How would it feel to begin the new year with action, determination and drive?
We now have the opportunity to begin with a clean slate. Wait, what is all that stuff following behind you? Old ideas, regrets, unresolved issues, physical and mental clutter and maybe even some extra weight on your literal behind? A new you calls for a new approach. Releasing and discarding things and thoughts that no longer serve you will free you to be more productive, creative and happy.
No matter if you’ve made resolutions before and didn’t follow through, this is a new year. Relax. You can do it.
Unfortunately, many of the most well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions fizzle by February. They’re done in by a lack of commitment or a lack of know-how. That is where the staff of The Natural Healing Garden can help. We can guide you on your overall path to wellness. Our staff specializes in reconnecting to your body and listening to your needs. We can support life’s changes and transitions, which affect physical and emotional health. When the body is moving, it helps release toxins that get stored in the muscles. Massage Therapy, Active Isolated Stretching, Cupping and Movement Therapy help with the physical release. Nutritional Coaching, Transition Coaching, Grieving and Support Coaching as well as workshops assist with the emotional releases.
In addition to assisting with your physical and emotional wellness, we recommend that with the New Year and New You approach, working on the list below can increase your overall well-being:
- Clean Up Clutter
This includes physical clutter in your workspace, personal area, home and in your emotions and mind. In other words, scan your entire world to see where you have left things unfinished, and look for papers and objects that you know you will not actually read or use. Finish the projects if they are worthwhile, or discard them along with the papers and items that are just taking up room. Review your relationships, including the one with yourself: Are you clear, honest and kind? Much more can be done with love than with recrimination and blame. Do what you can to resolve issues, forgive, let go and move on. Donate, give away or discard things that you don’t use any more. - Review What is Important to You
Are you living in alignment with what you value? Shift your to-do list, priorities, resources and time to better reflect what means most to you. Start with small steps; the bigger ones will come as you make progress. - Make a Short, Realistic List of Goals
Instead of a daunting dissertation of how you wish to dramatically change your life, put down fewer than seven things you wish to accomplish for the while. You can always add to the list as you attain them. Jot down measurable and achievable goals. For example, instead of putting down that you want to look like a super model, write down a plan to exercise five times a week for 30 minutes each and to eat some fresh fruits and vegetables with every meal. Or that you will join a professional affinity group and attend a networking meeting once a quarter instead of saying that you want more business contacts. Concrete, measurable and doable steps will help to keep you encouraged, motivated and moving forward. - Be Your Own Best Supporter
Acknowledge yourself for noticing that you have areas where you wish to improve. Your awareness and desire to change is already a step in the right direction. Each thought or small step toward your goals, whether it is to exercise, eat healthier, spend more time with loved ones, work smarter, etc., already move you closer to what you want. Instead of judging and berating yourself and being tense and in fear of breaking your “shoulds,” listen to your inner voice. Your innate wisdom can guide you. Pause and reflect before you make decisions, and base them on whether or not it brings you closer to what is most important for you. - Get a Mentor; Be a Mentor
Mentoring is sharing, coaching and learning. Whether we are mentoring or being mentored, we are learning and growing. Seek out people in your work, professional and social systems to broaden your know how, support and add to your contribution in the world. We deepen our knowledge and expertise and broaden our network when we reach out to absorb new skills and information or to guide others; besides, it’s fun! Explore and expand the many ways in your work, professional circles and community on how and where you mentor and get mentored.
The five ideas above are tools that you can use again and again. Think of them like exercise for your life, you need to do them regularly to survive and flourish.
One more thought: Please be kind to yourself. We can accomplish much more when we are encouraged, healthy and happy.
“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
New Year, New You
Your greatest moments and work are still ahead of you. Enjoy and celebrate the opportunity to live, learn and grow. May this year be your best year yet! Let The Natural Healing Garden help you in any way.
By Debbie Maranville
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