The winter weight still on? Not over your cloudy blues? Don’t you fear. Now is the best, most inspiring time to start developing those new, positive habits. Here is where to begin:
Monitor Your Calories
We eat more than we think. Gain the knowledge and the power to change your lifestyle by truly being aware of what you eat. Try using a calorie counting app, There are many free ones, like MyFitnessPal, that allow you to simply scan the food you eat.
Drink More Water
Start with 64 ounces a day. More when you are working out or sweating. It seems easy, but it might take a bit more than the glass or two you eat at meals.
Get 8 Hours
Set a bedtime. It is amazing how quickly our bodies will adapt if you stay consistent. And how refreshed you will feel when you prioritize the sleep.
Go for walks
Yes, you work out, but do you move? Get away from your desk and go for a walk. Get outside and enjoy some fresh air. Go for a walk alone and with no agenda. Simply clear your mind and let life come to you for a little bit.
Put the phone down.
You know you should. But do you really? Take an hour. (Yes, an hour!) Keep your phone in another room or somewhere it is not accessible. Remember that checking your phone is a choice, not an obligation.
Journal
Especially if you can do it first thing in the morning, journaling ca help you clear your head and focus in on the moment throughout the day.
Dance
Alone or out at the club. Move your body and appreciate a beat. Studies show it makes people happier, more peaceful and healthier.
Write a letter/postcard
When was the last time you sent a personal note to someone? Whether it is a thank you card, or a simply a letter to a friend, there is nothing as personal and loving as the time and effort it takes to write a note. It will be greatly appreciated.
Clean a closet/drawer
Once a week, take 20 minutes to clean something that has been neglected. Make this a joyful process, not an arduous task. Just 20 minutes.
Find 5 minutes of happiness
Each day, find five minutes where you choose to be happy. Perhaps you stop and take in a view, or go on a roller coaster, or complete a crossword puzzle. It does not have to be a huge moment, but only five minutes set aside for pure unbridled joy.
Surprise yourself.
You prefer museums to movies? Go see an action blockbuster. You hate the dentist? Make your appointment early this time. We are incredibly limited by the things we decide about ourselves. Get out of your comfort zone and out of the mind frame that there are things you like and dislike.
