(Published 2025 January)
The start of a new year feels like the perfect time to say so long to bad habits and make big changes or give those long-term goals a go (lose weight or run a marathon sound familiar?). But by the end of January, those plans never seem to happen the way we hoped. Instead of being disappointed by another set of failed resolutions, let’s focus on self-care, which can help boost energy, control stress, and decrease the risk of illness. You don’t have to do anything grand—like climbing Machu Picchu; small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a huge influence. Practice just one of the following examples until it becomes a routine, and then build on the next healthy habit:
- Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated to enhance energy and focus.
- Get regular exercise–even if it’s just 15 to 30 minutes a day.
- Get enough sleep. For most of us, the recommendation is seven to nine hours a night.
- Meditate. Guided meditation and breathing exercises can quell chaotic thoughts that may be causing stress.
- Set manageable goals. Identify your priorities, and say no if you feel you are taking on too much.
- Practice gratitude. Studies show being grateful improves happiness by nurturing hope for the future, reducing stress, increasing resilience, and enhancing empathy toward others.
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