Resolutions...

What would the new year be without resolutions? This is the one time of year that this e-zine will jump on the bandwagon and help you in your resolution frenzy. If you are going to make wellness resolutions, we're here to help out.

First, the rules:

1. Only make resolutions you intend to keep. I know that's what the word 'resolution' means, but few people look at it with the appropriate gravity. If you won't keep it for at least three months, don't make it.
2. Make your resolutions achievable. If you have never exercised before, don't commit to spending two hours at the gym five days a week. It won't happen. As I've mentioned before, small changes that you will stick to make far more difference than big changes that you won't. Pick something that seems easy. The hard part isn't doing it, it's doing it no matter what. Make sure you will do it no matter what.
3. Write your resolutions down. Write your commitment down before you make it. Make sure you like what you are about to commit to. Then write it every week (or better yet, every day) first thing in the morning. Remind yourself what you are supposed to be doing. Strengthen your resolve be recommitting regularly.
4. Review regularly to see how you're doing. By constantly reviewing your progress on your wellness goals, you strengthen yourself by seeing the progress as it occurs. This, in turn, helps you to keep doing what you've committed to.

Are you ready? Here are your resolutions for the new year. If you can only make one, make the first one. If you can only make two, make the first two. You get the idea.

1. Focus on your breathing. Spend some time every day breathing deeply, slowly, and from your core. Turn your attention to your breath as you relax and let the tension run out your fingers.
2. Drink enough water. Every day, every hour, drink a serving of water. You can also drink other things, but only after you commit to drinking some water every hour.
3. Eat fruit every morning. Start your day with an orange or some grapes or a banana or ...
4. Exercise 3-5 times per week. Whatever form of movement you like best, do it every other day. Go for a jog before work or take a walk after dinner. Maybe join a gym if you like that environment. Or pick one energetic task (like vacuuming the house) that needs to be done that day. Do something active.
5. Be yourself. Find something you are passionate about and spend some time every week doing it. Let this be your escape from stress and your opportunity to grow. Read a book. Paint a picture. Play the tuba. Write a poem. Whatever you like to do to be creative or escape into your imagination, do it. Let the inner you, the real you, out to play.

Can you do all five? Can you do at least the first three? Do what you can. Commit to it. Now go do it.

From the editor

Today, many of you are shaking off hangovers and trying to remember what you did last night. Take time to relax and heal yourself today. Rest. Let the body recover from everything. Start the year well.

Next week we'll return to a more regular format.

Healthy thoughts,
Jeff