You Year. New You!
How to skip the resolutions and start a micro-habit!
Dear Caregivers,
Happy New Year! It’s always great to have a new beginning, and to set our sights on how we’ll make the most of the times that lay before us.
It’s a tradition in the new year that many people make resolutions, but I’d like to recommend that you try something new this year: Try to start several “micro-habits.”
Micro-habits are tiny changes that you make in your life that, over time, can add up to big changes overall.
For example, suppose that this year I decide I need to get more exercise in my daily routine. Instead of making a resolution that I will “walk three miles every day," which is unrealistic and likely to fail eventually, I commit to begin by simply walking around the block once a day. After a while, one block turns into two blocks, then into three, and so on, as the walking habit grows into part of my daily routine.
Other micro-habits that may grow and lead to a better life include:
Take one minute every day to say a prayer or meditate
Eat at least one fruit or vegetable with every meal
Send one text, email, or card to a friend each day to wish them well
Take five minutes each day to write in a journal
Take one minute each day to reflect on something you are grateful for in your life
You may find that these tiny changes you make in your daily life grow into larger habits that can make your day even better!
Here are some other ideas for growing into a “new you.”
Get More Exercise While Sitting Down:
It is a fundamental finding of science that exercise is one of the most effective ways to Improve your flexibility, strength and cardiovascular health. But you don’t have to join a fancy gym or buy new athletic shoes to get started. There are some simple but effective workouts you can do, even while you are seated! Here’s a guide.
Keep a Daily Journal:
Spending just five minutes in the morning writing down your thoughts can work wonders. The practice of “journaling” has shown to provide relief from grief and anger, reduce depression, improve self-care, and enhance relationships. Here’s how to start.
Learn How to Meditate:
Scientific research has confirmed thousands of years of cultural practice in demonstrating that even just a few minutes of daily meditation can have dramatic effects on your mental and even physical health. Here’s how to start.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters.”
— Colin Powell
