Happy New Year to You and Your Families 

As the holidays end, many of us find ourselves becoming pensive, now that the “rush” is over, and we begin to feel that we must address some issues that we have put on the back burner until the beginning of the New Year.  So we again begin our lists, some which may be repetitive from last year, in an effort to “start over” or “do it right”. All our intentions are there, with our resolutions. Yet we also embark upon this task somewhat cynical and frustrated. 

Although, this is a good time to re-evaluate where we have been over the last year and where we would like to be in the New Year, there are some ways in which we can succeed without sabotaging our efforts as we may have in the past. 

When assessing some goals for the New Year, try these tips: 

Be realistic – instead of stating you will jog 2 miles every day beginning January 1^st, (using the first snow day or sore muscles as an excuse to throw in the towel), try to set a goal of exercising 4 days a week – but put it down on paper so you can see it – log it in as you would an appointment that you would need to keep. If you are determined to lose weight, remember the long term outcome. Losing 1 – 2 pound a week will result in a loss of 25 -50 pounds by summer!! So what is your rush? Take your time and change your lifestyle so you can enjoy your life!

Don’t make too many resolutions. Pick a few of the important ones. Decide what is really important that will make an impact. Ask yourself what you would have changed over the last year if you could have. For instance – if you had meditated daily, or learned yoga as a technique in exercise and relaxation, would it have made a difference in how you feel now?  

Make sure your resolutions are not all about body image. Although one’s appearance is certainly appealing and helps one to have a sense of confidence. It is important to keep in mind that the spirit needs some attention as well. Losing a few pounds will not nourish you spiritually or mentally. However if you can take some quiet moments alone to appreciate the earth, the water and the air, it will do wonders. Everyone has their own beliefs, and their own spiritual guide, be sure to take time to practice whatever means you are comfortable with to ensure you keep this part of your being healthy.

Your mind is of course all part of the healthy plan for the New Year as well. Perhaps on your list of resolutions, you may want to include replacing some of the time listening to the news channel with listening to music. It is difficult for some people to tune out the news, but I assure you, the habit is easily broken once you get used to it. Books on tape, CD’s and other radio stations are available. But then again there is always the best resort …. silence!   

Relationships and time with positive people are an important factor to health as well. Be sure to make more time for those who are important to you and limit time with those who drain you. So often we spend time around people who are not healthy for us, i.e., people who talk negatively all the time, or gossip, or find fault in others.  

Find value in your choices and look forward each day of the New Year.