Take a pause before the year ends. Discover easy ways to reset your mind, body, and spirit with simple daily habits.
Right now we’re all supposed to be focused on holistic health and intentional living, but with so many distractions, it’s almost impossible to actually slow down, reconnect with ourselves and embrace balance. Here are five ways to do just that — and what not to do — before the holiday rush sets in.
DO: Spend more time in nature.
What the Japanese call shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, can significantly reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve your mental clarity.
DON’T: Spend long hours at work without taking a break.
Instead, be sure to include both short breaks during the day to refocus and longer ones to rest and recover. Sitting at your desk for hours and hours may seem productive, but will eventually lead to diminished focus, poor posture and burnout, both physical and mental.
DO: Give yourself positive affirmations every day.
Telling yourself “I am capable,” “I deserve happiness” or whatever confidence booster you need can rewire your brain over time.
DON’T: Indulge in negative self-talk.
It’s easy to focus on our flaws, but self-criticism undermines our confidence and happiness.
DO: Take a digital detox, even if it’s just for an hour a day.
Put down the phone. And while you’re at it, replace any harsh-sounding alarms with soft chimes, calming music or sounds from nature.
DON’T: Be ruled by your notifications.
Being constantly plugged in means you are never fully present for the people around you. It is distracting and disruptive and the endless stream of alarming headlines is bad for your mental health.
DO: Set boundaries.
Learn how to say no to demands that sap your time and energy, leaving no room for the things you really care about.
DON’T: Say yes to everything.
Create space for other priorities, especially self-care. And don’t get sucked into the vortex around toxic, negative people — they will just drain your energy and well-being.
DO: Make your workouts fun.
Embrace the joy of movement with playful activities like trampoline jumping, pickleball or dancing like nobody is watching. It’ll boost both your endorphins and your fitness level.
DON’T: Set unrealistic goals for beauty, weight loss or fitness.
You’ll just feel worse if you can’t reach them. Instead, love yourself, just as you are.
