A new year is upon us and with it comes inner reflection and an opportunity to set clear goals for the year. My focus this year is on my health, which also includes the health of my family. I am letting go of the reckless eating habits that the holidays tend to bring. My pants are starting to tighten around my waist which is quite reminiscent of my growing pregnancy belly (except this time around, I am not ‘with child’ - I am with ‘sugary treats'). So before my buddha belly gets out of control, I am cutting back on the junk, and sticking to what has worked for me in the past. It boils down to a just a few changes, to see some great results.
1. DRINK WATER! This is the simplest and best thing you can do for your body. Drink water as soon as you wake up in the morning - before coffee, tea, orange juice and breakfast. Drink a full glass of water! Water gets your body systems moving and processing. It kick starts your metabolic process in the morning, and helps with eliminating toxins throughout your day. Add a little squeeze of fresh lemon for added benefit.
2. GET ENOUGH SLEEP! We underestimate the importance of rest in our society. A full deep, restful sleep works wonders for your health. This is the time when your mind shuts down and allows the parasympathetic nervous system to kick on. Deep, relaxing sleep is where all the magic happens. This is when your body stops doing and starts healing. When you wake up the next morning refreshed, and ready for the day, your body will thank you!
3. GET UP AND MOVE! In today’s day of computers, cubicles, cars and tvs, it is easy to forget that we need to move. Movement is how we allow our body to stretch and digest. It gets the juices flowing so that our joints can stay healthy, and our muscles can stay in shape. Don’t have time for exercise? A mindful practice of making new choices is all you need. Choose the stairs, choose to take your dog for a walk, choose to park further away from the building, and choose to take 2 minutes to do 10 jumping jacks. Choose to move!
4. RELEASE STRESS! Science shows us that stress constricts the body, restricts our breathing, and causes a whole bunch of health problems. Figure out the best way you can release the stress you feel, and do it every single day. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing, count to 10, take a yoga class, sip herbal tea, take a bath, sit in nature, take a hot shower with essential oils. There are many ways to release stress. What can you do to feel more relaxed and centered?
