Seven ways to a stressfree , nourishing new year
When we talk about making changes in the new year , we often fall into the trap of feeling like we need to be a “ new version ” of ourselves . However , consider this : You are already whole and enough just as you are . As we turn the page into a new year , many of us may feel a little sluggish , a little heavier , a little tired after the Christmas festivities … and there ’ s no shame in that . It ’ s all part of the beautiful balance of life . So , let ’ s start the year with self-compassion and a commitment to nourishing ourselves in ways that feel good . Start Small , Think Big
1 . Nourish Your Body with Colour After indulging , it ’ s natural to crave lighter and more nourishing foods , but this doesn ’ t have to mean deprivation or strict regimes . You can embrace balance instead . The key to feeling good after the holidays is nourishment - filling your plate with vibrant , nutrient-dense foods that your body will love . Think colourful fruits and vegetables , healthy fats , and quality proteins . Make time to really slow down and appreciate the textures , colours and tastes . Allow your food to not only fuel your body but also delight your senses . There ’ s something so satisfying about eating a plate full of gorgeous , bright colours to lift your mood and fill you with energy . A celebration of life with each bite ! 2 . Take a Walk A 30-minute walk outdoors can work wonders . It ’ s free , it ’ s easy , and it ’ s effective . Walking helps with mental clarity , boosts brain function , and gives you a natural dose of daylight to increase serotonin . Spending time in nature is soothing for your soul too , so walk in the forest or by the ocean , if you can . 3 . Sip Your Way to Health We often forget to drink enough water , especially in the colder months , but staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to feeling better fast . Start your day by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up . It helps kickstart your metabolism and sets the tone for a day of mindful hydration . If plain water feels boring , infuse it with fresh herbs like mint , or slices of citrus and cucumber . And let ’ s not forget about herbal teas . They ’ re a wonderful way to hydrate and soothe yourself in the colder weather . Right now , I ’ m loving Yogi Tea for a lovely way to warm up , hydrate , and give my body a little Ayurvedic TLC . 4 . Move in Ways That Make You Smile The gym isn ’ t for everyone , and movement doesn ’ t have to feel like a chore . It ’ s best to embrace activities that make you feel good . Whether it ’ s dancing , hiking in nature , or yoga - find something that brings you joy and makes you feel alive . Forget about what ’ s trendy or what you should be doing . It ’ s about what makes you feel good , what gets your heart pumping and your body moving in a way that feels natural . I ’ ve personally fallen in love with outdoor swimming in my forest health club - I started it during the pandemic and haven ’ t looked back . 5 . Sleep : Your Secret to Wellness When you sleep well , everything else falls into place - your energy , focus , mood , and even your cravings . If you ’ re not getting the restful sleep you need , it ’ s time to make some adjustments . Create your own sleep sanctuary . Make your bedroom a peaceful , calming space that helps your body wind down . Stop using screens one to three hours before bed , dim the lights , and perhaps enjoy a cup of herbal tea or a calming bedtime routine . When you treat sleep as a priority , you ’ ll start to notice how much better you feel during the day . During the winter months to support optimal circadian rhythm , I recommend using a Lumie Lamp beside your bed to simulate the setting and rising of the sun . 6 . Top Up Your Stress Kitbag Stress is inevitable , but how you handle it makes all the difference . One of my priorities across the week is to top up my stress kitbag - a collection of activities that calm me down and help me relax and build stressresilience . Whether it ’ s walking by the ocean , meditation , or snuggling up with a furry friend - these top up my tool bag when life feels overwhelming . Everyone ’ s kitbag is different , and that ’ s what makes it powerful . Fill yours with whatever makes you feel calm and use it whenever you need to ground yourself . 7 . Enjoy The Journey : Celebrate Every Step Lastly , let ’ s make this year about progress , not perfection . Every step forward is worth celebrating . Did you choose a nourishing meal over a quick snack ? Celebrate that ! Did you take a walk outside for some fresh air ? Celebrate that too ! Small victories , when celebrated , pave the way for big transformations . This is your health journey - encourage yourself and be your own best cheerleader . So , as we step into 2025 , let ’ s choose a path of self-love and balance . No pressure , no rush - just a gentle journey towards a healthier , happier you . Here ’ s to making 2025 your best year yet - one small , joyful step at a time . Happy New Year , friends .
l Jo Rowkins is a Nutritional Therapist at Awakening Health . She uses nutrition and lifestyle medicine to help people align with a healthier way of living . She specialises in helping people who are feeling stressed , and women for hormonal balance .
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