the past year of my life, even without the pandemic it’s been a bumpy ride. I definitely think 2020 has been the year where I’ve wanted to work on myself and I’ve actually succeeded doing it. It feels like anything I’ve put my mind to this year I’ve been able to achieve. I was never quite sure If I believed in manifestations and goal tracking until the first lockdown hit back in March. Improved my life from the inside and took steps to grow a successful future on the outside. I first started this process with my Quarantine resolutions and then reviewed my progress 5 months later. Mentally, this is probably the best I’ve been for quite a while. But I know there’s a lot of other stuff I want to work on, both inside and out.
This is not a list of resolutions or a checklist of personality traits to abolish by December 31st. This is a list of healthy, life-changing habits that we should all try and get a head start on before the new year.
Gratitude
Write down at least 3 things you’re grateful for everyday. You can think of things in your head, but writing them down is way more powerful. I recently discovered the power of bullet journaling, but I’ve made it very much my own thing. Why not check it out?
A lot of times we don’t realise how much we have to be grateful for in our lives. The more you practise feeling it the more happiness you’ll find with what you have now.
Exercise
We all need to exercise a little more and now the Christmas food is officially on sale, we’ve got to try stay healthy.
I think it would be good for us all to start slowly exercising and getting back on our feet, ready for the gym to reopen.
One of the best things that came out of lockdown was my weight loss from consistently working out everyday. Movement is so important for a healthy life, so take the stairs, park further in the parking lot, dance, just move!
Take Vitamins
A good multivitamin is the easiest to start with. Due to my arthritis, I regularly take iron and cod liver oil supplements for two years now and I must say I really feels the benefits.
Meal Prep/ Meal Plan
If you’re trying to eat healthier and/or save money, meal planning is a must.
I meal prep every weekend. It takes me less than 2 hours (including dishes) to make 6 days of lunches and dinners.
It has saved me SO much time and helps me to stay healthy. I also never buy lunch out which obviously saves money.
The key is to plan YUMMY meals that you actually enjoy eating. My meals taste good because I incorporate lots of flavors. The more you do it the better you get at it.
If you can’t stand eating the same food over and over, try meal planning instead.
Plan 6 meals for the week. Make a list of the exact foods you need before going to the grocery store. When you make dinner, leave enough for lunch for the next day.
Less Screen Time, More Reading
Between office work, our phones, Netflix, and our laptops we spend HOURS looking at a screen. We don’t yet know the long-term effects of all this screen time, but it’s something to consider. Be aware of how much time you’re looking at screens and be sure to take frequent breaks and use blue light blocking glasses.
However, start replacing unnecessary screen time with reading books!
If you sit on your phone during your lunch break or before bed, give it a rest and pick up a book instead.
Meditate
Take a deep breath in and exhale slowly.
That’s probably the deepest breath you’ve taken all day!
Deep breathing can really help to lower your stress levels and put you at ease. Also ensure that you’re breathing from your belly NOT your chest!
I mention meditation here because not only is it extremely beneficial for you overall but a session typically starts with deep breathing and/or a focus on the breath.
Many of us tend to take shallow breaths throughout the day. If you improve your breathing and take deep breaths regularly you’ll improve your blood flow, increase your energy levels, and stimulate your lymphatic system.