Getting started after the holiday hangover

Vacations are meant to give us time to rest and recharge — something often missing during the year. But long breaks can also leave us with too much time to do nothing. As a result, getting back into the rhythm of daily life can require extra effort. A new year offers the perfect opportunity to start again.

The good news is you can begin your wellness journey at any time. The best timing is determined by your own desire. Only you can overcome procrastination, laziness, and resistance.

Ask yourself what you want to improve — your health, physical appearance, or overall mood. There are no right or wrong answers; only what is true to your authentic self.

Here is a simple starter pack of choices.

Most people put fitness at the top of the list, followed by beauty, diet, and mental wellness. Small steps lead to bigger results. Treat today as Day One and look at your suggested schedule.

Begin by getting up gently. Don’t jump out of bed. Sit at the edge, swing your legs for 15 seconds, stretch your arms, roll your neck, inhale deeply, and exhale slowly. Repeat five times. Only then are you ready to stand.

Your morning ritual should follow your usual routine. Each time you face the mirror, finish with an affirmation. For example: “Today will be successful... I am ready to conquer the world... I am unstoppable.” The key is to set your intention.-

Consistency is essential. Habits work best when done at the same time every day. Whether morning or evening, stick to your routine. Start a journal to track progress and check in with yourself. Include a gratitude list to focus on the positive in your life. Gratitude generates energy and fosters creativity — it’s not magic, it’s a simple law of attraction.

Exercise can be challenging, but starting today makes it easier tomorrow. As Nike famously says: “Just do it.” Action is the first step toward change.

Exercise should be enjoyable. If you’re not a gym-goer, everyday activities can double as workouts. While brushing your teeth, try side strides. In the kitchen, tiptoe while washing dishes. Walk instead of driving to a neighbor’s house.

Incorporate small stretches into daily routines: while brushing your hair, do squats; during Netflix time, sit at the edge of the sofa and bend forward for a lower-leg and hip stretch. Stand up every 20 minutes to move for three minutes to keep circulation going. Take the stairs whenever possible. Even holding a broom, sway your hips before sweeping. At your desk, do side bends and hip circles. While reading this column, pause to look up at the ceiling, take a deep breath, then return to reading.

These small actions train your brain to stay active throughout everyday life.

Keep goals realistic. Consider starting with simple commitments: eat healthier, add more vegetables, try veggie juicing, reduce sugar and carbohydrates, limit fried foods, sleep by 10 p.m., exercise 20 minutes daily, hydrate more, avoid arguments, listen more, smile and laugh harder, dance and walk, cut back on alcohol and smoking, be more helpful and kind, rest when tired, enjoy home-cooked meals, pray and meditate, manage stress, avoid toxic people, honor your “me time,” and plant a tree.

Affirmation: “Today is my day.”

Source: www.manilatimes.net